Controls & Machine Components

Why next-generation machines are leveraging high-performance networks

A look at the reasons why machine builders are in favor of Ethernet-based, networked remote and local I/O with a special focus on how motion control networking fits in.

August 24, 2011

Controls & Machine Components: Page 145

Controls & Machine Components

ACS Motion Control: PC-Based EtherCAT control solution eliminates controller hardware

The SPiiPlusSC (Soft Controller) from ACS Motion Control enables a standard PC to run the machine host application, the Graphical User Interface (GUI) and the SPiiPlusSC real-time motion controller and PLC without adding any hardware.

August 23, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

InfinityQS International, Inc: Upgrade to statistical process control software

InfinityQS International’s ProFicient 4.4, the latest upgrade to its Statistical Process Control (SPC) software, analyzes machine utilization and provides enhanced control and visibility with real-time predictive analysis.

August 22, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Inc: Miniature pneumatic products catalog for scientific/medical applications

Clippard’s miniature pneumatic products catalog for scientific/medical applications is illustrated in a color brochure featuring a complete line of miniature fluid power products for the medical, pharmaceutical analytical and dental fields.

August 18, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

Maplesoft: Connector for dSPACE systems ensures fast engineering execution

MapleSim™ Connector for dSPACE Systems from Maplesoft™ provides streamlined solutions for rapid control prototyping with MapleSim real-time simulation.

August 18, 2011

Conveying & accumulation

New snack chip plant is LEED-certified and IT-powered

Opened in two phases in 2010 and 2011, Shearer's Foods' Massillon plant adheres to sustainable principles and leverages dynamic software solutions to optimize efficiency.

August 8, 2011

Bag/pouch fill/seal (pre-made bags)

New controls, better conveyor optimize bagging system

New HMI, PLC, servo drive, and programmable safety controller combined with a modular discharge conveying system keep this bagger compact and cost-contained.

August 8, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

Oriental Motor USA: High-power brushless motor and driver

Oriental Motor’s BLV Power Brushless Motor and Driver System Series is their first DC input system above 100 watts.

August 4, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

AutomationDirect: Premium efficiency motors

AutomationDirect’s IronHorse™ general purpose AC motor line now includes cast iron 3-phase premium efficiency motors available in horsepower ranges from 1 to 200 hp.

July 26, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

Siemens Industry Inc: Drive frequency inverter

See it at PACK EXPO Booth #C-3434! Siemens’ Sinamics® drive frequency inverter combines motion control, safety and standard tasks in a single device, reducing footprints and improving overall efficiencies.

July 26, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

Proportional valve driver

Clippard’s EVPD Proportional Valve Driver is designed for laboratories and OEM product development, and can be customized to fit OEM applications, including control parameters.

July 26, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

Schneider Electric: Variable speed drives

Schneider Electric’s Altivar™ 212 variable speed drive and the S-Flex enclosed version are designed to provide OEMs and control panel builders with energy efficient and economical solutions for pump and fan applications.

July 12, 2011

Controls & Machine Components

Harmonizing productivity with machine safety

Editor's note: I recently came across a white paper by Alex Bryce, sales manager at Pilz Automation Technology, in which he gives some thoughtful consideration to the sensor systems currently available and the selection criteria that designers should consider.

July 5, 2011