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Automation.com Resources for Industrial Automation, Process Control & Instrumentation Dec. 01, 2008

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		Midwest Motion releases MMP-TM55 24Vdc Gearmotor - 11/30/08 Gear Motor measures 2.14” in Diameter, by 7.75” long, and has a keyed output shaft of 12mm diameter by 25mm long.

		Danaher announces Deltran MCS/MBF clutches and brakes - 11/25/08 MCS/MBF are available in diameters from 63 to 280 mm (2.48 to 11.02 in.), torque ratings from 5.5 to 500 Nm (49 to 4,425 lb-in), and 7 different frame sizes.

		Advantech introduces PCM-3202I PCI-104 interface card - 11/24/08 PCM-3202I supports two independent AMONet (Advantech Motion Network) RS-485 master rings with each ring controlling up to 2048 I/O points and 256 axes.

		SICK announces HIPERDRIVE Format Adjustment Drives - 11/24/08 HIPERDRIVE includes a motor, gears, absolute encoder and fieldbus communication capability for automated changeover on machines.

		Longwatch introduces Video Historian to archive manufacturing video - 11/17/08 Video Historian archives video that documents procedures in batch applications, provides visual proof of regulatory compliance, and monitors machinery.

		GE Fanuc introduces PACMotion controller - 10/08/08 PACMotion modules control up to four axes plus a master axis. Up to 10 modules can be placed in a rack for simultaneously control of up to 40 axes.

		SKF introduces CAT33 linear actuators - 10/06/08 Three models include actuators with sliding screw for standard operation, sliding screw for high-speeds, or ball screw for higher load and/or duty factors.

		SMAC releases CAL12 programmable electric actuators - 10/01/08 CAL12 series enable free and independent control of velocity, position and force simultaneously.

		Aerotech announces AGC Goniometric cradles - 10/01/08 AGC motorized mechanical goniometers are used in applications where 90° of angular travel is needed with the payload at the center of rotation.

		Haydon introduces 35000 series Size 14 linear actuator - 09/26/08 35000 series captive linear actuator is suited for applications in which external anti-rotation methods would be difficult or impossible to employ.

		Pacific Bearing introduces PL Series linear actuators - 09/08/08 PL series has pre-loaded ball bearing rollers guided by hardened steel raceways for smooth, precise guidance.

		Pacific Bearing releases MX Series linear actuator - 09/08/08 MX Series has large CAM rollers to carry high loads at greater speeds.

		Baldor Electric releases HoneyComb X-Y positioning base - 09/08/08 Honeycomb-structured linear stepper X-Y positioning base is capable of move speeds of up to 1.5 meters/second at resolutions to 2.5 microns.

		Haydon Switch releases 28000 series linear actuators - 09/04/08 28000 series double stack hybrid linear actuators are available in three designs: captive, non-captive and external linear versions.

		Ruland releases miniature disc couplings - 08/28/08 Disc couplings provide zero-backlash, speeds up to 10,000 rpm, strength and torsional stiffness, and low inertia.

		Aerotech announces ALS130H linear motor stage - 08/21/08 ALS130H employs a center-driven, non-cogging linear motor as the driving element, eliminating backlash, windup, or stiction normally associated with a lead screw or ball-screw drive.

		JATO Precision releases JAL636-PL pneumatic rotary cylinder - 08/21/08 JAL636-PL pneumatic cylinder is suitable for high speed and high accuracy CNC lathes which use spring collets to clamp work parts.

		SKF introduces Jaeger IA4A/B ac-powered linear actuators - 08/19/08 The IA4A series with Acme screw can realize full-load speeds up to 25mm/s and force up to 2300N in both push and pull modes.

		THK announces Light LM Guide - 08/12/08 Significantly lighter in weight than conventional LM Guides, Light LM Guide enables high-speed operation.

		BEI introduces Motor Encoder Assembly for fine positioning - 08/06/08 Assembly is suitable for machine applications where high acceleration point-to-point motion is required.

		Rockwell Automation expands Logix family for users and machine builders - 08/01/08 Enhancements include Stratix, advanced process control and safety functionality, and three new Logix programmable automation controllers (PACs).

		Zaber introduces T-LS Linear Stage - 07/20/08 T-LS 0.1 um resolution motorized linear stage is available in 13mm and 28mm travel versions, with either metric or imperial mounting holes.

		Danaher releases MechaWare mechatronic toolkit - 07/16/08 MechaWare 3.0 mechatronic toolkit seamlessly integrates mechanical systems and control software design.

		THK introduces SBK high-speed compact ball screw - 07/16/08 A re-circulation structure makes the SBK suitable for high-speed operation at a DN value of 130,000.

		Stafford releases Accu-Clamp positioning shaft collar - 07/09/08 Micro-adjustable positioning collar lets users make bi-directional adjustments along a shaft to precisely center and locate components.

		Advanced Machine & Engineering releases OTT/JAKOB drawbar monitor - 07/07/08 OTT/JAKOB allows users to monitor machine tool power drawbars for performance and wear.

		Elobau introduces J1 mini-joystick for industrial applications - 07/02/08 J1 joystick can be operated by thumb or fingertip actuation and can be incorporated into a larger, manual joystick for secondary tasks or into a control panel with limited space.

		Control Microsystems announces SCADAPack 330 and 334 controllers - 06/30/08 Both units are programmed with TelePACE ladder logic, ISaGRAF (IEC61131-3) and C/C++, and support up to 32 independent C++ applications.

		Opto 22 introduces SNAP TEX wiring accessories - 06/30/08 SNAP TEX mounting and wiring accessories include terminal extender cables, breakout boards, wiring harnesses, and other components for mounting and wiring automation, control and I/O systems.

		GE Fanuc updates Proficy Change Management 5.8 - 06/24/08 Enhancements include Web-based end user client, new scheduler interface, and Schneider ProWORX 32 support.

		AutomationDirect introduces IronHorse Worm Gearboxes - 06/19/08 Constructed of cast iron one-piece housings, the worm gearboxes feature a C-flange input and carbon steel shaft with either right-hand or dual shaft output. Price: from $130.

		B&R introduces Generic Motion Control for CNC and robotics - 06/19/08 Generic Motion Control includes drives, movement and path control, visualization and I/O handling.

		Haydon Switch releases 28000 series Size 11 Linear Actuator - 06/18/08 This double stack non captive hybrid linear actuator is available in a wide variety of resolutions ranging from 0.000125” (.003175 mm) per step to 0.002” (.0508 mm) per step.

		NI introduces three FieldPoint Controllers - 06/10/08 NI cFP-2220, cFP-2210 and cFP-2200 controllers include a 400 MHz PowerPC processor and Wind River VxWorks real-time operating system (RTOS).

		PI releases E-712 Digital Piezo Stage Controller for nanopositioning systems - 06/09/08 The controller can precisely control the trajectory of up to 6 axes even during high-velocity motion on a millisecond time scale.

		Festo introduces EGSA cantilever linear actuator - 06/09/08 Ball screw driven cantilever actuator reduces cycle times to the absolute minimum.

		Aerotech announces ANT-LX Miniature stage - 06/06/08 Nanotranslation Crossed-Roller (ANT-LX) stages incorporate direct-drive technology for accurate and high-speed positioning.

		Ruland releases zero-backlash flexible beam couplings - 06/04/08 Couplings are suitable for applications such as coupling a servo motor to a lead screw in a motion control system, or precision applications using encoders.

		Stafford releases remachineable shaft collars & couplings - 06/03/08 Shaft collars and couplings have a pilot hole to let users remachine them to match their own requirements.

		Danaher introduces MAB-100 linear motor stage - 05/29/08 MAB-100 has an air bearing guideway to deliver precise, 100% friction-free straight-line motion up to 100 mm in length.

		Haydon Switch announces 28000 series Hybrid Linear Actuator - 05/22/08 28000 series external linear actuator replaces four different components: a motor, coupler, lead screw and nut.

		Toellner Systems announces Automated Bulk Rod Feeder - 05/21/08 Automated parts loader for bulk rod/shaft feeders can load a part in under 3 seconds.

		AME releases Amlok RLN pneumatic rod locks - 05/07/08 RLN power-off pneumatic rod locks are suited for holding applications in industries such as automotive, mobile, food and machine tools.

		Phidgets announces $75.00 stepper controller - 04/29/08 The 1062 Stepper controller controls the position, velocity and acceleration of up to 4 unipolar stepper motors. It plugs directly into a computer's USB port.

		Serapid adds safety option to TBHS die clamp - 04/29/08 The TBHS quick-change die clamp now has a mechanical safety detent so the die will not drop in the event of a pressure failure.

		NI announces PXI-8104 and PXI-8183 embedded controllers - 04/21/08 PXI-8104 and PXI-8183 embedded controllers are suitable for test, measurement and control applications. Prices start at $1500.

		Technosoft releases MCK28335 Motor Control Kits - 04/13/08 Kit comes with source code, MATLAB libraries, and a TI TMS320F28335 DSP for motion control development and evaluation.

		SKF introduces Jaeger ID8A/B linear actuators - 04/04/08 ID8A/B linear actuators (12VDC and 24VDC) can run in a wide range of ambient temperature conditions as low as -26º C or as high as 65º C.

		New Vista releases TVU-IR Thread Verification Unit - 04/02/08 TVU-IR automatically checks for the presence, size, and depth of internal or external threads for toolchangers.

		HEIDENHAIN introduces MANUALplus 620 Contouring Control - 03/27/08 MANUALplus 620 is for horizontal and vertical lathes lathes with spindle, one slide (X and Z axis), one C axis or one position able spindle and a driven tool.

		Sprint Electric introduces PLA to replace PLCs or PCs - 03/13/08 Programmable Logic Arithmetic unit (PLA) works with analog or digital drives, simplifies system design, and reduces or eliminates need for PLC or PC based systems.

		SKF releases Jaeger SJ series linear actuators - 03/11/08 SJ Series electromechanical linear actuators provide repetitive-motion solutions for AC-powered applications.

		Festo introduces DGSL Pneumatic Mini Slide - 03/09/08 Available in eight sizes from 4 to 20 mm diameter and with strokes up to 200 mm, the mini slide is suited for the electronics industry where minute parts need to be handled with utmost precision.

		Haydon Switch enhances Linear Actuators - 03/05/08 Size 14 hybrid linear actuators are now available with an integrated connector, ideal for those that want to plug in directly to pre existing harnesses.

		Matrikon launches Mobile Equipment Monitor for mining - 03/04/08 Mobile Equipment Monitor remotely collects all available operating data such as temperature, pressure and alarms from onboard systems and transmits the data to a central database.

		Technosoft releases PIM2401 motion controller with CANopen - 03/04/08 PIM2401 embeds a digital drive, motion controller and PLC functions in the same unit to control DC, brushless, linear and step motors.

		Lantronix announces ManageLinx for access to firewall-protected devices - 02/25/08 ManageLinx VIP Access allows remote access to firewall-protected equipment, giving OEMs the ability to perform remote product services.

		ServoSoft adds STOEBER and MAYR products to database - 02/23/08 ServoSoft is an engineering software tool that sizes complete servo systems including all electrical and mechanical components, with up to 20 axes and 14 mechanisms.

		FKI Logistex introduces Mini-Unscrambler conveyor - 02/21/08 Mini-Unscrambler conveyor orients cases into a single-file line at up to 100 cartons per minute for induction into high-speed material handling systems.

		Tolomatic adds three body sizes to MXE Actuators - 02/20/08 MXE rodless screw drive electric actuators are now available in six sizes.

		Tolomatic expands MXP actuators - 02/20/08 Three sizes have been added, completing the size range from 16 mm to 63 mm bores.

		Misumi adds low-temp, black chrome plating on components - 02/20/08 Corrosion-resistant, low-reflective coating will not peel or flake. It is available on linear shafts, linear bushings, linear guides, ball screws and other products.

		ACS releases MC4U motion control system - 02/20/08 MC4U can control up to eight rack servo drives and 64 distributed axes via CANopen.

		Hardy Instruments adds A-B RIO to 4050 Weight Controllers - 02/20/08 The HI 4050 general-purpose weight controller is now available with Allen-Bradley Remote I/O (RIO) network communications.

		SKF introduces PICO miniature linear stages for pick-and-place - 02/10/08 Compact stages enable controlled linear movement with repeatability, precise positioning, increased accuracy, and quiet operation.

		Schneider Electric introduces TeSys T motor management system - 02/08/08 The system consists of a multifunction protection device, separate from the automation system, and an operator control unit for reading and modification of monitored parameters.

		Premo EMC introduces FS Sinus filters for frequency inverters - 02/06/08 Filters are for installations with frequency inverters which need completely sinusoidal output signals and where pulse-width modulation (PWM) is not suitable.

		Mitsubishi releases iQ Automation Platform - 02/05/08 iQ Automation is the next generation of Mitsubishi's automation systems based on Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs)

		Mitsubishi introduces e-F@ctory Solution - 02/05/08 e-F@ctory combines control hardware and networks with enterprise IT systems offered by strategic partner companies, including IBM and ILST.

		FDT specification now includes Profinet and Modbus - 02/04/08 FDT Group released annexes for Profinet I/O and Modbus, the next step toward the application of FDT technology in factory automation applications.

		IBM, Mitsubishi and ILS Technology deliver SOA Solution - 01/31/08 The three companies have developed a reference architecture that can help customers meet industry standards more quickly for device-to-IT connectivity.

		Technosoft announces MxK28335 DSC Motor Control Kits - 01/30/08 With complete source code application examples and function libraries, these kits have tools for design of DSP-based motor control applications.

		ACS Motion Control anounces SPiiPlus Motion Controller - 01/29/08 SPiiPlus is available in two- four- six-, or eight-axis models for applications ranging from robotic control to XY stage point to point positioning.

		Interroll introduces EC100 Brushless RollerDrive - 01/23/08 EC100 has a zero motion hold (ZMH) electro magnetic rotor brake and a re-engineered gear box for higher efficiency and lower noise.

		Misumi announces LX Series single-axis actuators - 01/23/08 The line offers a choice of standard or covered styles in three capacities, with lower overall stage height to conserve space.

		Parker adds motor options to HPLA/HLE Linear Actuators - 01/23/08 Enhancements include MPP motors, which offer lower inertia and higher power in a smaller package than conventional motors.

		Anver introduces Bottle Grabs pick-up heads - 01/22/08 Bottle Grabs have an inflatable soft rubber bladder that centers itself around a bottle neck and gently applies evenly distributed pressure to attach and release in milliseconds.

		Aries Engineering introduces signature analysis system for press and assembly - 01/21/08 HyperView converts the analog information from the IntelliCyl hydra-pneumatic units into a useful, easy to read signature curve for every cycle of the machine.

		PI introduces Piezoceramic Linear Actuators - 01/17/08 PICA stacked actuator technology enables applications where extremely high forces and dynamics are required or high levels of customization are needed.

		Parvalux introduces two worm-wheel gearboxes - 01/16/08 Both are directly mountable onto a choice of fifteen different Parvalux motor units including Permanent Magnet, DC Brushless and AC Series types.

		SMAC releases GRP17 series low profile gripper - 01/15/08 The low moving mass, coupled to zero backlash and low hysteresis, can perform high speed moves within tightly defined performance envelopes.

		CP announces Posco Sequencing and Positioning Control System - 01/14/08 Posco system performs fastener tightening operations in production assembly environments.

		Toellner introduces Stainless Steel Belted Conveyor Systems - 01/10/08 SS conveyors are available in any length and in widths ranging from two to over twelve inches. They run off standard 110 Vac, are chain driven, and have a built-in safety torque limiter.

		Anver releases redundant vacuum lifter for valuable loads - 01/09/08 Custom Vacuum Lifter for handling high-value loads has two VPE1 Vacuum Packs with VacGuard II control systems to provide complete redundancy.

		Physik Instrumente introduces P-601 Piezo Flexure Actuators - 01/07/08 Flexure actuators are used in fast-valve actuation mechanisms, and for precision positioning tasks ranging from automotive to data storage and biotech applications.

		Rexroth releases BODAS RC36-20 electrohydraulic controller - 01/07/08 BODAS RC36-20 provides a central ECU platform for electronic control of mobile hydraulics equipment.

		Haydon Switch introduces Linear Rail Systems - 01/03/08 Linear Rail System uses a precision leadscrew assembly to provide controlled positioning along the axis of a linear slide.

		Rexroth upgrades IndraMotion MLC controller - 12/18/07 MLC is capable of up to 64 axes of control with the ability to handle up to eight robotic kinematics simultaneously.

		Rockwell Automation announces PowerFlex 40 AC drive and ArmorStart NEMA 4X - 12/13/07 The Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 40 AC drive and the ArmorStart product lines have packaging options that are now rated by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) NEMA/UL Type 4X/12 (IP66/54) for indoor use.

		Standard-Knapp introduces continuous motion slitter/sealer - 12/13/07 Designed to handle a range of tablock case types, Standard-Knapp’s Slitter/Sealer is engineered for maximum uptime and efficiency.

		Beckhoff Automation announces CX1010 Mid-range Embedded PC - 12/13/07 Starting under $1,000 with bundled TwinCAT PLC software and Windows operating system (OS), the EtherCAT-ready CX1010 is positioned as the new mid-range performance device in the scalable CX Family.

		Advantech introduces PCI-1715U Isolated Analog Input Card - 12/13/07 With isolated circuits, the PCI-1715U protects sensitive measurement circuitry from interference currents or voltages.

		KLEENline introduces vertical lifting system - 12/12/07 The KLEENline Vertical Lift System can incorporate up to six lifting lanes for transferring “products-on-demand” into a scale and/or bagger from a central location at floor level by one operator.

		ABB introduces compact ACS55 variable frequency component drive - 12/11/07 This component drive is designed as an entry level product for new users, and is aimed at various applications, particularly exercise training equipment, gate control, pumps, fans, conveyors, packaging machines, x-ray screening machines, material handling, ovens, powered roof ventilators and heat exchangers.

		Beckhoff Automation introduces CP6608 Ethernet Control Panels - 12/11/07 “All-in-one” Ethernet controller features 5.7-inch display, flexible connectivity options and Windows CE. The cabinet mounted CP6608 comes equipped with two Ethernet ports with 10/100BASE-T, two fast USB 2.0 ports and a serial RS232 port as external interfaces.

		Haydon introduces 28000 series Size 11 Hybrid Linear Actuator - 12/10/07 Built for long life (several million cycles) and superior performance, the size 11 linear actuator features engineering thermoplastics in the rotor drive nut and a stainless steel Acme lead screw.

		Ametek introduces MAE HY series hybrid stepper motors - 12/10/07 MAE “HY Series” hybrid stepper motors are offered in four standard NEMA frame sizes (16, 17, 23, and 42) with step resolutions of 1.8º (200 steps per rev) in full-step mode.

		Baldor introduces BSM R-series compact brushless AC servo motors - 12/10/07 Designated the BSM R-series, the new motors are expected to appeal to automation equipment builders seeking to improve the productivity of machinery in applications such as packaging and labeling, materials handling, semiconductor manufacturing, winding and printing.

		Connect One develops SecureGAP firewall technology for M2M applications - 12/10/07 SecureGAP safeguards vital proprietary information for applicaton owners through security and data segragation which serves as a gatekeeper and natural firewall between the host processor and the Internet as well as significantly cutting connectivity costs and simplifying deployment.

		IEI released 10.4 inch AFOLUX All-in-One Panel PC - 12/10/07 Integrated 500MHz AMD LX800 maximizes power saving of AFL-10A-LX. Low power utilization increases the clock frequency, improves reliability, decreases the noise margins and reduces both the capital and operational costs.

		HEIDENHAIN introduces ERM 2400 compact magnetic encoders - 12/09/07 This series features more compact dimensions than the current ERM 200 and can be used at higher rotational speeds, making it useful in more applications such as in spindles for milling machines.