Drives & Controls October 2022

56 n NEW PRODUCTS n DESIGN DATA AND MULTIMEDIA October 2022 www.drivesncontrols.com Micro-Epsilon has introduced a range of plug-and-play inductive sensors for displacement, distance, position and shape measurements, as well as geometry inspection. The preconfigured induSensor DTD- xG8 inductive measuring system consists of a inductive LVDT (linear variable differential transformer) probe with a controller integrated into its cable. The factory- calibrated system allows fast plug- and-play installation. The sensors are available with measuring ranges of ±1, ±3, ±5 and ±10mm. The sensor and controller are connected permanently to each other, allowing the system to be pre-adjusted and calibrated so it can be used“out of the box”. It offers resolutions down to the sub-micrometer range. Due to their high temperature stability, resistance to shock and vibration, and insensitivity to dirt and dust, the sensors can be used in harsh industrial environments. Current and voltage output can be varied, via an RS-485 interface and an M12 connector. Parameters are set using freely downloadable software. Buses such as Ethernet, Profinet and EtherCat are supported via optional interface modules. Micro-Epsilon 0151 355 6070 www.micro-epsilon.co.uk Plug-and-play sensing system has electronics built into the cable The German sensor-maker Wachendorff claims to have developed the world’s smallest encoder that supports the EtherNet/IP protocol. The ODVA- certified WDGA58F encoder, available in the UK from Variohm Eurosensor, has an installation depth of just 46.5mm. The encoder’s resolution in single-turn (16-bit) and multi-turn (43-bit) versions can be configured via a built-inWeb server. Hollow end-shafts eliminate the need for additional couplings. Connections are said to be long-lasting and stable, with bearing loads of up to 400N. The encoders can be used in harsh environments, offering shock ratings of 1,000m/s2 and vibration ratings of 50m/s2 at 10–2000Hz. There is also a Universal Industrial Ethernet version which can switch between Ethernet/IP, EtherCat and Profinet. Variohm Eurosensor 01327 351004 www.variohm.com Ethernet/IP encoder is ‘world’s smallest’ Software simplifies the design of motion systems New software from Rockwell Automation helps to select, analyse and validate motion components using intuitive workflow and comparison tools. The FactoryTalk Motion Analyzer software can analyse a variety of applications based on Kinetix motors and drives, and select PowerFlex drives and third-party components such as gearboxes. Users can choose pre-built application templates, or start with a blank template and add components and motion profiles to define their ideal machine. The tools improve understanding of machine operating conditions, resulting in robust, high-performance and energy-efficient systems. https://drivesncontrols.news/gqk4i2 Online tool calculates ROIs for cobots and mobile robots Omron has launched an calculator for evaluating investments in collaborative and mobile robots, including leasing schemes. The calculator gives an overview of ROIs based on actual data. It allows users to estimate how long it will take for an investment to break even, taking inflation and interest rates into account. They enter data on current operations, and the type and number of robots they want. The calculator then estimates the payback period, ROI percentage as well as the net present value (NPV), which shows the estimated current total value of future cashflows. The tool gives two financing options: traditional Capex with full payment at the start; and Opex, with leasing costs spread over 3-5 years. https://industrial.omron.eu/en/misc/forms/roi-calculator Web site is expected to raise online sales by a third Matara UK has launched a newWeb site with a fresh design, which now supports e- commerce. An advanced filter system allows visitors to select products that meet their precise criteria. The range of automation, pneumatics and linear motion products has also expanded. CAD data is available and there is a technical hub. A case study section has added to provide real-world examples of products in use. Matara says that its traditional OEM customers who were previously reluctant to buy online, changed their attitudes during Covid. It predicts that the site will boost its online sales by a third this year, buoyed by its expansion into new markets such as hobbyists. www.matara.com eBook shows how leak detectors can boost energy efficiency Fluke has launched an eBook describing how digital acoustic leak detectors can boost energy efficiency and productivity in process and manufacturing facilities. Called Fluke leak detection tools – Guide to acoustic leak detection technology , the eBook includes case studies that illustrate how acoustic imaging can identify leaks in compressed gas systems, cutting energy wastage. The eBook also showcases Fluke’s online return-on- investment (ROI) calculator that allows users to discover the level of savings they could make. https://forms.fluke.com/ii900_Leak_Detection_eBook_PR KabelschleppMetool has added newwidths to its UA1775 cable carriers which, in combination with space-savingTS3 dividers, open up new applications – in particular, in toolmaking and for gliding on gantries or axes.The newwidths (275, 300, 325, 350 and 400mm) are available for the 020, 030 and 040 carriers.TheTS3 dividers offer height separation with intermediate plastic shelves andmake better use of the space inside the cable carrier. www.kabelschlepp.co.uk KEBAutomation has redesigned its CombinormB electromagnetic brakes to avoid remanence (residual magnetism).This can occur during dynamic brakingwhen a brake’s housing becomes magnetically energised.Themore often a brake switches, themore remanence develops. As a result, the rotor is no longer powerful enough to rotate freely.The brake locks and themotor stops. Other consequences are increasedwear and, in the worst case, motor burnout.The housing of the redesigned brake is split into inner and outer parts, creating an air gap that prevents the armature from sticking to themagnet.The brake also offers short switching times, boosting safety. It is available in voltages from 24V and in the torque range 0.5– 500Nm. www.keb.co.uk