Festo has annoinced a system configurator that gives a central point of access to all of its engineering tools. Customers can use it to design, select, dimension and configure automation systems. They can configure specific components or entire load cases, from PLCs, drives and remote I/Os, to IO-Link devices. Projects, parts lists and design data can be stored and managed. The configurator integrates with MyFesto Projects, allowing different people to work on the same project – for example, giving development engineers and buyers access to the same data. Design data can be imported into Festo’s Automation Suite for efficient commissioning of devices. www.festo.com Site helps you to learn about intralogistics firm Rainbow Dynamics has launched a Web site that showcases its range of robotic sorting and automated materials-handling systems. The site aims to provide visitors with an easy way to learn about Rainbow Dynamics, which designs and builds automated intralogistics systems for warehouses, parcelhandling facilities, manufacturing sites and e-commerce fulfilment centres. The company was founded in 2023, and its headquarters are in Chorley, Lancashire. www.rainbow-dynamics.ai Report examines potential for human-machine collaboration Molex has issued a report that looks at the future potential of robotics and humanmachine collaborations. Called How Robotics will Empower Human Potential, the report contemplates a future where advanced robotics systems and multipurpose robots will transform fundamental aspects of life – from improving how factories operate and students learn, to making homes more efficient, enhancing patient care and increasing support for military operations. The report underscores the need for enabling technologies and connections between robotic systems and humans to empower faster, more effective and precise decision-making. https://drivesncontrols.news/i8j6nok0 Free Industry 4.0 courses address skills gap The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and Autodesk have launched the first four in a series of free Industry 4.0 courses designed to address the manufacturing skills gap. The projectbased curriculum uses real-world examples to engage and motivate students and professionals as they develop skills. The four courses are: an introduction to Industry 4.0 and technologies; Industry 4.0 and business; designing for sustainability; and digital literacy and data skills. More courses covering the evolution of engineering and manufacturing, as well as Industry 4.0, are planned. www.autodesk.com/learn/ondemand/collection/ asme-manufacturing-education-courses 48 n NEW PRODUCTS n DESIGN DATA AND MULTIMEDIA January 2025 www.drivesncontrols.com Nord Drivesystems has released a new Windows version of its Nordcon parameterisation software, offering extra functions for setting up and monitoring its drives. Version 3.0 of the tool has a customisable dashboard, a context-sensitive help function, and a revised oscilloscope support for application-specific control of Nord drives. The app supports wireless 1:1 connections to drives using connections via a Bluetooth stick that is plugged temporarilt into theinverter. www.nord.com HepcoMotion has announced updates to its HLG recirculating ball guides in the form of a series of HLG blocks with double-lip seals for improved sealing, and all-in-one lower guides to prevent ball losses. Hepco is also introducing spacer chain blocks for standard and compact sizes, in both rectangular and flanged configurations. The chain prevents ball collisions, ensuring a more stable circulation, and reducing the loss of oil film during motion. It also cuts noise levels, especially at high speeds. www.hepcomotion.com Fluke Networks has announced an instrument that combines the testing of cables, Wi-Fi and networks. The LinkIQ Duo Cable+WiFi+Network device eliminates the need for multiple tools, and the time-consuming effort of using and swapping multiple incomplete or complex tools. The tester includes all of the functions needed to troubleshoot Wi-Fi connections and performance issues, and to identify the location, availability and configuration of access points. Technicians can validate every link between a Wi-Fi user and the network to ensure optimal performance. It qualifies the performance of the cabling between the network and the access point up to 10 Gb/s, and can determine whether there is sufficient PoE power for a task. Fluke Networks www.flukenetworks.com Configurator gives access to all Festo tools IP65-protected steppers have enhanced surface protection Instrument combines Wi-Fi, cabling and network testing Mclennan is offering a series of stepper motors from Moons’ Industries aimed at harsh environment applications in food and beverage production, medical and arduous industrial environments. The IP65-rated AW series microstepping motors have enhanced surface protection, good wear capabilities and high resistance to scratches and abrasions. The dust- and water-proof motors are available in Nema frame sizes 17–34 with optional brakes and 1,000-line optical encoders for position feedback. Offering holding torques from 0.31– 10.3Nm, the motors have high-fill windings for smooth performance across a wide speed range with higher torque levels than similar-sized motors, as well as low-inertia rotors for good acceleration. The motors are supplied with M8 or M12 aviation connectors for reliability and long-term stability. McLennan 01252 531444 www.mclennan.co.uk
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