In the Marketplace

Type 4 Safety Light Curtain

Custom fit available

The rugged MiniSafe Flexible MSF4700 family of safety light curtains is engineered to withstand high shock and vibration environments typical of punch presses and other heavy industrial machinery. The multi-segmented design allows them to protect up to four different openings by connecting up to four 35 mm × 50 mm housings in sequence. Protected heights from 150 mm to 1,800 mm and resolutions of 14 mm, 20 mm, and 30 mm are available, with any combination thereof being possible. Remote fixed blanking allows for quick setup and changeover for different jobs. Programming the blanking feature is easily performed at the front of the metal enclosure, or by an installer- supplied keyswitch that can be conveniently located near the workcell. The controller is available in a 35 mm DIN IP20 enclosure with 24V dc solid-state safety outputs. It is also available in a 14-gauge steel IP65 lockable enclosure with a choice of solid state or dry contact outputs (mechanical relays). A wide variety of quick disconnects are available for connecting the sensors, power, and safety signal. Scientific Technologies Inc.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-576

New Comprehensive Catalog

Features sensing products

The 2005 Sensing Products Catalog, which for the first time combines all of Banner's 15,000 plus sensing products into a single comprehensive printed resource, is produced in full color for a fresh new look. It delivers critical sensing products and application information in 498 pages. Organized into five sections, the new catalog includes detailed information about photoelectric, measurement and inspection, and vision sensors, as well as complete listings of accessories and reference information. A new addition to the 2005 catalog is the award-winning family of PresencePLUS^® vision sensors including the multi-inspection-capable Pro and self-contained high-throughput P4 models. Banner Engineering 2005 Sensing Products Catalogs are offered free of charge and may be requested by visiting www.bannerengineering.com/2005 or contacting Banner at (888) 373-6767. Banner Engineering Corp.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-578

10-Inch TFT Touch Screens

Low prices

The HMI550H-005 Classic operator interface touch screen is now available for $1,499. The 10.4-inch 256-color TFT touch screen is full-featured: Pop-up windows display keypads, alarm status, bar graphs, and more; the fast-selection window works much like the start button in Windows^®, allowing the operator to quickly jump to commonly used screens; software features such as scripting, tag database, macros, and recipes make it easy to configure the HMI to perform complex tasks; touch objects can be overlaid, allowing the operator to initiate several functions with a single touch of the screen; the HMI also has a time-saving online simulation mode that allows programmers to test their program without downloading to the HMI. In addition, the HMI550H has exceptional graphics with an extensive library of commonly used objects such as buttons, meters, graphs, lamps, piping, valves, and tanks. With protocols for more than 80 controller families from more than 35 industry-leading manufacturers, the HMI550H connects with most commonly used PLCs, including Allen-Bradley, GE, Siemens, and Modbus, as well as many motion controllers, servos, and drives. Maple Systems Inc.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-579

Commutation Encoder

Increased performance in smaller package

The new model R35i small encoder incorporates a custom state-of-the-art ASIC that includes fewer components, increased performance, and higher product quality in a smaller package. The model R35i provides both brushless motor commutation and higher-resolution incremental position signals in a 1.38-inch OD by 0.55-inch length package size. The three-phase (U, V, W) commutation pattern is available for four-, six-, and eight-pole brushless motors. Incremental encoder position resolutions of 250 to 8,192 line counts are available with A, B, and Z (reference) channels. Output frequency response reaches 500 kHz. Renco's patented slide mechanism allows the user to easily establish the clearance gap between encoder and rotating disk. Centering is automatic. Operating temperatures range from -30C to +115C. Renco Encoders Inc.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-577

Miniature Gearhead

Zero backlash, 2 arc-min accuracy

The CSF-XHF Size 8 gearhead from HD Systems delivers 2 arc-min positional accuracy in a package size that is 32 mm (square) × 29 mm long. The CSF-XHF Size 8 gearhead has a rated torque of 21 inch-lb and a maximum torque of 80 inch-lb. The gearhead has a flange output to allow for a compact axial length. The input of the gearhead reportedly provides a direct connection to any motor. CSF-XHF Size 8 gearhead is available in gear ratios 30, 50, and 100:1. HD Systems Inc.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-581

Type VLA Actuator

Low cost, high efficiency

The VLA uses THK's compact Type SRS LM Guide featuring patented Caged Technology. This technology separates rolling elements with a synthetic resin cage that retains grease and reduces maintenance costs. To ensure optimal lubrication within the ball screw unit, THK incorporates its QZ Lubricator. The VLA's electro-mechanical components offer improved energy efficiency, as well as cleaner and quieter operation. Contamination from lubricants, audible noise, and damaging friction are greatly reduced. The Type VLA is available in slide and cylinder types, and is compatible with most popular ac or dc servo motor controller packages. Rated speeds on the Type VLA actuators range from 300 mm/sec to 600 mm/sec; ball screw leads are from 6 mm to 12 mm. THK America Inc.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-580

One-, Two-, and Three-Axis Solutions

Ethernet and FireWire interface

The SMLC-Lite controller is a cost-effective motion, logic, HMI, and networking solution for one- to 3½-axis systems. It uses the same CoDeSys IEC 61131-3 programming software and provides the same control capability as the SMLC. Migrate to the SMLC for higher axis count applications and utilize the same development tools and existing application programs. By eliminating a stand-alone motion controller, up to 3½ axes can be controlled from one SMLC Lite with FireWire-based motion control networking that requires no specialized interface hardware. Users can plug systems together in minutes, and easily interface compact and versatile Ethernet and FireWire I/O solutions. Built-in standard features such as analog feedback and registration control software that requires no additional programming make the SMLC Lite a fully featured motion control solution. ORMEC Systems Corp.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-583

Super Torque Stepping Motor

From 30 to 83 oz-inch

The 1.8-degree NEMA 17 Super Torque stepping motors can reportedly provide a greater amount of torque in order to move larger loads, increase torque periphery, or slim down a motor in an existing application. They are available in 1.34-, 1.57-, and 1.89-inch lengths. Depending on the length, the motors are capable of producing holding torque from 30 to 83 oz-inch. The Super Torque motor provides approximately two to three times more holding torque than a standard motor of similar design. The size 17 Super Torque Step Motor is suggested in applications where high torque in a small package is needed. Some specific examples include automation, packaging equipment, and surveillance cameras. Lin Engineering Inc.http://rbi.ims.ca/4409-582

Low-Cost Vision Sensor

Can deliver 1.3 million pixel resolution

The PresencePLUS^® P4 GEO 1.3 vision sensor is a 1.3-megapixel imager to capture minute details of multiple features at ranges from a few inches to several feet, depending on the lens used. Intended applications are those that must manufacture defect-free products, such as automotive, packaging, pharmaceutical, assembly, metal forming, semiconductor manufacturing, and plastics. The P4 GEO 1.3 is also easy to install and use, thanks to remote TEACH, which allows the sensor to learn new features without connecting to a PC or shutting down the production line, and a built-in live video image output that allows users to view the sensor's inspections in real time and to view failed inspection images without a PC. The P4 GEO 1.3 is available with two lens positions: in-line (on the end of the housing) and right-angle (on the side of the housing). Banner Engineeringhttp://rbi.ims.ca/4409-586

Analog Sensor

Low-cost, based on Virtu

Building on the concept of Virtu, a low-cost ultrasonic sensor, Hyde Park now offers Virtu and Virtu18 with analog output. For just $129, these dual-mount and barrel-style analog sensors have a range of 2 inches (50 mm) to 20 inches (508 mm), and are available with voltage or current outputs. The Auto SlopeE function enables the user to set the analog minimum or maximum at the near or far limit based on which limit is taught first using the removable, external push button. Once the push button is removed the sensor is tamper-proof. With UL enclosure ratings of NEMA 4X and IP67, these CE-certified sensors are resistant to dust, 100 percent humidity, most acids and bases, and high-pressure washdowns. Virtu sensors are reportedly impervious to the effects of splashing food, caustic cleaning solutions, or changing light conditions. Shielding and filtering make the fully encapsulated sensor immune to radiated or conducted energy. Hyde Park Electronicshttp://rbi.ims.ca/4409-587

Servo Controllers

Compact, powerful, and simple

The two models of Lenze SimpleServo—Model 94 SimpleServo^® and the Model 940 Position Servo—are developed to bridge the gap between very sophisticated servo technology and general-purpose drives. Reduced setup and programming time results in thousands of dollars of savings for Model 94 SimpleServo and Model 940 Position Servo users. With the addition of the Electronic Programmable Module or EPM, a specially designed plug-in memory chip, servo control parameters need only to be configured once, and can then be transferred to other 94 or 940 model controllers without having power applied to them. SimpleServo controllers can replace complex mechanical systems, such as line shafts and cams, clutches and brakes, pneumatic cylinders, and hydraulics. While both the Model 94 SimpleServo and the Model 940 Position Servo offer high performance, accuracy, and simplicity, the 940 Position Servo also features 64-bit programmable motion control, plus more inputs and outputs (I/O). Proven applications of the Model 94 SimpleServo and the Model 940 Position Servo include CNC equipment semiconductor equipment, electronic assembly equipment, entertainment and simulations systems, and biomedical lab equipment. AC Technologyhttp://rbi.ims.ca/4409-584

Thomson Profile Rail Linear Guides

Broad offering of sizes and styles

The Thomson 500 Series features advanced grinding and straightening technologies, and one-piece rail lengths up to 6m, which result in greater rail accuracies for improved machine operation. A patented insert molded recirculation path eliminates metal-to-metal contact outside the load zone, while optimized geometries with minimal transitions through the recirculation path eliminate potential misalignment for smoother, quieter operation. Additional features include internal grease pockets on the 500 Series Ball product, multiple lubrication inlet points that are field-modifiable for design and upgrade flexibility, reduced component inventory, as well as standard built-in longitudinal seals that provide improved out-of-the-box sealing to protect the rolling elements along the rail ball or roller path. Danaher Motionhttp://rbi.ims.ca/4409-585