The German industrial automation company Festo previewed a novel new pneumatics technology, reportedly the first to feature built-in diagnostics. Engineers achieved this capability by integrating a non-contact, microwave sensor into the end cap of the cylinder, which acts as a waveguide. Much like a radar tracker, the sensor emits short pulses of electromagnetic energy directed at a target (in this case the piston), measuring the time it takes for the reflected signal (or echo) to be received by the sensor.
Dr. Josef Binder, one of the developers of the technology, says that while due to an extremely high DAQ rate the positioning accuracy of the system is about 2X better than magnetostrictive and 10X better than potentiometer sensors, the real power of the technology lies in its ability to provide a host of diagnostic information. That's because the high-energy echo also picks up harmonics created by any vibration, off-axis motion, friction, signal degradation, and other indicators of looming maintenance issues.
Because the sensor is fully encapsulated within the cylinder, Festo is initially targeting applications involving strong magnetic field environments and washdown requirements. The technology is available on cylinders up to 150 mm in diameter. For more information e-mail haugafesto.com.
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
7 
