Product News

SERVO AMPLIFIERS

These servo amplifiers are designed for high current in a compact package, with current ratings up to 10 amps continuous and 20 amps peak. They can run in either torque or velocity mode, and from ac or dc power sources. They operate in sine-wave or six-step mode, and are compatible with either encoder or resolver feedback. Input voltage is available up to 300V dc or 110/220V ac, and the amplifier accepts 510V dc analog input commands.

Bayside Motion Group, 27 Seaview Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050; FAX (516) 484-5496; www.BMGnet.com. 

Inline flow switch

The leak-proof version of the FS-380 high pressure, compact, inline flow switch has a stainless steel housing with 3/8-inch compression fitting connection that eliminates thread leaks. Designed for semiconductor applications such as process module cooling and chiller/heat exchangers, the switch delivers nearly debris-free operation in pressure up to 1,500 psi, and requires only 150-micron filtration. It has flow rate settings of 0.25 to 1.50 gpm, and will operate in temperatures from -20 to 275F.

Gems Sensors, 1 Cowles Rd., Plainville, CT 06062-1198; FAX (860) 747-4244; www.gemssensors.com. 

Servo amplifier

The TDP Pulse Input Servo Amplifier is a packaged servo amplifier and power supply, capable of accepting pulse and direction position commands, and driving a full line of NEMA 23, 34, and 42 brushless SLO-SYN^® dc servo motors. It is suitable for a variety of applications, with a 16-bit microprocessor, scalable pulses per motor revolution, three pulse formats, normal or buffered pulse input, and preconfigured inputs and outputs.

Warner Electric Motors and Controls Div., 640 Avis Dr. Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108; FAX (734) 669-4733; www.warnernet.com. 

High torque servomotor

The Goldline^® XT brushless servomotor uses its interior magnet design to deliver high torque density and low cogging, for applications in converting, packaging, semiconductor processing, and factory automation. The XT30 model has continuous torque ratings from 1.3 to 5.0 N-m and speeds of up to 6,000 rpm. It also features encoder feedback, NEMA 34 and 100 mountings, and a built-in thermostat, and it is UL recognized and CE compliant.

Kollmorgen, 201 Rock Rd., Radford, VA 24141; FAX (540) 731-0847; www.kollmorgen.com. 

Leveling mounts

The inch-sized Anti-Vibe^TM leveling mount reduces up to 98% of transmitted vibration for high precision and computerized machinery. The threaded stud type features a hardened stud with ball end machined from solid bar, and a standard jam nut. The tapped socket type has a hardened tapped ball socket, also constructed from solid bar. Both types are made from gold iridite plated low carbon steel, or in stainless steel.

J.W. Winco Inc., Box 510035, New Berlin, WI 53151-0035; FAX (414) 786-8524; www.jwwinco.com. 

Elastomers

Thermshield silicone and carbon-filled elastomers provide high electromagnetic shielding. The oriented wires in silicone provide EMI shielding through low-resistance wire contact on both sides of the gasket. The solid-silicone product provides environmental sealing; the fluorosilicone material is designed for contact with fuels or oils; and the carbon-filled silicone elastomer provides basic broadband EMI shielding, good for grounding of electrostatic and corona charges in equipment. The materials also make an environmental seal and conform to 94HB UL flame retardant ratings.

Cambio International, Box 1641, Laconia, NH 03247-1641; FAX (603) 524-6602; www.thermshield.com. 

Digital signal processor

The Ingliston is a multi-processor, TMS320C6202-based, digital radio signal processor. The quad PCI DSP (digital signal processor) system was designed for multi-channel, multi-function applications like signals intelligence, medical and commercial imaging, and third-generation wireless base stations. It features four 250 MHz 'C6202 fixed-point DSP processors, which perform up to 2,000 MIPS per DSP, with 3 Mbits of memory.

Spectrum Signal Processing, 8525 Baxter Place, Suite 100, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 4V7; FAX 604-421-1764; www.spectrumsignal.com.

Light-duty slides

Series SCV Slides provide a low-cost solution for non-rotating vertical or light-duty horizontal applications. Units are powered by Series CV cylinders. Standard internal shock pads on the cylinders eliminate metal-to-metal contact at ends of the slide travel. Ports, cushion controls, and port controls can be specified in a variety of locations for maximum flexibility. An anodized aluminum-alloy tool plate with tapped and counterbored holes and a precisely machined mounting surface make attachment of tooling quick and easy.

PHD Inc., Box 9070, Fort Wayne, IN 46899; FAX (219) 747-6754; www.phdinc.com. 

Spray injector piston

Single-piece piston is for use in an existing Spray Injector Grease System. The Spray Injector Grease System, which uses the PurgeX metering method, is targeted for lubricating chains, cams, cables, die casting molds, or any item that needs a precise, uniform coating of grease. The single-piece piston injector pump is constructed from relatively few components, thus resulting in reduced manufacturing costs.

Oil-Rite Corp., Box 1207, Manitowoc, WI 54221; FAX (920) 682-7699.

Miniature manifolded pumps

P901 Series air driven hydraulic pumps eliminate pipes and tubes as they can be mounted through a small footprint with two oil galleries and two bolt holes. The P901 range will start with seven models from 600 to 10,000 psi. Performance is said to be quieter and gentler on the hydraulic circuit than conventional technology.

Hydronic, 32613 Folsom, Farmington Hills, MI; FAX (248) 478-3689.

Display protector

Duralan II Heat Shield^TM display filter windows provide protection from heat generated by infrared light. A special film laminated with other plastic materials reflects infrared instead of letting it pass through. This allows displays to function more efficiently when exposed to direct sunlight or heat buildup. They can also be constructed to provide EMI/RFI protection. The shield provides 80% I/R reflectance @ 1200 nm and effectiveness between 24-44 dB, depending on frequency.

Scientific Marketing Services, 219 Homestead Rd., Box 2000, Minotola, NJ 08341; FAX (201) 529-0252; www.smsmktg.com. 

Leveling mounts

The Snap-Lock, non-skid leveling mount consists of a neoprene rubber cup and gold iridite-plated carbon steel mounts. Designed to automatically adjust to uneven surfaces, mounts are available in inch and metric sizes, and in threaded stud and tapped socket types.

J.W. Winco, Box 510035, New Berlin, WI 53151; FAX (414) 786-8524; www.jwwinco.com. 

Electrical controls software

VIA Schematic Jr^TM aids engineers in the design and layout of control systems. Running under Windows 95/98/NT, the software includes three modules from the VIA Electrical Controls Design Software Suite. The modules work within AutoCAD for the creation of electrical control schematics, bills of material, and panel layout drawings for control systems. A library of symbols and pre-drawn circuits allows an engineer to create a schematic with almost no custom drawing. Priced at $1,995, the company is offering a free 30-day trial and a free tech support package.

VIA Development Corp., 867 East 38th Street Box. 3268, Marion, IN 46953; FAX (765) 674-3964; www.viadevelopment.com. 

Plastic welders

Plastic welders can weld, stake, rivet, insert metal fasteners, and spot-weld plastic assemblies by directing high-frequency vibrations at the interface of the components to be joined. The result is a strong, molecular bond. Each welder is equipped with a built-in leveling plate, T-slot, and toe clamps. Rectangular support columns eliminate deflection and deliver uniform bonding over the entire weldment.

Sonobond Ultrasonics, 887 S. Matlack St., West Chester, PA 19382; FAX (610) 692-0674.; www.sonobondultrasonic.com

Power supply

Model 930 power supply provides an output current that stays constant with changes in load impedance. The output voltage will vary as necessary to maintain the desired value of constant current through the load. The output current can be set by an external potentiometer or by a dc voltage. The unit has an internal regulator and reference circuit to make the output current independent of power supply variations. Supply voltage can be unregulated and can range from 12 to 32V. Compliance voltage is rated at supply voltage less 5V. Model 930 can deliver up to 50 mA. Output current regulation is 5 mA/supply volt, and the output impedance is 10MV. Applications include elimination of problems associated with variable line resistance, battery charging, and Hall-effect sensors.

CALEX Mfg. Co. Inc., 2401 Stanwell Dr., Concord, CA 94520; FAX (925) 687-3333.

Cable-to-cable connector

Splashproof connectors are available in two, three, and four-position configurations for connecting AWG#20 and AWG#22 wire sizes. The 9515 Series Automotive connector features 2.8-mm contact spacing. Maximum ratings of 3A and 125V, and operating temperature of -40 to 105C. Contact and pin material is phosphor bronze and the insulator body is glass-filled PBT. Applications include under-the-hood and other harsh environments. 

AVX, Box 867, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578; FAX (843) 626-5186; www.avxcorp.com. 

Polymeric foam tape

Polymeric series foam tape is an alternative to high-end rubber products in gasketing applications. A low out-gassing form meets SAE 1756 out-gassing specification for automotive products. For exterior applications, the tape is resistant to ultraviolet rays, sunlight degradation, and extreme salt spray. Operating temperature is -31 to 240F. The tape can also be formulated for compatibility with a variety of plastics.

Gaska Tape, 1810 W. Lusher, Elkhart, IN 46515; FAX (219) 294-4504.

Shaft-locking bushing

The ETP "Express" Model E keyless locking device uses a double-walled sleeve, piston, and one radial tightening screw to secure drive-component hubs to shafts. Tightening the setscrew expands the sleeve, forming a continuous, tight connection between shaft and hub. The design reportedly minimizes shaft and mounted power-transmission component wear typical of keyway- and taper-type position-locking mechanisms. Available in 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, 35-, 40-, 45-, and 50-mm shaft sizes, the keyless bushing locks into position sprockets, gears, pulleys, couplings, and other power-transmission components.

Zero-Max, 13200 Sixth Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55441-5509; FAX (612) 546-8260; www.zero-max.com. 

CNC software controls

High-speed CNC software for vertical and horizontal machining centers controls machine motion for both low and high feed rates, up to 500 inches/min. Look-ahead algorithm determines the fastest feed rate at which one stroke can be blended into another without stopping. According to the software developer, the result is higher accuracy, smoother motion, and a higher actual feed rate, even with complex geometry. Applications include tool and die molds, patterns, electrodes, aircraft components, and other 3-, 4-, and 5-axis parts.

Haas Automation, 2800 Sturgis Rd., Oxnard, CA 93030; FAX (805) 278-2255

Plexiglas^® frosted resin

New acrylic resin was designed for light cover, refractor, and lens applications. Plexiglas^® Frosted acrylic can be used in extrusion, profile, and molding processes to produce two-sided, frosted, textured surfaces. The resin offers unusually high luminous transmission (84%) coupled with excellent hiding power (95% haze values), manufacturer says.

Elf Atochem, 2000 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 191033222; www.elf-atochem.com. 

Automatic cable tie tool

New, pneumatic, bench-mount tool system applies cable ties in approximately 1 sec. either automated or operated with a foot pedal. The Quick Tool accommodates a reel of 5,000 ties, with a standard air source and 110V ac for power.

Tyton Hellerman Corp., 7930 N. Faulkner Rd. Box 23055, Milwaukee, WI 53223; FAX (414) 355-7341; www.tytonhellermann.com. 

Acrylic mounting tape

Double-coated, pressure-sensitive acrylic mounting tape has a uniform adhesive that will bond to a variety of clean, dry, oil-free substrates. Also, double-coated acrylic foam tape is designed for tack, peel and holding power on a number of different surfaces. Both tapes can withstand thermal movement, maintain adhesion at sub-zero temperatures, and will not absorb moisture or become brittle with age, company claims. Available in translucent or black/white, all appropriate for applications including windows, furniture, appliance, automotive trim, electronic component, signage and graphic arts.

Scapa Tapes, 111 Great Pond Dr., Windsor, CT 06095; FAX (860) 688-7000; www.scapatapesna.com. 

Vertical rack cabinets

DataFrame^TM series of welded 19-inch vertical rack cabinets feature mounting rails of heavy, 12-gauge steel. Equipment mounting rails have both 1-cm mounting holes and traditional 0.281-cm round holes. Rails can be reversed to accommodate the chassis and are adjustable front-to-back. The cabinets are available in 63 and 70 inch configurations with depths of 31 and 36 inches.

Trimm Technologies, 350 Pilot Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89119; FAX (702) 361-6067; www.trimm.com. 

Wire tie-down studs

Wire tie-down studs will hold wire bundles up to one inch in diameter, and can be welded into place for permanent wire maintenance. Weld-attachment eliminates need to drill holes, so studs will not loosen over time, compared to traditional screw and adhesive fasteners. Studs are suited for applications including heavy-duty construction equipment, wire management in industrial control boxes, and telephone junction boxes.

Image Industries Inc., 382 Balm Court, Wood Dale, IL 60191; FAX (630) 766-2402.

Electrically conductive adhesive

New electrically conductive epoxy adhesive was designed for stencil and screen printing applications. Loctite^® 3883 is a medium-viscosity, heat-curable, silver-filled epoxy that is both electrically and thermally conductive. The low ionic grade, smooth paste forms durable bonds that provide a ground path from the chip to the substrate. Appropriate for attaching temperature-sensitive components, providing electrical interconnections on non-solderable substrates such as plastic and glass, for repair/rework of interconnections, and for high frequency shielding.

Loctite, 1001 Trout Brook Crossing, Rocky Hill, CT 06067; FAX (860) 571-5465.

UV curable adhesive

UV15TK is a high-viscosity, UV-curable adhesive and can be applied to vertical surfaces without sagging or dripping. Cure time at room temperature ranges up to 60 sec, depending on the intensity of the UV light. According to the manufacturer, high bond strengths are obtained with metals, ceramics, glass, paper, and many plastics and elastomers. Operating temperature is -60 to 250F.

Master Bond, 154 Hobart St., Hackensack, NJ 07601; FAX (201) 343-8983.

ERG position sensor

A new range of EGR valve position sensors are targeted for use in vacuum and electric EGR applications. The sensors, which are manufactured using a new thick ink, are tolerant to harsh automotive environments. The thick-film ink technology wards against fuel and ATF contamination and, since it requires no lubricants, is safe from dust and dirt common to most automotive applications.

AB Electronic Ltd., Spring Gardens Romford, Essex RM7 9LP, England; FAX (219) 747-6754.

IMH orifice

A new IMH orifice is available in 31 standard flow rates. The miniature restrictor uses a controlled expansion principal that makes it easy to install. It also provides retention and creates a leak-tight seal that prevents any by-pass leakage.

Lee Company, 2 Pettipaug Rd., Westbrook, CT 06498; FAX (860) 399-6281; www.theleeco.com. 

Filter-regulated lubricator

The Intelligent FRL (filter-regulated lubricator) interfaces with AS-I Fieldbus technology for use with air-preparation equipment. The unit has fault-finding diagnostic facilities, including alarms for the following conditions: the upstream or downstream pressure is too low, the level of lubricant becomes too low, a general-purpose or coalescing filter element becomes blocked, the soft start/dump valve is not working, and other customer equipment failure. Up to 31 FRLs can be connected per AS-I network, so large compressed-air systems can be monitored centrally.

IMI Norgren Ltd., Box 22, Eastern Ave., Litchfield, Staffordshire, England WS13 6SB.

Sealless magdrive pumps

The MPX line of sealless magdrive pumps now handle up to 1,700 gallons per minute. The MPX sealless design ensures leak-free operation, making it a good choice for handling environmentally hazardous fluids. The new larger version pump is well-suited for chemical manufacturers seeking to meet the pumping requirements of large applications.

Ingersoll-Dresser Pump Co., 253 E. Washington Ave., Washington, NJ 07882; FAX (800) 782-7878.

Low-NCO prepolymers

From bicycle seats and computer keyboard wrist pads, to caulks and sealants, manufacturer's new low-NCO prepolymers were designed to make soft elastomers. Baytec^® MP-020 has NCO content from 2.4 to 2.8%, and Baytec MP-030 has 3.5 to 4.1%. Both MDI prepolymers are diphenylmethane diisocyanate-terminated polyether prepolymers, based on poly-propylene ether glycol.

Bayer, 100 Bayer Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9741; www.bayer.com/polymers-usa. 

Thermal interface gel

For thermal management in building electronic equipment, manufacturers often use thermally conductive gels. Now there is a gel with a non-tacky top surface--to avoid attracting dust--and a sticky bottom side, for easy installation and removal. The HeatPath GTQ 1540 thermal interface gel is soft and conformable with low thermal resistance and low compression force, the manufacturer claims. It comes in a range of pre-cut shapes on rolls and sheets, in standard thicknesses from 0.25 to 1 mm.

Raychem, Electronics OEM Components Div, 300 Constitution Dr, MS 110/7568, Menlo Park, CA 94025; FAX (650) 361-5579; www.raychem.com. 

New cut-off system grades

Manufacturer's new grades T20M and CP50 are useful for general purpose cut-off operations, available for the 150.10 series in low-, medium- and high-feed rate insert geometries. T20M is designed to increase cutting speeds when machining hard steels and grey or nodular cast iron, and in bearing manufacturing-type applications. CP50 is tough, for efficient machining of steel and stainless steel, high temperature alloys, cast iron, and more.

Carboloy, Box 330237, Detroit, MI 48232-6237; FAX (810) 497-5602; www.carboloy.com. 

Paint pigments

Weathering can destroy outdoor metal, such as bridges, doors, streetlamps, and railings. Nubifer Micaceous Iron Oxide is a non-toxic pigment for anti-corrosive paints with a high grade of lamellarity to shield against water, wind and UV degradation. It is compatible with other pigments to create a range of shades. And manufacturer's Nubiflow Ultramarine Blue Pigment is designed for polyolefin applications. Its selective micronisation technique produces a less-than-10-micron particle size distribution, making it suitable for PET and all plastics applications.

Ferro Corp., 4150 E. 56th Street, Cleveland, OH 44105; FAX (216) 641-8831.

Tool handles

Lawn, garden, and power tools need rugged handles for vibration absorption and weathering. Manufacturer's Alcryn^® Melt-Processible Rubber (MPR)^TM provides toughness and resistance to chemicals and abrasion, with its higher coefficient of friction than other options. It is also appropriate for sealing applications in gasoline engines and irrigation equipment, at up to 125C.

Advanced Polymer Alloys, 3521 Silverside Rd., Quillen Building 2E, Wilmington, DE 19810; FAX (216) 641-8831; www.apainfo.com. 

Soldering flux

New water-soluble, water-based and halide-free flux contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). BOW 851 NVOC flux has minimum environmental impact and cost, while retaining its high-quality soldering abilities for surface mount or through-hole components to PCB assemblies, manufacturer claims. Applicable to circuit boards by dip or spraying.

Bow Electronic Solders, 1 Crossman Rd., Sayreville, NJ 08872; FAX (732) 316-1185; www.solders.com. 

Photonic polymers

New fiber-optic, black cyanoacrylate adhesive bonds well to plastics, metals and rubber. TRA-BOND LX90050 is a low viscosity material that begins curing in the presence of surface moisture, with a glass transition temperature of 120C, and a shear strength of over 2000 psi. The polymer is also resistant to chemicals such as alcohols, gasoline, and motor oil.

Tra-Con, 45 Wiggins Ave, Bedford, MA 01730; FAX (781) 275-9249; www.tra-con.com. 

Color laser marking plastics

A specially formulated masterbatch series optimizes color laser marking of plastics, especially PE and PP resins, which are usually hard to mark because of their nonporous surfaces. Masterbatches can be created in many custom colors, so are appropriate for applications from logos and text to bar codes.

Clairant Masterbatches Div., 111 N. West St., Easton, MD 21601; FAX (410) 770-3156.

Recycled nylon

Recycled nylon 6 product, based on post-consumer recyclate, will be aimed at injection-molding applications, particularly automotive and consumer durables, when it is released in early 2000. Akulon^® Renew is made from 25% recycled caprolactam, and will include grades of standard un-reinforced, glass-reinforced, and glass-mineral compounds.

DSM Engineering Plastics, Box 3333 2267 West Mill Rd., Evansville, IN 47732-3333; FAX (812) 435-7702; www.dsmep.com. 

Magnetic alloy

VACODUR 50^TM soft magnetic alloy is based on the 50% cobalt-iron alloys VACOFLUX^® 48 and VACOFLUX 50. The alloy features superior strength and ductility while retaining almost equally good magnetic properties. This results in substantially higher rotational frequencies in rotors, says the manufacturer.

Vacuumschmelze GmbH, Postfach 22 53, Hanau, Germany D-63412; www.vacuumschmelze.de. 

Laurie Ann Toupin on Renting Software, Leveraging the Internet

The Internet was perhaps the biggest news at the Computer Technology Solutions Show in Detroit as companies struggled to find ways to leverage the capabilities of cyberspace. MSC.Software announced on-line onDemand Licensing where engineers can basically rent FEA software from MSC, including MSC/NASTRAN and MSC/Patran by the week or month. The 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week service is available from Engineering-e.com. SolidWorks announced eDrawings, a compressed electronic drawing file that enables users to create, view, send, and receive mechanical design drawings via email. Each eDrawing file includes a self-contained viewer, so recipients can start using the drawing information immediately whether or not they are a SolidWorks user. This will be free for a limited time at the SolidWorks website. Engineering Animation Inc. and Hewlett-Packard are also getting into the act. Together, the companies are offering a portal for the manufacturing community through e-vis.com. It offers a secure Internet collaboration where project members can capture the decision making rationale, track issues, hold real-time design reviews, search, and update the team. For a longer description of the show and the hot products debuted, please check out the next issue of Design News.

Laurie Toupin on Computer Productivity Tools

For comments on computer productivity tools, contact Laurie at ltoupin@cahners.com  

Mid-range solid modeler

I liked this new feature-based solid modeler because of its functionality for the price. CADMAX Solid Master allows engineers to choose from parametric, feature-based solid modeling, boolean solid modeling, free-form surface modeling, and 2D drafting all in one program. Users can simultaneously model multiple parts and mix models, production drawings, and assemblies in a single file. A Hotspot cursor anticipates snap points during sketching and as the cursor moves over geometry, center, end, mid, or tangent points pop-up enabling a snap to the location without any instruction. CADMAX will distribute Solid Master over the Internet. A potential buyer can download a free 30-day full function copy of the software from www.cadmax.com. At the end, the user can choose to purchase the CAD package over the Internet for under $2,000, or go through more traditional channels.

CADMAX Corp., Village of Cross Keys 258 Village Square, Baltimore, MD 21210; FAX (410) 433-1192; www.cadmax.com. 

Computer furniture

Space Station^TM offers a leg-free work area that allows one to move freely from one task to the next. The workstation, capable of supporting both the user and necessary hardware, comes in 18 standard configurations with 30-in. deep tops and 8 configurations with 36-in. deep tops for those who work with E-size drawings. A built-in drafting table option comes with the larger Space Stations. Customers can request special heights at no additional charge, custom paint, laminates, and edge treatments.

CADesk Company, Trumbull, CT 06611; FAX (203) 380-2822; www.cadesk.com.   

Entry-level server

HP 9000 L-Class targets the UNIX server market. L1000, a 1- to 2-way, and the L2000, a 1- to 4-way, operate on the high-performance 64-bit 360 or 44 MHz PA-8500 CPUs with up to 1.5 MB on-chip cache per CPU. The L1000 has 4 GB SDRAM with 5 PCI slots and the L2000 has 8 GB with 10 slots. Both have 72 GB internal storage, and DVD or DAT Internal Backup. According to HP, the streamlined 7U form factor supports a combined OLTP or web performance workload that exceeds even some of the largest systems in the industry.

Hewlett-Packard, 3000 Hanover St., Palo Alto, CA 94304

CNC software

OpenCNC^®/OEM includes the OpenCNC/OEM Software Developer Kit (SDK) and OpenCNC/OEM Runtime. The SDK enables engineers to design, build, test, and simulate the CNC application offline, in software, before installing it on the machine tool. Runtime is the hard real-time kernel that controls the machine tool. Together, the package provides a common control technology across a full range of machine tools, including mills, lathes, drills, routers, mills, grinders, gear hubs, dial machines, and laser manufacturing systems.

MDSI, 220 East Huron St. Suite 600, Ann Arbor MI 48104; FAX (734) 769-9112; www.mdsi2.com. 

Monitoring software

CIMPLICITY software from GE Fanuc Automation is a monitoring tool designed to assure 24-hour system availability by providing real-time system information and alerting system managers to problems before they become critical. System Sentry constantly monitors key CIMPLICITY and operating system performance parameters in order to identify problems and locate resource bottlenecks in either one system or an entire network. Managers can access the performance data from anywhere on the network or over the Internet.

GE Fanuc Automation North America, Inc., Box E, Whitehall, PA 18052; FAX (610) 437-5212; www.cimplicitysoftware.com.    

CAD/CAM/CAE all in one

ANVIL Express 3.0 offers a tool for repairing 2D CAD drawings, Open 2D Mender^TM. This heals gaps, overlaps, tangencies, redundancies, and more. Drawing files can be derived from IGES, DXF, and DWG. With Open 2D Mender, users can update and repair old legacy drawings to make them mathematically accurate enough to move directly into 3D and solids. Some other enhancements to the CAD/CAM/CAE software include: new NURB utilities such as knot insertion, knot removal, and degree elevation; global NURB approximation for curves and surfaces; copy knitted-model capability; a "Get Sketch" feature to the SolidWorks toolbar. Several new types of tool paths were also added, including a pocket "clean-up" tool path, multiple operations drilling, spiral-step-over-cut, multiple surface planar slice roughing, and 5-axis swarf cutting.

MCS, 7560 E. Redfield Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260; FAX (480) 991-8732; www.mcsaz.com.  

Dynamic analysis software

RecurDyn^® makes its debut in the U.S. This design and analysis tool is well suited for "what-if" studies of virtual prototypes, analyzing dynamic, kinematic, and compliance characteristics of the virtual prototype. RecurDyn employs relative coordinates in formulating the governing equations of motion and kinematics. The software calculates using ordinary differential equations rather than the more complicated differential algebraic equations. RecurDyn also has a user-friendly modeler that consists of a database, a view manager, and a communicator between the database and view manager. Entities displayed on the screen can be selected, copied, deleted, mirror-imaged, and undone. Layers allow for logical break down of a large-scale model into several pieces.

Recursive Dynamics Inc., 11 Floor MIREA ASSET Building, 45-1 Yoido-dong, Youngdeungpo-ku, Seoul; FAX 82-2-761-9681; pharmax@chollian.dacom.kr.   

Simulation interoperability

Micro Saint Version 3.1, a general purpose discrete-event simulation software, now can communicate and exchange information with other software applications. COM Services allows users to pass variable values into and out of Micro Saint during model executions, and control the event queue that allows users to insert scenario events into the queue at specified times. Model control allows users to pause, halt, and abort the model through parsed expressions. Command line capabilities allow users to start, stop, and continue the model as well as the capability of sending messages to the user when a model has ended or if errors have occurred. With COM Services, a user can begin the process of setting up interoperability using Visual Basic, C++, the High Level Architecture RTI or some other programming language as the middleware between Micro Saint and another application.

Micro Analysis & Design, Boulder, CO

CAD-to-web solution

E-Com CAD, a 3D on-line product configurator, dynamically generates CAD models based on specific user inputs. From a web-based entry form, users answer a series of questions about their specific applications. From this input, a properly sized part is selected and the software generates a corresponding 3D model. The model can then be rotated, cross-sectioned, and zoomed in or out live on the Web, or can be downloaded to the user's computer for insertion into the engineer's design drawing. The current program generates 3D models in CATIA, Unigraphics, SolidWorks, or IGS format; 2D formats include .DXF or .DWG.

Ramsoft Systems Inc., 29777 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 2650, Southfield, MI 48034; FAX (248) 354-3626; www.ramsoftinc.com.

Think CAD again

Thinkdesign^TM 4.0 targets the more than three million designer still working in 2D. The newest release offers a set of fully associative layout; powerful production drafting functionality; single-click drawing generation; a standard part library management system, thinkparts^TM, so designers can create, share, manage, and reuse standard and proprietary components from a central catalog; and a capture and playback feature so designers can record, review, and communicate specific design sessions. The software is sold on a subscription basis at $1,995 per year.

think3, 2880 Lakeside Dr., Suite 250, Santa Clara, CA 95054; FAX (408) 727-0237; www.think3.com .

Rick DeMeis on Electrical/Electronics

For comments on electrical/electronics, contact Rick at rickd@cahners.com 

Pick of the Issue

Precision measurement chips

This chip was designed to make precision measurements at a sample rate of up to 4kHz, for applications such as process control and medical instrumentation. The Crystal^® CS553x uses the Crystal MultiPath^TM amplifier core, an architecture that enables the devices to operate at a very low noise level6nV/=Hz at 0.1 Hz and very high resolution up to 23 bits. By integrating the multiplexer, amplifier, and analog-to-digital converter (ADC) on a single chip, the devices simplify analog front-end design for the system engineer.

Cirrus Logic Inc., 3100 West Warren Ave., Fremont, CA 94538; www.cirrus.com. 

Dc motor controllers

Advanced dc motor controllers operate on a pulse width modulation switching technique, and can be custom designed at the factory to fit each OEM's requirements. Available in 12, 24, 36,  48V dc, or higher voltage input; with programmable high-low current limits; and with dc motor control at 20, 60, 120 Amps or higher.

Winland Electronics Inc., 1950 Excel Dr., Mankato, MN 56001; FAX (507) 387-2488; www.winland.com. 

Oxygen sensors

Galvanic fuel-cell oxygen sensors are appropriate for applications in anesthesiology, respiratory care, neonatal care and emergency transport. Manufacturer's sensors feature five years expected life, 90% response within 13 sec., 51% full-scale accuracy, and linearity over full-scale 0-100% oxygen. Operating temperature range is 0 to 50C.

Analytical Industries Inc., 2855 Metropolitan Place, Pomona, CA 91767; FAX (909) 392-3665; www.aii1.com. 

Lithium-battery gauge

New bq2052 Benchmarq Gas Gauge IC monitors critical parameters of primary lithium battery packs, including lithium sulfur dioxide and lithium manganese dioxide batteries, the types used in military communication radios, test and measurement equipment, and other portable applications. The gauge tracks battery voltage, temperature, and remaining capacity, then sends this data to either a host system controller via single-wire communications port, or a programmable patterned LED light.

Unitrode, 17919 Waterview Pkwy., Dallas, TX 75252; FAX (972) 437-9198; www.unitrode.com. 

Network I/O and cabling systems

New MultiMate^TM Series of Network I/O and cabling systems for Harsh DeviceNet^TM applications is versatile enough to fit either flat or round media. All modules are interchangeable with any base without disrupting power.

Lumberg Inc., 14121 Justice Rd., Midlothian, VA 23113; FAX (804) 379-3232; www.lumbergusa.com.  

Karen Auguston Field on Power Transmission & Motion Control

For comments on power transmission & motion control, contact Karen at kfield@cahners.com 

Anti-backlash lead screws

Small lead screws fit in tight spaces for higher precision motion control than gear boxes or belt drives, says the manufacturer. Anti-Backlash Mini Lead Screw Assemblies provide accuracy up to 1.000 inch/inch, with drag torque under 0.1 oz./inch. Using the manufacturer's patented take-up mechanism, the self-compensating nut maintains axial stiffness while holding system torque low. All Mini Series assemblies include 303 stainless steel lead screws, with maintenance-free nuts of self-lubricating poly acetal.

Kerk Motion Products, 1 Kerk Dr., Hollis, NH 03049; FAX (603) 465-3598; www.kerkmotion.com. 

Precision worm gears

For high-accuracy servo applications such as printing, packaging, robotics and automation, TechnoGear^® precision worms are available in seven sizes, with reduction ratios from 5:1 to 100:1. Output options include single/double, solid or keyless hollow out shaft with C or D type output flange or foot mounting capability. Rated output torque is 142 to 6032 lb-in. with acc/dec torque from 212 to 9,647 lb-in.

SIPCO Mechanical Linkage Solutions, 12610 Galveston Rd., Webster, TX 77598; FAX (281) 480-8656; www.sipco-tech.com. 

Linear motor controls

New linear motor controls use an IGBT power base design, and are available in versions from 5 to 30A peak current output. LinDrive, Lin+Drive, and MintDrive controls are designed specifically to control brushless linear motors, with high current loop, rate loop and position loop bandwidths for smooth low speed performance and settling times. Motors offer Matched Performance^TM drive package, featuring manufacturer's brushless linear servo motors, for applications including semiconductor/electronics, materials handling, machine tools, medical and robotics.

Baldor, Box 2400, Fort Smith, AK 72902-2400; www.baldor.com.   

Planetary gearmotor

New gearmotor integrates brushless DC servo motor technology with True Planetary gearing in one package, ensuring proper alignment of the motor to the gearhead. The True Planetary^TM gearmotor is available in 40-, 60- and 90-mm frame sizes, with torques ranging from 11 to 167 Nm, for operation in highly dynamic velocity or position servo systems. Best applications include medical diagnostic testing, medical device pumps, packaging, robotics and automation.

Thomson Industries, 2 Channel Dr., Port Washington, NY 11050; FAX (516) 467-9814; www.thomson.com. 

Two-meter linear motor positioning stages

For extended-travel applications, manufacturer offers Linear Motor Positioning Stages for ironless and iron core motors, available in lengths up to 2 meters. The iron core motor version delivers high force and high acceleration, featuring a flexure design that automatically adjusts bearing preload for best performance during thermal expansion and high acceleration. The ironless model is available in either high speed or high accuracy versions.

Bayside Motion Group, 27 Seaview Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050; FAX (516) 484-5496; www.BMGnet.com. 

High-torque gearheads

High-torque, PSS-G precision gearheads have zero backlash and high torsional stiffness. The shaft-output gearheads use harmonic drive gearing, and have the smooth positional accuracy needed for applications including wafer handling, robotic arms, laboratory equipment, semiconductor manufacturing, indexing tables, laser positioning and medical equipment. Available in three sizes and in gear ratios of 50:1, 80:1, 100:1, 120:1, and 160:1.

Harmonic Drive Technologies, 247 Lynnfield St., Peabody, MA 01960; FAX (978) 532-9406; www.harmonic-drive.com. 

26 mm stepper motor

For small-space applications, manufacturer offers its 26-mm geared permanent magnet stepper motor, Series 26M048B-V. Its 7.58 step angle motor produces output step angles from 0.125 to 3.758. The 57g motor is appropriate for uses such as: medical/laboratory equipment such as micropipettes, pumps and syringes; fluid control functions like ink disbursal in printing presses; and computer peripherals and instrumentation.

Thomson Industries, 2 Channel Dr, Port Washington, NY 11050; FAX (516) 467-9814; www.thomson.com. 

Semiconductor devices

Manufacturer produces two new semiconductor products; the ChamberLink^TM and PowerHub^TM. The ChamberLink provides precise motion control within a vacuum chamber, which avoids all vacuum leakage because it has no chamber-wall penetrating shafts or seals. It is a combination rotary feedthrough and precise harmonic drive servo actuator in one stainless steel device. The PowerHub is a high-powered, zero-backlash, compact, brushless robotic actuator with a hollow shaft. The hollow middle allows vacuum lines or wiring to be run through its center to external end-effectors or wafer paddles.

Harmonic Drive Technologies, 247 Lynnfield St., Peabody, MA 01960; FAX (978) 532-9406.; www.harmonic-drive.com. 

50 mm impulse stage

This 50 mm-tall, low-profile Impulse stage offers a brushless servo linear motor that can be sinusoidally commutated for smoothness. Its high-resolution linear encoder achieves 5Gs, 3m/sec, and 100 nm repeatability. Standard travels range from 150 to 350 mm, making it useful for applications in semiconductors, life science, photonics and disk drives.

New England Affiliated Technologies (NEAT), 620 Essex St, Lawrence, MA 01841; FAX (978) 688-8027; www.neat.com. 

Customized output shafts

Designers can now match their application requirements for customized output shafts to all Pittman^® brush-commutated and brushless DC motors and gearmotors. Any motor or gearmotor can be fitted with a customized shaft, including: flat, journal, keyway, cross hole, slot, groove, swage, gear, clutch, or pulley shafts. Customized shaft materials and diameters are also available.

Pittman, 343 Godshall Dr., Harleysville, PA 19438; FAX (215) 256-1338; www.pittmannet.com. 

Brushless dc motors

New, 3.4-inch diameter brushless dc motors are available in frame lengths of 2.0-, 2.6- and 3.2-inch with rear shaft extension as a provision for encoder mounting.Typical operating speeds for NEMA DIN34 series range from 6,000 to 18,000 rpm, with continuous stall/peak torque ratings of 50, 100, and 135 oz-inch respectively.

BEI Sensors & Systems, 804-A Rancheros Dr., San Marcos, CA 92069; FAX (760) 744-0425; www.beikimco.com. 

Jean Young Gonzalez on Test, Measurement, & Control

For comments on test, measurement, & control, contact Jean at jygonzalez@aol.com 

Accelerometer tester

The Sensor Doctor^TM, Model HMH-101 is a portable meter that measures the bias output voltage (BOV) from accelerometers. It is designed with an oscillation circuit that tests the integrity of the sensor and the cabling by producing an oscillating signal. Also features BOV measuring, linear from ground to supply, and an LED display providing sensor indication of normal, short, open and low battery warning. It weighs 222g, with operating temperature of 54C, and a 6-hour power source of a single 9V alkaline battery.

Wilcoxon Research, 21 Firstfield Rd., Gaithersersburg, MD 20878-1703; www.wilcoxon.com. 

Pick of the Issue

Embedded software

Once embedded, LabVIEW RT runs directly on the RT series data administration board's processor, separate from the processor of the host computer. Thus, LabVIEW RT will continue to run even if the mouse is moved, the host switches applications, or the operating system on the host PC crashes, manufacturer claims. Applicable for machine control, process control, and engine simulation, control, and test.

National Instruments, 11500 N Mopac Expwy, Austin, TX 78759; FAX (512) 794-5759; www.natinst.com. 

Temperature/humidity indicator

The handheld RH31 digital thermo-hygrometer features simultaneous display of temperature and humidity. Also available are relative humidity, dew-point temperature, wet-bulb temperature, and data hold.

Omega Engineering, Box 4047, Stamford, CT 06907-4047; FAX (203) 359-7700; www.omega.com. 

Pressure gauge

New Series 7314D Spirahelic^® Pressure Gauge features 81/2-inch face for easy reading, with a 41/2-digit LCD. Gauge's 0.25% FS accuracy results from direct-drive design, which connects triple-helix Bourdon tube to a pointer, eliminating gears, springs, and linkages. Gauge is available in four models, ranging from 0-100 psi to 0-600 psi.

Dwyer Instruments, 102 Indiana Hwy. 212, Box 373, Michigan City, IN 46361-0373; FAX (219) 872-9057; www.dwyer-inst.com. 

EMC test cell for small electronics

New, Model 250 KuTEM Omni-Cell provides fast EMC testing for small electronic products, for both module/component and integrated circuit testing over the frequency range of dc to 16 GHz. Unit is best applied for emissions and immunity testing of small telecom products, automotive modules, and medical devices, manufacturer says. Cell supports testing for IC RF emissions, including the US SAE JI752-3 standard and the new IEC 61967-2 draft standard.

Lindgren RF Enclosures Inc., 400 High Grove Blvd., Glendale Heights, IL 60139; FAX (630) 307-7571; www.LindgrenRF.com.