New Design ScanArm from FARO
As a limited-time promotional offer, the FARO Design ScanArm will be bundled with 3D System's Geomagic software at a reduced launch price. The available software options include automatic meshing software that delivers ready-to-use files without post-processing, to a full-featured reverse engineering software that combines history-based CAD with 3D scan data to create feature-based, editable solid models compatible with all major CAD platforms.
The FARO Design ScanArm features optically-superior blue laser technology with fast scanning speed to deliver high-resolution point cloud data and the ability to seamlessly scan challenging materials without the need for spray or targets. The device is lightweight and maneuverable for convenient desktop mounting in the design studio or engineering lab. The Design ScanArm features a simplified user interface that makes it easy to operate regardless of skill level.
The FARO Design ScanArm is ideal for the following applications:
- Manufacturing parts without existing CAD models
- Developing aftermarket products that need to fit tightly with existing products
- Reverse engineering legacy parts for design changes or replacement
- Creating digital libraries to decrease inventory and warehouse costs
- Designing aesthetically pleasing freeform surfaces
- Leveraging the power of rapid prototyping.
To learn more about the FARO Design ScanArm, visit www.faro.com.
New Micro PLC from IDEC Corporation
IDEC Corporation recently announced the release of its FC6A MicroSmart PLC.
The MicroSmart PLC provides the power of a PAC (programmable automation controller) with up to 520 I/O in a low-cost controller with a small form factor, making it an ideal fit for demanding applications.
Industries suited to the MicroSmart PLC include oil & gas, chemical, solar, marine, packaging, food & beverage, material handling, utility vehicles and OEM machinery and process skids. The MicroSmart PLC is especially useful for applications requiring control of standalone machines, process skids, vehicles and small-scale systems.
Basic instructions can be executed in 0.042 microseconds, with 640 kB of program memory. There are 1,024 timers and six of the 512 counters are high-speed at rates up to 100kHz. These capabilities are combined with extensive data and bit memory, double the capacity of a typical micro PLC. These features allow the MicroSmart PLC to handle large programs with complex control requirements such as PID, flow totalization and recipes.
Three MicroSmart PLC models are available, each with 24 Vdc or 100-240 Vac input power. The 16 I/O model has nine inputs and seven relay or transistor outputs. The 24 I/O model has 14 inputs and 10 relay or transistor outputs. The 40 I/O model has 24 inputs and 16 relay or transistor outputs.
Each model also includes an integral 0-10 Vdc analog input. The 16 and 24 I/O models can accommodate one plug-in analog cartridge and the 40 I/O model can accommodate two plug-in analog cartridges. Each cartridge has two analog I/O points, either two inputs or two outputs.
Up to 12 expansion modules can be added to the 16 I/O model and up to 15 expansion modules can be added to the 24 and 40 I/O models. These modules can be of any type with no restrictions as to the number of analog and specialty modules. This gives the 40 I/O MicroSmart PLC the capability to handle up to 520 I/O with a maximum of 126 analog I/O.
The MicroSmart PLC is programmed with IDEC’s WindLDR PC-based software, which includes no cost updates for the life of the product and which can be used to program IDEC’s entire line of controllers in a simple and intuitive manner. Software programs from IDEC FC4A and FC5A PLCs can be automatically converted by the WindLDR programming software for execution on the FC6A MicroSmart PLC.
PLC programming languages include Ladder and Script. The Script language can be used to create more complex programs, particularly those with multiple sub-programs and custom function blocks.
All models have a built-in RJ45 Ethernet port and an RJ45 RS232C/RS485 serial port. A plug-in cartridge adds an additional RS232C/RS485 port. An SD memory port and a mini-B USB port can each be used for data logging, program storage/transfer, firmware updating or recipe storage. The Ethernet port supports the Modbus TCP protocol and the serial port supports the Modbus RTU protocol.
An optional HMI module can be added to the CPU to provide operator interface via its display and control buttons. The HMI module can also accommodate an optional plug-in analog cartridge and it has an integral Ethernet port. Using the operator interface functionality, any PLC parameter can be updated.
IoT capability is provided by custom web pages which can be configured for remote monitoring and control. Web pages are created using simple drag and drop functionality with no HTML programming required.
These web pages are stored in the MicroSmart PLC, which functions as a web server when its built-in Ethernet port or the HMI Ethernet port is connected to the Internet. These web pages can be accessed via any web browser running on any Internet-connected device such as a remote PC, a tablet or a smartphone.
Connecting the MicroSmart or the HMI Ethernet port to the Internet also provides email and text notification functionality, which can be used with third-party email servers such as Gmail and Yahoo.
The 40 I/O model can be powered by 12 Vdc, making it an ideal fit for solar- and battery-power applications. The 40 I/O model also includes support for the Society of Automation Engineers (SAE) J1939 protocols. The SAE J1939 protocol is often used in diesel engine applications for various types of vehicles, vessels and for mobile power generators.
As with all its products, IDEC offers free tech support for the FC6A MicroSmart PLC, with no service or support contract required. For more information, visit information FC6A.idec.com.
igus Updates Robolink D Modular Robotic Kit
igus has updated the Robolink D modular robotic kit with strain wave gearings in two installation sizes.
The gearing, available as an individual component or with integrated NEMA motor, consists of an outer ring gear and flexible, wear-resistant inner ring gear made from self-lubricating, wear resistant iglide plastic.
The Robolink system is completely modular. Robolink D offers users the ability to assemble custom robotic systems for a range of applications.
Separate joints, which are motor-driven directly on the axis, are available in a range of installation sizes.
A new complete, 6-axis arm with strain wave gearing is also available, along with universal gripper adaptors, which allow the attachment of a range of different grippers on the Robolink D joints.
Additionally, a new online configurator is available to let users configure and assemble custom Robolink D joints. Motors, encoders, cabling, and other accessories are also available.
For more information, visit www.igus.com.
6-Axis Robots from Mitsubishi Electric Automation
These new robots extend the Mitsubishi Electric RV-F Series product line to address applications that require higher payloads and longer reaches, including CNC machine tending, large material handling and assembly applications.
The new RV-35F, RV-50F, and RV-70F robots are especially well suited to the automotive, food and beverage, as well as electronic manufacturing industries.
Key benefits of the RV-35F, RV-50F and RV-70F robots include:
- Higher payloads – allows applications that require heavier parts and tooling to be robotically automated
- Long reach arm – tasks can be spread farther apart and can accommodate larger parts and processes with the ability to extend up to 2050 mm
- Seamless integration with the Mitsubishi Electric Factory Automation (MELFA) hardware ecosystem – easily connects to MELFA’s extensive offering of integrated automation products
- Multiple environmental protection ratings – available in IP40 and IP67 protection ratings to conform to various application requirements
For more information on this product, visit us.mitsubishielectric.com.
Rotary Encoders for Safety Critical Systems from POSITAL
POSITAL has expanded its family of IXARC absolute rotary encoders to include models designed for safety-critical motion control systems.
The new encoders feature redundant measurement elements and are certified to Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2) and Performance Level d (PL d). They feature a PROFINET communications interface and support the PROFIsafe protocol.
PROFIsafe-based control systems are used for critical applications such as industrial robots or material handling equipment, where loss of control could result in hazardous situations. The encoder transmits a safety position and/or safety velocity value.
At the heart of the new SIL 2-certified encoder is POSITAL’s magnetic measurement technology. The sensing elements in these devices are more mechanically rugged than optical measurement systems and significantly more resistant to the presence of condensation and dust. Moreover, with no direct contact between sensing elements, IXARC magnetic encoders will retain their accuracy and reliability over long lifetimes.
Versions with multi-turn capabilities have a 12 bit (4096 rotation) measurement range. The measurement system is backed up by advanced signal processing and interface software that supports a full range of PROFINET and PROFIsafe capabilities, including prioritized startup, media redundancy and the possibility of firmware updates through the PROFINET communications network.
Ethernet bridging functionality is built into the communications interface, which makes it possible to make use of a variety of network topologies. System troubleshooting is simplified by the presence of LEDs that indicate the device’s operating status and help to isolate faults.
Like other members of POSITAL’s IXARC family, the SIL 2-certified absolute rotary encoder is available in a wide range of mechanical configurations. Saltwater-resistant aluminum housings make these devices suitable for use in harsh marine environments.
For more information, visit www.posital.com.