ABB Robot Controller
ABB has launched its OmniCore controllers. The first variants of the controllers provide the ability to integrate robots into the digital factory ecosystem, whether manufacturers need standardized motion control or more tailored systems.
OmniCore controllers are built in a 50 percent smaller footprint for greater installation flexibility and floor space utilization. This allows robotic devices to be adapted to a variety of new and existing production lines.The controller family comes with an improved generation of ABB’s operating system, RobotWare7, which incorporates additional features and functions that make the robots more capable than before via the company’s ergonomic FlexPendant.
For more information, visit ABB’s website.
AMC Motor Configuration Software
Advanced Motion Controls (AMC) has released DriveWare 7.4.2, the latest version of its free software tool for configuring ADVANCED Motion Controls DigiFlex Performance servo drives. Version 7.4.2 includes stepper motor configuration, which enables users to program drives to run stepper motors in addition to the servo motors that were previously supported. A streamlined commutation algorithm makes initial configuration for steppers approximately 75 percent faster.
AMC has also added support in DriveWare for CANopen RPDO 27 and RPDO 28 for all DPCANIA and DPCANTA drive models. These can be used to avoid sudden surges during motor start up, providing softer acceleration.
For more information, visit AMC’s website.
Balluff Incremental Encoder System
Balluff has introduced its BML SF2 Incremental Encoder, which provides 12-micrometer system accuracy at gap distances up to 1.0mm and a maximum working gap distance of 1.8mm. The BML SF2 is a linear position feedback system designed for applications such as cutting and forming machinery, X-Y positioning, and direct feedback on electric drives.
The BML SF2 incremental encoder system is available with industry-standard A/B/Z quadrature or analog sine/cosine interfaces and in operating lengths of up to 48 meters. The magnetic tape can be ordered in bulk and cut to length per application requirements.
For more information, visit Balluff’s website.
Makino Vertical Machining Center
Makino has announced the D200Z 5-Axis Vertical Machining Center (VMC), which combines machine movements and accuracy with software developments for motion control. From roughing to high-speed finishing of multifaceted, contoured 3D geometries, the D200Z can boost productivity with its processing capabilities for complex dies and molds typically found in the automotive, injection molding, packaging, medical and optical industries.
Designed with an integral chuck to maximize work-zone volume and load capacity, the D200Z accommodates workpiece sizes up to 300mm in diameter and 210mm in height with weight up to 75kg. The X-, Y- and Z-axes (350mm, 300mm and 250mm travels, respectively) provide movement with traverse and cutting feed rates of 60m/min.
For more information, visit Makino’s website.
RLC Human Machine Interface
Red Lion Controls (RLC) has expanded its CR3000 Human Machine Interface (HMI) operator panel capabilities with five communication modules that offer support for some of today’s common industrial protocols. Designed for use with the CR3000 HMI platform, the plug-in modules provide connectivity and add monitoring and control functionality to users’ automation systems.
Combining an HSPA+ cellular module with a CR3000 HMI can create a system that cost-effectively monitors and controls remote equipment. The use of high-speed cellular networks eliminates expensive site visits and lets users receive critical device and performance data in real time.
For more information, visit RLC’s website.
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