Product News

Thomson Industries Inc., a manufacturer of linear motion control solutions, upgraded its stepper motor linear actuator (SMLA) online selector tool, adding the ability to include encoders in the design process.

SmartBox 2.0 leverages MTConnect technology to deliver real-time manufacturing data, allowing shops to optimize operations, boost efficiency and quickly adapt to changing market conditions. The integration of edge computing addresses the challenges of real-time data processing by combining the benefits of decentralized cloud architectures with the efficiency of local network systems.

The FANUC Series 500i-A CNC has all the benefits of FANUC’s other control platforms, such as high precision, accuracy and rock-solid reliability, but with additional benefits attained from the latest CNC features as well as the integration of FANUC’s new generation servo system Alpha i-D Series.

Key to the Electrak LL’s long-life architecture is a brushless motor, a high-load ball screw assembly, a brake solution that does not wear, and IP69K (static) and IP66 (dynamic) compliant sealing. This combination enables duty cycles of up to 100 percent, up to 600 km of travel life, and up to one million cycles – more than ten times that of electromechanical actuators without these features. The new configuration options for the Electrak LL augment its industry leading durability with advanced control, integration, higher voltage and higher speed options.

Designed for cutting tool manufacturers and carbide rod processors, this production machine can significantly increase your production rate for cutting carbide and hardened steel rod when compared with manual cut-off machines. It's easy-to-use CNC controls and touch screen operator interface allow for quickly setting parameters in preparation for hours of unattended operation.

The OSP-P500 is fully equipped with Digital Twin Technology, a technology that enables high-precision machining simulations to be created on a computer, while also providing real-time data feedback loops from the operational machine tool to the simulating computer. This feature allows operators to utilize real-time data to mirror exact machine tool functions and behaviors to optimize performance. 

With version 5.30 dataFEED OPC Suite offers the possibility to store process data in an InfluxDB for subsequent processing and analysis. InfluxDB is one of the most widely used NoSQL databases. It ensures extensive scalability, high availability as well as fast writing and reading.

The extremely narrow PNOZ m C0 has the structural properties of a safety relay but is as powerful as a configurable safety controller. It provides eight safe inputs and four safe semiconductor outputs at a width of just 22.5 mm. Up to four safety functions can be reliably monitored. These include E-STOP, safety gates, safety light curtains and two-hand control. Also on this standalone base unit, all safety circuits are created via the intuitive software tool PNOZmulti Configurator, the basic version of which is free of license costs and available on the Pilz website.

Through flexible connectivity via Ethernet and easy programming through the Direct Robot Control (DRC) feature of Mitsubishi Electric´s M8 Series, machine tending can benefit customers that may not have experienced robot programmers available. In addition to DRC, almost any CNC machine can be connected to a shop floor via discrete I/O for non-M8 CNC controls from Mitsubishi Electric and other companies. Further support is available through Mitsubishi Electric trained engineers to service both robot and CNC. Additionally, Mitsubishi Electric Automation offers a 5-year robot maintenance and warranty program.

Robotmaster 2024 is designed for users who need to program multiple robots to perform a variety of processes within the same cell environment. The ability to program multiple robots enhances the programming workflow and gives the user a single view of the entire system to review the workspace for collisions. In addition, users can now leverage Robotmaster’s powerful programming capabilities and unmatched optimization strategies to shorten cycle times and increase output in multi-robot cell environments.

The MC3603 which owing to its compact size is ideal for integration in equipment manufacturing and medical technology applications. With 36 V and 3 A (peak current 9 A), the new Motion Controller covers the medium power range up to approx. 100 W. It is suitable for "normal" DC-motors with encoder, brushless drives and linear motors. The I/O options and encoder interfaces are the same as the rest of the product family.

The Linear Actuator FAULHABER L product family is designed for high performances in compact dimensions, it supports large input speed or high output force. It is well-suited for a wide range of applications like robotics, industrial machines and laboratory equipment. A large number of reduction ratios, uniformly distributed, are available to select the most appropriate configuration to fit various force or speed operating points as required by the application.

While the previous FormControl version (without the “X”) was based on a scenario in which a machine operator works at a machine with the laptop and processes the measurements at the same time, the trend today is moving toward automating such processes, meaning this 1:1 relationship is now fairly rare. Genuine automation of workpiece measurement also opens up completely new areas of application. That is why the goal with FormControl X was to enable real measurement automation on the basis of a modern client-server architecture – this means moving away from pure logging and towards process integration and automation with the help of the measurement data collected by the software.

ECO suite plus builds upon the prior technology releases by providing management and control of specific machine operations and peripheral devices during the machining process and in idle mode. Both the Thermo-Friendly Concept and ECO technologies are powered by Okuma’s proprietary OSP control, a Windows-based, open-architecture platform which offers maximum machining capabilities to users. 

The actuator heads can be easily fastened, replaced or turned in 90o steps with four captive screws. The switching inserts can be removed after opening the screw-free cover – simplifying installation. With these features, steute aims to make its ES/EM 97 series universally applicable throughout the automation industry. Accordingly, it has a wide range of actuators (various fulcrum levers, roller levers, spring rods...) and dimensions to EN 50047, the prevalent standard for automation technology.

The modular XTS solution has been expanded with NCT to include a special motor module as well as electronics that mount on the movers. The hardware required for the transmission technology is fully integrated into the motor module, so the system does not sacrifice any existing functionality or expand equipment footprint. No additional connections or supply lines are needed. The control of the hardware on the mover is fully implemented in standard TwinCAT software. All known TwinCAT functionalities are available for simple project implementation.

Bosch Rexroth has expanded its range of standardized self-contained actuators by adding the CytroMotion system solution. With the help of the new compact actuator, linear movements involving forces of up to 110 kN can be achieved in a range of machines and systems in smaller spaces, more efficiently and more sustainably.

Equipped with ultra-low noise PWM drives, the A-811 single axis controller integrates a closed loop servo controller with drive in a compact case. The G-901 controllers are also based on ACS hardware and EtherCat® connectivity, providing up to 1500W output per axis.

A new Toggle Cam Output performs an asymmetrical toggle function, turning an output off or on for different stroke amounts. The output can be used to operate diverter gates and to control complex gagging operations. The new On/Off Counter Cam Output precisely controls functions that need to operate at a preset interval instead of on every machine cycle. Operating similarly, a new Pulsed Counter Cam Output is programmed with an “on angle” and a dwell time instead of an on-off output.

The RSH is designed for forces up to 7,943 lbf (35kN), speeds up to 20 in/sec (498 mm/sec) and stroke lengths up to 48 in. (1200mm). It is available in both ball screw and roller screw options. While ball screws are an economical option with medium life and force capabilities, roller screws (manufactured by Tolomatic) provide higher force capability, increased life and improved accuracy.