Safety presents a design problem, chiefly because keeping workers safe is an objective separate from maximizing machine output. It requires additional components, controls, and capital. But the challenges of designing safer machines may soon shrink, thanks to the continuing trend of integration. In the past, integrated controllers were devices managing both machine logic and motion control. Now, a new generation of "do-all" devices adds safety controls — and almost any functionality required by the machine. One such controller is Siemens' Simatic which manages functions like emergency stops, speed limits, door monitoring while also handling PLC logic, drive controls, synchronous motion, hydraulics, and robotics.

Measuring just 1 in. tall, the FP24-500 transformer has a 115/230V primary and a configurable 12V/24V secondary at 1.0A/0.5A respectively. The part is cUL recognized.

The FP24-500 belongs to Triad's popular Flat Pack(TM) Series having industry standard mounting that is interchangeable with competitor's equivalent parts. Contact Triad for pricing and immediate availability.

Lintech provides a wide range of ball screw assemblies that are frequently used in the medical, packaging, aerospace, and alternate energy markets. Three different versions of ball screws and end supports are available in both inch and metric sizes. Standard options include motor mounts, couplings, nut flanges, encoders, and brakes.

The AEDR-850x encoder is the smallest 3 Channel Reflective Incremental Optical Encoder in the world with digital outputs employing reflective technology for motion control purposes. Operating temperature of -20° C to 85° C temperature range and is suitable for both commercial and industrial end applications. Request more information.

High precision Timing Belts — Urethane and Neoprene, for linear indexing. Metric and in. sizes. Synchronous conveying, high acceleration, deceleration, or continuous high running speeds. Available open-ended or welded endless. Strong and durable, steel, or kevlar tension members. Customized belts to meet any application. Timing Belt clamping plates.

Start with unlimited mechanical movement. Add a dash of durability from anodized aluminum housing and stainless steel shafts. A splash of sea-water resistance, total dust ingress protection, and cleaning by steam jet. The ingredients blend into an extreme-duty sensor with very few limits — and a life expectancy exceeding 100 million movements.

Design engineers are gaining confidence in the stability of magnetoresistance sensors as replacements for incremental encoders and resolvers in closed-loop motor positioning. This video describes a giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensor in one of the primary applications for which it was designed: angular position sensing in electric and hybrid vehicles.

Finding horizontal stages that support heavy loads is easy, but strong vertical stages are comparatively scarce. Here's one that handles 1000 lbs with positioning accuracy of ±25 µm on travel lengths to 200 mm. The stage can be matched with stepping or brushless servomotors to drive a high-capacity 90 degree gearbox.

Hundreds of decisions go into a machine's design. So it's understandable that some elements get ignored. But don't skimp on coupling choice, this article warns, since the selection can make or break a machine's performance. It also dives into a thorough list of design trade-offs for six primary coupling types.

The latest edition of igus' Energy Chain cable carriers and Chainflex continuous-flex cables catalog is now available. Some new products include RX40: a completely chip-proof cable carrier ideal for machine tool applications and additions to igus' line of assembled drive cables. Request your complimentary catalog.

The M.S. Kennedy Corporation is developing radiation hardened motor drives for use in space applications such as satellites, planetary exploration vehicles, and launch vehicles. These motor drives are constructed with rad hard components and utilize hybrid microcircuit assembly methods to minimize size and weight while offering very high performance and reliability. Learn more.

Ortlinghaus multi-plate slipping clutches (torque limiting devices) are permanently engaged by means of spring pressure. They are factory set to transmit a predetermined level of torque. If this amount of torque is exceeded, as in the case of an overload, the friction clutches are designed to slip for a limited period of time.

Formsprag Clutch Sprag Retainer Assemblies are used in the main drive of a single or multi-engine Helicopter to provide auto-rotation capability which helps assure a safe landing in an emergency situation. Formsprag Clutch is a recognized leader in designing, manufacturing, and delivering dependable long-lived Overrunning Clutches to the power transmission markets.

Printed circuit board motors offer several advantages — eliminating gears and connections, saving space, fast starting, and stopping. But foremost is the potential for very high resolution. Recently, a Danish company demonstrated that potential. Using a short micro-pulse prototype controller, it proved the ability to achieve 2.6 million steps per revolution.

When first introduced, Galil's Econo controllers helped put higher performance controllers within reach of many more motion project budgets. The latest in the low-cost line lifts functionality even higher. Enhancements include: optically isolated I/O, doubled program memory, acceptance of 15 MHz encoder frequencies, and interfacing to a PC with 100Base-T Ethernet.

As wind power soars, offshore rigs are getting larger — but so are development and technology costs. Striving to bring costs down while ramping up reliability and output, two European companies are collaborating on a direct-drive permanent magnet generator for a 6 MW turbine — the largest to date in a wind turbine.

Steppers are low-cost and precise, but not efficient. New stepper drives, including this 86 mm flange motor-drive-controller, address this deficiency. Their coolest features is Trinamic's sensorless technology that controls current flow to the motor, preventing extra power consumption or overheating, and allowing unprecedented energy-efficient operation of the open-loop system.

UV LEDs with wavelengths ranging from 355 nm to 400 nm offer advantages in UV sensing applications, standard detection and UV curing processes. Marktech Optoelectronics offers a variety of standard and custom packaging to match application requirements.

Telco's Hollow Shaft gearmotor offers a wide range of speeds in a compact size. It is specially designed for ice agitator, gate opener, and furnace applications. It's ideal for tight space applications that require exceptional torque. The output torque can reach up to 1100 in.-lbs, with the motor power up to 1/10 HP.

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Corporations suffer from too much management and not enough leadership, says Harvard professor emeritus John Kotter. While explaining the difference between managers and leaders, Kotter says only leaders can prevent companies from becoming complacent. They'll keep companies from accepting incremental improvement and more likely on track to achieve their true potential.

Waiting for governments to repair those old bridge supports? If work from the Netherlands pays off, bridges may soon repair themselves. Delft University researchers have developed a living bacteria and calcium lactate mix that produces limestone, allowing concrete to self-mend its micro-cracks. The material is set for outdoor testing this year.

Engineers as Corporate Stewards?

A few engineers reach CEO spots. But would they add value on a corporate board of directors? Would their technical and business knowledge be right for the role?