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RFID-Sensor Combo Reduces Machine Errors
Machines depend on sensors to tell them where parts are and what action to take on them. They are now teaming up with RFID to minimize errors. RFID tags — located either on the assembly or the pallet — can control what should be and what has been done.
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Multi-Talented Robots
Modern assembly lines for car manufacturing need to use robots that can perform a variety of different tasks, such as welding, gripping, moving, lifting, sorting, painting, grinding, or holding parts of a car together while "colleagues" perform different tasks. And they need controllers to coordinate multiple robots.
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Human Factors in Alarm Systems
Alarm annunciators are generally not included in safety-related shutdown systems because the reliability of a human operator is considered insufficient to meet the high reliability requirements. However, this article describes a device designed to perform a dedicated safety function automatically without operator intervention.
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Developments in Temperature Measurement
Trends in temperature measurement develop slowly over time, but they are nevertheless ongoing. RTDs (resistance temperature detectors) and thermocouples will be with us forever, but the way they are wired into automation systems — or even connected with wireless transmitters — is a marvel of change, thanks to a number of new low-cost devices.
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Manufacturers Increase Production with "The Titan"
Cambridge Machinery
Cambridge Machinery has created "The Titan" solution that will make your operations more efficient by reducing your overall labor cost, improving your up-time, and maximizing your production capabilities. This total work cell solution will more than pay for itself in a short amount of time.
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Running Multiple Parts Just Got Easier!
Diamond Automation, Ltd.
Flex-Gauge offers an economical and very effective solution: multiple nests can be mounted to each gauge arm and a built-in manifold allows for suction cup mounting. Units come with a configurable control package which can be localized or set up to run with your existing plc. Want to learn more?
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Motor Redesign Boosts Efficiency
WEG's new AC motor platform, the W22, has a reduced frame size per output and has cut losses by 10-40% across its range. To achieve greater efficiencies, the motor's ventilation fan and cover were redesigned, and aerodynamic software was used to achieve better airflows over the motor casing.
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Resolver-Based Servo Drive
This new servo drive allows the end user to choose his own level of control from basic torque and velocity applications up through fully programmable coordinated motion. It has an integrated resolver with a scalable emulated encoder output, which gives 15 options for positioning resolution.
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Security Myths in Industrial Wireless Systems
Security in wireless networks is a hotbed for myths. Many think they can be easily hacked, but any hacking, interfering, or jamming would require in-depth knowledge and some very expensive equipment. However, not all security standards provide the intended confidentiality and need to be examined carefully. [Access to this article may require a short registration.]
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Overcoming Wireless Challenges
Wireless communications in industrial environments have their own set of unique challenges. This article reviews the currently available technology and shows how the problems associated with first generation wireless systems — echo, noise, interference, distance, and security — have been largely overcome.
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One-Stop Solutions for Your Automation Needs
LEESON Electric — A REGAL-BELOIT Company
LEESON Electric, along with Lincoln Motors, Grove Gear, and Electra Gear, offers the Automation industry with one of the broadest and most accessible ranges of electric motors, AC controls, and gear reducers. LEESON's "Packaged Solutions," are readily available for your application needs from their 26 warehouses located throughout the U.S.
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Sony XCD Series
Industrial Vision Source
Sony, a renowned leader in digital camera technology, is introducing six new models to its XCD Series: the XCD-U100/U100CR, the XCD-SX90/SX90CR, and the XCD-V60/V60CR. Featuring outstanding picture quality, high-speed image capturing, and the digital 1394b interface, this new XCD Series is perfect for high-quality industrial imaging and manufacturing solutions.
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Careers & Commentary . . . | |
A Better Job Search by Design
Dice
DiceEngineering.com offers thousands of quality engineering jobs at top technology and engineering companies. Find jobs in your area of expertise. Search now.
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Is IEC 61131 Really a Standard?
Many people think IEC 61131 is a programming standard, but it is actually a specification that machine builders can use if they want to develop a programming environment according to a set of guidelines. The trouble is, there's no way to ensure compliance to the specification.
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These Pilots Stay Grounded
Many companies and governments across Europe are busy with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) projects, with some achieving test flight status. This article surveys a number of these new aircraft, from fixed-wing airplanes to dual-rotor helicopters. Among the smallest: 2.5 m in length with a 60 kg payload. [Access to this article may require a short registration.]
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Share Your Thoughts . . . Join a Conversation About This Month's Topic...
Pluses and Minuses of E-mail
Is communications technology like e-mail really bringing the world together, or is it making it easier for people to isolate themselves and avoid conversations?
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