New products from Applied Robotics, Handling Specialty, Logic Supply, Siemens and Yaskawa.
Epsilon Tool Changers from Applied Robotics
Applied Robotics, Inc., (ARI), a provider of automation end-of-arm tooling and connectivity solutions announced the release of its new Epsilon family of Tool Changers.
The Epsilon Tool Changers are available in a wide range of payloads from 10kg to 1,500kg.
Applied Robotics Vice President and Director of Engineering, Stefan Casey says, “Our cam locking mechanism design has stood the test of time and is proven to provide superior reliability and performance. In fact, we are so confident in our locking mechanism that we offer a lifetime guarantee*.”
The incorporation of additional safety features, the increased need for a broad spectrum of automation applications and customer feedback were primary considerations in the design of the Epsilon Tool Changers.
New features and benefits include;
- Improved size to payload ratio
- Minimal required maintenance provides a low cost of ownership
- Utilizing high strength materials
- Cam locking mechanism featuring a multi-profile and self -centering cam design with a mechanical locking feature to ensure that the Robot Adaptor and Tool Adaptor remain connected in the event of loss of power or air
- High Resistance to torsion loads provided by coupling design allows the tool changer to maintain rotational repeatability and perform like new throughout its lifetime
- Couple/Uncouple sensing available on all models
- Improved flexibility with a direct robot bolt pattern design to limit the need for adaptor plates
- Compatible with existing Applied Robotics modules
For more information, visit www.appliedrobotics.com.
Automated Guided Carts from Handling Specialty
Flexibility to alter the assembly floor is a new advancement in automated guided vehicles (AGV) where in the past they were permanently tied to a physical track within the facility.
Now, with smart tape – a series of QR codes which are printed and laid in any formation – units can use laser guidance; moving along the pre-determined path set by the tape.
This tape can be pulled up with little cost and re-positioned should the needs of the facilities assembly line change. Handling Specialty offers an alternative to the costs associated with pulling up a track embedded into the concrete floor, with their new Automatic Guided Cart (AGC).
Safety features include an emergency stop strip along both sides of the unit which can be activated by kicking the rubber. This is a convenient placement as the AGC travels through the assembly line while workers weld and assemble the truck bodies, leaving their feet free to strike the band if the need arises.
Flashing yellow lights indicate which direction the AGC is moving. With four potential directions, and speeds (at times) infinitesimally slow, it can be difficult to know whether the unit is moving at all without the flashing lights. Speeds are built into the tape QR codes as well and are customizable for any assembly application.
Another feature included to aid in workplace safety was the addition of a motion sensor at the front of the AGV which halts the unit upon detection of anyone or anything moving in front of its path.
The unit can also be manually guided. By plugging in a hand operated control and turning a key, the laser is disabled and the operator has full control over the AGV’s movements. A series of lights on the side of the AGV alerts the operator when they have control.
The programming of the unit was developed to read each QR code on the smart tape; altering speed, direction and functionality. A system of airbags and wheels at the center of the unit allow it to lift and spin 360 degrees when required.
For more information, visit www.handling.com.
Cincoze DA-1000 Computer from Logic Supply
Logic Supply has recently released their new Cincoze DA-1000 computer.
Enclosed in a fully fanless and ventless chassis and consuming less than 15W, the energy efficient DA-1000 is powered by a latest generation Intel Braswell dual-core processor and is available with up to 8GB of wide-temp DDR3L memory.
Storage options include a range of standard or wide-temp HDDs or SSDs up to 1TB. The system is rated to reliably operate in temperatures from -25 C to 70 C and features a wide input power voltage of 9~48V DC.
Two full-size Mini-PCIe slots (one of which also offers mSATA support) allow for additional storage or expansion.
The front I/O on the DA-1000 includes three USB 2.0, one USB 3.0, two GbE LAN, mic-in, line-out and a two-pin remote power on/off connector. Rear I/O features dual COM ports, DVI-I and three-pin terminal block connector, as well as dual antenna holes for optional wireless and Bluetooth connectivity.
The system can be pre-loaded with either Windows or Ubuntu Linux.
For more information, visit www.logicsupply.com.
Sinamics V20 Frequency Converter from Siemens
Siemens has recently launched their new FS AA and FS AB frame size Sinamics V20 converters.
With a width of just 68 mm and a height of 142 mm, the corporation has reduced the installation dimensions of the Sinamics V20 for low powered motors.
The converters with an FS AA frame size have an overall depth of 108 mm and powers of 0.12, 0.25 and 0.37 W. Those with an FS AB frame size have an overall depth of 128 mm and powers of 0.55 and 0.75 kW for single-phase 230 V mains operation.
The converters are optionally available with an integrated C1 electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) filter, which allows them to be used in residential and commercial environments in compliance with DIN EN 61800-3.
The Sinamics V20 converters are suitable for industrial applications, such as pumps, fans, compressors and conveyor systems.
“Keep Running” mode allows continuous operation, even with a fluctuating supply voltage. An improved cooling concept and coated printed-circuit boards provide the electrical and mechanical ruggedness needed for use in harsh ambient conditions. The frequency converters can be connected to a higher-level controller via the integrated Modbus RTU/ USS interface.
The two new frame sizes now make the Sinamics V20 available in a total of seven different frame sizes, each optimized for a power within the range from 0.12 to 30 kW, and for operation in 230 V single-phase and 400 V three-phase supply systems.
For more information, visit www.industry.siemens.com.
Sigma-7 Rotary, Linear and Direct Drive Servos from Yaskawa
The Drives & Motion Division of Yaskawa America, Inc. has recently introduced their new Sigma-7 line of rotary, linear and direct drive servos and amplifiers for system designers and automation end users.
Among Sigma-7’s key advantages:
- Nearly double the bandwidth of Yaskawa’s industry-leading Sigma-5 servos, for quicker response to system commands
- 24-bit encoding
- A 20 percent smaller footprint, plus a new amplifier design that saves control panel space
- A new package of algorithms that correct machine imperfections, including ripple compensation, anti-resonance and friction model compensation
- New dual-axis amplifiers that mount in smaller spaces, cut parts counts and regenerate power for long-term energy conservation
- Full compatibility with Sigma-5 servos currently in the field, enabling replacement without the need for reprogramming or re-engineering existing equipment
18 new Sigma-7 products cover a wide range of motion control applications, with rotary servos from 3 W to 55 kW in output. Users can choose from two direct drive servos and four linear products, including a SigmaTrac option designed for easy bolt-on, plug-in implementation.
Sigma-7 SERVOPACK amplifiers offer the option of interface via EtherCAT, MECHATROLINK or analog connections. The line also includes a SigmaLogic SERVOPACK that sequences motion using the Add On Instructions (AOIs) used by programmable logic controllers.
This is especially useful in competitive industries like packaging and electronic assembly, where every incremental productivity improvement yields significant gains in profitability.
For more information, visit www.yaskawa.com.