Measurement arm
Faro Technologies Inc., Lake Mary, Fla. Designed for manufacturers who want in-process measurement, reverse-engineering capabilities, and the ergonomics of the flagship Platinum FaroArm, the Fusion FaroArm's accuracy and lightweight construction enable shop floor personnel to have a more affordable and portable solution for their measurement needs. To operate, users guide the Arm's touch-probe along the surface of the object to be measured. The Fusion's laptop computer simultaneously illustrates the 3-D measurements on-screen and records all of the data. It creates a 3-D "blueprint" of a part or machine components, making it an all-in-one portable tool for performing inspections, tool certification, CAD- to-part analysis, or reverse engineering.
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Discrete I/O module
Axiomatic, Mississauga, Ontario. The discrete I/O module reads 12 discrete inputs and sets 8 Form C relay outputs while providing a simple interface between an SAE J1939 CAN network and other electronic devices on a machine. The unit is an automotive battery- powered device with the ability to withstand engine cranking, reverse polarity and transient power conditions. In engine applications, information is provided to the engine control system using single-frame J1939 application-specific PDU2 type messages. Outputs can be controlled by any input or CAN messages. The DIO128 can operate in one of four different modes: normal mode (CAN), discrete mode, fault mode, or disabled mode. The module is suitable for power generator sets and diesel engine control systems.
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Data logger
Omega Engineering Inc., Stamford, Conn. The OM-CP-SVR101 spectral vibration recorder is a self-contained device engineered to record acceleration data for spectral analysis of vibration and peaks. The unit will record and time tag 3-axis vibrations and peaks to provide a history of shock/vibration conditions. It also records temperature once every sample period. The vibration recorder measures and computes real-time spectral data using a Fast Fourier Transform. This unit, priced at $999, is useful for transportation and shipping applications, machinery failure detection, endurance testing, wind resonance on structures supports, vehicle vibration, race car diagnostics, and materials research.
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Step motor drivers
Lin Engineering, Santa Clara, Calif. Lin now has a RoHS compliant version of its R701 and R710 drivers. These bipolar step motor drivers operate from 24 to 80 V dc and supply phase currents ranging from 1 to 7 amps. The drivers also feature 10x microstepping, selectable current reduction of 33 percent, a step frequency of 200 kHz, and optically isolated step, direction, and disable/enable inputs. For users needing less vibration and smooth performance, the R701 and R710 have onboard trimpots that can be adjusted to alter the current waveform coming out of the motor and going into the step motor coils.
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Field sensor
Banner Engineering Corp., Minneapolis, Minn. The latest addition to the company's World-Beam sensors is the QS18 adjustable-field sensor with a Class 2 laser. Known as the QS18LAF250, it provides increased sensing capabilities with a cutoff range of 50 to 250 mm. It also offers reduced excess gain within 20 mm of the sensor, making it less susceptible to the effects of lens contamination in challenging industrial environments. The QS18LAF250 delivers reliable background suppression sensing. Prices start at $179. The QS18 sensor has strong optical performance and sensing repeatability in a compact unit. Its narrow effective beam (approximately 1 mm spot size) makes it useful for small-object detection and precise position control.
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Linear encoder
 Heidenhain Corp., Schaumburg, Ill. In keeping with the conversion of linear encoders for manual machine tool applications to the more robust 1 Vpp interface, Heidenhain has introduced the LS 688C linear encoder. This full-size scale completes that conversion and is available in the common measuring lengths between 170 mm and 3,040 mm, with additions of standard scales available at 670, 870, and 970 mm as well. The scanning carriage on the LS 688C rides on ball bearings. This results in rigidity in the measuring direction, and backlash and mounting tolerances that make it suitable for use on manually operated machine tools with digital readout applications.
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Positional accuracy
Kerk Motion Products Inc., Hollis, N.H. The ZBX Series anti-backlash assembly is a linear actuator for design operations requiring precise positional accuracy and repeatability, at a minimum cost. The inherent damping qualities of the ZBX design make it suitable for vertical applications requiring noise or vibration control, according to the company. The standard ZBX unit uses a patented self-lubricating polyacetal nut that is radially preloaded on a 303 stainless steel screw. The ZBX assembly offers torque consistency and repeatability when traversing in either direction through its load transfer capability.
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I/O stations
Turck Inc., Minneapolis, Minn. FDN20 high-density I/O stations for IP 20 applications can support up to 32 inputs or 16 dedicated inputs and 16 input/outputs on a DeviceNet network. FDN20 devices separate the I/O into three isolated groups that may be powered by an external source or by a DeviceNet bus. The outputs are short circuit protected up to 0.5 amp on the 16 dedicated input and 16 input/output stations. FDN20 devices use glass-filled nylon housing with an integrated DIN-rail mount, and they provide an IP 20 protection rating. These features, coupled with the devices' small size, make FDN20 stations flexible for upgrading existing panels in the automotive, pharmaceutical, chemical, and material handling industries.
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Big-headed pushbuttons
 EAO Switch Corp., Milford, Conn. These pushbuttons address the hazards associated with an industrial task, enabling operators to work in easier and safer conditions. The large surface area can be activated either by palm or fist, and produces tactile feedback even when activated at the edge. The extra surface area provides more space for defining function, thus reducing the chance of accidental operation. With flush-mounting, it creates a tamper-proof unit that will resist abusive operation. Large-headed pushbuttons are available in various sizes from a 22.5 mm mounted switch with a 32 mm diameter actuator up to a 30.5 mm mounted switch with a large 40 mm actuator. Pushbuttons can be fitted with a choice of different lenses, front rings, and switching elements.
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Prewired strain gauges
Omega Engineering Inc., Stamford, Conn. KFG Series prewired strain gauges are available in a variety of different models to cover most strain measurement applications. Encapsulated for added durability, the measuring grid is formed by etching Constantan foil, which is then completely sealed in a carrier medium composed of polyimide film. Rugged construction and flexibility make these general-purpose strain gauges suitable for static and dynamic measurement with a high degree of accuracy. They can be used within a broad temperature range and can be affixed with cold or hot curing adhesives. Either 2-wire or 3-wire termination styles come with 3-foot or 9-foot leads. Standard strain gauges have temperature coefficients matched to either steel or aluminum. According to the manu- facturer, the KFG Series is useful in automotive testing, test labs, and structural analysis. Prices start at $180.
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Compact electronic display
Kobold Instruments Inc., Pittsburgh, Pa. The AUF is a universal display unit usable in all 4-20 mA transmission circuits. Sandwiched directly between a standard DIN 43650 (Hirschmann-style) plug and socket assembly, the AUF is an easy display to install, according to the company. The AUF is scalable through two programming buttons. Programming capabilities include scaling, decimal point location, damping and, for units with a switch, setpoint value. Power is provided to the AUF directly via the 4-20 mA loop, so no additional power supply is required. The programming information resides inside the AUF's EEPROM memory, making the unit immune to power failures for 10 years, according to the company.
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Hookup wire
 AutomationDirect, Cumming, Ga. Building/hookup wire is intended for general purpose applications. THHN building wire is 19-strand 600 V uncoated copper wire available in 4-14 gauge sizes, making it useful for new construction or rewiring 600 V applications. THHN can be used in wet or dry locations. MTW-type wire is available in 19- and 26-strand 600 V bare, annealed copper in 10-16 gauge sizes. MTW-type wire is primarily used in control cabinets, machine tool applications, and appliance wiring applications. TFFN-type wire is available as 16 gauge, 26-strand, 600V, uncoated copper and is primarily used as fixture wire in dry locations. All wire types are color-coded with tough, polyamide, Nylon outer covers per UL 1063 and UL 83 standards.
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Self-aligning nuts
SPS Technologies, Jenkintown, Pa. This manufacturer of high-strength fasteners offers a large selection of self-aligning nuts. These nuts, which have a 6º to 8º maximum float, are used in applications where there are no flat surfaces. Available in sizes from No. 10 through 1.5 in., these self-aligning nuts are typically manufactured from alloy steel, A286, Alloy 718, MP159, and MP35N. Ultimate tensile strength levels range from 125 through 260 ksi, depending on size and materials. Additional sizes and materials are available on request.
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