Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the latest addition to the RV-Series of high performance vertically articulated robots.

The RV-2 extends an already broad range of vertical robots which now ranges from 2Kg-12Kg. The new model is available in both SD and SQ formats which are the traditional stand-alone configuration and the iQ-based configuration respectively. While both types will continue to use same compact arm design that made the S-Series successful, new motion control and amplifier designs offer performance improvements that can affect cycle time up to 30% and accuracy to 70%.

In addition to performance, there are notable improvements in ease of use, integration and safety. A robust set of standard features and interfaces position the SD and SQ as a value product among many competitors.

The RV-2 is rated at 2Kg with a 3Kg maximum payload and 504mm reach. This new robot is dexterous and fast with many new design features enabling it to outperform its competitors. A new offset arm design allows for greater total range of motion. The slim profile of the arm and wrist allow the RV-2 to work and reach into confined spaces. The J1 axis has an unmatched range of 480º eliminating the typical rear dead zone. J2 range has also been extended to 240º which improves motion especially in ceiling mount applications. The speed performance of J4-J6 has been optimized to address fast and frequent posture changes common in assembly work. Maximum composite speed is 4400 mm/S enabling a 0.6S cycle time without compromise to repeatability. RV-2 is ideal for precision and high-throughput applications.

As with all Mitsubishi robots, the RV-2 offers ease of integration and connectivity. Connection to additional axes, GOT, Vision, Safety and other third party hardware is simplified. Powerful programming and simulation software round out a product offering that delivers high performance and value.

 

For more information, here is the RV-2SD/SQ Brochure

 

HEIDENHAIN Corporation offers a new generation of rotary encoders with IP64 protection, absolute position-value formation, and functional safety, all within a 35 mm diameter housing size.

These small rotary encoders are known as HEIDENHAIN’s 1000 Series and are designed to be especially useful as single-encoder measurement feedback systems in safety-oriented applications.

HEIDENHAIN’s safety-oriented position encoders with functional safety provide two independently formed position values via a serial EnDat interface. They are certified according to the EN ISO 13849, EN 61508 and EN 954-1 standard for performance level d, safety integrity level 2 and category 3, respectively. The EnDat 2.2 version of these new absolute rotary encoders with serial data transfer offers a single-turn resolution of 23 bits, and a multi-turn resolution of 12 bits. The supply voltage range is from 3.6 V to 14 V.

Eight new rotary encoders round out HEIDENHAIN’s 1000 Series including the ECN 1013, ECN 1025, EQN 1025, EQN 1035, ROC 1013, ROC 1025, ROQ 1025 and ROQ 1035.

 

For more information you can download the Rotary Encoder Catalog

 

Mitsubishi Electric has recently released a version upgrade for the F700 Variable Frequency Drive Series. This latest version incorporates many new features and functions tailored to meet the requirements of the Water Handling Industry. Pre-charge function Inverter operation at transducer loss 2nd PID function

The F700-N4 is a special version of the popular F700 series and incorporates new features and functions tailored for Fan & Pump applications.

It is currently available from 1HP to 75HP in both 230V and 460V models. When combined with the FR-PU07-01 keypad, additional user friendly functions are accessible.

New F700-N4 functions include:

• Complete 2nd PID function including set point and PID gain adjustments
• Pre-charge function for pressurizing a pump system. PID automatic activation after Pre-charge is selectable from the following methods: Feedback pressure based, Timer based &Input terminal enabled
• PID sleep mode is improved by allowing controlled motor / pump deceleration at sleep activation
• Loss of PID feedback is improved by allowing the user to select the inverter’s operation reaction if this situation occurs: Continue operation at last speed maintained, Fault and relinquish motor control, Decelerate motor and then fault, & Continue operation at pre-defined speed.

When used with the new option FR-PU07-01 operator panel, additional functionality is enabled.

• Unit indicator of PID control: PSI, GPM, CFM are among 40 unit choices
• Direct entry of the PID set point, in the desired unit indicator
• User selectable 3 line monitor screen
• HAND/AUTO buttons with display indication

Additionally, a new level of flexibility for customer specific applications is possible using the new built-in PLC function.

• 4K memory steps
• 32 bit math
• 50 data registers linked to parameters

PRODUCT FEATURES:

NEMA 1 UL Type 1 Enclosure Designs: Drive can be mounted as a stand-alone unit.

Single Phase Input: UL/cUL listed for use with single phase input supply.

Ease of Programming: Taken to higher levels with the new DU07 programming dial and FR-Configurator programming software.

Windmill Start: F700 measures residual motor slot ripple to determine both the speed and direction of rotation of a coasting motor and can swiftly and smoothly bring it under control when required – whichever way it’s spinning.

Enhanced Energy Savings: An improved version of Mitsubishi Electric’s famous energy-optimization software boosts motor efficiency to unprecedented levels and intelligently maximizes energy savings.

Power Dip Ride-Through: Allows the inverter to continue to run during short power supply interruptions – reducing nuisance tripping.

Overvoltage Avoidance: The F700 measures DC bus levels when decelerating and controls drive speed to eliminate nuisance tripping.

Remote I/O Capability: Drive I/O can be configured over a network to work independently of the drive, reducing cost and making more efficient use of the available network nodes.

Independent RS-485 Connections: Allow serial communications and keypad operation at the same time with no options needed. F700 supports Modbus RTU as well as the standard Mitsubishi Electric protocol.

The F700-NA Version Up is backwards compatible with both the previous F700-NA and F700-N4 models.

 

For more information check out the F700-NA Version Up Presentation, F700 Series Brochure or Pump Application Note.

 

Static ionizers are an important part of any static control program as an efficient, non-contact method of removing surface charges that otherwise would damage sensitive electronics or allow dust to adhere to a product. However, there are two main operating factors that can cause waste, and thus increase the operating cost of using this solution:

• Air Consumption – Static Ionizers require a source of compressed air in order to effectively and quickly remove static charges. Using an excess amount of compressed air is costly and should be minimized as much as possible.
• Discharge Needle Wear – The discharge needles that are used in ionization systems are a consumable product. They typically have a usable life of around 10,000 hours before they need to be replaced. By keeping the ionizer active at all times, you will accelerate the end-of-life for these components, rather then use them on an as needed basis.

SUNX has created an ionizer lineup that strikes a balance between effectiveness and efficiency by including advanced features that will help minimize the resources that are used. The ER-V series, for example, has an input built-in to externally control the ion discharge of the unit. This makes it possible to only activate the ion production when it is needed. By using the ionizer product along side other SUNX sensors, such as the EF-S1 static sensor and CX-400 photoelectric sensor, it is possible to create a closed loop system without the need for any extensive PLC programming. To do so, you would use the following steps:

	Step 1 - Use a CX-400 series photoelectric sensor to detect the presence of the target that needs to be ionized.
	Step 2 – The output of the CX-400 sensor would activate the trigger input on the EF-S1 static sensor to perform a measurement of the static level on the part. If the surface static is outside of a preset window threshold, the sensor’s output will activate the ER-V ion discharge as well as a small solenoid valve to begin airflow.
	Step 3 – Once the surface charge is dissipated, the output turns off allowing the process to continue on to the next part while cutting off the air flow to the ionizer as well as halting the ion discharge until the next part advances into position.

In this example, the EF-S1 static sensor controls the process by determining the static level only when there is an object present. The single output of the EF-S1 sensor provides the only feedback that a PLC needs in order to stop and start the motion in the process.

The ionizer and air supply are only used if there is an abnormal static condition present, thus saving the discharge needle and air consumption in the process.

 

For more information, here is the EF-S1 Brochure, ER-V Brochure, ER-VW Brochure, & ER-TF Brochure

 

Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is very proud to announce that global sales of our popular MELSEC-F Series micro PLCs have eclipsed 10 Million in CPU sales.

Mitsubishi Electric launched the MELSEC-F Series PLC in 1981 and from its inception quickly became one of the leading pioneers of the microcontroller genre. Controllers from this new segment were defined by having a built-in power supply, fixed inputs and outputs (I/O), and maintenance free memory (EEPROM) in an ultra compact package.

The MELSEC-F Series PLC was one of the smallest and most flexible hardware architectures on the market during its introduction and still today is the benchmark for compact CPU designs. MELSEC-F has a long tradition of offering the most powerful feature set in any micro controller and combined class leading programming environment that enables many machine builders to gain a competitive edge. We would like to thank our customers from around the world for choosing MELSEC-F and Mitsubishi Electric for their automation needs.

In conjunction with this historic event, we plan to launch a series of special promotions to commemorate this achievement. Be on the lookout for more news and continue to promote the industry’s most popular micro-controller.

 

For more information, here is the FX3 Series CPU Catalog, and the complete FX3 Series Catalog (17Mb)

 

Ultra-Slim type 4 light curtain designed specifically with small machines in mind

Introducing a Type 4 light curtain that combines high end performance with an ultra-slim enclosure. The SUNX SF4C series has been designed to offer a machine safeguarding solution without sacrificing productivity. Its size and shape allow for it to fit efficiently into small machinery while maximizing the usable working space for the equipment operator.

Large multipurpose indicator

The bright LED indicators located in the center of both sides of each light curtain can be illuminated green or red by using external inputs. There is no need for setting up a separate indicator, so that equipment is consolidated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Applications

Slim size for efficient applications

The slim size of the SF4C allows for the available workspace to be increase from the previous model.

IP67 rated enclosure

An IP67 (IEC / JIS) rating is achieved with an ultra-slim size for protection from environmental factors.

Integrated safety input

Contact outputs such as an emergency stop switches or a safety door switches can be connected to the light curtain. This allows for a streamlined output setup for machines that include multiple safety devices and saves panel space which is often a premium in small equipment.

Direct connection of safety devices

Bipolar NPN/PNP output configuration

PNP transistor output and NPN transistor outputs are combined in a single model. This provides universal application worldwide without the need for purchasing separate NPN or PNP models as your project needs change.

Convenient beam axis alignment indicators

The beam channels of the light curtain are displayed in four blocks so that incident light position is shown at a glance. When the beam channel at the bottom most channel (or topmost channel), which is used as a reference for beam-axis alignments, is correctly aligned, the LED blinks red. After this, each block lights red as the beam axes successively become aligned. When all channel beam axes are aligned, all LEDs light green. The display also has a stability indicator (STB) added so that setup can be carried out with greater stability.

Built-in safety control circuit

The light curtain has a built-in external device monitoring function and an interlock function. This allows a safety circuit to be constructed so that a separate safety controller is not needed, and the control box has become smaller to help to achieve to lower costs.

Built-in muting/blanking control function

The light curtain has a built-in muting and blanking functions, which offer advanced functionality when objects passing through the beams while the machine is running. There is no need for a separate muting controller which saves money and space. The muting sensors and muting lamps can be connected directly to the light curtain. Furthermore, the large multi-purpose indicators can be used as muting lamps, which contribute to less wiring troubles, improvement of safety and productivity, and cost reduction.

 

For more information, here is the SF4C Brochure

 

	Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of their next generation of high performance robots. The new lineup includes the SD-Series and SQ-Series which are the traditional stand-alone configuration and the iQ-based configuration respectively.
While both types will continue to use same compact arm design that made the SSeries successful, new motion control and amplifier designs offer performance improvements that can affect cycle time up to 30% and accuracy to 70%. In addition to performance, there are notable improvements in ease of use, integration and safety. A robust set of standard features and interfaces position the SD and SQ as a value product among many competitors.
While the SD and SQ share the same level of performance and speed, their hardware configurations are slightly different. The SD models have a self contained drive unit that also houses the CPU, communication modules and I/O. The SQ still requires a separate drive unit but the CPU module (Q172DRCPU) moves to the iQ rack and the user must add appropriate communication and I/O modules to the system on the rack. Standard Features: Additional axis interface- plug and play SSCNETIII connection to MR-J3 servos Serial encoder interface- 2 channels for conveyor tracking (standard on SD, under development for SQ) Ethernet communication port- easy integration to Vision or other accessories, PC connection ) USB and RS232 – quick connect to PC (SD only) GOT direct connect- no need for PLC code for GOT connection Collision Detection- user defined safe zones of possible impact definable by plane and level of impact Singularity Avoidance- control will automatically calculate movement around singularity points Selectable movement modes – Standard, High Accuracy, and High Speed modes allow user to optimize application with moves that are appropriate for the task Optional Interfaces for SD: Profibus DeviceNet

Flexible I/O:

General Purpose I/O is designed to be easily changed without opening the controller. Changing from sink to source type or vice-versa is an easy board swap.

The basic design concept is that robots will have no pre-installed I/O except for hand inputs which will have factory default settings of sink type for –S11 models and source type for –S12 (CE) models. This can be changed by the user with a switch setting. Hand outputs still require 2A-RZ365/375 cards to be activated. Sink or source type must be matched amongst the hand inputs and outputs. The other exception is that all CE models will have 32/32 source type GP I/O preinstalled. This is still field-changeable.

Remote I/O modules are available for SD models in sink or source configuration. Note however that onboard I/O and remote I/O now use different cables 2D-CBL** vs. 2A-CBL**.

I/O for SQ-Series configurations are selected from the standard Q Series modules

New Teach Pendants:

	The release of SD/SQ robots includes 2 new pendant options, R32TB and R56TB. R32TB is the new “basic” pendant. It has a new larger display of 8 lines x 24 characters, very user friendly, more ergonomic and allows easy right or left handed operation of the 3-way switch. R56TB is an enhanced pendant that boasts a 6.5”VGA touch screen interface. Additional features of the R56TB include: RT-TOOLBOX functionality on screen User definable screen capability Easy Navigation High-speed Ethernet connection to the controller Comfortable right hand or left hand operation USB connection for program /parameter access or firmware upgrades

Software:

RT-Toolbox 2 is the latest setup software for MELFA robots. This title is used for programming, setup, parameters, maintenance, and simulation. For users not requiring simulation, order RT-Toolbox 2 LT. MELFA-Works is a more comprehensive programming environment for 3D cell design, simulation and range of motion testing. This title also includes a 3D CAD to motion tool. MELFA-Works is an add-on to SolidWorks. MELFA-Vision is a setup tool for users of Cognex “In-Sight” cameras. MELFA-Vision allows for quick integration to the vision system and part identification.

Global Acceptance and Safety:

SD and SQ robots are built to the ISO 10218-1 standard for safe robot manufacture This standard has recently become the accepted robot safety standard in the USA.

SD and SQ robots are CE compliant. This is the version that MEAU will stock.

SD (but not SQ) robots are available in UL compliant versions. These are special order.

Warranty:

All Mitsubishi robots come with a full 2 year warranty covering parts and labor for replacement of defective items. This is longer than all of our major competitors. In addition to this, TSS offers warranty contracts to extend the original parts and labor term and/or add on-site warranty coverage.

Applications:

Mitsubishi robots are designed for precision applications of small to medium payload capacity across many industries. Typical applications include: machine tending, material handling, assembly, inspection, material removal, QC/test, laboratory work, and education.

 

For more information, here is the MELFA Robot Product Selection Guide

 

Carlo Gavazzi is proud to launch the BFD Series, one of the most advanced light curtains for guarding industrial doors. Thanks to a unique design, the BFD can distinguish between normal door operation, and foreign objects blocking the door. Unlike standard door sensors located in one or two locations along the door track, the BFD guards the entire height of the door, so a raised forklift is detected without fail.

The BFD is loaded with features that make it an excellent choice for any industrial door-guarding application:

• 39.4 foot (12m) sensing range
• Edge sensing and side sensing versions for fit in every installation
• Two height options: 6.6 ft. (2m) and 8.2 ft. (2.5m)
• 10 – 30 VDC and 18 – 27 VAC rectified supply
• Static opto-mosfet output
• Normally Open and Normally Closed output selectable
• Dynamic blanking function allows sensor to recognize vertical door closure
• Built-in test function assures safe, reliable operation
• LED indication for power supply, system status, and alignment
• Color-coded emitter and receiver cables, with M12 connectors for simple installation
• Optional mating cable kit available
• IP54 versions for indoor use, and IP65 versions for wash down areas

The BFD Series is an excellent choice for all types of industrial doors, including sectional doors, high speed rolling doors, fire doors, freight elevator doors, and many more. With UL, CSA, and CE approvals, your assurance of high quality is unmatched.

 

For more information, here is the BFD Brochure

 

Baldor Electric Company is announcing even greater flexibility for one of the most versatile servomotor drive ranges in the world. The e100 drive family has been re-engineered to become compatible with no less than three industrial Ethernet standards – EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and Powerlink – as well as standard TCP/IP networks and Baldor’s own highly popular Mint system building environment. The drives offer system builders a choice of servomotor, closed-loop vector or V/Hz motor control modes, combined with an array of features and configuration options that provide exceptional versatility of use.

The new drives are versions of Baldor’s e100 single- and three-phase drives. Up to now, these drives have been compatible with the real-time Powerlink Ethernet standard, TCP/IP and Baldor’s Mint system building environment. With this release, Baldor upgrades the capability of the drives to additionally be configured for EtherNet/IP or Modbus TCP networks. These two communications protocols greatly extend the applications potential of the drives in PLC-controlled applications.

Baldor’s MicroFlex e100 and MotiFlex drives have earned a reputation for being extremely easy to configure and use – through features such as wizard application software which removes the traditional complexity of drive set up.

The drives also offer many novel hardware capabilities that PLC users can benefit from. The three-phase drives are energy efficient, offering a DC bus system that can share regenerated power with other axes. As well as their own local I/O and CANopen expansion, many drives also have option card slots, providing a high degree of configurability for specific applications including almost all fieldbuses. Other features include universal encoder feedback input, and programmable notch filters to eliminate mechanical resonance effects, as well as the ability to be used with servomotors, closed loop vector motors or in V/Hz motor speed control modes.

“Our new drives support multiple standards – out-of-the-box – at no extra cost and without any need for plug-in cards,” says Baldor’s product manager David Greensmith. “They provide system builders with a universal drive platform that can be used in many different ways to suit different customers and applications – from standalone motion control systems to networked systems hosted by PLCs or other devices.”

In addition to the new drive functionality, Baldor now supports all of the Ethernet networks on its NextMove e100 motion system and machine controller. This combines network control capability with control facilities for up to seven analog or stepper drives, and may be used standalone or in conjunction with PLC or PC hosts.

 

For more information, here is the Motiflex & Microflex Brochure

 

Rugged, highly connected Cobalt C0405 RFID integrated controller/antenna bring fast and low cost RFID to the factory floor. The C0405 offers direct serial connectivity and network connectivity via Datalogic’s series of Gateways. The microprocessor architecture used by all C-Series family products accommodates advanced automation features such as C-Macro™, plug’n'play hardware replacement and modular system expansion. Industrial M12 connectors ensure trouble free operation inside the industrial environment for manufacturing applications such as machine control, work-in-progress and other factory automation applications.

FEATURES & BENEFITS

• COBALT HF family architecture including C-MACRO™ command software for easy integration with industrial control systems.
• Rugged M12 Connectors and industrial design assure protection from moisture and dust in harsh environments.
• Easy to read LED indicators provide helpful diagnostics.
• Advanced electronics permit longer read/write distance, and reduced sensitivity to the proximity of metal in the field for higher performance in difficult environments.
• C-Macro™ command software, and advanced micro-processing reduce network traffic between reader and host Integrated controller/antenna design eliminates cabling restrictions for easier installation.
• Plug ‘n’ Play allows effortless installation of additional Cobalt controllers on a network.
• Multi-tag firmware allows groups of tags to be read in the same field at the same time.

APPLICATIONS
This product series has been developed to satisfy to requirements of the following reference applications:

• Automated pharmaceutical
• Packaging machines
• Electronics manufacturing
• Hard disk drive manufacturing
• Work-in-progress
• Tool tracking

 

For more information, here is the Cobalt Datasheet or for other solutions check out the RFID Product Guide.