| February 25, 2020 | Volume 16 Issue 08 |
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 | 50 Ways to Use a Hexapod
Hexapods, six-legged parallel-kinematic machines, can solve many complex positioning and alignment tasks in fields including Optics, Photonics, Precision Automation, Automotive, and Medical Engineering. Features include a programmable pivot point, sub-micron precision, and load capacities from 2kg to 2000kg.
Read more» |
 | 10 tips for specifying electric linear actuators
Electric rod-style actuators offer enhanced performance, control and efficiency over their fluid power (pneumatic and hydraulic) counterparts. However, because of the higher initial cost of electric actuators and their unique characteristics vs. a fluid power cylinder, it is important to fully understand the application requirements. Learn how to analyze loads, forces, application footprint, environment and more.
Download our white paper. |
| | Feature articles | Shoot around corners? New networked night-vision goggles
L3Harris Technologies has developed what it says is the most advanced night-vision goggle ever, and it allows Soldiers to shoot around corners -- even at night. The head gear is wirelessly networked with the rifle scope, so Soldiers can find their targets and take a shot without shouldering the weapon. After extensive testing, the U.S. military has ordered 10,000.
Read the full article. |
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 | What's a sapphire piston used for -- and who can make one?
If you want a prototype piston made of metal for research purposes, you have a lot of options -- you can even 3D print your own. But what if you need something much more exotic, like the second-hardest natural material? When Mid Michigan Research had just such a need, it turned to Insaco for the company's long history of custom fabrication of sapphire precision parts, often in unusual forms.
Read the full article. |
 | Materials in small quantities for prototyping and research
A wide range of pure metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, composites, nanomaterials, compounds and other materials in many forms are available in small quantities (a single piece, a few grams to a few kilos) for research, prototype development and specialized manufacturing. No minimum order requirement; shipping usually within 24-48 hours. Custom fabrication and finishing as well as larger quantities also available.
Learn more from Goodfellow. |
 | Convert any standard pipe to a conveyor -- now larger sizes
EXAIR's new Type 303 Stainless Steel 2-1/2 NPT Threaded Line Vac Air Operated Conveyors convert ordinary pipe into a powerful conveying system for parts, scrap, trim, and other bulk materials. They are ideal for food, chemical, and pharmaceutical processes or areas likely to be wet and corrosive that require the benefits of 303SS. Their larger size (ranging from 3/8 NPT to 3 NPT) makes them perfect for conveying bigger parts and large volumes of material over long distances. The Threaded Line Vac attaches to standard plumbing pipe couplers, making it easy to build a complete system using common pipe and fittings that are readily available.
Learn more. |
 | Can bearings slide better on water instead of oil?
Bearings are usually lubricated with mineral oil-based lubricants, preventing wear on the bearing from metal-on-metal contact. But researchers in Germany say a new slide bearing design with water lubrication and galvanic coupling prevents tribo-corrosion and may be better for the environment. How could that be?
Read the full article. |
 | Totally matched motion system
Kollmorgen announces the 2G Motion System, a servo solution designed specifically to harness the performance capabilities of Kollmorgen's AKD2G servo drive and AKM2G servo motor. Motor and drive are precisely matched in every element (e.g., drive switching frequency, commutation algorithms, motor magnetics), avoiding micro-incompatibilities that can occur when engineers select components from various manufacturers. The result is a system that delivers maximum performance, efficiency, and effectiveness in even the most demanding applications, including: industrial printing, laser cutting, packaging, robotics, inspection and measurement, machine tools, winding machines, and food processing. The AKM2G can also be dropped into existing machines to increase performance, compared to competing motors, without increasing the size of the motor.
Learn more. |
 | New single-pad no-mark adhesive Gecko Gripper
OnRobot has launched a compact, single-pad version of its innovative Gecko no-mark adhesive gripper. The new Gecko Single Pad (SP) gripper brings the same capability to new automation applications with small footprints and lower payload (1 to 5 kilos, three sizes available). The award-winning Gecko gripper technology uses millions of micro-scaled fibrillar stalks that adhere to a surface using powerful van der Waals forces -- the same way that geckos climb. The technology requires no compressed air or external power, saving costs and maintenance, and can be implemented quickly and easily through OnRobot's One-System Solution platform on any major collaborative or light industrial robot arm. And like its larger sibling, the Gecko SP can even grip perforated workpieces such as printed circuit boards, aluminum mesh, or head gaskets.
Learn more. |
 | New BLDC motor is alternative to AC servos
With a rated power up to 400 W, the brushless DC motors of the APBA60 series from Nanotec offer a high-performance alternative to AC servos motors with the same flange size. The new DC motors are rated IP65 and come standard with integrated encoder or with encoder and brake. They are available in two lengths and have a rated speed of 3,000 rpm and a rated voltage of 48 V. They are ideally suited for battery-powered applications, such as AGVs or service robots. They are also safe for use in medical or other environments where standard AC servos would require additional insulation and safety measures. The APBA60 is mechanically compatible with 60-mm AC motors and can be combined with a variety of gearboxes and motor controllers from Nanotec.
Learn more. |
 | Magnetic encoder system with Drive-Cliq interface
Balluff's BML absolute magnetic encoder in the SGA series stands out in any application where high accuracy of position and end-of-travel is required. Comprehensive diagnostic functions ensure reliable operation and more efficient maintenance. It also has plug-and-play installation. With its Drive-Cliq interface, the Balluff measuring system can be integrated easily into Siemens controller environments. Perfect for demanding applications in the field of automation as well as machine tool building, especially specialty machines.
Learn more. |
| | Most popular last issue |
 | Extreme aerodynamics: 827-hp Pagani Imola hypercar
If you ever end up with money to burn, please don't strike that match. You could be lighting the track on fire instead in something like the Pagani Imola hypercar -- one of only five in the world and the pinnacle of Italian advanced composite materials workmanship and aerodynamic technology.
Read the full article. |
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| | Videos+: Technologies and inspiration in action | Nested Wave Springs from Smalley
The need to stack individual springs for higher loads is no longer necessary. Nested springs result in a spring rate that increases proportionately to the number of turns. They can exert tremendous forces, yet maintain the precision of a circular-grain wave spring. In many applications, Nested Wave Springs replace Belleville Springs, particularly in cases where a high but accurate force is needed.
Check out our video for more information. |
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Optimize mechanical misalignments, get hidden benefits
C-Flex Couplings combine the best qualities of disc, beam, and bellows couplings in a unique and economical new design. Made to couple two rotating shafts together, these couplings can accommodate large misalignments while transmitting high torque loads with zero backlash. Benefits include lower energy usage and less-frequent bearing failure, since less stress is placed upon bearings. Constructed using high-strength hardened stainless steel or glass impregnated polyamide flexures, these couplings require no maintenance and provide years of trouble-free life, even in contaminated environments. Flexible Pivot Bearings and Super Plastic Torsional Damping Couplings also available.
Watch C-Flex Couplings in action handling misalignments.
Learn even more. |
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