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Automating thread inspection on tubular goods

01/24/2017
Author:
Alan Richter
According to Autonetics LLC, automated gaging units (AGUs) for threads are hot. The Cary, N.C.-based AGU manufacturer reported that it shipped 10 systems in the third quarter of last year to U.S. pipe mills that produce oil country tubular goods. No shipments occurred in the fourth quarter because the industry experienced a downturn, so capital expenditure projects got cut or delayed, noted Jeff Heath, COO of Autonetics. However, he said, the projects are starting to receive funding again. “We have about four in the build phase.”
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Robotics road map calls for increased investment

01/16/2017
Author:
Michael C. Anderson
More than 150 U.S.-based robotics researchers contributed to the 2016 edition of the report titled “A Roadmap for US Robotics From Internet to Robotics.” Released Oct. 31, the document calls for improving policy frameworks to safely integrate new technologies, such as self-driving cars and commercial drones, into everyday life. The document also advocates for increased research efforts in the field of human-robot interaction and for more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) courses for students. 
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FN510 DV/DT Filter

FN510 DV/DT Filter
Schaffner introduces the FN510 dv/dt filter, which eliminates premature motor damage caused by high dv/dt, over-voltages on motor cables, motor overheating and more, to prolong service life motors in high precision environments. Suitable for motors from 1.5 to 30 Kw with frequencies up to 400Hz (4 to 24A) or to 200Hz (33 to 66A), this proven technology reduces high output voltage dv/dt from IGBT motor drives and restricts over-voltages caused by line reflections on motor cables.

LP 100 Gantry Robot System

LP 100 Gantry Robot System
The new LP 100 gantry robot system introduced recently by Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH is ideal for handling small and light components, allowing users the option of configuring the gantry to deliver high-speed or high-load performance. This choice allows the LP 100 to be employed flexibly, which fits well with inline production concepts where workpieces travel longer distances across several production machines.

Junction Blocks

Junction Blocks
Mencom Junction Blocks offer a range of circuit configurations in 7/8-16 MINI series, M12 & ½-20 Micro series, M8 Nano series and DeviceNet series. They feature a homerun connector (cable, cable with connector, receptacle or field wireable), which easily routes signals from multiple inputs back to the main control system.