Automation & Controls

The impact of COVID-19 has changed the way we conduct business and illuminates more than ever the need for manufacturers to assess their processes and implement smart manufacturing technology. The challenges that manufacturers face daily have been only exacerbated by the pandemic.

Precision Tool Technologies Inc., Brainerd, Minnesota, developed the FullShop automated coolant delivery system to eliminate manually monitoring and replenishing coolant so that the shop could enable unattended machining.

he Mx200 is a shop-hardened DRO. A sealed rubber keypad and durable powder-coated enclosure provide lasting performance in any environment from the shop floor to the Quality Control Lab. Capable of Optical Edge Detection and Crosshair Measurement, Mx200 probing options are spontaneous.

Eyes is ideal for sorting a wide variety of objects or for CNC machine tending with metal parts that are defined by outer shape, as well as many other pick-and-place applications where orientation is important. Eyes also offers depth perception within its affordable and easy-to-deploy 2.5D vision.

In an effort to support the global need for medical ventilators, Minnesota-based Tolomatic Inc. has dedicated a team of engineers to the development of highly efficient emergency ventilator concept systems using electric linear actuators. The proposed technologies are the first step in creating innovative emergency ventilators for patients around the world.

CNC machines and CAM software enable advanced milling techniques

To maximize productivity, a twin-spindle machining center is great, but a shop must be prepared.

ActiNav combines real-time autonomous motion control, collaborative robotics, vision and sensor systems in one easy to use, fast to deploy and cost-effective kit. The system requires no vision or robotic programming expertise, but is instead based on a "teach-by-demonstration" principle.

The D3 dryve controls simple linear or rotations axes with DC motors without any software or a PC. For more complex travels, such as with multi-axis robots or delta robots, igus offers the D1 drive, which is a control system for stepper motors, DC motors of EC/BLDC motors.

Hands-on and online learning bring growth opportunities. Programmers, operators and maintenance professionals can maximize results with a Siemens CNC to become indispensable on the shop floor and in their careers. Owners can maximize ROI in all areas of investment: machines, people and operations.

Mazak's new Spindle Health Monitoring System tracks vital data.

The industrial control robotics systems perform, control and monitor a wide range of industrial operations and automated processes. The objective is to improve the overall quality, reliability and precision of these processes.