Automation & Controls

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. released the Q170MCPU-EIP motion controller.

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. has embedded two of the most commonly used expansion functions for micro programmable logic controllers, Ethernet communications and analog I/O into its new FX3GE Programmable Logic Controller (PLC).

Heidenhain says the TNC 620 control is now more powerful than ever with the addition of software options.

SICK announced the launch of the CM12 capacitive sensor.

Implementing automated pallet systems in small and medium-size shops can reduce labor costs and increase profitability.

To meet the demand in more motion control applications, HEIDENHAIN has again expanded its rotary encoder product line with either EnDat or SSI optical absolute encoders to include additional TTL and HTL signals. The new ROQ/EQN 425 rotary encoder is available with a solid shaft or hollow shaft with a mounted stator coupling.

Two new additions to the LNS America Alpha line of lower-cost bar feeders provide consistent bar support and smooth, reliable bar loading for enhanced precision machining performance.

In last month's column, the Shop Technology column observed that chip thinning is one of the key concepts programmers and machinists should understand. Presented in this month's column is further discussion about how chip thinning can enhance productivity.

One fond memory from my long-ago youth was playing Rock'Em, Sock'Em Robots with my next-door neighbor. My parents wouldn't get me the game, for reasons I forget, but my friend Ronnie, who always got the latest, greatest games and toys, had a brand-new version. The objective was to manipulate your plastic robot to knock out the other robot by hitting his spring-loaded head, making it pop up.r In January, the robotics industry was playing Rock'Em, Sock'Em Robots with CBS's "60 Minutes." The news program broadcast a segment called "Are robots hurting job growth?" based in large part on an interview with Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and co-authors of the 2011 book, "Race Against the Machine."

SICK announced the launch of the MPA magnetic positioning sensor with analog output.

Advanced Machine & Engineering Co. announces the OTT/JAKOB Analog Position Monitoring System with the Electronic Analog Sensor, which allows you to monitor your drawbar for performance and wear.

Mahr Federal has introduced the next generation of its well-established Micro-Dimensionair line of portable air gages. The new Micro-Dimensionair II incorporates the enhanced Micro-Maxum II Digital Indicator and an interchangeable handle to provide accurate, convenient readouts at the measurement site.