March 2019

67 www.drivesncontrols.com March 2019 NEW PRODUCTS n B&R Automation says it has simpli ed model-based machine development with its MapleSim Connector which integrates Maplesoft’s MapleSim tool with its Automation Studio environment, making machine functions easy to program and deploy. MapleSim creates accurate, dynamic models of machines based on CAD data in the Step format. All forces and torques are modelled precisely, allowing the models to be used as digital twins for component sizing. The physical model is also available as a functional mock-up for virtual commissioning of the machine software in Automation Studio, helping to avoid the risk of design errors. The simulation data can be exported to optimise the sizing of servodrives, motors and gearboxes, using tools such ServoSoft, or a MapleSim model can be exported as an FMI le, including the CAD data. www.br-automation.com Rockwell Automation has released a new version of its Studio 5000 integrated development environment with new digital design capabilities to reduce machine design, testing and commissioning times. It also introduces CIP Security support. To accelerate projects, the Logix Designer application now uses an AutomationML open data exchange, allowing it to exchange data with engineering tools, such as Eplan Electric P8. Users can design a system once and import the data between tools, reducing rewriting and remapping. A new Simulation Interface product uses the Functional Mock-Up Interface (FMI) standard to allow data exchange with modelling software, such as Matlab and Simulink. Engineers can use this to test machines virtually and resolve issues before commissioning. www.rockwellautomation.co.uk Omron has announced “the first AI (artificial intelligence) machine automation controller with a Sysmac library”, which combines manufacturing control functions with AI processing in real time. It says that the controller can help manufacturers to reduce the risk of equipment damage and downtime by detecting issues early, and prompting action to resolve them. The controller operates on the “edge” in machines, automating data collection, and ensuring data fidelity and consistency. It creates data models automatically from correlation analysis and monitors machine status based on those models. Rather than being cloud-based, the AI controller combines hardware, software and in- person service. No Internet connection is needed. Without these capabilities, machine designers would need to develop their own analytics and optimisation capabilities to avoid costly cloud-based systems. The AI function can identify unexpected machine behaviour without being explicitly programmed to do so. Because many different factors could indicate an issue when observed together, automating extraction of features saves time and resources. The hardware is based on Omron’s Sysmac NY5 industrial PC and an NX7 CPU, and includes a library of pre- programmed predictive maintenance function blocks, based on the know-how gathered from typical applications. Several AI-specific utilities are also included, such as a “time series database function”, which collects data synchronised with the control cycle at high speed, and an AI engine, which detects unforeseen abnormalities accurately and at high speed, based on the data. Omron https://omron.co.uk/en/home SKF has developed a range of ball bearings for food-processing applications, designed from scratch to improve hygiene, performance, and compliance with food safety regulations. The Food Line Blue Range bearings combine an innovative sealing system, high-performance grease and complete seal-ability where it’s needed, to deliver “outstanding” performance, allowing OEMs to improve the hygienic design of their food- processing equipment using bearings that last longer, are relubrication-free and cleanable. SKF argues that traditional methods of relubricating, washing down and dry-cleaning bearings can create hidden ways for contaminants to thrive in airborne droplets, waste water or contaminated grease. It adds that the new bearings will reduce unnecessary risks to food safety for food and beverage manufacturers. The bearings’ hygienic design reduces the risk of bacteria build-up in hard-to- clean areas and minimises the risk of bacteria spreading during cleaning. There is no need to stop equipment for lubrication and less time is taken up cleaning excess bearing grease, thus reducing downtime and maximising production. The new bearings are also claimed to reduce bearing replacement frequencies and environmental waste. Less hot water is needed for cleaning, and grease in waste water and components can be recycled and energy recovered. SKF 01582 490049 www.skf.com Elmo has incorporated a higher voltage internal supply into its tiny 5.5kW Gold Twitter servodrive, allowing a single power source up to 95V DC to power both the drive and logic functions. It has also produced a version of the high-power- density drive that can be used underwater at depths of up to 7km. Elmo says that the ability for the VL (control) and VP+ (power supply) to operate from a single source will be a benefit for machine-builders and will help to reduce electromagnetic interference and sensitivity to poor external wiring. The single-supply models are available in 80V and 100V versions. The enhanced drive complies with F3 rules (fit, form, and function). Elmo has also successfully tested a version of the Gold Twitter at pressures of up to 700 atmospheres – equivalent to 7km below sea level. This will allow the drive to be used in applications such as remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles. The tests were conducted at a laboratory used to test high-pressure oil and gas technologies. Elmo Motion Control 03303327983 www.elmomc.com AI edge controller ‘cuts downtime and extends equipment lives’ Lubrication-free food industry ball bearings improve reliability and cut maintenance Tiny servodrive operates from a single power source – and up to 7km underwater