May 2019

50 n DESIGN DATA May 2019 www.drivesncontrols.com n MULTIMEDIA Thomson Industries has launched an online tool that helps design engineers to select and size electric linear actuators. The Linear Motioneering tool asks them the same kinds of questions about mechanical, electrical and control requirements that an application engineer would do. Based on their responses, it suggests the options that best meet their requirements. The tool offers more options for voltage, stroke, control, adaptor location and connectors than users might otherwise find. Help buttons provide extra information, tutorials and videos. The tool can also provide CAD models and documentation, as well as information on pricing, lead times and spare parts. https://linearactuators.linearmotioneering.com Configurator handles gears, motors and drives Stober Drives has released an online configurator that helps users to create specifications in real time. With a few clicks, they can create configurations that integrate products from Stober’s portfolio – such as gears, geared motors, controls and software. Data and drawings can be downloaded, and quotes requested. The configurator includes details of third-party servomotors for quick selection of matching Stober gears. It is said to save time compared to having to consult manufacturers’ documents. Numerous filters and comparison options are available. For example, you can compare components by price, power density, backlash and speed. The tool also offers access to downloadable datasheets, dimensional drawings and 3D models. https://configurator.stober.com Calculation tools predict potential savings from changing bearings NSK has announced two online calculation tools that can predict potential savings for users of its bearings. The Cost Saver tool helps to identify all bearing-related costs, comparing and calculating the total savings. The Cost-Benefit Analysis tool (MTBF) examines the total maintenance costs of a machine and calculates the point where payback will be achieved after installing NSK bearings. After that they will typically contribute to reducing maintenance costs. The tools are available in various languages and currencies. PDF reports can be downloaded and emailed to users. https://aip.calculations.nskeurope.com App offers access to hundreds of linear and rotary motion products Haydon Kerk Pittman , part of Ametek Advanced Motion Solutions , has released an app for Apple and Android mobile devices that provides datasheets, brochures, catalogues, guides, technical documents, case studies, White Papers and application suggestions, for the company’s linear and rotary motion products. These resources can be shared using a“send asset” function. The HKP Mobile App allows users to view videos and to contact HKP for technical support or quotes. It can also access HKP’s online store for hundreds of products. The app offers access to deals and push notifications on new products, demos, videos and more. www.haydonkerkpittman.com Online tool helps to pick linear actuators Document examines the implications of TSN Avnu Alliance , the industry consortium driving open, standards-based deterministic networking, has released a technical White Paper which explains why TSN (Time Sensitive Networking) is essential for companies to move forward with the IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things). Written by authors from Intel and Rockwell Automation , the paper explores topics such as the history of Ethernet protocols, cost-savings models and the potential business impact of TSN, and how to realise the promise of IIoT. The paper is titled Avnu Alliance Business Impact Whitepaper on Time Sensitive Networking: New tools to manage and converge networks, improve performance and reduce costs . It can be downloaded as a PDF from Avnu’s Web site. https://avnu.org/business-impact-paper White Paper explores the benefits of 5G for manufacturing HMS Networks has published aWhite Paper that explores the benefits of 5G technology in factories and its potential attractions, including low latency, fast communications, high reliability, real-time control of machines, improved human/robot interactions, and edge-cloud analytics. The paper provides an overview of 5G’s future-proof potential for connecting industries, and outlines some of its key building blocks. Called The Benefits of 5G in The Factory , the paper looks at 5G as an emerging trend and a future standard in manufacturing and industrial automation. It also touches on the challenges and future directions of 5G and how it will affect factories of the future. www.hms-networks.com/industrial-iot-solutions/5G/Whitepaper MTA celebrates its centenary by publishing a book To mark its centenary, the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) has produced a book that charts its history from its origins as the Machine Tool Trade Association (MTTA) to the current day. Called At the Heart of Manufacturing , the book is a record of how much technology has changed over the past 100 years. It was put together by MTA members who looked through historical records and as well as recent history. Every MTA member has received a copy and copies are available to others by emailing info@mta.org.uk with the subject line “The Heart of Manufacturing”. www.mta.org.uk Tackling food and beverage issues using automation The food automation specialist, Novotek UK and Ireland , has released a White Paper which explores the state of the European food and beverage industry, and outlines some of the issues facing it. It explains how automation can help foodmanufacturers to meet rising demand and to cope with tightening regulations. The paper indicates the ways that investment in new automation systems will allowmanufacturers to achieve their business goals. It explains how choosing the right system can make all the difference, whether helpingmanufacturers to innovate or to minimise their operating costs. The paper is available as a free download. https://www.novotek.com/uk