September 2020

47 www.drivesncontrols.com September 2020 NEW PRODUCTS n BeckhoffAutomation UK has announced software to simplify the configuring and programming of vision systems.TheTwinCatVision software, an extension of the TwinCat range of PC-based control systems, brings image processing to one platform alongside PLC, HMI, motion control and IoT device management. It allows users to reconfigure and calibrate cameras and control machine vision systems from a familiar environment, using PLC programming languages and the same configuration tools as used for fieldbuses. Combining these functions in one system eliminates latency in image- processing algorithms, which can execute in real-time. It also improves synchronisation between the functions.TheTwinCatVision software has a real-time driver that supports GigE Vision, as well as tools that can read and configure settings based on the GenApi format used by GigE Vision cameras. www.beckhoff.co.uk Sick has shrunk its PowerProx time- of-flight photoelectric sensor into a tiny housing said to reach the longest distances ever achieved by such a small device.The Sick WTT4SL PowerProx Mini sensor measures just 12.2 x 41.8 x 17.3mm, yet can detect objects up to 1.3m away. It is suitable for high-speed production and logistics applications.The IO-Link- supporting sensor can spot leading edges even at high speeds, and can detect targets reliably through small holes. It can replace through- beam, background-suppression or reflex sensors. www.sick.co.uk Phoenix Contact has announced an 400V open platform for control cabinets that simplifies wiring for machine- and panel-builders. In the CrossPowerSystem, three-phase devices are attached to a power distribution board via a plug-and- play system. A 20A power supply with integrated eight-channel electronic circuit breakers supplies a safe 24V supply. Adapter rails with integrated DIN-rails accommodate distributor terminal blocks up to 35mm². www.phoenixcontact.co.uk HepcoMotion ’s products are now available on theTraceParts CAD content platform. Withmore than 3.5 million registered users, many of Hepco’s existing customers already useTraceParts, which is available in 24 languages. Its 3D CADmodels are available inmore than 60 formats, offering compatibility with most CAD systems. Hepco customers now have a choice of two platforms for downloading 3D CADmodels. www.hepcomotion.com Elmo Motion Control has announced a series of miniature servodrives which, it claims, offer “the most advanced servo functionality and functional safety available today”. The Platinum drives are an evolution of Elmo’s Gold line, and the company says they will allow OEMs to manufacture smaller and safer machines, with lower costs and shorter time to market. The drives support EtherCat networking and processing, delivering faster cycling and higher synchronisation, with negligible jitter and near-zero latency. High processing power enables fast data handling, large memories and endless real-time recording. The drives support feedback from up to three devices simultaneously, including two absolute encoders. The drives offer functional safety to IEC 61800-5-2 SIL-3 and Cat4 PL-e, and include over-the- network safety and optional safety I/Os, supported by safety software. The safety functions reduce the need for external safety components, and streamline machine safety certification. The line includes one of the world’s smallest functional safety and FSoE (functional safety over EtherCat) certified servodrives. Elmo Motion Control UK 0330 332 7983 https://www.elmomc.com Euchner has launched a range of compact, IP69K-protected locking switches for hygienic applications in food and beverage plants. The CTM safety interlocks offer high-level coding using transponders and diagnostics that help to resist misuse where people might try to defeat safety systems. Data such as the number of operations and operating temperature can be used by control systems to maximise up- time. Multi-angle indicators show the switch status. Manufactured from food-safe materials, the switches (measuring 120 x 36 x 25mm) have rounded edges, smooth surfaces, FKM elastomer sealing to eradicate gaps, and Inox 316L stainless-steel fixings and actuator pins. They can be cleaned or pressure-washed without damp or water ingress. Hygienic versions are approved to EU Regulation (EC) No 10/2011. A bistable guard-locking function, with a locking force of more than 1kN, ensures that the switch stays in its current state in the event of a power failure or shutdown. The guard door is either locked, or can be opened and closed as required, making it safer for applications where body access is required, or where cleandown or maintenance procedures are carried out without power being applied. A locking ball actuator on an elastomer bearing allows the CTM to be used on small, lightweight doors with pivoting radii down to 150mm. Lower- cost swing-type doors and flaps can be used where more complex sliding systems were needed previously. Euchner www.euchner.co.uk Safe servodrives offer ‘most advanced functions’ Beckhoff has announced a compact motor controller for roller conveyors that, it says, will cut cabling and improve diagnostics. The IP67-protected EP7402 EtherCat Box can control BLDC (brushless DC) roller motors from any conveyor or motor manufacturer, simplifying control architectures. The controller has two outputs with integrated motion controls for the direct connection of 24V DC conveyor roller motors or other BLDC motors rated at up to 3.5A. The control of the motors is sensorless. The maximum rated current, acceleration or deceleration ramps, and various other parameters, can be configured. The EP7402 can operate without a PLC, and provides functions such as zero pressure accumulation (ZPA), and single or block discharge. Other EtherCat devices such as digital and analogue I/Os, barcode readers and safety devices can be connected via an extra EtherCat junction. There are eight digital IOs for connecting devices such as photoelectric switches, and communicating with other box modules. Beckhoff Automation UK 01491 410539 www.beckhoff.co.uk IP67 motor controller simplifies roller conveyor installations IP69K safety interlock is suitable for food and beverage applications