Motion Control

Adhesives offer many benefits over mechanical and thermal methods of assembly.

Adhesives distribute load evenly over a broad area, reducing stress on a joint. Adhesives are applied inside the joint and are nearly invisible within the assembly. They resist flex and vibrational stresses, and will form a seal as well as a bond to protect joints from corrosion. They join irregularly shaped surfaces more easily than fastening or welding. They add minimal weight to an assembly, create virtually no change in part dimensions or geometry, and can join dissimilar substrates and heat-sensitive materials.

Whether you need a UV-cure adhesive to assemble a medical device or a two-part epoxy to encapsulate electronics, you’ll find it at The ASSEMBLY Show, which will take place Oct. 21-23 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. Some 14 suppliers of adhesives, dispensing and curing technology will be displaying their wares. Here’s a look at some of what you’ll see.

Rotary Indexing Table Features Compact Housing

The VTMF Series rotary indexing table and servo trunnion features a compact, sealed housing that saves floor space and improves design flexibility. It has a large center through-hole for running utilities and mounting equipment. A minimum of four oversized cam followers can be engaged with the barrel cam at all times. The device is driven directly by a gear reducer coupled to either an AC motor with an encoder or a servo-motor. Both options provide high accuracy and enable the indexer to be driven by a dedicated amplifier or as an auxiliary axis to a robot drive. Loading capabilities are multiplied significantly through the unique design of the barrel cam and cam followers.

Motion Index Drives Inc.

www.motionindexdrives.com

Software Enables Multi-Axis Motion Control

The TwinCAT MC3 software platform features a modular architecture that enables multi-core and multi-task support. It makes it easy to use a single industrial PC to automate highly complex machines. New components can be implemented without having to adapt existing parts. Full machine simulation is also possible for programming efforts. Users can easily translate a real machine into a highly accurate simulation without major rework. Depending on their speed and function, axes can also be operated on the same CPU core at different cycle times.

Beckhoff Automation LLC

www.beckhoff.com

Inspection System

Robotic Gripper Is Flexible and Easy to Configure

The eRDH Series electric parallel gripper integrates state-of-the-art features, including four teachable sensors, speed control, force control, and selectable internal or external grip configurations. An intuitive keypad interface enables end users to make quick adjustments and sensor settings. Operators can fully configure the device, including sensor parameters, in less than 1 minute. Built-in jaw locking technology ensures that grip force is maintained even without power, which enhances safety and reliability. Ultra-low power consumption makes it an ideal choice for mobile platforms and applications where energy efficiency is critical.

DESTACO

www.destaco.com

Predictive Maintenance System Reduces Machine Downtime

AX Motion Insights Pneumatics is a cost-effective way to prevent unscheduled machine downtime. The system uses AI technology to detect anomalies. It continuously monitors pneumatic drives and cylinders without the need for additional sensors. It provides a health score as a risk of failure indicator for each cylinder. Connectivity is achieved via a PLC function block. The system is compatible with actuators from different manufacturers and has specific connectivity details for Beckoff, Rockwell and Siemens controllers. It enables maintenance teams to schedule tasks in advance, significantly reducing the risk of unexpected downtime.

Festo Corp.

www.festo.com

Cam-Driven Indexer Delivers Zero Backlash

RollerDrive delivers smooth, controlled motion in demanding environments, such as oscillating and rotating arm applications that repeatedly change direction or reverse motion. It is ideal for robotic and dynamic rotary systems that demand predictable movement, accurate positioning and controlled transitions. With a zero-backlash design, the device provides consistent performance through forward and reverse moves, even under changing load conditions. Performance is stable even as the direction of loading changes, such as shifts in the line of gravity.

Sankyo Automation

www.sankyoautomation.com

Linear Actuator Fits in a Small Footprint

The Compact series electric linear actuator is engineered for light-duty applications, such as lifting tables, loading bays and ports. Because of its small footprint, the device is also ideal for industrial door operation. Depending on application requirements, the actuator can be equipped with either a self-locking acme screw or a ball-screw for high-performance accuracy and positioning. In applications requiring accurate flow control, such as butterfly valves, flap valves and diverters, the actuator is ideal because it provides multiple stroke lengths and thrust ratings. A variety of motors and voltage ratings are available.

RACO International

www.racointernational.com

Rugged Controller Is Built for Safe, Secure Operation

ControlLogix 5590 is all-in-one controller that delivers seamless software integration and multidiscipline control to streamline operations and scale smart production systems. It is designed to meet the evolving demands of manufacturers. Key capabilities include integrated safety and built-in cybersecurity to help protect people, equipment and operations without the need for separate safety models. The controller is ideal for manufacturers looking to design scalable architecture, optimize throughput and drive efficiency on a single high-performance, interoperable platform.

Rockwell Automation Inc.

www.rockwellautomation.com