December 2011 Control Engineering archive
Product Exclusive: Integrated PLC and HMIs add more snap-in IO
New Snap-In I/O options, up to 46 analog and digital inputs and outputs, add diversity to Unitronics Vision Series Integrated PLC+HMIs. » more
Power of the Cloud
Cloud computing is everywhere, including manufacturing! This latest computing craze may seem like just another buzzword, but “the cloud” and its advanced computing technologies are here to stay,... » more
Cloud Computing for SCADA
Moving all or part of SCADA applications to the cloud can cut costs significantly while dramatically increasing reliability and scalability. » more
Speed Product Development
Application Update: Tap the expertise of suppliers for help in selecting and specifying dc motors and other complex components can lead to significant time and cost savings. » more
Energy management at Rockwell Automation fair
Online energy savings calculator offered for free download. » more
November 2011 Control Engineering archive
Energy-efficient sensorless motor control, variable speed motor control
Sensorless speed control motor and variable speed motor control technology are key energy-saving technologies. » more
Reduce IO operations, maintenance costs with intelligent marshalling
Few process industry cost-cutting initiatives begin at the marshalling cabinet, but a new intelligent marshalling alternative from Invensys may change that. » more
Official safety communication standard established
The DDASCA Consortium named openSAFETY an official communication standard. » more
October 2011 Control Engineering archive
Leader Under 40: Aaron Crews
Principal Control Systems Engineer, Emerson Process Management – BS Chemical Engineering, Texas A+M University » more
Leader Under 40: E.J. Daigle
Academic director - Robotics + Manufacturing, Dunwoody College of Technology – AAS Electronics Engineering Technology, Coastline Community College; BS Mathematics, Metropolitan State University » more
Leader Under 40: Kris Dornan
Process End-User Marketing Manager, Rockwell Automation Inc. – BS Chemical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University » more
Leader Under 40: Matt Goska
Mechatronics Engineer, Siemens – BS + MS Mechanical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Concentration: Control Systems » more
Leader Under 40: Chad Harper
Operations Manager, Maverick Technologies – BS Chemical Engineering, University of Arkansas » more
September 2011 Control Engineering archive
Industrial Ethernet security check
Security for an industrial Ethernet network has to thwart hacking, unauthorized access, and disruption caused by unwanted traffic in industrial control and automation environments, which can cause... » more
Optimizing Ethernet for industrial implementation
When selecting and installing industrial Ethernet, consider this advice from IMS Research. » more
Coordinated valve controls write messages on water wall: Optimation
Integration project: Valves, controller spell out messages in a waterfall. » more
Tips and Tricks: Help for ASIC design
When considering a new application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) design, consider the role analog functions will play in its deployment. To minimize risk, consider these six tips for ASIC design. » more
Robotic case and layer picking system for beer, other applications
RMT Robotics' new gantry-based case and layer picking system for the beverage industry will be introduced at the 2011 National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) in Las Vegas. See example diagram... » more
August 2011 Control Engineering archive
Winds power load balancing: Ultracapacitors help
Winds of change are blowing for clean technology energy storage methods to help balance renewable energy sources coming online. Ultracapacitors can help balance the grid as more wind power comes... » more
CC-Link IE Field Network integrates safety
The latest network specification from CC-Link Partner Association, CC-Link IE Field Network, integrates safety functions for gigabit per second in a variety of fields. It meets international safety... » more
July 2011 Control Engineering archive
Application Update: Integrated plant control system
Westar Energy natural gas peaking plant helps address variable wind power input and balance electricity flow in a smarter grid with integrated plant controls, for 12% less cost than expected. » more
Think Again: Reach deeper for engineering inspiration
You don’t need to be faced with death in space to reach deeper, do more for humanity, inspire others, and be thankful for every moment. 7 lessons follow. » more
Back to Basics: Non-contact laser measurement
Manufacturers in a range of industries can use non-contact laser encoders to accurately measure the length and speed of products and optimize process control. Tutorial follows with diagram, photos,... » more
Video: IT students explore the world of industrial networks and cyber security
DePaul University expands its IT offerings with a new class on security for industrial control networks. » more
Industrial wireless receiver for material handling, heavy transportation applications
Honeywell’s Limitless Wireless Din-Rail Receiver connects up to 14 limit-less inputs to programmable logic controllers. » more
June 2011 Control Engineering archive
Changing face of robotics
Mechatronics and symbolic model formulation techniques are driving innovation in the robotics field, from humanoid robots to autonomous cars, and beyond. See photos. » more
Think Again: More data, better decisions
Wireless data acquisition doesn’t automatically mean you’ll turn data into information to make better decisions, but automated, real-time data gathering beats manual data entry. Wireless can save up... » more
Vision system cuts downtime, improves inspection productivity 60%
Royal Canadian Mint uses a machine vision system to improve inspection productivity from 25,000 to 40,000 rolls per shift, cut downtime, and reduce manual tasks. » more
2 million standard drives produced
The two millionth ACS550 drive rolled off the production line in April, marking it the first for an ABB drive series to reach the two million unit production mark. » more
May 2011 Control Engineering archive
Safety relays for applications with emergency stop, safety gates
AutomationDirect's Dold safety relay devices are designed to protect workers and equipment in applications with emergency stop buttons, safety gates, and dangerous closing movements. » more
Legalities: Not all automation standards are equal
Social media poll: Industry standards can be specifications, industrial standards, codes, or aspirational standards. Leave your opinions here. » more
Camera viewer links to I2C bus of USB, GigE cameras
IDS offers a convenient and fast way to perform simple tests on image processing hardware expansions. » more
Linear drive offers option for automatic shaft cleaning, lubricating
Uhing linear drives are available with a combination shaft scraper/grease fitting option, allowing drive shafts to be cleaned and lubricated while in use. » more
April 2011 Control Engineering archive
Simulation platform for flare and relief networks
SimSci-Esscor Visual Flow 5.4 from Invensys Operations Management provides greater simulation capabilities and enhanced integration with other applications. » more
Stainless steel housed photo-electric sensor for heavy duty applications
Optex increases durability, protection with stainless steel housed photo-electric DC sensor series; features include high pressure, high temperature resistances, scratch resistant lenses. » more
Safety door switches designed for slim spaces subject to water washdown cleaning
Omron’s D4GS-N switches are rated IP67 for water washdown, feature reversible design allowing either front, rear mounting. » more
Back to Basics: Simplify device-level wiring
Faster connectivity, data monitoring, and circuit protection are among advantages of device-level wiring solutions. » more
DC electric motors with potentiometer offer power, control for incubator rotating mechanism
Bosch “VMC” DC electric motor with potentiometer features space-saving compact design, weighs approximately 0.12 kg, allows for easy installation into cabinet-style egg incubators, other industrial... » more
March 2011 Control Engineering archive
Technology Update: Why WirelessHART?
With other industrial wireless communications options available, process industry engineers may ask, ‘What is WirelessHART, and what is it good for?’ » more
Panels as powerful as an industrial PC
New generation of Power Panels from B&R Automation handles applications that used to require full industrial PCs. » more
New Ethernet-capable optical data couplers enable live video communication
Pepperl+Fuchs LS680 combines user-friendly operation with higher data transmission speeds for new levels of communication. » more
February 2011 Control Engineering archive
Advanced motor design: New Motors Reach New Applications
Permanent magnets, axial, transverse, and radial flux designs optimize torque, power, efficiency, size, weight, and other motor performance parameters, as explained in this February Control... » more
Growing applications for multi-core processors
Multi-core processors have wide industrial application potential—from vision inspection systems to motion control—as developers increasingly implement the technology, initially in high-end systems.... » more
Machine control on the water via iPad
Ethernet UDP communications and marine certified PLCs provide state-of-the-yacht control. » more
Control network security lessons from Stuxnet
A UK expert describes how Stuxnet and other threats to industrial infrastructure cyber security are prompting national and international action. Technology Update, February 2011, monthly Control... » more
2010 HART Plant of the Year: Connect field devices, plant maintenance
MOL Danube Refinery near Budapest, Hungary, says it is committed to the operation of a predictive maintenance system. In developing this long-term strategy the application of devices based on HART... » more
January 2011 Control Engineering archive
Top 20 Control Engineering articles of 2010 at www.controleng.com
Link to the most-read Control Engineering articles of 2010 at www.controleng.com. Energy-efficient motor technology topics, pushed by a Dec. 19 regulatory deadline and increased sustainable... » more
2011 FIRST Robotics Competition: A look inside the Traverse City West team
Look inside a FIRST Robotics team effort - how a team forms then designs, builds, tests, and modifies a robot all within six weeks for the FIRST Robotics Competition. » more
Barcode reader said to exceed laser scanner performance
Cognex DataMan 500 is designed to achieve higher read rates, offer improved on-line visualization and have higher reliability than laser scanners currently in use in the logistics, postal, and retail... » more
Automation Future: Automotive motives for better control
From economies of scale to economies of scope: How automotive manufacturers incorporate automation considerations into portfolio and product planning and what other manufacturers can learn. » more
Product Exclusive: Integrated PLC and HMIs add more snap-in IO New Snap-In I/O options, up to 46 analog and digital inputs and outputs, add diversity to Unitronics Vision Series Integrated PLC+HMIs. » more
Power of the CloudCloud computing is everywhere, including manufacturing! This latest computing craze may seem like just another buzzword, but “the cloud” and its advanced computing technologies are here to stay,... » more
Cloud Computing for SCADAMoving all or part of SCADA applications to the cloud can cut costs significantly while dramatically increasing reliability and scalability. » more
Speed Product DevelopmentApplication Update: Tap the expertise of suppliers for help in selecting and specifying dc motors and other complex components can lead to significant time and cost savings. » more
Energy management at Rockwell Automation fairOnline energy savings calculator offered for free download. » more
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Energy-efficient sensorless motor control, variable speed motor controlSensorless speed control motor and variable speed motor control technology are key energy-saving technologies. » more
Reduce IO operations, maintenance costs with intelligent marshalling Few process industry cost-cutting initiatives begin at the marshalling cabinet, but a new intelligent marshalling alternative from Invensys may change that. » more
Control engineers shift roles?
Use control engineering to positively contribute to the business goals of the organization to improve job satisfaction. » more
Use control engineering to positively contribute to the business goals of the organization to improve job satisfaction. » more
Miconex in Beijing: Food safety, home automation, Internet of things
A major trade show in China shows how industrial automation and smart-grid technologies may be influencing innovative, blue-ocean life and home automation markets. » more
A major trade show in China shows how industrial automation and smart-grid technologies may be influencing innovative, blue-ocean life and home automation markets. » more
Official safety communication standard establishedThe DDASCA Consortium named openSAFETY an official communication standard. » more
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Leader Under 40: Aaron CrewsPrincipal Control Systems Engineer, Emerson Process Management – BS Chemical Engineering, Texas A+M University » more
Leader Under 40: E.J. Daigle Academic director - Robotics + Manufacturing, Dunwoody College of Technology – AAS Electronics Engineering Technology, Coastline Community College; BS Mathematics, Metropolitan State University » more
Leader Under 40: Kris DornanProcess End-User Marketing Manager, Rockwell Automation Inc. – BS Chemical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University » more
Leader Under 40: Matt GoskaMechatronics Engineer, Siemens – BS + MS Mechanical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Concentration: Control Systems » more
Leader Under 40: Chad HarperOperations Manager, Maverick Technologies – BS Chemical Engineering, University of Arkansas » more
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Industrial Ethernet security checkSecurity for an industrial Ethernet network has to thwart hacking, unauthorized access, and disruption caused by unwanted traffic in industrial control and automation environments, which can cause... » more
Optimizing Ethernet for industrial implementationWhen selecting and installing industrial Ethernet, consider this advice from IMS Research. » more
Coordinated valve controls write messages on water wall: OptimationIntegration project: Valves, controller spell out messages in a waterfall. » more
Tips and Tricks: Help for ASIC designWhen considering a new application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) design, consider the role analog functions will play in its deployment. To minimize risk, consider these six tips for ASIC design. » more
Robotic case and layer picking system for beer, other applications RMT Robotics' new gantry-based case and layer picking system for the beverage industry will be introduced at the 2011 National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) in Las Vegas. See example diagram... » more
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Baldor to sell ABB low-and-medium voltage motors
Baldor has agreed to sell ABB motors. This allows Baldor to sell a wider offering of motors that meet worldwide standards, especially for hazardous conditions. » more
Baldor has agreed to sell ABB motors. This allows Baldor to sell a wider offering of motors that meet worldwide standards, especially for hazardous conditions. » more
Winds power load balancing: Ultracapacitors helpWinds of change are blowing for clean technology energy storage methods to help balance renewable energy sources coming online. Ultracapacitors can help balance the grid as more wind power comes... » more
CC-Link IE Field Network integrates safetyThe latest network specification from CC-Link Partner Association, CC-Link IE Field Network, integrates safety functions for gigabit per second in a variety of fields. It meets international safety... » more
Tax Relief Act: OEMs, manufacturers hurry to get financial, operational incentives
Companies hurry to meet year-end deadline, get immediate ROI by immediately deducting the cost, rather than lifetime depreciation. » more
Companies hurry to meet year-end deadline, get immediate ROI by immediately deducting the cost, rather than lifetime depreciation. » more
Legacy network connections
Consider these points when blending network upgrades and connecting to legacy networks. » more
Consider these points when blending network upgrades and connecting to legacy networks. » more
11 of 24
Application Update: Integrated plant control systemWestar Energy natural gas peaking plant helps address variable wind power input and balance electricity flow in a smarter grid with integrated plant controls, for 12% less cost than expected. » more
Think Again: Reach deeper for engineering inspirationYou don’t need to be faced with death in space to reach deeper, do more for humanity, inspire others, and be thankful for every moment. 7 lessons follow. » more
Back to Basics: Non-contact laser measurementManufacturers in a range of industries can use non-contact laser encoders to accurately measure the length and speed of products and optimize process control. Tutorial follows with diagram, photos,... » more
Video: IT students explore the world of industrial networks and cyber securityDePaul University expands its IT offerings with a new class on security for industrial control networks. » more
Industrial wireless receiver for material handling, heavy transportation applicationsHoneywell’s Limitless Wireless Din-Rail Receiver connects up to 14 limit-less inputs to programmable logic controllers. » more
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Changing face of roboticsMechatronics and symbolic model formulation techniques are driving innovation in the robotics field, from humanoid robots to autonomous cars, and beyond. See photos. » more
Think Again: More data, better decisionsWireless data acquisition doesn’t automatically mean you’ll turn data into information to make better decisions, but automated, real-time data gathering beats manual data entry. Wireless can save up... » more
Vision system cuts downtime, improves inspection productivity 60%Royal Canadian Mint uses a machine vision system to improve inspection productivity from 25,000 to 40,000 rolls per shift, cut downtime, and reduce manual tasks. » more
Industrial Ethernet is increasing strongly in China's booming sectors
IMS Research report indicates that industrial Ethernet growth in China depends on strength of various vertical sectors. The market grew 20%, 2009 to 2010, IMS said. » more
IMS Research report indicates that industrial Ethernet growth in China depends on strength of various vertical sectors. The market grew 20%, 2009 to 2010, IMS said. » more
2 million standard drives producedThe two millionth ACS550 drive rolled off the production line in April, marking it the first for an ABB drive series to reach the two million unit production mark. » more
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Safety relays for applications with emergency stop, safety gatesAutomationDirect's Dold safety relay devices are designed to protect workers and equipment in applications with emergency stop buttons, safety gates, and dangerous closing movements. » more
Video: Making your plant performance reporting more interactive
What will tomorrow’s “morning meeting” look like? ABB gives a preview of what’s going on in the lab and what your future HMI may look like. » more
What will tomorrow’s “morning meeting” look like? ABB gives a preview of what’s going on in the lab and what your future HMI may look like. » more
Legalities: Not all automation standards are equal Social media poll: Industry standards can be specifications, industrial standards, codes, or aspirational standards. Leave your opinions here. » more
Camera viewer links to I2C bus of USB, GigE camerasIDS offers a convenient and fast way to perform simple tests on image processing hardware expansions. » more
Linear drive offers option for automatic shaft cleaning, lubricating Uhing linear drives are available with a combination shaft scraper/grease fitting option, allowing drive shafts to be cleaned and lubricated while in use. » more
11 of 35
Simulation platform for flare and relief networksSimSci-Esscor Visual Flow 5.4 from Invensys Operations Management provides greater simulation capabilities and enhanced integration with other applications. » more
Stainless steel housed photo-electric sensor for heavy duty applications Optex increases durability, protection with stainless steel housed photo-electric DC sensor series; features include high pressure, high temperature resistances, scratch resistant lenses. » more
Safety door switches designed for slim spaces subject to water washdown cleaningOmron’s D4GS-N switches are rated IP67 for water washdown, feature reversible design allowing either front, rear mounting. » more
Back to Basics: Simplify device-level wiringFaster connectivity, data monitoring, and circuit protection are among advantages of device-level wiring solutions. » more
DC electric motors with potentiometer offer power, control for incubator rotating mechanismBosch “VMC” DC electric motor with potentiometer features space-saving compact design, weighs approximately 0.12 kg, allows for easy installation into cabinet-style egg incubators, other industrial... » more
11 of 29
Technology Update: Why WirelessHART?With other industrial wireless communications options available, process industry engineers may ask, ‘What is WirelessHART, and what is it good for?’ » more
Panels as powerful as an industrial PCNew generation of Power Panels from B&R Automation handles applications that used to require full industrial PCs. » more
Virtualization platforms now support 64-bit Windows
Upgrades to INtime and eVM for Windows from TenAsys enable larger real-time applications, better support for virtualization. » more
Upgrades to INtime and eVM for Windows from TenAsys enable larger real-time applications, better support for virtualization. » more
New Ethernet-capable optical data couplers enable live video communication Pepperl+Fuchs LS680 combines user-friendly operation with higher data transmission speeds for new levels of communication. » more
New, more secure OPC connectivity for SCADA systems
Open Automation Software announces new version of OPC Systems.net to support HMIs and SCADA systems. » more
Open Automation Software announces new version of OPC Systems.net to support HMIs and SCADA systems. » more
11 of 42
Advanced motor design: New Motors Reach New ApplicationsPermanent magnets, axial, transverse, and radial flux designs optimize torque, power, efficiency, size, weight, and other motor performance parameters, as explained in this February Control... » more
Growing applications for multi-core processors Multi-core processors have wide industrial application potential—from vision inspection systems to motion control—as developers increasingly implement the technology, initially in high-end systems.... » more
Machine control on the water via iPadEthernet UDP communications and marine certified PLCs provide state-of-the-yacht control. » more
Control network security lessons from StuxnetA UK expert describes how Stuxnet and other threats to industrial infrastructure cyber security are prompting national and international action. Technology Update, February 2011, monthly Control... » more
2010 HART Plant of the Year: Connect field devices, plant maintenanceMOL Danube Refinery near Budapest, Hungary, says it is committed to the operation of a predictive maintenance system. In developing this long-term strategy the application of devices based on HART... » more
11 of 24
Top 20 Control Engineering articles of 2010 at www.controleng.comLink to the most-read Control Engineering articles of 2010 at www.controleng.com. Energy-efficient motor technology topics, pushed by a Dec. 19 regulatory deadline and increased sustainable... » more
2011 FIRST Robotics Competition: A look inside the Traverse City West teamLook inside a FIRST Robotics team effort - how a team forms then designs, builds, tests, and modifies a robot all within six weeks for the FIRST Robotics Competition. » more
Barcode reader said to exceed laser scanner performanceCognex DataMan 500 is designed to achieve higher read rates, offer improved on-line visualization and have higher reliability than laser scanners currently in use in the logistics, postal, and retail... » more
Automation Future: Automotive motives for better controlFrom economies of scale to economies of scope: How automotive manufacturers incorporate automation considerations into portfolio and product planning and what other manufacturers can learn. » more
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- 2013 Control Engineering magazine archive
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