December 2011 Control Engineering archive
Portable HMIs are on the move at SPS
Data delivery, versatility seen as advantages as technology migrates from consumer devices. » more
Screw-clamp terminal blocks, 3-level design
Phoenix Contact's UT series has a three-level version designed to save space. » more
Servo IO terminal for motor control
The EL7201 integrates a servo drive for motors up to 200 W into a 12mm I/O terminal housing for the EtherCAT terminal system. » more
Integrating process control systems
Integration of multiple process control systems enhances track-and-trace capabilities for an Interstates Control System client. » more
November 2011 Control Engineering archive
UV, scope cameras expand machine vision line
PPT Vision's JAI cameras, including an ultra-violet camera for inspections, have been added to its M-series embedded machine vision system line. » more
Control system failure survival strategies
When bad things happen to good control systems, it’s best to know in advance which of several strategies will be used, why, and how. » more
Cables for fiber-optic sensors
Omega's E32 series of shock and vibration resistant cables for fiber-optic sensors is designed to withstand higher temperatures and is designed for automotive and pharmaceutical industries. » more
Coriolis flowmeters continue to gain market share
About to displace magnetic flowmeters, Coriolis designs are poised to move into the number-two spot. Continuing growth says number-one is inevitable. » more
Wireless adapter sends instrument data via ISA100.11a network
Honeywell’s OneWireless Adapter can send process variable and HART diagnostic data from existing wired field instrumentation. » more
October 2011 Control Engineering archive
Leader Under 40: Patrick Marcus
President, Marcus Engineering LLC – PhD Biomedical Engineering, BS Electrical Engineering + Entrepreneurship, University of Arizona » more
Leader Under 40: Brady Melchior
President, Rugid Computer Inc. – BS Electrical Engineering, University of Washington » more
Leader Under 40: Graham Nasby
Engineer, Eramosa Engineering Inc. – BS Engineering Systems + Computing, Computer Science, University of Guelph; Certificate in project management, University of Waterloo; Certified project... » more
Leader Under 40: Tony Paine
President and CEO, Kepware Technologies – Electrical Engineering, University of Maine, Concentrations: Computer Software + Hardware Design » more
Leader Under 40: Chad Schaffer
Associate Process Instrumentation + Controls Engineer, Burns + McDonnell – BS Chemical Engineering, University of Kansas » more
September 2011 Control Engineering archive
Technology Update: Computer vision systems get help from board-level systems
PCI Express (PCIe) has multiple gigabits/second of bandwidth and deterministic behavior, well suited for use with a computer vision system frame-grabber; it can capture high-resolution and... » more
Frequency output current transducers released
NK Technologies' current transducers are designed as an input to high-speed counter and intended for use when analog inputs aren't available, the company said. » more
Global Perspectives: Japan quake sounds the alarm for China’s nuclear safety
Will the Japan quake slow China’s nuclear power generating plans for huge growth, 26 units now under construction? Third-generation, passive safety, may help. » more
Communicating Diagnostic Data in a Legacy Environment
A wireless add-on device captured diagnostic information that helped solve an intermittent flowmeter problem. » more
August 2011 Control Engineering archive
Tips and Tricks: How to ruggedize an embedded control system
10 tips for making rugged control systems include knowing the end user of the product, how the product will be used, and operating conditions. Which are the most important attributes, and which one... » more
Global Perspectives: European efficiency labels for electric motors
Euro motor efficiency: Control Engineering Europe’s Suzanne Gill reports on the effects of June 2011 European motor regulations, relating to the energy efficiency rating of induction motors. Link to... » more
Direct-drive Wind Turbines Flex Muscles
A different drive train design that eliminates the gearbox between a turbine’s rotor and generator is attracting wind turbine manufacturers in the quest for higher power output, increased offshore... » more
Choosing the right motion control architecture
Building a controller has never been easier—or more confusing. This tutorial guide can help determine which motion control architecture to use. See tables, diagrams, and link to video. » more
July 2011 Control Engineering archive
Automation, environmental technology supplied to five biomass plants in France
Dalkia has selected Metso to supply automation, environmental technology to five biomass power plants in France » more
Specialty chemicals plant modernize with digital automation system
Using Emerson Process Management’s DeltaV system, AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals will utilize “built for purpose” functionality to improve process availability » more
Stainless steel pressure transducer for industrial applications, engine test stands
Omega Engineering’s PXM309 Metric series transducers report a static accuracy of 0.25% and 1% total error band over a range of -20 to 85 C. » more
Integrator Update: Robotic controls double throughput
Concept Systems resolves coffee roaster infeed problems, doubles throughput with new robotic controls, 3D vision, and application-specific effectors. » more
June 2011 Control Engineering archive
Roving robotics: Third annual Autonomous Vehicle Competition
SparkFun Electronics’ 2011 autonomous vehicle event in Boulder offered DIY’s of all ages a chance to showcase and test their mobile robotics on the group and in the air. » more
5 ways automation can streamline assembly operations
Bosch Rexroth offers 5 key ways to incorporate lean manufacturing principles into assembly operations – even for automated processes. Here's advice on how automation can help implement lean concepts. » more
Application-oriented range of current transformers provide safety, flexibility
Carlo Gavazzi's CTD Series is a range of solid core current transformers are connectable with various wiring terminals and can be installed on DIN-rail or directly to the back panel. » more
Global Update: Power plant control system software
Performance calculation software packages are new in the power generation business and help with power generation control, electricity grid control, and monitoring via SCADA system. » more
Machine Vision ROI at Polaris Industries
Vision system reduces scrap in high-mix welding environment and paid for itself in 2 weeks, according to return on investment calculations. See images, table. » more
May 2011 Control Engineering archive
Wireless instrumentation monitors water usage at pharmaceutical plant
GlaxoSmithKline uses Rosemount wireless pressure and flow transmitters; provides network for future expansion. » more
Technology Update: Leg-wheeled hybrid mobile robot
Flexible programming helps in developing an energy-efficient leg-wheeled hybrid mobile robot that can drive quickly and smoothly on flat terrain and stably negotiate natural or artificial uneven... » more
Hannover Messe: Festo robotics, valves, motion control, software
Festo debuted products, presented growth at the 2011 Hannover Fair, including robotics pneumatic valves, motion control, and software to help automation design. » more
FIRST Robotics Competition in Milwaukee showcases local high school team
Brookfield High School FIRST Robotics Program team, aided by ABB New Berlin, earned the coveted Industrial Design Award in the 2011 FIRST competition. » more
Standard precision position stages offer easy alignment, adjustment
Misumi USA has added 22 styles its family of standard precision position stages, ranging applications such as position accuracy, load capacity, feed mechanism. » more
April 2011 Control Engineering archive
Radar level transmitter for solids
Siemens introduces its Sitrans LR560 using 78 GHz (W band) for high accuracy with dusty solids. » more
Digital temperature controller offers broad working range
New controller from Selco Products handles over 2,000 °F with easy configuration and installation. » more
Flowmeter for filling machines with high precision
New Micro Motion filling transmitter offers Coriolis technology for accurate mass readings. » more
Electric motor efficiency needs to extend to the system: Motor Summit 2010
Energy-efficiency conference presentations went well beyond electric motor topics to the system level. A meaningful approach to motor system efficiency must extend to associated equipment, such as... » more
Embedded PLCs with Ethernet
New FMD series PLCs from Triangle Research offers low-cost processing with high connectivity. » more
March 2011 Control Engineering archive
Ultracapacitor-battery hybrid energy storage
Back to Basics: Cost, power, performance advantages for hybridized energy storage using batteries and ultracapacitors. » more
Motion Feedback: Rotary Encoder Selection
Consider accuracy, position or velocity control, speed stability, power loss, and bandwidth, and other attributes when selecting a rotary encoder or encoder technology. » more
Do end users benefit from system integrator certification?
End users do perceive benefits when system integrators receive CSIA certification, according to research on end users and interviews by Control Engineering. See graphic. » more
CSIA Certification: System integrator best business practices
Of course your company has computer backups, disaster recovery plans, and internal financial controls, but does your control system integrator? Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) advice to... » more
7 steps to maximize central plant efficiency; get savings up to 60%
Central plant optimization is a process with seven key steps, and when implemented holistically, central plant optimization can deliver sustained energy savings of up to 60%, according to a Johnson... » more
February 2011 Control Engineering archive
Engineering and IT Insight - Bad project documentation: Break the habit
Improve manufacturing IT, automation, or control projects by avoiding missing, incorrect, poorly written, or incomplete documentation. » more
Technology Update: Automation appliances create interoperability
Machine to machine (M2M) and machine to enterprise (M2E) communications are required for most automated applications, as the Internet of Things and need for interoperability advance. Interoperability... » more
January 2011 Control Engineering archive
Motion controller can rejuvenate your machine
Add productivity to your hydraulic machine with a new motion controller. Adding an electro-hydraulic motion controller can increase machine productivity. PLCs typically do not have instruction sets... » more
Networked safety in three steps
Networked safety is increasing, where programmable controllers replace relays, doing for functional safety what the PLC did for machine control. Most machine owners no longer view safety as a burden... » more
Back to Basics: How gain scheduling works
Gain scheduling facilitates process control when the gains and the time constants vary with the current value of the process variable. Gain scheduling is particularly appropriate for processes that... » more
Software tool for planning, validation, documentation needs
DesignMATE is a complete user-friendly software tool for planning, validation and documentation of Foundation fieldbus H1 segments. » more
PLC with built-in HMI operator panel
The Vision1040 from Unitronics is a PLC with a built-in HMI Operator Panel with nine programmable function keys. » more
IEEE 802.22(WRAN) expected to help Internet of Things, Smart Grid in China
IEEE recently published the WRAN 802.22 Standard (Wireless Regional Area Networks), which could have deep impact within China, especially with Internet of Things (IOT) and Smart Grid. » more
IEEE recently published the WRAN 802.22 Standard (Wireless Regional Area Networks), which could have deep impact within China, especially with Internet of Things (IOT) and Smart Grid. » more
Portable HMIs are on the move at SPSData delivery, versatility seen as advantages as technology migrates from consumer devices. » more
Screw-clamp terminal blocks, 3-level designPhoenix Contact's UT series has a three-level version designed to save space. » more
Servo IO terminal for motor controlThe EL7201 integrates a servo drive for motors up to 200 W into a 12mm I/O terminal housing for the EtherCAT terminal system. » more
Integrating process control systemsIntegration of multiple process control systems enhances track-and-trace capabilities for an Interstates Control System client. » more
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UV, scope cameras expand machine vision linePPT Vision's JAI cameras, including an ultra-violet camera for inspections, have been added to its M-series embedded machine vision system line. » more
Control system failure survival strategiesWhen bad things happen to good control systems, it’s best to know in advance which of several strategies will be used, why, and how. » more
Cables for fiber-optic sensorsOmega's E32 series of shock and vibration resistant cables for fiber-optic sensors is designed to withstand higher temperatures and is designed for automotive and pharmaceutical industries. » more
Coriolis flowmeters continue to gain market shareAbout to displace magnetic flowmeters, Coriolis designs are poised to move into the number-two spot. Continuing growth says number-one is inevitable. » more
Wireless adapter sends instrument data via ISA100.11a networkHoneywell’s OneWireless Adapter can send process variable and HART diagnostic data from existing wired field instrumentation. » more
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Leader Under 40: Patrick MarcusPresident, Marcus Engineering LLC – PhD Biomedical Engineering, BS Electrical Engineering + Entrepreneurship, University of Arizona » more
Leader Under 40: Brady MelchiorPresident, Rugid Computer Inc. – BS Electrical Engineering, University of Washington » more
Leader Under 40: Graham NasbyEngineer, Eramosa Engineering Inc. – BS Engineering Systems + Computing, Computer Science, University of Guelph; Certificate in project management, University of Waterloo; Certified project... » more
Leader Under 40: Tony Paine President and CEO, Kepware Technologies – Electrical Engineering, University of Maine, Concentrations: Computer Software + Hardware Design » more
Leader Under 40: Chad SchafferAssociate Process Instrumentation + Controls Engineer, Burns + McDonnell – BS Chemical Engineering, University of Kansas » more
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Technology Update: Computer vision systems get help from board-level systemsPCI Express (PCIe) has multiple gigabits/second of bandwidth and deterministic behavior, well suited for use with a computer vision system frame-grabber; it can capture high-resolution and... » more
Frequency output current transducers releasedNK Technologies' current transducers are designed as an input to high-speed counter and intended for use when analog inputs aren't available, the company said. » more
Global Perspectives: Japan quake sounds the alarm for China’s nuclear safety Will the Japan quake slow China’s nuclear power generating plans for huge growth, 26 units now under construction? Third-generation, passive safety, may help. » more
Machine vision growth continues
IMS Research analyst John Morse believes machine vision is going to grow up to 10% in 2011, continuing a double-digit trend. » more
IMS Research analyst John Morse believes machine vision is going to grow up to 10% in 2011, continuing a double-digit trend. » more
Communicating Diagnostic Data in a Legacy EnvironmentA wireless add-on device captured diagnostic information that helped solve an intermittent flowmeter problem. » more
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Tips and Tricks: How to ruggedize an embedded control system10 tips for making rugged control systems include knowing the end user of the product, how the product will be used, and operating conditions. Which are the most important attributes, and which one... » more
Global Perspectives: European efficiency labels for electric motors Euro motor efficiency: Control Engineering Europe’s Suzanne Gill reports on the effects of June 2011 European motor regulations, relating to the energy efficiency rating of induction motors. Link to... » more
Direct-drive Wind Turbines Flex MusclesA different drive train design that eliminates the gearbox between a turbine’s rotor and generator is attracting wind turbine manufacturers in the quest for higher power output, increased offshore... » more
Choosing the right motion control architectureBuilding a controller has never been easier—or more confusing. This tutorial guide can help determine which motion control architecture to use. See tables, diagrams, and link to video. » more
Automation, environmental technology supplied to five biomass plants in FranceDalkia has selected Metso to supply automation, environmental technology to five biomass power plants in France » more
Specialty chemicals plant modernize with digital automation systemUsing Emerson Process Management’s DeltaV system, AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals will utilize “built for purpose” functionality to improve process availability » more
Stainless steel pressure transducer for industrial applications, engine test standsOmega Engineering’s PXM309 Metric series transducers report a static accuracy of 0.25% and 1% total error band over a range of -20 to 85 C. » more
Integrator Update: Robotic controls double throughputConcept Systems resolves coffee roaster infeed problems, doubles throughput with new robotic controls, 3D vision, and application-specific effectors. » more
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Roving robotics: Third annual Autonomous Vehicle CompetitionSparkFun Electronics’ 2011 autonomous vehicle event in Boulder offered DIY’s of all ages a chance to showcase and test their mobile robotics on the group and in the air. » more
5 ways automation can streamline assembly operationsBosch Rexroth offers 5 key ways to incorporate lean manufacturing principles into assembly operations – even for automated processes. Here's advice on how automation can help implement lean concepts. » more
Application-oriented range of current transformers provide safety, flexibilityCarlo Gavazzi's CTD Series is a range of solid core current transformers are connectable with various wiring terminals and can be installed on DIN-rail or directly to the back panel. » more
Global Update: Power plant control system softwarePerformance calculation software packages are new in the power generation business and help with power generation control, electricity grid control, and monitoring via SCADA system. » more
Machine Vision ROI at Polaris IndustriesVision system reduces scrap in high-mix welding environment and paid for itself in 2 weeks, according to return on investment calculations. See images, table. » more
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Wireless instrumentation monitors water usage at pharmaceutical plantGlaxoSmithKline uses Rosemount wireless pressure and flow transmitters; provides network for future expansion. » more
Technology Update: Leg-wheeled hybrid mobile robotFlexible programming helps in developing an energy-efficient leg-wheeled hybrid mobile robot that can drive quickly and smoothly on flat terrain and stably negotiate natural or artificial uneven... » more
Hannover Messe: Festo robotics, valves, motion control, softwareFesto debuted products, presented growth at the 2011 Hannover Fair, including robotics pneumatic valves, motion control, and software to help automation design. » more
FIRST Robotics Competition in Milwaukee showcases local high school team Brookfield High School FIRST Robotics Program team, aided by ABB New Berlin, earned the coveted Industrial Design Award in the 2011 FIRST competition. » more
Standard precision position stages offer easy alignment, adjustment Misumi USA has added 22 styles its family of standard precision position stages, ranging applications such as position accuracy, load capacity, feed mechanism. » more
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Radar level transmitter for solidsSiemens introduces its Sitrans LR560 using 78 GHz (W band) for high accuracy with dusty solids. » more
Digital temperature controller offers broad working rangeNew controller from Selco Products handles over 2,000 °F with easy configuration and installation. » more
Flowmeter for filling machines with high precisionNew Micro Motion filling transmitter offers Coriolis technology for accurate mass readings. » more
Electric motor efficiency needs to extend to the system: Motor Summit 2010Energy-efficiency conference presentations went well beyond electric motor topics to the system level. A meaningful approach to motor system efficiency must extend to associated equipment, such as... » more
Embedded PLCs with EthernetNew FMD series PLCs from Triangle Research offers low-cost processing with high connectivity. » more
21 of 29
Ultracapacitor-battery hybrid energy storageBack to Basics: Cost, power, performance advantages for hybridized energy storage using batteries and ultracapacitors. » more
Motion Feedback: Rotary Encoder SelectionConsider accuracy, position or velocity control, speed stability, power loss, and bandwidth, and other attributes when selecting a rotary encoder or encoder technology. » more
Do end users benefit from system integrator certification?End users do perceive benefits when system integrators receive CSIA certification, according to research on end users and interviews by Control Engineering. See graphic. » more
CSIA Certification: System integrator best business practicesOf course your company has computer backups, disaster recovery plans, and internal financial controls, but does your control system integrator? Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) advice to... » more
7 steps to maximize central plant efficiency; get savings up to 60%Central plant optimization is a process with seven key steps, and when implemented holistically, central plant optimization can deliver sustained energy savings of up to 60%, according to a Johnson... » more
21 of 42
Engineering and IT Insight - Bad project documentation: Break the habitImprove manufacturing IT, automation, or control projects by avoiding missing, incorrect, poorly written, or incomplete documentation. » more
Applying GAMP 5 to Validate an ERP System
ISPE’s GAMP 5 explains the methodology for implementing an ERP system, either new or existing, in a regulated environment. Here is a discussion of an actual implementation. » more
ISPE’s GAMP 5 explains the methodology for implementing an ERP system, either new or existing, in a regulated environment. Here is a discussion of an actual implementation. » more
Multi-core processors: Software key to success
Multithread parallel computing software and appropriate user tools advance the promise of high performance and power efficiency from multi-core processors. Link to 3 other Control Engineering... » more
Multithread parallel computing software and appropriate user tools advance the promise of high performance and power efficiency from multi-core processors. Link to 3 other Control Engineering... » more
Technology Update: Automation appliances create interoperabilityMachine to machine (M2M) and machine to enterprise (M2E) communications are required for most automated applications, as the Internet of Things and need for interoperability advance. Interoperability... » more
Motion controller can rejuvenate your machineAdd productivity to your hydraulic machine with a new motion controller. Adding an electro-hydraulic motion controller can increase machine productivity. PLCs typically do not have instruction sets... » more
Networked safety in three stepsNetworked safety is increasing, where programmable controllers replace relays, doing for functional safety what the PLC did for machine control. Most machine owners no longer view safety as a burden... » more
Back to Basics: How gain scheduling worksGain scheduling facilitates process control when the gains and the time constants vary with the current value of the process variable. Gain scheduling is particularly appropriate for processes that... » more
Software tool for planning, validation, documentation needsDesignMATE is a complete user-friendly software tool for planning, validation and documentation of Foundation fieldbus H1 segments. » more
PLC with built-in HMI operator panelThe Vision1040 from Unitronics is a PLC with a built-in HMI Operator Panel with nine programmable function keys. » more
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Click below to read content from other years
- 2013 Control Engineering magazine archive
- 2012 Control Engineering magazine archive
- 2010 Control Engineering magazine archive