Products: Tactile reference, light curtains, torque sensor, vision system

Recent products introduced include a reference scale for how things feel, a torque sensor that can double as a predictive maintenance tool, and a safety light curtain with a 14-mm finger to 50-mm arm detection range.

By Control Engineering Staff February 24, 2005

Recent products introduced include a reference scale for how things feel, a torque sensor that can double as a predictive maintenance tool, and a safety light curtain with a 14-mm finger to 50-mm arm detection range. In addition, a vision system has a new owner.

Tactile reference scale: Colors and fragrances have their own reference frames, namely, the Pantone-brand and the Field of Odours-brand scales. Sensotact is said to be the first tactile reference frame on the market. Created by automobile manufacturer Renault and marketed by Quinte&sens, a French sensory marketing firm, the scale allows development of tactile ID’s for designers and marketers; classification of reference products into sensory databases for R&D services; faster response to and easier communications about technicians’ and engineers’ objectives and schedules.

Magtrol suggests that its torque flange sensor can be use in predictive maintenance applications.

The product is a suitcase of 10 descriptors and 50 references that interact from product conception, through design and market research. It’s applicable to cosmetics, avionics, sports equipment, toys, packaging, automobiles, textiles, and other industries and areas. Examples of use include as a measurement aid for designers and suppliers of textiles, consistency of cheese, and analysis of tactile perceptions of a cars’ interior. Magtrol ’s TF Sensor for predictive maintenance: TF Series Torque Flange Sensor (TF Sensor) is primarily used for testing/torque measurement of transmissions, power trains, wind generators, gas turbines, boat engines, and it can accommodate active torque monitoring to assist in predictive maintenance. The sensor also has the capability to monitor friction or drag on a drive train, and compare test results against known “good” conditions. If measured torque increases to an unacceptable level, maintenance technicians will know that it is time for preventive maintenance. It can be directly mounted on the machine shaft on one side, requiring only one coupling on the opposite side. No maintenance is required because of a bearing-less design. Mounting space is minimal.

MegaSafe MG4600 light curtains are said to meet automotive standards for safety.

Safety light curtains in 14-mm resolution: Scientific Technologies Inc. MegaSafe MG4600 family of safety light curtains offers a wide range of detection capabilities, from 14-mm finger detection to 50-mm arm detection. MG4600 Series is designed to meet stringent safeguarding requirements for automotive applications, including those of Ford and DaimlerChrysler, as well as the Ford EL4 Standard. Protected heights are from 435-2,086 mm (17-83 in.), and sensing ranges are 7.5-20 m (24.5-65 ft), depending on system resolution.

Spectrum requires no programming languages for setup and use. Options include multiple cameras, production alarms and printers.

There’s no need for a separate controller, and patented individual beam indicators simplify alignment. Other features include field-replaceable safety relays and weld shield, floating blanking to block up to two beams anywhere in the zone, and exact channel Select to permanently block selected beams where machine parts will obstruct part of the zone. Webview said it purchased all assets and intellectual property of the Spectrum Vision System by Advanced Technologies Inc. (ATI), for an undisclosed amount. The Spectrum Vision System can inspect pharmaceuticals, food products, packaging, labeling, automotive products, and other products, at speeds up to 10,000 parts per minute. Spectrum can be coupled with high-resolution gray scale or color cameras to produce an inspection device capable of great precision at high speeds.

—Mark T. Hoske, editor-in-chief, Control Engineering, MHoske@cfemedia.com