Mechatronics
AC Microdrives Ply Parallel Paths
Despite the temptation, size alone is not the right descriptor for ac "microdrives"—those ultracompact variable-frequency drives (VFDs) that sprouted during the first-half of the 1990s. For quite a while, it seemed, each new model would be even more miniature than the one announced just a month or so earlier.
Open, Modular Architecture Controls at GM Powertrain — Technical Issues
Operating Systems Hardware Platform Motion Control Open Device Level Networks User Interface Control Software Manufacturing Information System (MIS) Level Networks Application Programming Interfaces (API) It should be clear to the controls community that GMPTG is not trying to dictate the development of OMAC by specifying technical details for every aspect of OMAC. GMPTG is not going to lead the development of any new technology but will ride the technology wave! However, GMPTG engineers are not oblivious to the technical issues associated with OMAC systems. In this section, several OMAC technical areas will be examined.
Terminology in Motion
Motion control, as other technologies, has its fair share of special terms. Not all of them are rigorously defined; some require blending to suit the specific audience. Here's a sampling of some well-known and not-so-well-known terms.A motion control system typically consists of a controller to process motion algorithms and signals; an amplifier to boost signals to a level needed to p...
SERCOS-based cartoner improves flexibility & customer response
BUS OF THE MONTH
Control Engineering Highlights the 40 Best Products of 2000
Control Engineering editors— in the 14th annual process—highlighted the best products of the year, based on technological advancement, impact on the market, and service to industry.Editors selected from among thousands of products mentioned in Control Engineering and Control Engineering Online during year 2000, in nine product categories: Control components; Human-machine interface...
Pressure Sensing: It’s Everywhere!
KEY WORDS Process control and instrumentation Process sensing Pressure sensing One of the most-used sensors, pressure instrumentation is found nearly everywhere now. The old process standby is still there—chemical change-of-state monitoring still requires tracking such mundane variables as pressure and temperature—but it now can be found, however tiny, in manufactured goods from au...
Innovations inundate National Industrial Automation Show at National Manufacturing Week 2001
Chicago, Ill.— Hundreds of exhibitors showed thousands of innovative products and services at the National Industrial Automation Show during National Manufacturing Week 2001 at McCormick Place. For more coverage, including streaming video clips, click on "NMW 2001" at www.controleng.com. Advantech Automation (Cincinnati, O.
Sensorless AC Drives Fill Price/Performance Niche
KEY WORDSMotors, drives, & motion controlAC variable-speed drivesAC induction motorsAdaptive controlControversial right from their name, "sensorless" ac drives actually use current and voltage sensors to achieve motor control. Even beyond terminology, it's not obvious what sensorless ac drives can or can't do, and where they fit into the big picture.
‘Power of Industry’ will propel Hannover Fair 2001
Hannover, Germany—Twenty-five halls will be "in play" to accommodate this year's edition of the "world's largest industrial technology trade show" on April 23-28, 2001. An extra benefit is the fairground's upgraded infrastructure, completed for Expo 2000, the World's Fair. Hannover Fair 2001 combines six "fairs" in its "Power of Industry" theme.
