Saturday, November 18, 2006

What is a Linear Motor?

A linear motor is-simply speaking-an electric motor that uses a linear force mechanism to generate the power needed for a said application. In contrast to a rotational electric motor (found in automobiles, appliances, and commonly-used electrical equipment), a linear motor generates its energy output through exclusively linear scientific principles; i.e. there is no torque or rotation to produce accelerated force through the electrical current magnetic field relationship. Linear motors are used for a variety of purposes, which include high velocity trains, military weaponry, spacecraft exploration, robotic technologies, medical advancement, and automated engineering systems whose job is to produce mass amounts of a specified product.

There are two basic types of linear motors: low-acceleration and high-acceleration. Low-acceleration motors are typically used for applications in which endurance is favored over high bursts of electromechanical power or energy. These types of linear motors are engineered for Maglev trains, automated applications systems, etc. High-acceleration motors are the more common of the two, and produce higher velocity outputs for shorter amounts of time; such as used in firearms, military equipment, spacecraft propulsion, and the like. Low-acceleration linear motors are designed to accelerate an object up to a continuous stabile speed, while high-acceleration linear motors will accelerate an object up to a very high speed and then release the object. Typically, the low-acceleration linear motor will be engineered with one winding system on one side of the motor and magnets on the other side to create the electromagnetic repulsion necessary for successful application force; this is called linear synchronous design. The high-acceleration linear motor will generally be constructed of a three-phase winding on one side and a conductor plate on the other side of the motor to meet the intended engineering objective; this is called linear induction design.

Linear motors offer a number of advantages in this ever-evolving technological world. Whether the high power application your company or organization requires necessitates a low- or high-accelerated lateral motor system, linear motors assure faster acceleration and higher velocities as well as higher success rates in automated accuracy, repeatability, and long-term reliability.

Computer Aided Manufacturing Resources

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is the software automation process that directly converts an object into code and enables the machine to manufacture the product. It is used in various machines like lathes or milling machines for product manufacturing purposes. It allows the computer work instructions to communicate directly to the manufacturing machines.

CAM Resources provide you with various information regarding the actual system, applications, areas of CAM, software used and the detail information of the providers. In the early 1950’s, the technology evolved from the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, which were directed by a set of coded instructions in a punched paper tape. The technology now has more advanced features for quick and reliable manufacturing processes.

CAM software helps you in many ways during the manufacturing of the product. It guides you with much quicker and easier steps to follow. The software is designed and developed with user-friendliness and compatibility. Fully integrated CAD and CAM software is also used to perform various processes within the CAM system. The 2D dimensional constraints also can be used using the software. TurboCADCAM3 software is available with more user-friendliness at reasonable prices. EDC, PTC, AutoDesk and CamSoft are the major software providers in the industry.

The major applications that are used by the CAM system are machines like lathes, welding machines, and robotic milling machines. Other applications that are used by the CAM system are in fields such as mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, aerospace engineering and electrical engineering. The system is considered to be very expensive as it ranges more than $18,000 along with the software.

CAM system mostly works as the integrated unit with the CAD system. A 3D environment is used for the integrated working, which provides you a better and faster manufacturing process. The manufacturing mechanisms that are handled within the system are Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM), Integrated Computer-Aided Manufacturing (ICAM), Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS), Direct Numerical Control (DNC), and Manufacturing Process Management (MPM). The CAM system also controls different factors that involve data verification during manufacturing; panelizing the design to fit in the raw material; and editing and adding manufacturing information.

Friday, November 17, 2006

Installing an Outdoor Security Camera

One of the most important considerations for outdoor security cameras is the power source. Quite often, building codes don’t require many outdoor, electrical connections, which means that if you require an outdoor security camera you’re going to have to deal with that situation. In most cases, there are power sources in the garage that can be utilized for this purpose with a simple bit of concealed wiring. However, if your home or apartment does not have a convenient power source, you may have to create one where you intend the camera equipment to be placed.

Once you’ve solved the power requirements for your outdoor security cameras, you have to do some research on the best equipment for the geographical area that you live in. The system has to be protected from the weather and that means a different system will function best in Tucson, Arizona where the summer temperatures quite often reach and sometimes exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit, and another system will be used in Maine where winter weather can drive temperatures down as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit. One system could never function all year around, twenty-four hours a day without being designed especially for the weather.

An additional consideration for outside security cameras is the light source. All cameras require adequate light to properly photograph a subject and video cameras are no exception. This ability to use light is measured as a lux rating. The lower the lux rating of a camera, the less light it needs to deliver a useable image. If you intend to mount your camera in a spot with little or no available light you have to get the lowest lux rated camera you can find that will allow you to see the person in front of the camera.

If this is not possible you have to provide a light source either near or actually on the camera. Finally, if you are not able to provide additional light, you may want to consider infra-red cameras that can deliver a decent enough image in the absence of light.

Cystic Fibrosis Treatments

Cystic fibrosis, which affects 30,000 American children and adults, is a multisystem disease caused by a defective gene. Presently only symptomatic management is possible, but there are very promising gene-therapy trials under way.

In the respiratory system the thin mucus lining becomes thick and sticky. In cystic fibrosis management, the primary treatment of the system is to thin or clear this mucus. Bronco dilators like albuterol are used to clear the clogged airways. Mucus thinning drugs delivered by aerosol, like pulmozyme, are helpful. The most effective way of clearing this mucus is by mechanically dislodging it. Clapping on the chest and back, with the head tilted on the edge of a table, is quite effective. There is an electrical clapper that does the job safely. There is an electrical inflatable vest that vibrates and dislodges the mucus. Infection is an ever-present risk with cystic fibrosis patients. Regular shots for pneumonia and influenza are very important. Bacterial infection is fought with newer antibiotics like TOBY, which delivers the medicine directly into airways with aerosols.

Because of the blocked ducts of the pancreas and liver, the enzymes and bile do not reach the intestine. Though the patient eats normally or even in excess, the fats and proteins are not digested. So the cystic fibrosis patient needs to have the enzymes supplemented with oral pancreatic enzymes. There is also the need to take vitamins, especially the fat-soluble ones. If lung function is completely damaged, the only alternative would be lung transplantation. This would involve many factors, like the availability of a donor and the patient’s present health, prior to undergoing major surgery.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has 115 centers all over America, and provides guidelines and advice. They support many studies to find gene therapy to cure cystic fibrosis. The target is to add normal genes to the cells of the airways to prevent further damage. Biotech laboratories produce healthy genes, which need to be delivered to the appropriate cells. These vectors, or delivery systems, are the key areas of research to combat cystic fibrosis. One method that is actively pursued is to modify the common cold virus to carry the healthy genes into the correct cells. On another track, the DNA molecules are compacted to their minimum size and delivered directly to the relevant cells without the need for a carrier such as a virus. This technology is called PLAS min.

Thursday, November 16, 2006

Electric terminator made for harness production

An electric terminator system is designed for small-scale bench production or wire harness assembly and is compatible with a broad range of crimp dies.

The SDE Electric Terminator is a dependable asset for small-scale bench production or wire harness assembly. It is compatible with a broad range of crimp dies that are fully interchangeable among tools and tool platforms. Product features include the following.

Compatible with over 100 SDE dies.

Terminates wire to 10 AWG.

Small footprint - 15.5.

Foot actuated, with jog cycle.

Crimp jaws normally closed.

Safety reverse switch and safety lock foot pedal for operator safety.

* Applications include the following.

Wire subcontractors.

Heavy duty plastics connectors are cost-effective

Highly-reliable and cost-effective heavy duty plastics connectors, available in standard and EMV shielded versions, suit motion-control and industrial machinery uses.

The HTS heavy duty connector series from Tyco Electronics has been extended with a new range of plastic connectors for motion-control, industrial machinery applications (e g, transportation belts/equipment, pumps and positioning equipment) and electrical motor drive applications (e g, cabinets and control panels, power supplies and heating controls). Highly-reliable and cost-effective HG-Q.4/2, HG-Q.8 and HG-Q.10 series connectors are available in standard and EMV shielded versions and benefit from double sided cable entry as well as proven standard hoods. Exclusive HG-Q.10 motor connector housings for direct mounting on motor devices are available in seven standard sizes and are suitable for HG-Q.10.Bu.C socket housings.

HG-Q.4/2 and HG-Q.8 connectors are available with straight and right angled hoods and cable to cable coupler housings.

With an operating temperature range from -40 up to +125 deg C, new HG-Q series connectors conform with Desina and ISO 23570-3.4 standards and meet IP 65 protection class specifications in locked position.

EMV protection in the plastic housings is achieved using standard HG-Q-gland fittings instead of expensive shielded gland fittings.

The range of HG-Q series connectors also includes accessories such as glands for 4.0 up to 15.5mm cables, flange seals, coding accessories as well as standard tool and die sets.

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Applicator accessory helps track crimp tool usage

Applicator accessory will help manufacturers track tool usage for more effective maintenance scheduling, providing access to operation counts and other statistics.

The versatile new EDGE Counter, integrated into virtually all new Tyco Electronics' AMP applicators, will help manufacturers track tool usage for more effective maintenance scheduling. The on-counter LCD display and the available EDGE Counter Software Pack provides access to operation counts and other statistics on applicator use. The counter provides a clear display of cycles since installation, indicating when maintenance is required.

By performing applicator maintenance and tool replacement at actual measured intervals with pre-set limits, operators can avoid rejects caused by tool wear or mis-adjustment, and delays caused by breakdowns.

The counter and software use wireless infrared technology to communicate.

Built-in test modes aid in setup on an applicator.

Using the EDGE Counter Software Pack enables tracking of all the customers' applicators, capturing serial numbers, cycle counts, service intervals, and last service date for each tool.

The counter and software can keep track of up to nine pieces of wearable tooling by name, part number, and target count.

When a target count is exceeded an indication is given on the counter and in the software.

Once the data is captured in the PC, it is stored in a file that is readily imported by popular database and spreadsheet programs.

With this system, the customer has the ability to track and maintain all of his applicators.

The counter is completely electronic, with magnetic sensors to trigger each cycle.

'By keeping track of tool usage, maintenance cycles become much more predictable,' noted Tyco Electronics application tooling product manager Eugene Simmers.

'Maintenance at the proper time helps eliminate unexpected applicator jams and downtime, and wasted terminals, so you can keep production running.' The EDGE Counter Software Pack is sold separately.

Users with older applicators can install the counter with a convenient upgrade kit.

A built-in switch display mode helps optimize sensor and magnet positioning.

Slow blow surface-mount fuses are comapact

RoHS compliant slow blow surface-mount fuses are made in industry standard 1206 chip sizes and the fuse line offers small size, high reliability and strong arc suppression.

Raychem Circuit Protection announces the introduction of its RoHS compliant slow blow surface-mount fuses. Produced in industry standard 1206 chip sizes, the fuse line offers small size, high reliability, strong arc suppression characteristics, and some of the highest current ratings available in the 1206 form factor. Intended for DC power applications of up to 63V DC, slow blow fuses help provide overcurrent protection on systems that experience large and frequent current surges as part of their normal operation.

Available in current values ranging from 1.0 to 8.0A, such applications include protection of power supplies, capacitor filter banks, LCD backlight inverters and electric motors.

Raychem fuses enhance electronic system reliability without compromising protection against high current fault conditions and feature clear time characteristics as follows.

* 4h minimum at 100% of rated current.

* 120s maximum and 1s minimum at 200% of rated current.

* 3s maximum and 0.1s minimum at 300% rated current.

* 0.05s maximum and 0.002s minimum at 400% of rated current.

The Raychem Circuit Protection fuse's monolithic, multilayer design helps provide some of the highest current ratings available in the 1206 footprint and enhances high temperature performance in a wide range of circuit protection designs.

The RoHS-compliant device is designed for operating temperatures between +55 deg C and +125 deg C, and withstands soldering temperatures of up to 260 deg C for 60s maximum.

'The new slow blow fuses are the next step in Raychem's expanding line of single use overcurrent protection devices,' said Matt Chamberlain, Raychem Fuse product marketing manager.

'Our wide range of available currents offers designers a more complete solution for protecting electronic systems with very dynamic current requirements.'

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Rotary device strips wide range of cable

Micro-cable stripper is suitable for jacket stripping multi-conductor or single cable using a rotary blade centralizer system, avoiding time-consuming blade changeovers.

Rotary device strips wide range of cable Micro-cable stripper is suitable for jacket stripping multi-conductor or single cable using a rotary blade centralizer system, avoiding time-consuming blade changeovers. Tyco Electronics Corporation has introduced the Cosmic 60R Micro-Cable Stripper. The Cosmic 60R machine is suitable for jacket stripping multi-conductor or single cable using a rotary blade centralizer system.

The rotary blade centralizer allows stripping various insulation material cables without time-consuming blade changeovers.

The Cosmic 60R machine is fully equipped with a digital display and precision controls for setting wire diameter, strip depth and strip length.

The Cosmic 60R machine is capable of stripping wire sections ranging from 15AWG up to 5AWG.

Stripping length capacity ranges from 20mm to 90mm with partial stripping of 10mm (minimum) possible.

Common insulation materials such as Teflon insulation and rubber are suitable as are other popular insulations.

With a maximum cycle time of 5s, the Cosmic 60R machine is able to support typical low, medium and high production rates.

Standard cutter blades are tool steel with carbide blades optional.

Test accessories for insulation instruments

Multi-Contact's range of special test accessories is currently being widely adopted for use with insulation testing instruments up to 5kV.

Proving particularly popular with manufacturers looking to extend the level of inbuilt safety associated with test processes, Multi-Contact's range of special test accessories is currently being widely adopted for use with insulation testing instruments up to 5kV. The Multi-Contact range is characterised by an innovative insulation design promoting the complete compliance of test leads with the demands of IEC/EN 61010-031. By employing a high resistance TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) for lead insulation, the test leads are well equipped to deliver high ohm resistance measurements.

In addition, the inherent safety benefits allow operators to handle the leads in the knowledge that they will consistently withstand intensive energy levels during the measurement stage.

The 5kV product range features three different products, each designed to meet precise manufacturing requirements for optimal operator flexibility.

The XHM-5000 is an extremely flexible test lead incorporating an extended in-line 4mm Multilam plug and rigid insulating sleeve on each end.

In addition, featuring a prod or plug-in facility, the XHL-5000 test probe lead assembly ensures safe handling through an enhanced level of internal and external creepage and clearance.

The range also includes the XHB-5000 socket, easily mounted on panels of various materials and engineered to withstand high voltages.

The socket is specifically designed to accept the extended in-line 4mm Multilam plug fitted on both leads in the 5kV range.

The unique design of the XHB-5000 socket ensures that it is not compatible with standard 4mm safety plugs, significantly enhancing operator safety to eliminate the possibility of lower rated leads or probes being plugged into a high voltage source.

'Building on the advantages of Multi-Contact's unique Multilam interconnect technology, the range is ideal for forming highly efficient connections in HV environments where safety is paramount,' explains Multi-Contact's Selwyn Corns.

'Where high energy levels are present, it is imperative that manufacturers use test accessories that will uphold the highest levels of operator safety.

Our range of accessories for insulation testing devices up to 5kV achieves exactly this, in addition to meeting the demands of the very latest international technical standards.'

Monday, November 13, 2006

Nylon terminal strips can also be customised

A versatile range of 12-way nylon terminal strips, that can be supplied pre-cut to a specified number of poles, can be used in a wide range of electrical installations and lighting equipment.

Camden Electronics has launched a versatile new range of nylon terminal strips that can be used in a wide range of electrical installations and lighting equipment applications. The new CTSN series nylon terminal strips are offered in 12-way as standard but can also be supplied pre-cut to a specified number of poles. Moulded from PA6 as standard with PA66 plus glass fibre (grey) or PA66 (cream) available as options, the CTSN terminal strips feature a wide range of international approvals including UL, CSA, IMQ, KEMA, VDE, SEMKO and DEMKO.

Standard PA6 strips are UL94-V2 self extinguishing while PA66 and PA66 with glass fibre types are UL94-V0.

V0 types also pass the 960 degrees C glow-wire test.

CTSN terminal strips are available with or without wire protection and can be supplied with optional closed inserts (middle barrier).

Five types are available encompassing 8, 10, 12, 14 and 18mm sizes that are rated at 6, 10, 16, 32 and 64A respectively.

Cable acceptance ranges from 2.5 to 25mmý depending on terminal size and wire protection options.

There are also raised base types to provide increased isolation and further specials are available with such features as larger isolating surface per pole, screw tower, fast fixing hole between poles, fixing pins and wide base terminal connections.

Specifications include maximum voltage of 450V AC (test voltage 2500V) as standard (750V AC for L types), working temperature from -5 to +85 degrees C (PA6 and PA66) or -5 to +150 degrees C (PA66 with glass fibre), nickel plated brass inserts as standard, stainless steel wire protectors and zinc-plated steel CQ-15 captive screws with metric thread.

Terminal strips featuring the larger isolating base comply with EN60598/1 (Luminaires) 4.7 (Terminal and supply connections) and 11.2 (Creepage and clearance distances).

All CTSN terminal strips can be supplied printed on request and the range also features strain relief clamps to secure external conductors in lighting fixtures according to EN60598.

Moulded in natural colour PA6, the strain relief clamps are available in three sizes and prevent conductors from twisting as well as protecting wire coatings from abrasion and friction.

Camden Electronics, based at St.

Albans, Hertfordshire, UK, is a leading manufacturer and supplier of PCB terminal blocks, fuses and fuseholders, sealed lead acid batteries, LEDs, miniature switches, interface modules, enclosures, IC and PLCC sockets and relay bases for the electronics, telecommunications, lighting, and electrical industries.

The company has ISO 9002 accreditation and exports a significant proportion of its production to Europe and the Far East.

M16 thread connected comes in a moulded body

Available in a small molded body, the 12, 14 and 19-pin M16 thread connector can be used for power and signals to factory automation equipment in the automotive, processing and electronic industries.

Turck has announced its 12, 14 and 19-pin M16 multifast connection in a small molded body! The 12, 14 and 19-pin M16 thread connector can be used for power and signals to factory automation equipment in the automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, electronics, material handling and semi-conductor industries. Pick your cable! The 12, 14 and 19-pin M16 connector is available with PVC, PUR, or flexlife-10 cable jacket choices. Like most Turck cordsets, these M16 cords are available with male or female, straight or right-angle connectors, standard or custom lengths and pigtail or extension cords.

To make your system complete, we offer fully encapsulated, mating receptacles, front and rear mount, with leads or PCB pins.

The 12, 14 and 19-pin multifast M16 connector provides protection that meets the following standards: UL, CSA, NEMA 1, 3, 4, 6P and IEC IP 68 and are rated for 60V AC/DC at 4.0A.

Turck is a leading supplier of advanced control solutions to help manufacturers improve their automated processes, products and profits.

Sunday, November 12, 2006

Servo AC stabilisers and conditioners avoid damage

Electronic servo AC voltage stabilisers and power conditioners avoid low supply voltage causing malfunction or a high supply voltage causing serious damage.

Watford Control provide leading-edge design with their EMS range of electronic servo ac voltage stabilisers and power conditioners. By combining a process of continuous evolution and technological development with prices that have fallen in real terms, their products are now claimed to offer unrivalled value for money with the highest levels of quality, reliability and performance. All mains powered equipment requires a supply that is maintained within certain limits.

A low supply voltage can cause malfunction and affect the performance and reliability of equipment, while a high supply voltage will cause serious damage.

Microprocessor and computer based equipment requires not only a stable voltage but also a supply that is free of transient spikes and other electrical noise.

Equipment malfunctions or even damage induced by these conditions can be catastrophic for financial institutions (ie banks, insurance companies and building societies).

The operation, quality and performance of production machines can also be affected, with safety and security severely compromised in many other areas including hospitals, supermarkets and other establishments, both large and small.

The Watford range of EMS units extends to over six thousand models with output ratings from 1KVA to 8MVA, covering single or three phase supply applications and incorporating full spike and interference suppression if required.

Output voltage accuracy of +/-0.5% can be maintained over the full range of input voltage variations up to +/-40%, from zero to full load, irrespective of power factor, frequency variations or ambient temperatures from -15deg to +45degC.

Three phase stabilisers will in addition maintain the accuracy of each phase, both line-to-line and line-to-neutral, even in the event of a totally unbalanced supply, load and power factor conditions.

The EMS range provides an ultra fast speed of response, efficiencies up to 99.5%, low internal impedance and the capability of sustaining high surge currents, with negligible waveform distortion.

Tiny tool makes SCR configuration easy

Packaged in a tiny 25x60mm housing a support tool provides a low-cost way to configure the most complex of SCR/thyristor control units.

The novel CD-EASY support tool provides a low-cost way to configure the most complex of SCR/thyristor control units. Packaged in a tiny 25x60mm housing the CD-EASY will allow complete configuration within minutes of any of CD Automation's fully digital single, 2 or 3 phase products. By inserting the tool into the fascias comms port, two push buttons provide the user with the possibility to upload or down load the units configuration while two LED's indicate transfer success.

By exploiting the benefit of CD Automation's SCR/Thyristor units, which do not require any internal switches or links to be set, the complete configuration and parameter set is transferred in no time! CD-EASY is a simple and cost effective start-up or maintenance tool that needs no technical training.

The user can 'clone' from one thyristor unit to another, ideal when commissioning a number of units or providing a quick solution to system failure.

Alternatively the CD-EASY can be programmed via a PC using the free configuration software and using an RS232 or RS485 interface.

This feature also allows remote diagnostic help via the internet from our support centre providing global support of your thyristor unit.