Draw wire sensors position mechanical moving parts on X-ray machines

A manufacturer of digital X-ray machines is using high precision draw wire (string pot) sensors from Micro-Epsilon to accurately position mechanical moving parts of the X-ray machine and table.

X-ray machines must provide high quality images in a variety of different positions. Previously, an X-ray cassette with film had to be manually aligned with the X-ray tubes, but today, this is performed digitally and is a fully automatic process.

Modern equipment functions with a camera that digitalises the recordings directly. This saves time and development costs. The camera must be exactly aligned with the X-ray tubes so that high-resolution recordings are produced for digital equipment. The cameras, the X-ray tubes, the table and the wall stands can be moved on several axes, providing as much flexibility as possible.

Roesys GmbH, a developer and manufacturer of digital X-ray systems is using draw-wire sensors from Micro-Epsilon's WPS-MK series to position the mechanical moving parts on its machines.

The synchronisation controller in the X-ray machine uses the displacement information from the draw-wire sensors to enable the camera and X-ray tubes to move parallel to one another. This parallel running means that the best possible focussing of the X-ray tubes for the camera is achieved. A total of five sensors are located in the wall stands, in the X-ray table and in the vertical traversing unit for the X-ray table.

Measuring ranges of the sensors are from 500mm up to 1,700mm, with linearity of 0.25% of the measurement value.

Due to ease of installation, the customer can use the sensor without having to modify existing systems. It is critical that optimum focussing of the X-ray image is achieved using intelligent software and precise displacement measurement of the draw-wire sensors. This results in reduced radiation exposure for the patient and perfect images for more extensive diagnoses.

Micro-Epsilon's wireSENSOR range of draw wire sensors uses three main measurement methods: a multi-turn potentiometer, an incremental encoder or an absolute encoder. One of these devices is mounted onto the drum axle, converting the rotary motion of the drum into a signal that can be evaluated. The measured displacement can be output as an analogue current, voltage or potentiometric signal. For a digital output, there is a choice of HTL or TTL, with interfaces for most of the common fieldbus systems, including CANopen, SSI and Profibus.

For further information, email: info@micro-epsilon.co.uk   Refer to page 6

IO-Modules with integrated display and manipulation protection

Sensor and industrial networking specialist Balluff is the first to offer fieldbus I/O modules with an illuminated LCD display. This not only makes addressing in the network simpler, but also provides a variety of additional functions. These include the lock bit, search&rescue and device identification, providing demonstrable added value: machine and systems operators profit from the significantly greater manipulation protection, more convenience and transparency in maintenance, and from greater availability and productivity. The new module generation is now available for CC-Link, Ethernet/IP and Profinet. Versions for the other commonly used fieldbus systems will also be available soon.

For more than four years Balluff I/O modules with their up to 32 in- and outputs have been indispensible in the machine building and automation world. Characteristic features include the rugged, full-jacket zinc die-cast housing, the flat profile with rounded edges, the clear, large area displays as well as ease of mounting with just two attachment points.

The new generation of I/O fieldbus modules features an illuminated LCD display which opens up new possibilities for operators in setting, maintenance and repair. The baud rate, node address and information about the hard- and software of the module along with much more can now be visualized, making diagnostics and system availability significantly simpler.

Mechanical attachments such as damage-prone rotary switches can be completely eliminated. This makes the new IP 67 generation even more rugged and reliable than the previous series.

Menu guidance on the bright, high-resolution display is easy to use and self-explanatory. Two keys are used for entering and displaying the individual menu points. A special feature is the integrated manipulation protection. This means the display can be locked out by the PLC, preventing unauthorized access.

The new module generation from Balluff is also equipped with an integrated search&rescue function. Two LEDs controlled by the PLC allow the operator to visualize pre-defined events which are not module- or port-specific directly where the event takes place.

The I/O modules for CC-lLink, DeviceNet, and EtherNet are shown above. Others are available for Profibus and ProfiNet.

Also interesting is the integrated web server, a specific feature of the Ethernet/IP and Profinet module versions. Using a standard web browser the user has access to comprehensive diagnostics functions such as the display of all LED indicators located on the module. Under "Device Properties" one can parameterize for example the devices connected on the IO-Link port. Other features are available under the "Configurations" function, such as assigning the IP addresses.

For further information, view website: http://www.balluff.co.uk or e-mail: sales@balluff.co.uk  Refer to page 6

Stanley puts dynamic controls back in
control with Sonitrol® alarm verification

Valve manufacturer Dynamic Controls has upgraded its security with Stanley Convergent Security Solutions (Stanley CSS) and moved to Sonitrol® alarm monitoring.

Dynamic Controls, based in Oldham, is a leading manufacturer of high and low pressure cartridge valves, manifolds, reducing stations and fluid/gas systems for critical, demanding applications, including submarines, aircraft carriers and navy surface ships. 

A site manufacturing such critical equipment clearly needs round the clock protection. The existing intruder alarm system had come to the end of its life and Dynamic Controls was dissatisfied with the service it was receiving from its then supplier, as well as the rising costs.  Dynamic Controls turned to Stanley CSS for a solution.

Stanley removed the elderly conventional intruder alarm system and replaced it with contemporary Sonitrol Audio Impact technology.  When an alarm is triggered, the system immediately alerts Stanley's ProtectionNet Customer Service Centre and transmits the sounds of the break-in attempt and a code describing the location of the activated audio sensor.  Professional operators on duty around the clock listen silently to determine the nature of the noise and take appropriate action, such as calling the police or resetting the system. 

The access control system installed by Stanley CSS at the Dynamic Control's site is also run through the Sonitrol system for complete integration and ease of use.

Andrew Hill, Facilities Manager at Dynamic Controls, is impressed with both the equipment and the service he has received from Stanley: "the system is brilliant and it's very simple to use.  Stanley's customer interface is fantastic - all the staff are polite and knowledgeable and are lovely to deal with.  It's nice to be treated as a human being!"

Sonitrol alarm monitoring is available exclusively in the UK from Stanley CSS. 

Stanley Convergent Security Solutions (CSS) in profile
A division of Stanley Black & Decker (SWK), Stanley Convergent Security Solutions (CSS) is one of the leading security providers in the United Kingdom and around the world.  Stanley CSS designs, installs, monitors and services security systems for industrial, government, commercial, residential and national account customers.  Stanley CSS represents a network of resources, state-of-the-art technology and a culture dedicated to excellence; where its employees have the training, the equipment and the processes they need to deliver the finest security solutions in the industry. Stanley CSS provides the best of both worlds, a local company with global resources and one of the most trusted names in security.

For further information, view website: www.stanleycss.co.uk

Variable speed hydraulic motors from Parker 
boosts performance of winches and cranes

Parker Hannifin, latest range of hydraulic motors, has been developed to provide outstanding efficiency and performance in demanding applications including winch and hoist drives, cranes and other mobile and construction equipment. The new V14 110 and 160 variable speed bent-axis motors offer a high power to weight ratio and feature hydraulic proportional control (HPC) with pressure cut off, providing an easy to install and operate solution that improves machine reliability, performance and productivity.

The V14 110 and 160 hydraulic motors are designed for use with open and closed circuits, have a wide displacement range of 5:1, and are capable of operating at pressures of up to 480 bar with a displacement of between 22 and 160cc per revolution, depending on model.  Maximum power output is 335kW, for the larger of the two motors, with 255Nm of output torque at 100bar, and operating temperatures being down to -40°C.

The V14 motors feature Parker's unique nine piston configuration, with each piston being lightweight, compact and spherical in design with high performance laminated piston rings, and a low inertia motor shaft.  Combined, these features produce extremely high levels of start-up torque, rapid acceleration and fast shaft speeds, while ensuring quick response to changes in operating load or conditions.

The motors also feature low friction rotating parts, plus heavy duty tapered roller shaft bearings, robust O-rings on all housing seals and specially designed internal passageways, to enhance the flow dynamics and eliminate problems of oil turbulence.  The net effect is to create motors with exceptionally high levels of efficiency, with minimal noise and energy consumption, and with a long, leak-free and reliable operating life.

The V14 110 and 160 motors are available with a choice of mounting, shaft end, control and valve options; for example, the latter includes brake, pressure relief and flushing valves, while control options include pressure compensators, with or without hydraulic, and proportional and two-position hydraulic or electromechanical control.

These  hydraulic motors are backed by Parker Hannifin's global network of manufacturing, sales and customer support centres.

For further information, view website: http://www.parker.com or its investor information website: http://www.phstock.com  Refer to page 79