Sensors

The use of appropriate sensor technology in production is a basic prerequisite for the implementation of Industry 4.0. It collects data on process and machine status as it arises and makes it available for various process-relevant information services and workflows. However, the costs of sensor technology and the variety of possible applications often make it difficult for individual users to appreciate the direct economic benefit.

Rotary encoders provide precise digital data measurements regarding the motion or position of a shaft. Measuring motion or position relies on a consistent level of precision, a responsibility that partly falls on the coupling attached to the encoder. For this highly demanding application, Italsensor relies on Huco Flex P double-loop couplings to safeguard encoder precision and reliability.

With the launch of the SICK AHS36 (singleturn) and AHM36 (multiturn) IO-Link absolute encoders, SICK has opened up wide-ranging new possibilities to integrate rotary motion sensing into the ‘smart’ sensor configurations of automated machinery. The SICK AHS36 and AHM36 36mm IO-Link encoders are SICK’s first range of absolute encoders with IO-Link. 

A partnership between Arrow Electronics and Shiratech has created the Body Cam 1.0 and ICOMOX development platforms for image streaming and industrial condition monitoring, respectively. Both leverage Shiratech’s platform-on-module know-how to solve hardware design and integration challenges, and let users begin application development immediately.

SICK has set Automated Guided Vehicles free from the need for reflectors or other physical markers with the all-in-one NAV-LOC localisation solution, enabling them to navigate more reliably and efficiently around shop floor and warehouse environments. The SICK NAV-LOC (Localisation On Contour) is an easy-to-set up solution based on a SICK NAV 360o LiDAR scanner that can be integrated into new or existing AGVs. 

Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial division has announced the launch of the VTS2021, a dual-axis, vibration-tolerant tilt sensor that offers an optimal combination of performance, safety and cost in dynamic applications, making the sensor suitable for pitch and roll detection for on- and off-highway industrial-vehicle applications, including mobile elevating work platforms.

High-performance MEMS gyros from Tronics Microsystems, a division of TDK, are available at Farnell element14. This expansion strengthens Premier Farnell's offering for customers looking for innovation, advanced technologies and high performance solutions.

The industrial technology company and provider of sensors, Sensata Technologies, has introduced the availability of MHM5 and MHK5 Absolute Multi-Turn encoders with either Ethernet/IP or ProfiNet interfaces for Factory 4.0 applications. To provide additional design flexibility, these encoders are available in either shafted (MHM5) or blind shaft (MHK5) configurations.

Behind the rise and rise of English wine, British engineers and technologists are busy developing new systems and aids for the vine growing industry. Here, Tony Ingham of Sensor Technology tells his part of this astonishing success story, as english wine is taking off, with more and more people recognising its award winning quality and production growing by the year.

The Bosch Sensortec BME680 four-in-one environmental sensor and associated shuttle board that simplifies product creation is available at RS Components. The sensor integrates temperature, humidity, pressure, and gas sensing for energy-conscious, cost-sensitive and space-constrained applications.