USi®-Industry Ultrasonic Sensor System: Redefining Ultrasonic Sensing

Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the innovative USi-industry ultrasonic sensor system, an exceptional addition to its ultrasonic sensor portfolio. This system breaks away from conventional designs with its compact structure, independent transducers, and elliptical sound beam, setting new benchmarks in flexibility and reliability. Built to endure demanding environments, the USi-industry offers robust 3D area monitoring both indoors and outdoors, seamlessly adapting to a variety of industrial applications.

Key Features That Set USi-Industry Apart

Elliptical Sound Beam for Broader Detection

Unlike traditional ultrasonic sensors that use a cone-shaped beam with a circular cross-section, the USi-industry deploys an elliptical sound beam. This shape enhances its ability to monitor a larger area and detect objects of varied shapes, such as pallets, boxes, and frames. This innovation ensures precise detection across wide coverage zones, making it ideal for applications requiring high adaptability and accuracy.

Compact, Modular Design for Flexible Deployment

The sensing units—two ultrasonic transducers—are remarkably small at just 27 x 21 x 13 mm. Separated from the evaluation unit, they can be installed at diverse locations up to 3 meters away via connecting cables. This modular design allows seamless integration into tight spaces, such as robotic arms or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), enabling reliable collision prevention and real-time speed and distance monitoring.

Smart Software with Interference Suppression

At the core of the system is a smart evaluation unit equipped with advanced algorithms. These algorithms suppress echo interference when multiple USi systems operate in the same environment, ensuring uninterrupted functionality. The evaluation unit supports up to two transducers, each with its own configurable channel via PACTware. With two switchable parameter sets for distance, evaluation, output, and teaching, the system is tailored to dynamic application requirements while reducing hardware costs.

Advanced Functionalities for Maximum Versatility

Three Operating Modes for Selective Evaluation

The USi-industry system can be configured to detect specific scenarios through its teaching mode. This mode allows users to define reference points and exclude fixed structures from the sensing area, such as machine parts. Selective evaluation lets the system identify object presence, absence, or state changes. After teaching, users can customize the system to suit precise operational needs.

Adjustable Cycle Times for Application-Specific Needs

Cycle times range from 10 to 200 milliseconds, offering the flexibility to detect fast-moving objects or achieve stable readings in high-impedance environments. These settings enhance the sensor’s performance in dynamic industrial settings.

Built for Durability

The ultrasonic transducers meet IP69 protection standards, ensuring resistance to moisture and other challenging conditions. This makes them suitable for exposed environments without compromising reliability.

Applications in Modern Industry

The USi-industry ultrasonic sensor system finds its niche in diverse fields:

• Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs): Enhances navigation and collision avoidance in production lines, warehouses, and distribution centers.
• Robotics and Aviation: Delivers precision for tasks like collision protection between aircraft and ground equipment.
• General Industrial Automation: Ideal for object detection in logistics, packaging, and material handling operations.

Why Choose the USi-Industry Ultrasonic Sensor System?

1. Flexible Installation: Independent, miniaturized transducers adapt easily to constrained spaces.
2. Superior Monitoring: Elliptical sound beams enable reliable 3D detection across large areas.
3. Customizable Configurations: Two switchable parameter sets per channel ensure adaptability.
4. Optimized Operation: Three distinct modes and adjustable cycle times accommodate varied requirements.
5. Ease of Integration: Teaching mode simplifies setup and minimizes interference.
6. Rugged Design: IP69-rated transducers deliver consistent performance in extreme conditions.

The USi-industry ultrasonic sensor system redefines the possibilities of ultrasonic sensing, providing unparalleled flexibility, precision, and reliability for cutting-edge industrial automation.

Bus Temperature Controller in Photovoltaic Laminating Machine

The “14th Five-Year Plan” in China emphasizes the advancement of energy revolution, aiming to build a clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient energy system, while enhancing the energy supply security capacity. The plan accelerates the development of non-fossil energy sources, advocating both centralized and decentralized energy generation, and promotes the growth of clean energy bases, including wind power and photovoltaic (PV) power generation.

Photovoltaics have become the main force in the new energy system. Photovoltaic technology utilizes the photovoltaic effect at semiconductor interfaces to directly convert light energy into electrical energy. It primarily consists of three components: solar panels (modules), controllers, and inverters.

Process Flow of Solar Panel (Module) Manufacturing:

Laminating is a critical step in the production of solar panels. The pre-laid solar cells are placed in the laminating machine, where the air inside the components is evacuated through vacuum suction. The Siemens CPU host, using the Profinet-RT bus protocol, connects the AU7 697H-0RH22-PNT+SM633H-1RF22-P combination to read the thermistor values. The PID parameters then control the even heating of the laminating machine’s heating plate, causing the EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) to melt and bond the solar cells, glass, and backsheet together. Finally, the AU7 697H-0RH22-PNT+SM633H-1RF22-P combination cools the components and removes the finished module.

The AU7 temperature control coupler is highly expandable, supporting up to seven modules. The coupler features 16 built-in PID control loops and can handle up to 40 temperature control channels. It includes 16 digital output channels and 16 thermistor/thermocouple input channels, integrating 40 intelligent fuzzy PID temperature control algorithms, powered by 24VDC.

Leading the Trend of Bus-based Intelligent Temperature Controllers

The AU7 series represents a breakthrough in traditional temperature control systems, offering programmable and highly intelligent capabilities. The high-speed bus and rapid temperature control capabilities position it at the forefront of a new era in industrial temperature management.

With its classic technology, the AU7 is reliable and stable, setting a new standard for modern temperature control solutions.

Brand new spot LAM Research

Selecting the right stepper motor requires precise calculations to ensure optimal performance. When making a selection, factors such as flange size, number of phases, motor length, shaft length, and the number of output wires must be carefully considered. Additionally, it’s essential to calculate torque and current requirements and verify compatibility with the matching driver.

1. Choosing the Torque for a Stepper Motor

The holding torque of a stepper motor is analogous to the “power” in traditional motors, though there are fundamental differences. The physical structure of stepper motors is distinct from that of AC or DC motors, as the output power of a stepper motor is variable. Selection is typically based on the required torque, i.e., the force needed to drive a load.

• For torque requirements below 0.6 N·m, motors with frame sizes of 28 mm, 35 mm, or 42 mm are suitable.
• For torque requirements above 0.6 N·m, 57 mm motors are generally more appropriate.
• For higher torque needs, such as several N·m or more, motors with frame sizes of 86 mm, 110 mm, or 130 mm are recommended.

Common Stepper Motor Sizes:
20 mm | 28 mm | 35 mm | 42 mm | 57 mm | 60 mm | 86 mm | 110 mm | 130 mm

2. Selecting the Number of Phases

The number of phases is an often-overlooked factor when selecting stepper motors. However, it significantly impacts performance. Different phase configurations (commonly two-phase, three-phase, or five-phase) provide varying levels of precision and stability.

• A higher number of phases results in smaller step angles and reduced vibration during operation.
• Two-phase motors are widely used in most applications.
• Three-phase motors are preferable for high-speed, high-torque applications.

3. Selecting the Motor Speed

The speed of a stepper motor requires careful consideration because the output torque is inversely proportional to the rotational speed.

• At low speeds (several hundred RPM or less), stepper motors produce higher output torque.
• At high speeds (1,000–9,000 RPM), the torque output decreases significantly.
• For applications requiring high-speed operation, motors with lower coil resistance and inductance are recommended.
• For low-speed, high-torque requirements, motors with higher inductance (e.g., 10–50 mH) and higher resistance are more suitable.

4. Selecting the No-Load Start Frequency

The no-load start frequency, commonly referred to as the “start frequency,” is a critical parameter for stepper motors.

• Applications that require frequent instantaneous starts and stops, especially at speeds around 1,000 RPM or higher, often require an “accelerated start.”
• For direct high-speed starts, reactive or permanent magnet stepper motors with higher start frequencies are ideal.

By carefully analyzing these factors, you can select a stepper motor that meets your specific application requirements while ensuring reliable and efficient operation.

Rhonda(Sales Manager）

Email:sales7@saulplc.com

Whatsapp:+86-15359273796

Wechat:+86-15359273796

The ABB PP845A 3BSE042235R2 is an operator panel, also known as a human-machine interface (HMI) panel.

It is part of the ABB Panel 800 series and is used to control and monitor industrial processes.

Key features:

• Touchscreen: The panel has a touchscreen display that allows users to interact with the system.
• Communication: It supports various communication protocols, including Ethernet, RS-232, RS-485, and USB.
• I/O modules: The panel can be connected to various I/O modules, such as digital, analog, and motion modules.
• Customization: The panel can be customized with different software and hardware configurations to meet specific application requirements.

Common applications:

• Process control: The panel can be used to control and monitor various industrial processes, such as chemical processes, food processing, and manufacturing processes.
• Machine control: The panel can be used to control and monitor machines, such as robots, CNC machines, and packaging machines.
• Building automation: The panel can be used to control and monitor building systems, such as HVAC systems, lighting systems, and security systems.

Additional information:

• Technical specifications: The technical specifications of the PP845A can be found on the ABB website or in the product documentation.
• Compatibility: The panel is compatible with various ABB controllers and drives.
• Support: ABB provides technical support for the PP845A.

Rhonda(Sales Manager）

Email:sales7@saulplc.com

Whatsapp:+86-15359273796

Wechat:+86-15359273796

In recent years, 3D printing technology has developed rapidly and has evolved from a seemingly distant “high-tech” to a convenient technology within reach, gradually penetrating into various fields that we can come into contact with. With the rapid popularization of 3D printing technology, 3D printing models of aircraft, 3D printing COSPLAY props, etc. have emerged rapidly.

Compared to traditional production methods, the flexibility and diversity of 3D printing technology bring more choices and greater creative freedom. In the field of model airplane production, 3D printing technology is particularly popular because it not only improves production efficiency but also greatly reduces costs. More importantly, the development of 3D printing technology enables model airplane enthusiasts to customize personalized model works.

However, in the process of DIY model aircraft, material properties are crucial to the flight performance of the model aircraft. Different materials have different strengths, weights, and durability, which directly affect the flight stability and handling performance of model aircraft. This is also a major issue that has previously troubled many model aircraft enthusiasts. PLA, ABS, carbon fiber reinforced materials… among many 3D printing materials, which one is more suitable for printing model aircraft?

ESUN Easy to Produce Lightweight PLA (ePLA-LW), also known as foamed PLA, is a 3D printing material developed specifically for aircraft models, ship models, and COSPLAY. The interlayer bonding is more stable, and the foaming rate and strength can be controlled by adjusting the printing temperature. Lightweight PLA adopts active foaming technology to achieve lightweight and low-density PLA parts, with a foaming volume ratio of 220% and a density as low as 0.54g/cm ³. Foaming makes the layering almost invisible, and the printed surface is matte and delicate. Under the same model conditions and speed, using lightweight PLA can significantly improve the performance of model aircraft by providing lighter wing loads and lower stall speeds.

The product features of lightweight PLA are as follows:

1. Low density, up to 0.54g/cm ³;

2. Foam volume ratio of 220%, printing the same volume model, 1 roll of ePLA-LW can be used as 2.2 rolls of ordinary PLA;

3. Foaming makes the layering almost invisible, and the surface of the printed item is matte and delicate; At around 210-270 ℃, this material begins to foam during printing, increasing its volume by nearly 1.2 times. The printing extrusion rate can be reduced to 45% to print lightweight parts.

4. The strength and foaming ratio can be freely adjusted;

5. Possess excellent interlayer strength, explosion resistance, and easy repair;

6. The printed model is easy to paint and has strong surface adhesion.

As a model aircraft material, the advantages of lightweight PLA are very obvious, and its biggest advantage is its “lightness”. In the same volume model, lightweight PLA weighs less than half of regular PLA. The real machine printed with it has a lighter weight than models that pursue light wing loads such as KT board, EPP, PP board, etc.

It is worth mentioning that on September 9, 2022, the China Light Industry Federation announced a list of 58 recommended upgraded consumer goods and 68 recommended innovative consumer goods. Among them, several internationally renowned enterprises such as Gree and Midea were selected, and eSUN’s lightweight PLA was also successfully selected for the recommended innovative consumer goods list due to its innovation and influence in the industry.

Since its launch, lightweight PLA has been warmly welcomed and widely loved by a large number of model airplane enthusiasts due to its unique “light” advantage and excellent performance. This material not only solves many problems of traditional materials in aircraft model production, but also greatly promotes the application and development of 3D printing technology in the field of aircraft models. The emergence of lightweight PLA undoubtedly brings new possibilities for 3D printing of model aircraft, allowing the creative dreams of model aircraft enthusiasts to set sail more lightly.

Intelligent driven logistics, green future

When a large number of express deliveries are accurately and efficiently classified on the sorting conveyor line; When solar panels quietly absorb sunlight on the roof; When every kilowatt hour of electricity is intelligently allocated to where it is most needed. What is providing a solid and reliable connection technology for this future where intelligence and green are intertwined? Follow in the footsteps of industrial connectivity expert Weidmuller and explore this innovative and intelligent future green world together.

On November 5th, 2024, CeMAT Asia, the Asia International Logistics Technology and Transportation Systems Exhibition, kicked off. Industry pioneer Weidmuller unveiled its logistics industry full application scenario connectivity solution at the exhibition. The organic combination of star products such as Weidmuller frequency converters, code readers, power supplies, remote I/O, industrial Ethernet, and wiring terminals can provide a comprehensive connection and communication solution for the smart logistics industry from sorting, warehousing, to transportation and other sub links, efficiently helping enterprises quickly build a smart logistics ecosystem. Especially the dynamic display of logistics conveyor line electronic control integration, which made its debut, won continuous praise from the audience with its unique operating mode.

In addition to surprising innovative solutions, Mr. Wu Shang’an, Chief Manager of Standard Products at Weidmuller Industrial Connector Division, gave a keynote speech on “Weidmuller Efficient Connection Solution” at the VDMA Intelligent and Sustainable Solutions Forum, which was held at the same time as the exhibition. He further revealed to the audience how Weidmuller has brought revolutionary changes to the logistics industry through intelligent connection and digital solutions, and triggered a profound reflection on smart logistics innovation.

If intelligence and efficiency are the core elements of Weidmuller’s solution, then green and low-carbon are indispensable. Weidmuller has long been committed to promoting exploration and practice in the field of green energy, actively responding to the vision of global sustainable development.

From November 14th to 16th, at the upcoming 26th China International High tech Fair (CIFTIS) in 2024, Weidmuller will showcase a series of green energy solutions aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental pollution. Their application scenarios include energy storage, hydrogen energy, photovoltaics, wind power and other sub industries, providing comprehensive assistance to customers to achieve a win-win situation of economic and social benefits, and contributing to the construction of a sustainable future.

At the Weidmuller booth (Shenzhen International Convention and Exhibition Center (Bao’an) Hall 9-A50), not only can you fully experience the magical power of Weidmuller’s intelligent solution “Green Future”, but you can also obtain the latest industry information in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere through Weidmuller’s live broadcasts of different themes and activities such as filling out questionnaires to win gifts.

ABS has always been a popular material in the field of 3D printing. In recent years, with the increasing demand for industrial grade 3D printing, ABS wire has been highly favored due to its excellent performance and diverse application scenarios.

Technology is constantly advancing, and the performance of ABS materials is also continuously improving, resulting in various versions of wires such as ABS+, fast ABS+, and low odor ABS. In order to meet the printing needs of higher strength and durability, carbon fiber reinforced ABS (eABS CF) has emerged as a new star in the ABS wire family.

ABS+carbon fiber, strong alliance

Carbon fiber reinforced ABS, as the name suggests, is achieved by adding carbon fiber reinforced material to ABS material and modifying it to significantly improve its performance. Carbon fiber is known for its excellent mechanical properties and lightweight characteristics. Integrating it into ABS not only greatly improves the rigidity and strength of the material, but also endows it with more outstanding chemical and temperature resistance, thereby further expanding the application range of carbon fiber reinforced ABS.

82% increase in stiffness, performance leap

According to the print test results, compared to ordinary ABS materials, carbon fiber reinforced ABS has a particularly significant improvement in rigidity and strength, with a bending modulus of 2694Mpa, an increase of 82%; The bending strength increased from 46Mpa to 76Mpa, an increase of 65%. Carbon fiber reinforced ABS not only improves its mechanical properties, but also enhances its chemical and temperature resistance, with a thermal deformation temperature of up to 95 ℃. This means that carbon fiber reinforced ABS can maintain stable performance in more demanding environments, making it very suitable for special applications such as outdoor use.

From models to industrial components, widely used

Carbon fiber reinforced ABS has the characteristics of lightweight while maintaining strength. The material density is low, and the weight of printed models is lighter than that of general materials. Therefore, it can also be used for rapid manufacturing of models such as drones, aircraft models, and ship models. In addition, carbon fiber reinforced ABS is widely used in the production of 3D printer accessories, fixtures, engineering accessories, and electronic and electrical related accessories, providing high-performance and high-quality solutions for various industries.

Exterior matte texture, balancing aesthetics

Unlike traditional carbon fiber materials that are typically limited to black, carbon fiber reinforced ABS offers a variety of color options, such as black, dark red, dark purple, dark blue, dark green, etc. These dark colored products have a more textured visual appearance, coupled with the unique frosted surface brought by carbon fiber, making the printed models more sophisticated, while ensuring strength and aesthetic appeal.

It should be noted that carbon fiber reinforced ABS material has a high shrinkage rate. When printing, attention should be paid to insulation and printing should be done in a closed box printer. During the printing process, it is recommended to maintain continuous ventilation. If the environment permits, it is recommended to use an air filter in combination. In addition, due to the relatively poor cooling performance of carbon fiber reinforced ABS, the use of fans can be moderately adjusted or the printing speed can be reduced during the printing process to optimize the printing effect. The following are the relevant parameters obtained from multiple tests of eSUN for your reference.

Carbon fiber reinforced ABS not only improves the overall performance of the material, but also expands the application range of 3D printing technology. Its lightweight characteristics and rich color choices also add more possibilities to it. Whether for 3D printing users seeking high-performance materials or those who have a demand for model appearance, they can experience and try this wire through actual printing.

1. International collaborative innovation drives breakthroughs in robotics technology and jointly overcomes global challenges

2. The integration and development of artificial intelligence and robotics industry opens a new chapter in the era of intelligence

3. ABB’s cutting-edge robot products debut at conference, exploring new scenarios for “robot+” applications

The 2024 World Robot Conference will be held from August 21st to 25th at the Beijing Economic and Technological Development Zone Beiren Yichuang International Convention and Exhibition Center. The conference, with the theme of “Cultivating New Quality Productivity and Sharing Intelligent New Future”, focuses on three major areas of industrial development, collaborative innovation, and technological innovation, exploring the new changes and opportunities faced by the global robotics industry, and sharing how diverse application scenarios can continuously promote global economic development and social prosperity.

Gu Chunyuan, Chairman of ABB China, Marina Bill, President of the International Federation of Robotics, Global Head of Marketing and Sales for ABB Robotics Business Unit and Global Head of Digital Empowerment Center, and Han Chen, President of ABB Robotics Business Unit China, attended the conference and delivered speeches.

Marina Bill delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the conference and delivered a keynote speech on the current status, trends, and prospects of the global robotics market at the main forum. She pointed out, “In recent years, robot technology, with its unique charm and enormous potential, is reshaping our world. From industrial production to healthcare, from household services to emergency rescue, robots have become an indispensable part of human society.”

“The global robot market continues to grow strongly, and by 2023, the total number of robots worldwide has exceeded 4 million. This number is not only a powerful proof of the rapid development of robot technology, but also heralds the arrival of a new era of intelligence. The deep integration of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and 5G technology will endow robots with higher intelligence, flexibility, and efficiency.”

ABB China Chairman Gu Chunyuan, as a guest speaker at the main forum of the World Robot Conference, held a wonderful roundtable forum with leaders and experts from relevant industry organizations at home and abroad on the topic of global robot development and governance. He said, “The development of the global robotics industry has accumulated rich successful experience, but also faces many new challenges. Since the birth of robots, safety has been one of the cores of robot governance, and the entire industry has closely cooperated to establish sound global safety standards. Now, the continuous emergence of new technologies and applications, especially AI connecting robots with the physical world, has brought more severe challenges to robot governance. This requires us to attach great importance to it, continue to work together, and jointly explore effective solutions.

As a model of cutting-edge technology, robots are demonstrating higher intelligence and autonomy, and are increasingly becoming intelligent partners in our work and life. However, more importantly, the development of robots should benefit all countries and regions, bringing welfare to more people. The advancement of robot technology, cost reduction, and remote technical support have made many tasks that were once impossible a reality today.

ABB actively engages in international cooperation and extensive exploration and innovation in areas such as addressing global climate change, protecting biodiversity, ensuring food security, promoting industrial green transformation, and life sciences and new energy materials. For example, it collaborates with the international non-profit organization Junglekeepers to use YuMi robots and RobotStudio cloud technology to assist in the reconstruction of the Amazon rainforest; Using ocean recycled plastic to 3D print customized items, turning plastic pollution into new business opportunities; Support the creation of intelligent automated laboratories to accelerate the research and development of new drugs; Develop AI based automation solutions for laboratory cultivation of seafood products; Provide PixelPaint no overspray technology for electric vehicle production lines, achieving zero waste while improving efficiency.

The rapid development of artificial intelligence and robotics technology has also brought new opportunities to the fields of education and training. Guided programming and natural language processing have greatly lowered the threshold for programming, shifting the focus of education from simple programming skills to how to more efficiently utilize robots to assist human work. This transformation contributes to the popularization of robotics technology, alleviating labor and skill shortages while opening up new employment prospects. In recent years, ABB has continuously enriched its educational robot product line, extensively carried out school enterprise cooperation, and has been committed to supporting the cultivation of young scientific and technological innovation talents and skilled talents in China’s automation field through activities such as the ABB Cup Intelligent Technology Innovation Competition.

Han Chen, President of ABB Robotics China, focused on the current hot topic of artificial intelligence at the World Robot Conference main forum and delivered a keynote speech titled “ABB Robots Assist AI and Industry Integration”, showcasing ABB’s latest application achievements in the field of artificial intelligence and sharing in depth how to integrate AI into robots and automation products to help various industries further explore and unleash their value potential.

Han Chen stated that artificial intelligence is becoming an important driving force for the new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation, and will play a key role in the application of industrial automation in the future. Artificial intelligence endows robots with unprecedented speed, precision, and flexibility, enabling them to undertake more tasks in complex environments such as production factories, warehouses, logistics centers, and laboratories. At the same time, the autonomy and adaptability of robots have also been elevated to a new level, enabling more intelligent and efficient functions such as precise grasping, quality inspection, autonomous navigation in dynamic environments, and human-machine interaction through natural language commands.