A common function of a control system is detecting the presence of an object. Whether you are detecting the presence of an object passing by on a conveyor, the closure of a gate or the position of a machine part as it goes through its motions, object detection is a staple of the automation industry. There are…
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomationDirect SpotlightEducation/DIYEntertainmentIndustryIssue 33 - 2015Machine ControlNotebook IssuePneumaticsPneumaticsProductStudent SpotlightStudent Spotlight
Shier Terror Haunts West Coast
Scott Shier, with his namesake organization, Shier Terror, presented a pneumatics seminar in May, 2015, at the West Coast Haunters Convention in Portland, Oregon. His intent was to expose a group of fifteen “Home Haunter” students to the capabilities of pneumatic systems as they are often used in haunted houses. ‘Haunting’ with Pneumatics West Coast…
Proximity sensors allow non-contact detection of objects. Therefore, they are used in many industries, including manufacturing, robotics, semiconductor, and many more. Inductive sensors detect metallic objects while capacitive sensors detect all other materials. Ultrasonic sensors detect all materials by using sound wave reflections to determine presence. All applications have certain specific needs, but, in general, the…
Cumming, GA — November 14, 2012 … AutomationDirect’s line of capacitive proximity sensors now includes 12mm metal round bodied DC models with shielded and unshielded mounting options, PNP, normally-open outputs, potentiometer adjustment and M12 quick disconnect. Unshielded 18mm DC plastic bodied models with selectable normally-open/normally-closed outputs feature logic auto detection. Additional unshielded 30mm models feature AC and…
We have added several exciting products since our last edition of the Automation Notebook. Here are some highlights about some of those new products including: Jefferson Electric Buck-Boost Transformers, Stainless Steel Proximity Sensors, Metal Guard Foot Switches, Pneumatic Solenoid Valve Cables and Connectors, Bryant Industrial Grade Duplex Receptacles and Watertight Wiring Devices and Accessories, Field…
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookEnclosures & AccessoriesEnergy/UtilitiesHMIIndustryIssue 21 – 2011Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueOperator InterfacePLCProcess ControlProductProgrammable ControlUser Solutions
Small-Scale Hydroelectric Plant Promises Profit
If there’s access to a stream, the only requirements to generate electricity are a 2 ft. drop in water level and two gallons of flow per minute. A hydroelectric system isn’t overly complicated, it isn’t difficult to operate and maintain, it has longevity and it’s often more cost-effective than other forms of renewable power. Some…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookDiscrete SensingIssue 7 – 2006Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTech Thread
Sensor Trends
Because of certain drawbacks of physical contact style sensors and switches such as limit switches and float switches, newer technology non-contact style sensors have become prevalent in industry, performing well in many applications. Proximity, photoelectric and ultrasonic sensors can be used in many applications for which they were previously never considered. These non-contact sensors are…