Innovations

Motor design

This company supplies a suite of SPEED programs developed by University of Glasgow, Scotland. Recently released, SPEEDCAD bundles four of these programs into one CAD package to cover the design of single-phase and poly-phase induction motors (line or inverter driven); PM brushless, self-synchronous, AC servo and DC motors; PM brushless and DC generators; and switched reluctance motors and generators. Program outputs are in the form of design sheets listing the calculated parameters and graphical displays of various waveforms, including current, voltage, torque, back emf, flux linkage, gap flux, speed vs torque curves, and thermal performance. Motorsoft Inc, Lebanon, OH.  www.rsleads.com/212df-160

Flat harmonic drive gearing

The Ultra Flat CSD series of gears has been developed with an “S” tooth profile and a new diaphragm shape to reduce the axial length significantly. High accuracy of 1 arc-min and repeatability of ±5 arc-sec is maintained in a zero-backlash system. The compact design provides torque density savings which can be carried over into smaller surrounding enclosures. Applications include robotics, aerospace and factory automation. HD Systems, Hauppauge, NY.  www.rsleads.com/212df-161

Digital inverters

The KBV2 series (NEMA-1) drives are full featured units rated from 1 to 30 hp with 230 and 460 VAC line input. The sensorless flux-vector operation mode provides over 200% torque down to 1 Hz. Closed loop flex vector operation is also available. Programmable PID functions provide process control. Built-in RS-485 communication along with DeviceNet, PROFIBUS, and LonWorks communication protocols add to the design’s flexibility. KB Electronics Inc, Coral Springs, FL.  www.rsleads.com/212df-162

Helicoidal gearmotors

Designed to offer high torque per dollar in a small package, Series B Conex helicoidal gearmotors deliver up to 20 hp and maximum output torque to 5000 lb-in. with a choice of 10 standard ratios from 5:1 to 60:1. Universal gear case sizes are available from 02 to 11 for interchangeability. Capable of being close-coupled with standard NEMA and metric IEC frame motors, the patented SWIFT motor connection system eliminates fretting corrosion. A standard hollow bore makes the flexible unit capable of fitting solid output shafts for left or right hand assembly. Textron Power Transmission, Traverse City, MI.  www.rsleads.com/212df-163

DC servo drive

The ViX DC-powered servo drive provides an alternative to AC drives, packing a flexible controller (with auto-configuration software) and 250/500 VA output stage into a compact case. Multiple-axis applications do not require individual power supplies, and the units can be used as standalone drive/controllers in decentralized control schemes. Power outputs are 2.5A and 5A RMS continuous. Both versions accommodate motor bus voltages up to 80 VDC and have peak current capability of 3 times their continuous rating for excellent acceleration. Parker Compumotor, Rohnert Park, CA.  www.rsleads.com/212df-164