Product Design & Development articles from April 2006

Product Design & Development archives from April 2006

EDM/PDM software.(PD&D Exclusive)
April 1, 2006... Synergis Adept 7 is an engineering and product data management system for multi-CAD product design environments, including AutoOAD, Autodesk Inventor, and SolidWorks software. Adept 7 emphasizes increased performance and usability and greater...

Power entry module.(First Look: Smart Products and Technical Tools for Engineers)
April 1, 2006... The environmentally friendly Series 5120 filtered power entry module is refined for optimal performance. The new compact filter is particularly suited for single-phase power supplies used in industrial equipment, information technology...

2D/3D design software.(First Look: Smart Products and Technical Tools for Engineers)
April 1, 2006... Inventor 11 includes an integrated set of design applications and 2D transition tools intended to help manufacturers move to 3D design. The software gives designers the freedom to integrate existing 2D designs into a 3D environment, making it...

Transfer adhesive.(First Look: Smart Products and Technical Tools for Engineers)
April 1, 2006... The 6403 transfer adhesive is designed specifically for the industrial and automotive markets. It is a rubber-based transfer adhesive that provides an aggressive bond to a variety of foam materials and low surface energy plastic and rubber...

Compact I/0 modules.(First Look: Smart Products and Technical Tools for Engineers)
April 1, 2006... IP20 Compact I/O modules offer are designed for applications that handle distributed I/O signals, ranging from simple digital inputs to SSI encoders. In addition to being able to mount the modules directly on a machine or on a DIN-rail, their...

Combination color sensor.(First Look: Smart Products and Technical Tools for Engineers)
April 1, 2006... The ColorMax-1000 RGB color sensor has four discrete outputs plus RGB analog outputs. The combination of discrete and analog outputs in one sensor provides more intelligent control over manufacturing processes requiring color recognition. The...

Harsh-duty encoders.(First Look: Smart Products and Technical Tools for Engineers)
April 1, 2006... The NorthStar line of heavy-duty encoders includes harsh-duty optical units specifically designed for washdown and intrinsically safe environments. There are five encoder models: HD20, HD25, HSD23, HSD38, and DWD38. These units are designed to...

Co-planar interconnect.(First Look: Smart Products and Technical Tools for Engineers)
April 1, 2006... The MTP-CPI is a MT-ferrule-based interconnect designed specifically for co-planar applications. As the Advanced Telecom Computing Architecture (ATCA) continues to be adopted by system designers, there will be a need for an optical co-planar...

New technologies secure fasteners' futures.(Future Focus)
April 1, 2006... A combination of greater demands and tightening regulations is causing fastener companies to make changes in both design and materials. A number of experts in the field weighed in on the factors affecting the fastener industry. They also try to...

Positive-displacement pumps: a comparison of new product capabilities and specifications to help engineers find the right component to fit their designs.(Product Review)
April 1, 2006... Positive displacement pumps and compressors are built with a wide variety of technologies. There are piston pumps, various type of diaphragm, lobe, screw, gear, vane, roller, and peristaltic types. A 2003 market report from Frost &...

Housing upgrade: one company finds a new enclosure to cut cost size for its next generation voltmeter.(Engineering At Work)
April 1, 2006... When utility workers go into the field, they usually have a voltmeter attached to the end or a boom or ladder. These instruments are used for voltage measurements on things such as telephone and power lines and have been around since 1933. HD...

How not to ruin your PLM process.(Tech Watch)
April 1, 2006... Recently, the American Productivity and Quality Center (APQC) teamed up with product management expert Robert Cooper to complete a cross-industry study on best practices in product innovation. Seventy-four percent of the companies participating...

Winning innovations: readers have chosen three designs for the top prizes in the Product Design Development Engineering Awards.(Cover story)
April 1, 2006... The competition was fierce. The 50 finalists in the 11th Annual Product Design & Development Engineering Awards were judged on the same three factors--innovation, creativity, and usefulness. The finalists were presented in the December 2005...

Contest winners have designs on engineering careers.(Extreme Redesign)
April 1, 2006... On a typical day, Keith Liddy leaves Medina County Career Center about 20 miles south of Cleveland, OH, and heads to his after school job. The senior engineering student doesn't go to the mall to work in a local retail store, nor does he head...

Choosing cable for flexing applications.(From The Field)
April 1, 2006... The selection of high performance cable for automated equipment is often an afterthought in system design. Finding the best cable for automotive, food/beverage, biotechnology, and semiconductor industries can be confusing. Automated robotic,...

Closing the chasm: creating successful product development: in any market sector, including manufacturing, companies must devise strategies and processes for making product development choices, and few businesses are doing it effectively and efficiently.(Focus On Manufacturing)
April 1, 2006... Crossing the Chasm, by Geoffrey A. Moore, established that successful companies can shrink the chasm between early adopters and the early majority by: choosing target markets, understanding the whole product concept, building marketing...

Q&A: Finishing off the RoHS transition.(Questions & Answers)(Interview)(Discussion)
April 1, 2006... This summer, the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive, the European Union's regulation banning substances such as lead in electronics, takes effect. While manufacturers realize how this new directive will affect their component...

Connector system.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The sealed miniature universal Mate-n-Lok connector system is a small, wire-to-wire and wire-to-board connector system that adds splash proofing to the design. The connectors are available as dual-row units in up to 16 positions. The latest...

Pressure transducer.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The Model 595 is a digitally compensated submersible pressure transducer. The Model 595's integral specific gravity compensation gives a true level reading even when subjected to media temperature changes over the range of 23[degrees] to...

DIP-coded switches.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... P36 Series, RoHS-compliant, DIP-coded rotary switches come in a compact, 7.4-mm square package designed to save PCB board space. Typical applications include security systems, laboratory instrumentation, telecommunications equipment, and...

Hydraulic pumps.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... HD Magnum M125 Series centrifugal pumps are hydraulically-driven to provide fluid flow up to 95 gpm and pressure to 130 psi, at temperatures up to 140[degrees]F. The M125 Series offers a number of design features to extend seal life, while...

Thin-walled diaphragms.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... High strength and flexibility are features of a line of thin-walled diaphragms that are injection molded of liquid silicone rubber. These sealing devices, when molded of liquid silicone rubber, improve design function and cost efficiency over...

Power transformers.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A new family of 50/60 Hz power transformers features PC board mounts with UL approval. The new RoHS-compliant SS, SD, DD, and UD Series are designed to provide reliability and offer a variety of power ratings and mechanical configurations....

Self-aligning ball bearings.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... LBXD/LBXF inch series self-aligning linear ball bearings can provide practical and cost-effective alternatives to profile rail guides in linear guidance systems. Their ability to self-align in all directions contributes to optimized and...

Bonding adhesives.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... Two new adhesives are suitable for bonding galvanized, galvanneal, or Galvalume metals. Flex Welder FC methacrylate adhesive and Dev-Thane 5 urethane adhesive can replace welding, saving time and labor and minimizing unsightly distortion of...

High-voltage resistors.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The MG Series of high-voltage metal-glaze axial leaded resistors features a combination of small size and high voltage/high ohmic value capability to allow designers to use a single component where requirements previously dictated multiple...

Terminal blocks.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A line of IEC terminal blocks is designed, manufactured, and tested to meet the specifications and strict requirements of applicable UL, CSA, and IEC standards. The units are rated for Code 1, factory wiring only, and Code 2, both factory and...

Joint measuring washers.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... Preload Indicating Washers (PLI) are designed to provide an accurate method of measuring the preload (clamp force) in a bolted joint. Using Preload Indicating Washers to achieve maximum preload allows designers to maximize joint strength....

Socket adapter system.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A 0.50-mm pitch BGA socket adapter system is a hybrid design using both male and female pins in an interstitial pattern. It offers the reliability of screw-machined terminals with multi-finger contacts in a compact surface mount socket. At 2 mm...

Internal/external connectors.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... CTS Connect air-actuated internal or external connectors are designed for effective sealing on smooth, rough, or threaded circular features of a part creating a tight, long-lasting seal. The connectors consist of an air-driven internal piston...

Power supply.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The new SCP-X extreme environment power supply delivers 24VDC power from a machine-mounted IP67-compliant package. It is resistant to dust, water, and other contaminants. Designed as a stand-alone unit that can be mounted directly to a machine,...

Pressure switches.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A series of 18D pressure switches has been expanded with the addition of a new low-temperature version. Designated the 18D LT, the pressure switch is suitable for indoor and outdoor fluid applications that require a wide operating temperature...

Low airflow heat sinks.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... MaxiFlow heat sinks are designed for cooling BGAs and other hot components in the restricted air flow conditions typical of today's condensed electronic packages. The heat sinks feature a low profile, spread fin array that maximizes surface...

NTEP-approved flowmeter.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The Optimass Series 7000 is an NTEP-approved single-straight tube Coriolis mass flowmeter. It offers no-hassle installation and performs in density and mass flow applications. Offering a new, patented hygienic design, the meter meets the most...

LED-based lamps.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A high-performance LED-based MR-16 lamp series uses high output LEDs. Endura Bright Series LED lamps are pin-for-pin compatible to current MR-16 tungsten halogens, making them suitable replacements for existing bulbs. Their high reliability,...

Corrosion-resistant manifold.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A new custom perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) manifold resists corrosion and heat in aggressive chemistry applications. Instrument manufacturers can improve the performance of their products with the multi-layer PFA manifolds. The multi-layer design uses...

Compact power controller.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The THV compact microprocessor-based SCR power controller features a full line of amperages. Designed to provide higher performance at a lower cost, the units is offered in 20, 30, 45, 80, and 100 amperes. The THV features programming keys and...

Multi-controller CPU.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... Five new CPUs have been added to the FA-M3R family of multi-controller PLC systems. These new S-Series CPUs extend the range capability of the FA-M3R in the areas of both performance and ease of use, enabling users to use the FA-M3R in...

Digital panel meters.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The DLA-30 Series of panel meters is suitable for ship-to-shore panels as well as generator panels. Available inputs are up to 200 AC amperes, 0-200 DC amperes, 0-200 VDC, 0-300 VAC, and 50 or 60 Hz. Some features include 9-40 VDC power,...

Positive displacement pumps.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... From wastewater treatment and chemical metering to pharmaceutical, petroleum, and adhesives, the Moyno 1000 positive displacement pump is designed to provide greater versatility and performance advantages over other types of positive...

Optical Interconnects.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The new Cannon PHD line of optical interconnects is designed to deliver high performance, high density, and easy maintenance. In addition, the fiber-optic connector system is flexible and scaleable. Based on an industry-standard 1.25 mm ceramic...

Relay sockets.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A new line of sockets features LED indicators and is designed for a line of force guided relay modules, designated the FGR-M1. The LED indicator is on when power is applied to the socket. The FGR-M1 Series relays have contacts that are...

Enclosed DC brush drive.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... The new ION DC brush drive is a fully enclosed, compact module that provides network connectivity, power amplification, and motion control. It is suitable for a wide range of medical, scientific, semiconductor, industrial, robotic, and general...

Medical-grade socket strip.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... A medical-grade NEMA socket strip has been added to a NEMA socket strip product line. The medical-grade unit is rated for a maximum 15 A with service at 125 VAC. It is available with four or six NEMA 5-15 outlets, a C14 inlet with connector...

Linear motion guides.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... Featuring a rail width of 1 mm, the Type RSB1M and the Type RSR2M linear motion guides were developed in response to today's increasing demand for decreased design sizes. The ultra-compact RSR Series features minimal rolling resistance and...

Rapid molding process.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... Engineers can use the ZA-12 casting process to manufacture high-precision components for electromechanical and electro-optical applications, such as a barcode scanner optics plate. The process uses permanent graphite molds to produce parts from...

Motion Logic system.(New Products)
April 1, 2006... Rexroth IndraMotion for Packaging is available in basic, enhanced, and advanced versions. This Motion Logic control system is well suited for food processing and packaging applications. Features include real-time motion control, an IEC...

Comfortable controls for off-highway vehicles.(OFF-HIGHWAY)
April 1, 2006... Interface controls for construction and agricultural equipment present a unique set of challenges for designers. Because an operator can spend upward of 12 hours a day in the cab, comfort and ergonomics are paramount relative to cabs in similar...

Wool chippers get sophisticated.(OFF-HIGHWAY)
April 1, 2006... A wood chipper might not seem like that most sophisticated type of equipment. These outdoor power machines generally perform basic functions. Their main task is simply to clear brush and to turn vegetation into mulch. But handling shrubbery,...

Agricultural flowmeter.(Off-Highway Equipment)
April 1, 2006... The McPropeller flowmeter is designed for liquid flow measurement performance, ease-of-use, and value in agricultural, horticulture, turf, and other irrigation applications requiring high volume water use. With the demand and the cost for water...

A 3D modeling capability lets designers of automation equipment, EOAT, robotics, packaging systems, and related vacuum systems download 3D models of a variety of suction cups and components directly into their own designs.(Online)
April 1, 2006... A 3D modeling capability lets designers of automation equipment, EOAT, robotics, packaging systems, and related vacuum systems download 3D models of a variety of suction cups and components directly into their own designs. The Web site,...

W. L. Gore & Associates has introduced an online interactive design guide that provides step-by-step instructions for configuring GORE High Flex Flat Cable or GORE Trackless Cable from standard components.(Online)
April 1, 2006... W. L. Gore & Associates has introduced an online interactive design guide that provides step-by-step instructions for configuring GORE High Flex Flat Cable or GORE Trackless Cable from standard components. The configuration tool, available at...

UFE Inc. has developed a guide to assist engineers who design, specify, or purchase injection molded parts.(Online)
April 1, 2006... UFE Inc. has developed a guide to assist engineers who design, specify, or purchase injection molded parts. The Mold Quote--an Inside Guide is an online, downloadable guide that identifies the key variables engineers should provide to their...

Autodesk, Inc. has developed a new manufacturing community Web site designed to help professionals in the manufacturing industry access time-saving engineering models and parts catalogs, learn productivity tips from experts, and connect with peers.(Online)
April 1, 2006... Autodesk, Inc. has developed a new manufacturing community Web site designed to help professionals in the manufacturing industry access time-saving engineering models and parts catalogs, learn productivity tips from experts, and connect with...

Minco, has developed the "Sensor Configurator," a configuration tool that allows customers to specify, price, and order sensors, instruments and assemblies online in one easy process.(Online)
April 1, 2006... Minco, has developed the "Sensor Configurator," a configuration tool that allows customers to specify, price, and order sensors, instruments and assemblies online in one easy process. The Sensor Configurator, located on the Minco website,...

DirectIndustry has launched a new service that allows engineers to search PDF catalogs by keyword.(Online)
April 1, 2006... DirectIndustry has launched a new service that allows engineers to search PDF catalogs by keyword. The search engine instantly isolates the required text or datasheet from multiple catalog of hundreds of pages in length. Each search generates a...

Microplastics Inc. has released a new design kit that discusses how insert molding can reduce assembly and labor costs, size, and weight, while increasing the reliability and design flexibility of electromechanical interconnections and components.(Design Kit)
April 1, 2006... Microplastics Inc. has released a new design kit that discusses how insert molding can reduce assembly and labor costs, size, and weight, while increasing the reliability and design flexibility of electromechanical interconnections and...

Advanced Polymer Alloys, a division of Ferro Corp., is offering an extrusion guide that offers molders and product engineers technical processing tips for working with Alcryn melt processible rubber.(Catalogs & Brochures)
April 1, 2006... Advanced Polymer Alloys, a division of Ferro Corp., is offering an extrusion guide that offers molders and product engineers technical processing tips for working with Alcryn melt processible rubber. Alcryn provides the ergonomic and...

Newark InOne, a subsidiary of Premier Farnell plc, and a small-quantity distributor of electronic components and test equipment, is offering a 580-page catalog devoted strictly to electronic products that are compliant with the European Union's Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) legislation.(Catalogs & Brochures)
April 1, 2006... Newark InOne, a subsidiary of Premier Farnell plc, and a small-quantity distributor of electronic components and test equipment, is offering a 580-page catalog devoted strictly to electronic products that are compliant with the European Union's...

Medical PSA tape design kit.(Free Stuff)
April 1, 2006... For manufacturers interested in how pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes can improve medical device, wound care, or transdermal delivery applications, MACtac's Medical PSA Kit is available. Designed to provide an in-depth look at how PSA...