Industrial Factory Automation

Schott Systeme will be using the Metav exhibition in Dusseldorf to showcase the latest version of its Pictures by PC software for design and machining. This latest release is to include numerous additions to the company's existing full machine-simulation module. By displaying machining directly from generated NC code, this visualisation of milling as it occurs on the shop floor helps to eliminate errors in damaged parts, fixtures and machine crashes. New additions to this module will include improved collision detection of the machine head against the part and table. The Arix V450 five-axis machining centre will also be added to Schott's available machines. The latest version of Pictures by PCs integrated hybrid surface, solid and mesh modelling tools will also be presented at Metav. Improvements in this area will see the core modeller itself being updated to provide a more tolerant environment for the construction and repair of complex solid and surface components. To complim...

Electro Mechanical Systems has supplied Precistep micro-stepper motors to Life Optics to allow it to develop a compact, reliable and light-weight head-mounted microscope. The result was high-precision technology in the smallest possible space. Each system has two motors, one 8mm diameter and one 10mm, which provide dynamic zoom and focus controls, delivering the high precision and accuracy required for this demanding application. In the basic microscope version, available as Varioscope AF3, users can move freely in a working distance of 300 to 600mm. The foot-operated zoom function allows infinitely variable magnification from 3.6 to 7.2. The field of vision is 30 to 144mm and the pupillary distance can be individually adjusted to each user. The Varioscope M5 provides an extendible modular optical system; changeable oculars extend the magnification range and integrated lighting addresses shadows. With an optional video camera, procedures carried out by the user can be precisely record...