Machine Building Systems has been busy developing useful accessories for its Item aluminium profile systems. One of the latest additions to this handy construction kit is the positioning set 8 40, which, in its simplest form comprises an M6 left-hand stainless steel screw of up to 1m in length, which may be located in any Item 8mm T-slot.
The screw drives a threaded block, which dovetails into the T-slot. A bearing block is located at the end of the profile and a hand wheel is attached to the screw. The block then moves similarly in direction to the cross-slide on a lathe - a full clockwise turn moves the block away from the operator by 1mm. Any play between block and profile can be minimised by making a simple adjustment. A right-hand threaded bar can also be attached to the end of the first screw to drive a similar positioning block, thus providing contra-directional motion on the same profile. If required, mechanical or electronic digital position indicators can be located at the hand wheel position to enable reliable and repeatable manual positioning.
The positioning set is likely to prove useful in adjustable tooling; for example, in carton-feeding systems or production line equipment requiring simple adjustment mechanisms for bar code readers, ink jet printers or proximity switches. They are also likely to find applications where differently sized products are handled by the same equipment.
Another recent introduction from MBS is a heavy-duty ball bearing hinge for the Item Line-8 aluminium profile machine construction kit. This complements an existing hinge product, which is similar in appearance, but allows heavy dynamic loads to be applied, and to swing through as much as 180 degrees, on a continuous basis. Articulation is via two ball bearings, which allow radial loads of up to 2,500N, and moment loads of 45Nm.
Thought for food
The latest version of the Schuco Design MS 40 profile system for food and beverage processing equipment is now available from modular automation system specialist, Autarky Automation. The new MS 40+ system is essentially a range of components that can be combined to construct machine frames, housings and protective guarding, for filling, capping, packing or labelling systems.
Autarky says the MS 40+ system enables virtually any machine construction concept to be realised efficiently and cost effectively. Profiles can be joined seamlessly, with joints and hinges that are completely concealed for an aesthetically pleasing finish. Furthermore, the system is flexible enough to allow you to create profile systems simply and quickly - often without the need for detailed drawings or time consuming tasks like drilling.
There are basic and heavy open profiles, which can be specified to meet the static and dynamic demands of your application, as well as closed contour profiles, which are suitable for clean room and hygienic environments. The standard profile range is complemented by a selection of curved segments, plus a host of accessories, including adjustable feet, wheels, handles, hinges, and mounting blocks.
To your workstations!
If you want a good guide to workstation construction, you’ll find MiniTec’s new Workplace Systems catalogue - at over 112 pages - more than adequate for your needs. This new publication is double the size of the former offering, reflecting a substantial increase in the company’s range of components and assemblies for this specialist sector. The catalogue guides the reader through the essentials of ergonomic workplace layout, with 14 detailed sections, including basic workstations, height adjustable tables, lighting and power supply, pneumatics, mounting devices and ESD accessories.
All of the components covered in this downloadable publication are also featured in MiniTec’s online iCAD interactive design module, an autonomous interactive program that allows selection of individual components with downloadable 2D and 3D CAD and image files for AutoCAD (plus other leading CAD applications), along with complete parts lists. The combination of hard copy catalogue and on-line CAD service is a very useful tool for self-build customers. However, if you do need help, MiniTec is happy to provide a complete design and assembly service.
The Workplace Systems product line is not only part of, but may also be freely mixed with MiniTec’s Profile System range, which includes a large selection of modular aluminium profiles assembled using the tool-less Powerlock fastening system. Indeed, no special tools or machining is required, other than to cut the profile to the required length. And there are plenty of ancillary components to choose from, including positioners, sensors, safety fence parts, doors, wheels and guards, enabling fast and efficient fabrication of complete machines for assembly, materials handling and inspection.