August 2008

Solder-Free SOI Driver Assembly in Medium-Power IGBT Modules By Thomas Grasshoff, Semikron International

Fig. 2: Design principle of a 50 A / 600 V CIB IPM

Intelligent Power Modules (IPMs) are fully integrated modules combining the driver circuit and the power stage in one casing. Semikron is the first manufacturer to introduce a CIB IPM with primary and secondary side for applications in the 4 kW to 22 kW range. The new module is based on an established CIB module in a MiniSkiiP case and features advanced SOI (silicon-on-insulator) high voltage integrated circuit (HVIC) technology in a reliable and cost-effective package with good thermal conductivity. The new module approach for standard industrial drive applications is in line with the market trend towards integrated power module solutions already known from the consumer market.

Over the past 10 years high-voltage integrated circuits (HVICs) have increasingly replaced conventional hybrid driver solutions in Intelligent Power Modules (IPMs) used in 600 to 1200 V applications for currents of up to 30 A. The main reasons for this are the call for smaller components hand in hand with reduced costs and improved reliability requirements. The use of HVICs also allows for optimized functionality without adding costs.

Gate Driver Concept
Besides standard gate driver circuits with pulse transformer or opto coupler between primary and secondary side, level shifter circuits for applications with reduced requirements in terms of potential separation are also used. Level shifters transmit only the difference from the high to the low potential and vice versa. In simple level shifter circuits, no signal transmission occurs if the potential relation changes. With complementary level shifters this could be avoided. This would, however, mean that additional high-voltage components are required. Furthermore, existing pn-isolation technologies used in integrated driver circuits only support components below the negative supply voltage. If the parasitic pn-structures are fired by low-voltage spikes, a latch-up effect will occur, causing driver malfunction and even the destruction of the power module in an inverter. Level shifter concepts that support negative signals on the secondary side do not exist at present. They are, however, absolutely essential for IPMs in the medium-power range (4 to 22 kW). In systems with higher switching currents negative and positive voltage transients occur, leading to voltage spikes due to parasitic inductances. The voltage transients may cause a shift in the gate-emitter potential at the BOT IGBT switch and, in extreme cases, may cause unwanted switching of the IGBT. The integration of shunts into the emitter path of the IGBT also leads to a voltage level shift at the emitter, resulting in a voltage level shift between primary and secondary side in the driver IC.

Fig. 3: MiniSKiiP IPM housing

The SOI HVIC technology is the first technology to feature differential signal transmission with two branches per level shifter. The new technology includes two independent transmission paths – an up-level shifter and a complementary down-level shifter. These two paths allow for robust signal processing and reconstruction on the secondary side and provide maximum immunity from parasitic coupling at the same time.

Module Integration
 With SOI (Silicon-On-Insulator) chip technology for high-voltage applications with complete dielectric isolation of each single switch, latch-up-free circuits can be designed. SOI technology has lower leakage currents than pn-isolated technologies and supports junction temperatures of up to 200°C. The package density is high, allowing for the integration of a seven-pack driver into a small IC. The only components that have to be mounted on the DBC are the gate resistors. These technical conditions meant made it possible for an intelligent IGBT module to be developed for a rated current of up to 100 A.

To ensure good thermal contact for the logic circuitry a DBC assembly was chosen. Optimum DBC cooling for the HVIC chip allows for high output currents to be driven. Short wire bonds between the IGBT chips and the driver allow for a low-inductive assembly, positively affecting the EMC behavior of the module. Figure 2 shows a 600 V, 50 A IPM on a MiniSKiiP size 2 DBC with a seven-pack SOI driver. Fine pitch ceramics was used to allow for the efficient routing of the IC chip connections to the other circuit components, as well as to allow for the DBC space to be used effectively. The IC and SMD components are assembled with conductive glue and bonded using thin wire technology. The conducting paths on the DBC are very short and compact in order to achieve low inductance. The DBC substrate and the mounted devices are protected with silicone gel.

The right half of the DCB is used exclusively for the driver circuit. All of the spring contacts for the driver interface are located on the

Fig. 4: Turn-on at Vdc=300V and 50A with RG=12 Ohm, IPM

right of the module. This allows for the easy integration of the controller and optimum creepage distances. IPM’s differ from standard modules in terms of spring layout only, meaning that previous knowledge and experience with circuitry and mechanical connections can also be applied to IPMs.

For applications with the new integrated module, it is important to first compare it with a standard module. Function tests were performed on an IPM module and a CIB module with external driver and the results compared. Both modules featured 600 V / 50 A IGBT 3 chips (Trench Fieldstop) and 600 V / 50 A CAL3 HD free wheeling diodes.

Figures 4 and 5 show the turn-on behavior of a BOT IGBT at a DC link voltage of 300 V for the IPM and the standard module. It can be seen that the turn-on time of the IPM is longer.

The different turn-on duration has an effect on the switching losses. The CIB switches faster (higher di/dt) and causes higher diode losses. The IPM module has a lower di/dt at turn-on, thus reducing the diode losses but increasing the IGBT losses.
The turn-off behavior is similar because the voltage control of the IGBT gate has virtually no effect on the switching time (See Table 1). The total switching losses (Eon+Eoff= 4.5 mJ) are greater those of a comparable Mini-SKiiP (3.4 mJ) measured with an external hybrid driver. This is due to the limited driver current of the HVIC (500 mA/650 mA). To reduce the switching losses a more powerful driver IC could be used.

  Table 1: Dynamic loss comparison CIB and IPM modules

The gate driver HVIC boasts very good noise immunity and low-level cross-talk sensitivity. An important criterion used to rate the

Fig. 5: Turn-on at Vdc=300V and 50A with RG=12 Ohm, CIB

efficiency of an IPM is the phase symmetry. Here, the driver boasts optimum switching behavior owing to the short driver/ IGBT chip connections.

IPMs in Inverter Applications
The IPM in the MiniSKiiP case displays superior switching performance with no compromises. The use of IPMs in inverter applications up to 15 kW has numerous advantages. A pre-tested and qualified IGBT module with integrated driver can be easily integrated into an existing power electronics system. This reduces the time-to-market as no driver adaptation is necessary, i.e. a suitable driver does not have to be developed for the given application. Furthermore, the fact that IGBT and HVIC are positioned close together improves the EMC properties and has no negative influence on the switching performance and driver immunity.

The advantages of modules with solder-free assembly are also applicable to IPMs. Modules featuring an integrated driver do not need any solder connections for module assembly and can be assembled with the inverter in the final assembly stage, thus reducing the overall production costs for the power PCB. In MiniSKiiP modules, the power switches, PCB and heat sink are connected in one step. The power circuitry is not soldered onto the PCB as in other modules, but is connected using Semikron’s pressure-contact technology. The spring contacts are used as electrical contacts for power control and driver signal transmission. The type of spring used here is the same as that used in the current series product.

Conclusion
The new MiniSKiiP CIB IPM module for medium and high-power applications of up to 22kW (600V / 1200 V, 50A) boasts a very high degree of integration and features established assembly technology. The IGBTs are driven with a high degree of reliability by a single robust SOI 7-channel gate driver HVIC featuring a new level shifter concept that guarantees 100 percent functionality for any given secondary side reference voltage.

Literature
[1] M. Roßberg, B. Vogler, R. Herzer 600V Gatedriver IC with extended level shifter concept for medium and high power applications
[2] T. Letavic, M. Simpson, E. Arnold, E. Peters, R. Aquino, J. Curcio, S. Herko, S. Mukherjee, 600V Power Conversion System-on-a-Chip Based on Thin Layer Silicon-on-Insulator, Proceedings ISPSD 1999, S. 325-328
[3] B. Vogler, M. Roßberg, R. Herzer, L. Reusser, T. Wurm, 600V Converter/Inverter/Brake (CIB) - Module with integrated SOI Gate Driver IC for Medium Power Applications, Proceedings CIPS 2008

For more information visit www.semikron.com

2009 Motor, Drive & Automation Systems Conference – Preliminary Program Announced!

This sixth annual, two-day technical conference will take place March 3-4 in Orlando, Fla. and serve an audience of decision makers from around the world  who are interested in learning the latest advancements and capabilities in electric motor, drive, power & automation systems technology. Don’t miss the once- a-year opportunity to share your technology solutions with hundreds of potential business partners.

The 2009 Motor, Drive & Automation Systems Conference will feature more than 35 technical sessions, including these just announced:
 
• Energy Efficient Motors and the Role of the Copper Rotor Motor
  Richard E. deFay, Manager, Electrical Applications Education, Copper Development Association
• Variable Speed Drives and Motion Control - Global Market Update
  Alex Chausovsky, Analyst, Motor Drives & Motion Control, IMS Research
• Digital Prototyping Advances for Optimal Machine Design
  Bill Allai, Motion Control Principal Engineer, National Instruments
• Reliability Testing of Small Motors Under Controlled Condition
  Emmanuel Agamloh, Motor Systems Engineer, Advanced Energy
• Electric Traction Drive R&D at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory
  Dr. Mitchell Olszewski, Director, Power Electronics and Electrical Power Systems Research Center,
  Oak Ridge National Laboratory
• Flexible Concept for Intelligent Power Modules Fits for Requirements of Small Power Drives Applications
  Dr. Wolfgang Frank, Concept Engineer, Infineon Technologies
 
 Visit the Preliminary Program for more recently announced sessions -
http://www.e-driveonline.com/Conf-09/motors_conf09_program.php

For more information about Motors 2009 visit www.e-driveonline.com or contact jeremym@infowebcom.com.   

ShopBot Partners with Bishop-Wisecarver on Linear Motion Solution for New “Buddy” with Powerstick

The ShopBot, a manufacturer of CNC routing machines, has selected a Bishop-Wisecarver’s linear motion solution for the PowerStick feature of its second generation Buddy. For years, ShopBot has used Bishop-Wisecarver’s signature DualVee - based products in its machines, due to DualVee’s ability to operate in environments that are routinely covered in wood chips and sawdust. So when Gordon Bergfors, engineering manager at ShopBot began to design the next generation of the compact Buddy CNC, he called Bishop-Wisecarver to discuss the requirements.

A major objective was to reduce assembly time and cost. The existing method took about two hours to assemble, and required skilled labor. But they needed to achieve this objective without compromising rigidity, load capacity or the ability to withstand the harsh environment in which the machines operate.

“We enjoy a great relationship with Bishop-Wisecarver, and they were our first choice to work with,” said Ted Hall, CEO of ShopBot. “They didn’t have an off-the-shelf solution to offer, but asked for a couple of days to brainstorm and design. I was amazed, when two days later I had a proof of concept sample in my hands. Seeing people jump in and get their hands dirty to produce something new is an example we resonate with and it is exciting”

Two weeks following the proof of concept sample, a functional prototype was delivered to ShopBot. The custom solution features Bishop-Wisecarver’s new QuickTrak clamp extrusion, which requires no drilling or fasteners, reducing assembly time to just minutes, and significantly increasing production capacity.

For more information visit www.bwc.com

Medium Voltage Motor Drives Market Grows Rapidly as Energy Prices Soar

According to the latest statistics from IMS Research, the global medium voltage motor drives market experienced unprecedented growth in 2007. Record high energy prices combined with product replacement and emerging medium voltage applications have contributed to increasing the market by nearly 34% over 2006 levels, to exceed $1.5 billion. It is forecast to continue growing by an average of 21% per year in terms of revenues to surpass $4 billion by 2012.

The Chinese medium voltage motor drives market, which benefitted from various energy savings initiatives undertaken by the Chinese government in recent years and the continued expansion of Chinese industry, was reported to be the fastest growing. The Chinese market is expected to surpass the Western European market to become the largest in the world by 2012. The markets in Central & Eastern Europe, Russia, and India are also expected to grow rapidly as a result of ongoing infrastructure expansion in these regions. The US medium voltage drives market is expected to grow at a slower pace over the forecast period as the slowdown in the US economy leads to reduced capital spending, lowering the demand for costly medium voltage drives.

The metals, oil & natural gas, and power generation industry sectors continued to lead the market in medium voltage motor drive utilization. In addition, rapidly growing segments such as the mining and marine sectors provide opportunity for further growth. According to IMS Research analyst Alex Chausovsky, “rapidly increasing energy costs, coupled with record profits at oil & natural gas and mining companies driven by skyrocketing commodity prices, will continue to provide ample opportunities for medium voltage drive suppliers.”

For more information visit www.imsresearch.com  

WEG R&D Investment Delivers Improved Induction Motor Life and Energy Efficiency

WEG Electric Motors Corp., a global supplier of motors, drives, controls, generators and transformers, recently explained that the energy efficiency and process control benefits offered by frequency inverter drives with AC induction motors provide plant operators with many opportunities for increased profit and lower costs, but these advantages can be undermined by reduced motor life.

WEG Electric Motors R&D are continually trying to identify and implement practical solutions for improved motor life and better efficiency by improving motor designs for inverter operation. “Our mission is to explore new lines of research to give us better insight into the different parameters and complex interactions that control energy efficiency and reliability in motor design and application,” said Brian Keith, WEG automation manager. “By understanding these factors better, we can achieve useful advances and balance our findings against the cost-effectiveness of implementing them. Our patented developments in Optimal Flux Technology are an excellent example.”
“Recently, in collaboration with the Federal University of Santa Catarina, WEG has identified a new approach to coil design which could reduce premature aging of the coil insulation caused by inverter overvoltages,” Keith noted.

WEG’s approach lies in reducing the nominal supply voltage to the coil windings, by reducing the voltage pulse amplitudes of the pulse width modulation. For example, if the PWM amplitude is reduced by half, voltage levels on the motor terminals and the potential gradients between windings will also be reduced (especially on the initial windings). In this way, partial discharges at the terminals and initial windings can be virtually eliminated.
Meanwhile, the ampere-conductors required to create the magnetic flux are maintained by replacing pole group coils with a larger number of parallel path coils and applying lower voltages to the parallel path coils, thus obtaining the same mmf (magneto motive force).

Extensive studies of the impedances of each current parallel path show that certain amplitude or angular phase imbalances are allowable as they are effectively dampened by the impedance. This ensures an inbuilt self-regulating mechanism that tolerates minor variations, and increased losses are insignificant.

“This has been demonstrated in actual prototype two-pole three-phase motors,” continued Keith. “At this time, the complexity of the coil winding involved means further development work before a commercially useful result is available.”

“However, this research-based and collaborative approach has already brought highly successful advances to the world markets, such as our world-leading coil insulation techniques, and our CWF-11 drive inverters based on our patented Optimal Flux technology. By carefully matching inverter and motor design development, WEG has demonstrated that it’s possible to improve motor and inverter design offering reliability and lifetime benefits.”

For more information visit www.weg.net  

Danaher Motion Expands Performance Services to Support OEMs using Embedded Motion Control

Danaher Motion, the global provider of electromagnetic and mechanical motion control solutions, has introduced the expansion of its comprehensive Motion Engineering Performance Services for OEMs using embedded motion control.  Available as a comprehensive suite of solutions, or on an a la carte basis, Motion Engineering Performance Services are available as customer needs and desires dictate. Services include system tuning and optimization, custom feature and product development, advanced system integration, software development, system design consultation, system test and qualification, and specialized training and field services. 

For more than 20 years, Motion Engineering (MEI), a Danaher Motion company, has provided a wide range of solutions for every area of high-performance embedded motion control systems – beginning with products extending to problem solving, field services and training. The expansion of the Motion Engineering Performance Services is in response to an increased demand for engineering services by OEM machine builders around the globe. 

High performance motion engineers face significant challenges with demands for huge advances in throughput, reliability, energy savings and product tolerances, among others.  Through Performance Services, Danaher Motion’ can develop an entire custom control system or provide  OEM design teams with comprehensive tools and educational programs to develop their own, or some combination of the two. 

“Speed to market is often the difference between success and failure in many technology-intensive industries.  Through Performance Services, Danaher Motion experts collaborate with the high performance machine builders to troubleshoot, improve and/or create the machine’s control system at any stage, from conception to production floor,” says Michael Jellen, Business Unit Manager, Danaher Motion Performance Controls division.  “The key to success is found through an ongoing, collaborative process to ensure a full understanding of our customer’s technological and business imperatives, to maximize integration with current systems, and to provide long-term flexibility for continued growth,” he continues.

For more information visit www.danaher.com

Bison Gear Introduces New "Commercial Duty" Gearmotor Product Line

In response to growing OEM customer demand, Bison Gear & Engineering Corp. recently introduced its new VWDIR line of fractional horsepower gearmotors designed as Von Weise Drop-In Replacements. The VWDIR line encompasses more than 75 standard models of AC and DC parallel shaft and right angle gearmotors designed for a wide variety of commercial and light industrial applications.

Manufactured in Bison's US facilities, the new VWDIR gearmotors range from 1/30 to 1/2 horsepower, with output torques from 12 to 800 in-lbs. DC models include 12 V and 90 V permanent magnet motors, as well as a 115 V universal motors. AC models are available with 115 V and 230 V inputs in permanent split capacitor, split phase, shaded pole and universal motor designs.
 
The new Von Weise Drop-In Replacements from Bison Gear are U.L. and CSA recognized and supported by Bison's solid application and design engineering support to customize standard models to meet specific OEM needs.

"Over the past 24 months, we were approached by a growing number of customers requiring shorter lead times for these types of gearmotors and we have responded by tooling up this complete VWDIR line that is now in full production in our St. Charles, Ill. facility," said John Morehead, Bison Gear VP, strategic planning & marketing.

For more information visit www.bisongear.com

ACS Motion Controllers Provide Sub-Nanometer Resolution

Providing sub-nanometer position resolution without compromising speed or throughput, ACS Motion Control's SPiiPlus and MC4U multi-axis motion controllers feature a powerful Sin-Cos encoder multiplier that enables accurate, high-resolution positioning while reducing jitter and settling times.

The SPiiPlus Sin-Cos encoder multiplier features 1Vptp differential inputs that use a maximum theoretical Sin-Cos encoder multiplication factor of 65,536 to achieve the required high resolution of today's demanding motion applications. With input frequencies rated up to 2.5 MHz, the achievable maximum velocity is not dependant on the selected multiplication factor enabling the use of ultra high-resolution laser feedback devices.

"When high-speed and nanometer axis position resolutions are required, OEMs have been limited to expensive laser interferometer feedback systems. With our internal SPiiPlus Sin-Cos encoder multiplier, users now have a much less expensive alternative by using an analog Sin-Cos encoder solution," said Evan Reed, ACS vice president.

The SPiiPlus PCI and linear drives were tested on a high performance XY table used for wafer inspection with Sin-Cos encoder resolutions of 4 nm (250 lines per mm). Using a multiplication factor of 8,192, ACS engineers measured a jitter of ±2 encoder counts, which is equivalent to ~1nm. At this high resolution, the axis achieved velocities up to one meter per second.
 
For more information visit www.acsmotioncontrol.com

Interroll’s Redesigned Drum Motor Improves Efficiency and Safety in Food Processing Applications

Providing a high performance, space-saving motor drive solution, Interroll's redesigned Drum Motor 127i features an internal gearing system with a 97 percent efficiency that lowers energy consumption and reduces noise levels while operating at full capacity.

Well suited for OEMs of specialty machinery, automation integrators, plant engineers and end-users in the food processing industry, the thermally protected 127i Drum Motor meets IP67 protection standards and features spring-loaded and labyrinth seals that prevent contamination and oil loss in conveying systems that operate in food processing and high demand industries.

The internal gearing system features no external moving parts, making the Drum Motor 127i safe and quiet.

"Our new Drum Motor 127i is a self-contained unit that requires less electrical power than other standard drives and reduces frictional losses between the motor and gearbox," said Ken Cowlin, Interroll national director sales and marketing. "The 127i is a safer, higher-performing, space-saving solution that handles higher work loads and drives longer belt conveyors with increased product weights."

The Drum Motor 127i features a space-saving design available with 3-phase motors for designers who are searching for a simple component that minimizes space in driving systems.

Interroll's Drum Motor 127i has a conveying speed up to 315 fpm with 1.0 HP. The drum motor can operate in temperatures up to 104°F and is virtually maintenance free, with oil changes are recommended every 20,000 hours.

The Drum Motor 127i is available with numerous options, including; a stainless steel exterior, rubbing lagging, mechanical backstop, parallel shell (no crown), sprocket mounting and matching idler pulleys.

For more information visit www.interroll.us

New Heidenhain DRO Systems for Gauging Give More Options to Network

Answering the demand for a single-axis position display that could be more fully integrated into a machine data transfer network, Heidenhain has introduced the new ND 200 Series Digital Readouts (DROs). This display series hosts multiple inputs, is flexible in its configuration, is suitable for future absolute length gauges and features comprehensive functions. 

The new single-axis ND 200 DROs come in two variants: the ND 280 featuring standard functions (with monochrome flat screen) to fulfill many measuring tasks and the ND 287 (with color flat screen) which is modular in design and allows up to four inputs. This feature allows toggling between multiple gauges, sensors and encoders.

Within the Heidenhain ND 287, three additional axis modules are incorporated. Two of them are analog which permit the connection of analog sensors (such as temperature and pressure) and purely serial EnDat 2.2 units which allows for the connection and full use of absolute encoders. Also, this DRO can be integrated into the Ethernet facilitating remote monitoring.

SPC (Statistical Process Control) is now also available on the Heidenhain 287, allowing the ability to write up to 10,000 measured values to an internal memory and evaluate them statistically.

Both the new ND 200s come equipped with a card for gauge hookup (common use) and are an improvement over past Heidenhain single-axis DROs as they sport new features. Among these are the ability to design functional equations to manage interconnected operations of multiple axes and soft keys, which provide many benefits with regard to operation and parameter setting. These units can display both linear and angle/rotary encoders, as well reading distance-coded reference marks. Encoders with EnDat 2.2 can be connected to both.

The height and width of the both units result from the requirement that they be suitable for installation in a 19-inch rack. This makes it possible to mount two position displays side by side in an electrical cabinet of this standard.

For more information visit www.heidenhain.com

Parker Compax3M Servo Drive is Designed Especially for Multi-axis Applications

Parker’s Electromechanical Automation Division, a supplier of motion control technology, has announced that its Compax3 family of industrial servo drives is expanding with the inclusion of a version especially designed for multi-axis applications.

With the Compax3M, the Compax3 family comprises devices for single axis in the low- and medium-power ranges (Compax3S up to 30A), devices for the high-power range (Compax3H up to 155A) and now for multi-axis application, the Compax3M (C3M).

Among the advantages users of the Compax3M will enjoy:
·  The ability to power multiple drives with a single power supply
·  Cost savings in applications requiring multiple axes
·  Considerable savings of cabinet space as axes are added
·  Less time spent wiring
·  The ability to share a single braking resistor across all axes
·  Simplified communications

Users can take their choice from among three Compax3M power levels. The continuous current output of these models is 5, 10 and 15 A respectively. A 30 A device will be available in the fall.

Thanks to the operation of the centralized power supply, differing AC mains voltages can be used on the entire drive combination without implementing adaptive measures. This is perfect for companies that ship machines globally and do not want the hassle of selecting a different drive family.

The Compax3’s size offers considerable advantages for multi-axis applications. With an axis width of 2 inches for the 5, 10 and 15 A power stages and 4 inches for the upcoming 30 A power stage, the Compax3M is the slimmest servo drive available on the market. Additionally, because of the common bus design, the overall wiring overhead is greatly reduced. Users can also take advantage of a single braking resistor and mains filter.

Like all other devices in the Compax3 family, the C3M can be used with Parker’s ETHERNET Powerlink-enabled multi-axis controller. The multi-axis nature of the C3M is well suited for those high-axis-count applications using this Ethernet motionbus and the ACR9040 for up to 16 axes of tightly integrated motion control. In addition, optional fieldbus interfaces are available: DeviceNet, Profibus and CANopen.

The communication is handled at the central power module with a USB connection. The power module then transmits the commutations signal to each of the following axis units. A multi-axis version of the ServoManager software is not standard.

The Compax3M can be configured to be either a simple “dumb” drive controlled by a motion controller or can be configured as a fully intelligent drive product that can be programmed in all international standard languages defined in the IEC61131-3 specification.

Finally, the Compax3M integrates certified safety according to EN ISO 12849 PL = d Cat. 3. This feature is included on all Compax3M products with advanced safety as an option coming soon.
 
For more information visit www.parkermotion.com

Miniature Linear Drive from Sprint Electric Provides Motor Control for Sub-Sea Inspection Device

200XLV

Sonomatic Ltd. manufactures a number of specialized non-destructive scanners. They have used the Sprint Electric 200XLV low voltage linear DC drive to improve the accuracy of their Nautilus scanner.

The Nautilus scanner is a diver-deployed automated ultrasonic system that can operate in depths of up to 250 meters. The Nautilus scanner is designed to adapt to an in-situ mineral or gas pipe junction, or an existing pipe to monitor the quality of a new weld, or the condition of an existing pipe. These can be on land, shipboard or sub-sea. The sub-sea applications present the most demanding technical conditions.

Sonomatic has developed technology to overcome the difficult task of adding a new pipe junction (hot tap) to oil and gas pipelines on the sea bed.

A habitat is constructed around the hot tap site, approximately the size of a transportation container. The habitat is filled with a mixture of helium and oxygen to allow the divers to enter and work in a dry environment. The divers can work up to 150 meters under water, so providing these habitats is a major achievement itself.

With the Nautilus scanner fitted to the hot tap, Sonomatic technicians carry out inspection and analysis using Sonomatic’s Microplus Digital Imaging System. Data is sent from the Nautilus scanner to the technicians through a 250 meter long umbilical cable. The data allows accurate mapping and analysis of the condition of the new pipe junction’s weld.

Sonomatic chose the Sprint Electric 200XLV linear drive to provide the low voltage DC control for the Nautilus’ axis motors. Typically one motor would drive the circumferential axis to track around the pipe; the other would drive the axial axis which moves the scanner head in and out whilst rotating around the pipe.

The 200XLV was chosen because of its low noise signature. The low level electrical signals produced by the scanner make them very susceptible to electrical interference, especially when the signal cables are alongside power cables in the umbilical cable bundle. The 200XLV reduces the need for heavy filtering of the drive and motor cables over conventional PWM devices.

Sprint Electric’s 200XLV is a miniature, fast response DC motor speed controller typically used for driving brushed DC motors, gear-motors, low inductance printed motors and linear actuators rated up to 100W. It is well suited for low power applications such as robotic control and antenna or security camera drives that rely on an unregulated DC or battery supply up to 48 V. Offering high bandwidth and a superbly linear, noise free output, the 200XLV is suited for control of linear actuators. Despite measuring 40 mm wide, 82 mm high and 50 mm deep, the 200XLV is a genuine four quadrant drive that can motor and brake in both directions of rotation to offer quality control of motor speed and torque.

For more information visit www.sprint-electric.com

maxon motor Expands its Range of Brushed DC Motors
Powerful DC motor RE 65

As with all maxon motor’s mechanically commutated drives, the heart of the RE 65 is the ironless rotor. This means that the drive works detent-free and has minimal rotor inertia. High torques and very quick acceleration times are produced in combination with the four-pole structure of the Neodymium permanent magnets.

Depending on the winding variation, the cylindrical drive, at 65 mm diameter and 130 mm length, delivers nominal torque of 0.5 to 0.9 Nm - at a nominal speed of 2,400 - 3,700 rpm. The power density is therefore more than double compared to existing drives. The RE65 can reach efficiency levels of up to 90%. Combined with low nominal voltages in the 18 - 70 V range, the motor is ideally suited for battery-powered use, such as in electrical vehicles, transport and logistics equipment, mobile robots, etc.

Preloaded ball bearings support low-vibration and low-noise operation, offering the best conditions for a long service life in conjunction with graphite brushes. maxon’s established modular system can provide matching planetary drives, encoders and controllers to suit every specific application for the RE 65. This new drive is ideally suited for all kinds of applications in automation, engineering or medical technology.

For more information visit www.maxonmotor.com

2009 Motor, Drive & Automation Systems Conference
March 3-4, 2009
Hilton Disney / Orlando, Florida
http://www.e-driveonline.com/Conf-09/motors_conf09_index.php

Contact Jeremy Martin regarding speaking opportunities.
jeremym@infowebcom.com

September 2008
    8-13
    IMTS, Chicago, Ill.

    17-18
    Embedded Power Conference, San Jose, Calif.

    22-25
    Assembly Tech Expo, Chicago, Ill.

    22-25
    National Manufacturing Week, Chicago, Ill.

2008 IUV Technology Conference
September 16-17, 2008
Lincolnshire, IL

Don't Miss the Opportunity!

Take part in the 2008 IUV Technology Conference: ‘Emerging New Technologies in Design & Engineering for a Challenging World’, taking place on September 16 & 17 at the Lincolnshire Marriott in Lincolnshire, IL.

This two-day conference features exhibits, panel discussions and in-depth seminars addressing the latest developments in system solutions, engineering, alternate fuels and motive power, plus materials handling with regard to small task-oriented vehicles. Emphasis will be placed on the critical need for increased efficiencies in end product manufacturing and operations.  Additionally, the latest advancements in components, controls, and instrumentation for mobile equipment will be on display in our exhibit area. The IUV Technology Conference is a unique networking opportunity. 

BOOK your Conference Registration and Hotel ONLINE NOW and SAVE at: www.iuvconference.com

Embedded Power Conference
September 17-18, 2008
San Jose, CA. 

Embedded Design Magazine and PlanetAnalog.com have launched a conference where power is a front of mind consideration!  Targeted content directly applicable to embedded engineers handling line powered systems such as rack and bank servers.  Over two days, engineers can experience over 50 courses and sessions divided into four tracks including: heat management, software, system-level & backplane supply and circuit level power.   At its core, The Embedded Power Conference is about presenting power solutions to engineers that they are not aware of.  Register today for best rates! 

For more information, visit www.Embedded.com/Power.

Design Engineering Show and Conference at National Manufacturing Week
September 23-25, 2008
Rosemont, IL

Few investments in time deliver the return you’ll receive by attending Design Engineering at National Manufacturing Week.  Design Engineering is the only event that connects you with the systems, products, and solutions for the entire manufacturing enterprise. Meet knowledgeable suppliers and find the fresh ideas and new technologies you need to remain competitive in today’s global marketplace. Register online today for complimentary expo hall admission and your visitor badge includes access to nine industry-related shows taking place under one roof. Innovation in advanced design and manufacturing starts here!
 www.ManufacturingWeek.com

For Advertising information, contact Sue Hannebrink at
sueh@infowebcom.com or 330-725-5812.

For Editorial submissions, contact Jeremy Martin at
jeremym@infowebcom.com or 800-803-9488 x118.

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