New programmable controller for thickness and coplanarity measurement 

Micro-Epsilon's powerful, flexible programmable controller enables the real time processing (up to 100kHz) of up to six input and output signals from the company's displacement sensors.

The controller is ideal for thickness, height, roundness, flatness or coplanarity measurements, where signals from multiple displacement sensors need to be synchronised and processed in real time. All processing is carried out internally by Micro-Epsilon's in-house developed electronics unit.

The new CSP2008 universal controller is able to process up to six digital or analogue input signals: two internal (via the front panel), plus four external signals via plug-in Ethercat modules. Ethercat can also be used as an external interface for connecting further sensors and I/O modules.

The controller's unique, simple to use, intuitive interface enables the user to configure the unit via a PC or laptop using the Ethernet interface. All user-selectable functions on the controller and measured values can be viewed, displayed and stored in real time via the user's own web browser, without having to install any third party software. Alternatively, simple configuration can be carried out using ASCII commands via the RS422 interface.

Automatic sensor recognition means that sensor connection is straightforward and fast. Sensors can be configured using buttons via the front panel and displayed on the controller or via a laptop. The CSP2008 is even upgradeable, with users able to use additional I/O modules for specific applications.

Chris Jones, Managing Director at Micro-Epsilon (UK) Ltd comments: "The CSP2008 is really a breakthrough in calculating differential measurements very simply, without complex calibration or PLC programming. Previously, the user would need a PLC or even a PC to calculate these types of measurements. This added complexity and necessitated having to write a user-specific programme. Using the CSP2008 saves time, money and software development - it's all pre-configured and ready to go!"

The controller has a 52mm x 30mm, high luminance, colour graphics display, which enables measured values to be read easily from a distance of up to two metres. Mounting is also straightforward using DIN rail TS 35.

The controller is also compact and lightweight, measuring approximately 146 x 97 x 70mm at a weight of just 500g. The unit is protected to IP40 and can operate from 0 to 50 deg C.

For further information on custom designed static/reaction torque transducers, email: info@micro-epsilon.co.uk   Refer to page 55

Britain's biggest fire cracker

47 times the power of Jenson's F1 Car, Britain's biggest hybrid rocket was fired for the first time this weekend amid secrecy in the Mojave Desert - where the US tests many of its secret military aircraft.

On Saturday 17th October a team of experts, led by 25 year old rocket engineer Daniel Jubb successfully fired a unique prototype hybrid rocket, designed specially to power the BLOODHOUND Super Sonic Car through the sound barrier to 1,000 mph. It is the most advanced hybrid rocket ever created in the UK.

The BLOODHOUND combustion chamber is 14 feet long and weighs in at 400kg, the same length as a Formula 1 car and a little lighter, producing 17,500 lbs (77.8 kN) of thrust and 25 feet of flame during its ten second burn time. This is the equivalent of 47 times the power of Jenson Button's Brawn GP world championship winning car. When fully developed, the rocket will generate an incredible 27,500 lbs (122 kN) equivalent to 133,000 bhp.

The successful rocket firing marks a significant milestone in the development of the BLOODHOUND Project. The rocket forms one of the three power plants the car will employ to reach its 1,000 mph top speed. The others are a Euro Fighter Typhoon jet engine and an 800 bhp MCT V12 race engine - used to drive the HTP rocket oxidizer pump.

The BLOODHOUND Project aims to inspire future generations to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics by showcasing these
subjects in the most exciting way possible.

The rocket development programme started in March 2008 with small scale 6" rockets and is now in the final and most spectacular stage. The tests are used to refine the way the rocket burns. "We now know that we can safely control a hybrid rocket to produce the required amount of thrust" said Jubb. "Now that we have completed the first firing we can commence with a rigorous programme of testing to refine the way the rocket burns. This is ground breaking science which will have applications in all areas of rocketry."

For further information,  e-mail: jules.tipler@mission-21.com or view website: www.bloodhoundssc.com/car/rocket_propulsion.cfm

ANSMANN maxE/maxE+ range of long-lasting
rechargeable NiMH batteries for industrial portable equipment

ANSMANN, the specialist manufacturer of batteries, battery chargers and power supplies for industrial, consumer and hobby applications, has launched the maxE/maxE+ range of long-lasting rechargeable NiMH batteries that are ideal for use in industrial portable equipment applications. 

Typically, rechargeable batteries have not been used in industrial portable equipment due to their annoying characteristic of rapidly self-discharging in just a few weeks, making it necessary to regularly re-charge batteries before equipment can be used, particularly if its use is infrequent. However, the very low self-discharge feature of the maxE/maxE+ batteries, which remain 85% charged even after a year, overcomes this problem, making them suitable for a whole range of industrial portable applications for which only traditional throw-away alkaline batteries would have previously been used.

Pre-charged for immediate, out-of-the-packet use, the maxE/maxE+ batteries are available in seven different sizes including the 'famous five' - AAA, AA, C, D and 9V E block. SubC and flat-top AA sizes are also available for use in battery pack assembly.  The maxE batteries support a maximum charge current of up to 1200mAh and can be re-charged in a standard charger.  To provide even higher capacities maxE+ batteries are available in AA (2500mAh) and E block (250mAh) formats.

"The maxE/maxE+ rechargeable battery range offers all the advantages of standard rechargeable batteries but with the very low self-discharge and ready-to-use features of traditional alkaline batteries," said Paul Channell, Managing Director of ANSMANN Energy (UK) Ltd.  "They are ideally suited for use in industrial portable equipment applications where the use of rechargeable battery technology may previously have been spurned. As such, they deliver particularly important eco-cost benefits."

For further information contact, Paul Channell, Managing Director, ANSMANN Energy (UK), e-mail: pchannell@ansmann.co.uk  Refer to page 113

Brad PLC/PAC communication modules from Molex
now supported within Integrated Architecture Builder

Molex Incorporated (NASDAQ: MOLX and MOLXA) now offer Brad® PLC/PAC communication modules for the ControlLogix* and SLC* 500 systems to support within Rockwell Automation's Integrated Architecture* Builder (IAB).

System designers can now specify Brad modules as they define the automation system bill of material (BOM) using IAB," said Michael Frayne, product manager, network interfaces, Molex Incorporated. "We wanted to ensure our customers could create a complete automation system BOM with communication modules to save them time and money."

IAB is a graphical software tool for configuring Logix-based automation systems. It helps users select hardware and generate BOMs for applications that include controllers, I/O, networks, PowerFlex* drives, OnMachine cabling and wiring, motion control and other devices.

Outputs of the communication modules include BOMs and reports with quality graphics. Two versions of the reports are available for download. The full version includes all files and the second version is fully functional, but does not include the product documentation and is smaller to download. After downloading the reports, users can get the product documentation via Current Update if desired. Internet Explorer is required for download.

Molex and Brad are registered trademarks of Molex Incorporated
*ContolLogix, SLC 500, PowerFlex and Integrated Architecture are trademarks or registered trademarks of Rockwell Automation.

All other products and company names herein may be trademarks of their registered owners.

For further information on the IAB and other Brad products, view website: www.molex.com/shows/rockwell.html   Refer to page 33