Featuring an integral accelerometer, the new Heidenhain ECI 123 Splus rotary encoder enables position measurement and vibration analysis in a single component. This added functionality simplifies condition monitoring and maintenance planning in high-wear automated systems.

Detecting vibration early on is vital for achieving smooth processes, optimal results and long service life in high-performance automation systems. The earlier the detection, the easier it is to prevent scrap, machine damage and system downtime. By integrating an accelerometer into a rotary encoder, Heidenhain is offering a new and convenient solution for detecting and analysing vibrations on rotating machine elements.

Users of the ECI 123 Splus benefit from combined motion control and condition monitoring on their rotating machine elements. Linking vibration data with position feedback makes it easier to determine the type and location of the vibration’s source. And for even more condition data, the ECI 123 Splus supports up to three connected external temperature sensors. The system reliably transmits all data for further processing via an EnDat 3 interface. This combination of functionality saves on additional vibration sensors while simplifying cabling and installation.

So how does it work? Well, the ECI 123 Splus measures machine vibration using a built-in three-axis accelerometer and a microcontroller for on-device analysis, including initial analysis for up to 64 orders. For Subsequent analysis, the encoder’s EnDat 3 interface transmits the purely serial data to the user’s downstream electronics. There, OEMs can segregate their analysis based on timing, type, trigger, speed range and measured axis, and monitor data over time for changes to the relevant orders.

For further information www.heidenhain.com

Nikon IMBU is releasing AI Reconstruction, a 3D computed tomography (CT) reconstruction software solution powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that eliminates the traditional trade-off between scan speed and image quality. By applying deep learning (DL) techniques to enhance image quality, Nikon’s breakthrough technology enables rapid results and superior analysis. Traditionally, CT users had to pick between fast, lower quality scans or slow, higher quality scans. Quick scans promote the possibility of missing important details, whereas slow scans lead to the scanning of fewer items.

AI Reconstruction lifts these limits through AI enhancement tailored to individual customer needs by Nikon’s applications engineering team. The DL modelling underpinning AI Reconstruction is trained to distinguish relevant information from the scan artefacts to filter noise and improve clarity.

“Nikon’s latest breakthrough in AI-enhanced 3D reconstruction represents a fundamental change for industrial CT,” says Chris Price, product manager with Nikon for X-ray and CT systems. “By lifting the speed-quality trade-off, AI Reconstruction provides both rapid results and superior image clarity, unlocking a new level of scan flexibility for users. This technology leap helps testing and quality teams enhance throughput and precision like never before. The dramatically sharper image quality reveals tiny product flaws that previously required painstaking scans, while faster scan speeds let users reliably analyse many more units per day.”

Examples of where this technology will demonstrate a profound impact include the automotive, aerospace and manufacturing sectors, as well as the medical device industry. In these markets and others, meticulous quality control via precise metrology is essential for product safety.

AI Reconstruction complies with the European Union’s ‘Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence’.

For further information https://industry.nikon.com

Augmented AI pioneer, QualiSense, is entering into a new deal with Johnson Electric to supply quality inspection systems for dozens of new manufacturing lines. The lines will produce millions of magnets per day: key components in electric motors for use by leading automotive OEMs.

Each production line includes multiple cameras, which will inspect two magnets per second. Johnson Electric selected QualiSense software because of its augmented AI technology, which allows fast and swift deployment thanks to knowledge transfer between different lines. Also, it has an ability to deal with complex surfaces and non-recurring defects present on the magnets.

The agreement is an extension of QualiSense’s continued partnership with Johnson Electric. Earlier this year, the two companies entered into a five-year deal to become the preferred software vendor for inspection and quality control using augmented AI technology.

“This agreement is a reflection of our successful collaboration with QualiSense, whose technology gives the highest level of performance and precision, ensuring no defect goes undetected,” says Austin Wang, senior vice president at Johnson Electric. “QualiSense’s Augmented AI allows us to deploy new production lines quickly that reflect our quality requirements and commitment to customers. For the Johnson Electric team, the technology allows us to save time and make quick model changes whenever needed.”

Erez Tsur, CEO and co-founder of QualiSense, adds: “The speed at which QualiSense’s technology is able to inspect millions of parts is one of the key reasons why companies like Johnson Electric choose us as their preferred software partner. On top of this, we’re committed to ensuring that we offer the highest level of reliability, which is essential for any business supplying to tier one OEMs.”

For further information www.qualisense.ai