Wireless robotics: where less is definitely more. Ever yearned for a wireless communication system for your robotics? Fed up with cables and their associated breakages and disconnections? Want lower installation and maintenance costs? Well, wireless robotics is now a reality. In fact, it’s been here for some time, providing totally reliable, noise-resistant communication at a growing number of manufacturers that have adopted the completely unique Wireless Unit from SMC. To help anyone who is still hesitant about wireless communication technology, Juanjo Jubete, Wireless Unit Product Specialist, at SMC Spain, addresses a number of common concerns in this short Q&A.   By Juanjo Jubete, Wireless Unit Product Specialist, SMC Spain MARCH 2022 Q1. How can potential users overcome their fear of the unknown in terms of wireless reliability? A1. It’s a common misconception that wireless is not as reliable as wired, but how many wireless systems have we got functioning in our homes? Headsets, landline phone handsets, car keys and computer keyboards to list but a few. Wireless communication technology has become so robust that most of us take it for granted, so why not let our industrial systems take advantage too? In the seven years since the launch of our Wireless Unit, we’ve had no notable problems reported. It has even been standardised as reliable communication equipment at leading manufacturers in the automotive industry. Q2. What if my IT department is reluctant to accept the addition of new external wireless networks, thinking that they may conflict with internal network packets? A2. It’s important to note that our wireless equipment only sends information when necessary, not constantly, in very small network packets. Furthermore, the system incorporates FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) technology, which has been widely proven for many years to work without problems in areas where several devices transmit information in the same bandwidth simultaneously. All of these factors help to ensure robust and reliable communication. Q3. Will wireless communication equipment perform stably and reliably in environments where there is a high level of electromagnetic noise, such as spot welding? A3. The origins of the product’s development are in the automotive sector, whose natural habitat is a sea of electromagnetic noise derived from motors, inverters, heaters, spot-welding equipment, RFIDs and so on. There’s no danger of the equipment being susceptible to failure due to electromagnetic noise. In fact, we know that it’s far more immune to noise than copper communication, almost behaving like fibre optics, but without the associated high costs and delicate care requirements. Q4. What are the optimal industrial applications for wireless communications technology? A4. Although suitable for all industrial sectors, most of the applications to date have been for robots and robot peripherals. The power packs found in systems such as robots and turntables subject the communication cables they carry to extreme twists and turns, eventually causing them to fatigue and break. The result is random system stoppages that often take extensive time to identify and repair, and which will ultimately reappear as they are endemic. With wireless, we can basically eliminate any cables that carry electrical control signals. Part positioning and orientation - Pick & Place - SMC´s EX600 Wireless Unit Q5. Can you set out the most important wireless benefits? A5. Adopting a wireless solution avoids unproductive stoppages derived from loose or broken communication cables or bad contacts. It also avoids failures caused by electromagnetic noise thanks to the better immunity of wireless communication. In addition, cost savings result as there is no longer any need for ultra-flexible cables, special swivel joints, highly protected connectors and so on. SMC´s Wireless Unit – EX600-W Series  

SMC customers can feel the full force of its electric actuator range thanks to ongoing investment in its product portfolio that now delivers total movement and control for any application. SMC has stepped up a gear to give its customers freedom of movement and control with its wide range of electric actuators and controllers that now offer a total solution and greater adaptability across a variety of applications. Workpieces can be moved in any direction and at a variety of speeds and loads thanks to the full range of mechanics and controllers available from SMC. “At SMC we work closely with our customers and respond to their needs.  Today, we offer a complete series of mechanics and controllers so our customers have the freedom of choice to move workpieces in any which way they need.  Importantly, they don’t have to adapt to our products; our products are designed to adapt to their needs,” said a spokesperson from SMC. SMC’s series of mechanics have been developed for environmental resistance, and include basic designs to those that are built to cope with specialist conditions, such as, clean room specifications, dust-tight/water-jet-proof or secondary battery compatible. Further flexibility is achieved with the introduction of SMC’s LE motorless, which is ideal for operators who require the mechanics but prefer to use their own motors.  Alternatively, operators can opt for a pre-configured and fully-equipped solution that, with just one part number, gives them a complete package featuring all the essential components from mechanics and control to wiring. Handing total control to customers, SMC has also developed a range of controllers to complement the mechanics on offer.  The portfolio offers digital I/O commanded controllers, whereby operators can achieve direct parametrization at the controller, and the choice of DC servo/step, with programless or step by step programming, or AC servo motors. Taking its controllers to the next level to give additional direct network connectivity to a range of protocols, including the key players EtherNet/IP™, PROFINET and ETHERCAT, SMC has introduced the JXC*1 and JXC*3 fieldbus command controllers. Whilst the JXC*1 controls one actuator, the JXC*3 can control up to four devices and allows for synchronization or arc/linear interpolation. The JXC*3 offers two models – one commanded by parallel digital I/O and the other commanded by Fieldbus technology and compatible with EtherNet/IP™. This combined advanced functionality and remote control and diagnosis, means that SMC’s electric actuators are the ideal partners for the Industry 4.0 scenario, helping customers to deliver the smart factory concept.  “There is no doubt that, for those who are moving towards Industry 4.0, SMC offers the smart solutions for smart factories.  We work in partnership with our customers and our electric actuator and controller range has been developed to meet their requirements and give them the freedom of movement and control they require.” concluded SMC spokesperson. To find out more about SMC’s electric actuator and controller range visit www.smc.eu.

Static electricity is an invisible but costly problem for manufacturers that can cause both production issues and lower quality products. This issue can only get worse as winter sets in and temperatures plummet, warns SMC. However, the company is offering customers a cure for the winter blues with a series of ionizers to neutralise the build-up of static.   Cold air holds less water vapour, which means the atmosphere is less conductive and encourages static electrical conditions.  In response, SMC has developed a full suite of ionizers that not only offer antistatic solutions, but are also suitable for dust removal and dust collection leading to reduced production costs, improved performance, increased efficiency and improved safety.  A spokesperson from SMC said: “Poor static control is still an issue for many operators who lose out financially due to high levels of rejection rates, poor product quality and unreliable processes.  Cooler winter conditions can make this problem worse, and we’d encourage customers to take preventative action now. “Our ionizers offer simple solutions that deliver effective static control for numerous applications.  “Thanks to SMC’s global reach, our clients benefit from complete and specialist solutions, so they can concentrate on more pressing production needs.”  SMC’s antistatic products include the bar type IZS that remove electrostatic from both flat and remote surfaces.  Available in three different models, the IZS40 is very simple to use with an ON/OFF only power function.  The IZS41 has a feedback sensor that features both an energy saving and continuous neutralisation run mode.  The Dual AC type IZS42, has reduced potential amplitude of 25 V or less.  It’s easy to adjust and reduces maintenance time thanks to an auto balance sensor that is built-in as standard.  For those seeking a handheld fan type ionizer, the IZF is designed to operate without the need for compressed air supply. The IZF21/31 has an ion balance of ±5 V and an optional adjustable louver to change the static neutralisation area.  It’s highly functional, with the option for automatic cleaning and flow rate adjustment.  A filter can be added to prevent foreign matter from entering the motor that helps avoid a short-circuit occurring between emitters.  A quiet alternative is the IZF10, which includes a low noise model of just 48 dB(A) and an electrode needle contamination detector. Operators working in confined spaces or on small pieces can opt for the IZN nozzle type that removes both electrostatic and dust.  There are various nozzles to choose from for different applications, ranging from standard to high flow. Finally, SMC also offers a fully integrated solution that allows operators to box up their dust and static issues.  The ZVB Box manages static neutralisation, dust removal and dust collection in a single box by using nozzle type ionizers.  Other outstanding features include emitters that are easy to remove, replace and clean and an optional photoelectric sensor reflecting plate for automatic workpiece detection. SMC is the world leading expert in pneumatics and offers over 12,000 basic products with over 700,000 variations. The company has a diverse customer base covering all automation industries. For more information, please visit www.smc.eu

The MACM is a new centring unit from SMC that helps to align and position heavy workpieces on the move, so manufacturers can install and operate more compact conveyor lines. Manufacturers seeking solutions to help save space and energy need look no further than SMC’s latest centring unit. The MACM helps to align and position workpieces up to 1,000 kg on conveyor lines, so smaller cylinders can be used. Further advantages of the MACM are achieved by its flexibility, as it can move in any direction and rotate transferrable workpieces 360°, while maintaining ±1 or less centring accuracy. A spokesperson from SMC, the world’s leading expert in pneumatics, said: “Space and energy usage are key challenges for manufacturers and the MACM has been designed to help our customers achieve savings in these areas and operate more compact and efficient conveyor lines.” Other features of the MACM include a built-in air locking mechanism and the option of mounting an external photo sensor to offer greater control during the process. Further usage benefits are achieved with the choice of three table materials and a table centre movable range up to Ø100 mm, which makes the MACM ideal for general automation and material handling plants.

Pneumatic cylinders: drive energy efficiency by switching to 4 bar operating pressure. Climate change, sustainability and energy efficiency have never been so high on the political agenda. The UN’s recent Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, UK brought the world’s political leaders, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), businesses and scientists together with the aim of accelerating action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. The question for those of us at the industrial machinery level, is how can we contribute? Today, I see a new generation of engineers keen on influencing the industrial world in a positive way, creating machines that attain new levels of energy efficiency to help protect the Earth for future generations.   By Séamus Dunne, Actuator Section Technical Manager, SMC European Technical Centre JANUARY 2022 By designing industrial machinery and systems for an operating pressure of 4 bar, rather than 7 bar, end users can cut their energy consumption by up to 29%. With such an enormous environmental benefit on offer, the question is how to turn this idea into reality? SMC’s Industry Projects Manager for Europe, Andy Still, has extensive experience in this area. Check out his article on energy efficiency: ‘Release the pressure’. Here at SMC, thinking about our energy-saving products, we offer both ISO and non-ISO cylinders; each has its own attributes and advantages. ISO cylinders prove beneficial in a variety of different applications which, in addition to their consistency in dimensions (regardless of pneumatic supplier), is why they remain popular for industrial machinery projects around the world. However, if you really want to push energy efficiency to new levels, I’d suggest that non-ISO solutions are the product of choice. Our engineers in Japan are always looking to design more efficient alternatives in order to drive down energy consumption and help OEMs create more sustainable solutions. We believe that more compact and lighter is the way forward for those seeking ultra-efficient solutions. Less material means lighter machines and lower shipping costs. Smaller products ultimately lead to smaller machine footprints. More machine lines can be installed into factories increasing productivity. And, although I can’t state that lighter and smaller always translates into less air consumption, fitting such components to moving parts of the machine can translate into less energy consumption. To give you an idea of the difference between ISO and non-ISO, here’s one example: compared with the SMC C96-C ISO cylinder (50 mm bore, 100 mm stroke), the length of our new JMB series demonstrates an 18% length reduction, while width is 9% less and weight is 39% lighter. Notably, it is possible to deliver air consumption savings through the use of intermediate bore sizes. For instance, to move a workpiece with a weight of 37 kg, a cylinder with a bore diameter of 43 mm or more is required (if operating at 5 bar pressure). Previously, a conventional 50 mm diameter bore would have been the closest option since the next smallest size, 40 mm, has insufficient output. However, with the newly released JMB cylinder in 45 mm diameter bore, sufficient output is available while also saving air due to a 0.4 L (ANR) reduction in air consumption compared with the 50 mm variant. SMC´s JMB Series – Offers intermediate bores Customers frequently tell me they want more compact cylinders that still offer optimal performance while also reducing energy requirements. Unfortunately, achieving these optimisations and the high levels of energy consumption savings that the climate crisis demands, is extremely difficult within the constraints of ISO 15552. Although we of course continue supporting customers with an extensive range of ISO cylinders and options, we’re advancing the development of other cylinder ranges - such as our JMB series - to satisfy market demand for more compact and energy-efficient products. We are at a time of critical decision-making for the entire planet. Let’s make the right choices. Additional graphical data Air consumption can be reduced by optimal size selection EXAMPLE In order to move a workpiece with a weight of 37 kg, a bore size of Ø 43 or more is required. Previously, a Ø 50 bore size would have been the closest option since the next smallest size, the Ø 40, has insufficient output. However, with the newly released bore size of Ø 45, sufficient output can be obtained while also saving air due to a 0.4 L (ANR) reduction in air consumption compared with the Ø 50.   ∗ Conditions/Supply pressure: 0.5 MPa, Load factor: 50 % Current bore size output NOTE 1 - Supply pressure: 0.5 MPa, Load factor: 50 % When the intermediary bore size of Ø 45 is used NOTE 1 - Supply pressure: 0.5 MPa, Load factor: 50 % AIR CONSUMPTION - Ø 50: 2.2 L (ANR) − Ø 45: 1.8 L (ANR) = 0.4 L (ANR) 18 % reduction Air cylinder and ISO 15552 Cylinder dimension & weight comparison Compared at ø63-200 mm stroke  For CO2 emissions reductions of our ISO cylinders versus their Non ISO alternatives, please check the Sustainable Management of CO2 catalogue here.

SMC – LEADING EXPERTS WITH A PASSION FOR INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION. SMC is pursuing worldwide customer satisfaction supporting automation through the most advanced technologies. Founded in April 1959 in Tokyo, Japan, SMC Corporation today employs over 20,800 talented employees in 83 countries worldwide. The SMC Group entered the pneumatics market back in 1959 and, since then, we have evolved, together with our customers’ requirements, to build a comprehensive automated control equipment portfolio. 12,000 basic models with over 700,000 variations, designed to provide you with greater competitiveness. Although listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange since 1989, our most important asset resides in our strong technical expertise. Five technical centres, 2 of them located in Europe (UK & Germany) staffed with 1,600 dedicated engineers, vouch for our technical drive. Technical support that translates into the development of ad-hoc solutions to help tackle your challenges. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of our mission; constant communication with our market is the mechanism. 8,700 sales engineers comprise a highly trained sales team that supports and strives to find the best to solution for you.

SMC has extended its multi-axes control step motor controller range, with the launch of the JXC92. This new unit can control up to three electric actuators simultaneously, creating a range of savings and simplifying the process in terms of equipment, wiring, space and programming. SMC has stepped up interpolation performance and speed tuning control credentials for its leading range of LE electric actuators with the launch of its JXC92. This multi-axes control delivers programming and equipment savings as it can manage three actuators from the one device, instead of having to use a trio of controllers to perform the same task. It complements SMC’s JXC*3, which controls four axes at once, and shares its EtherNet/IP™ compatibility, making them both valid solutions for industrial environments. A spokesperson from SMC, the world’s leading expert in pneumatics, said: “Our customers are looking for solutions that make processes simpler and save time, space and overall costs. The JXC92 is a direct response to this need and is an excellent addition to our multi-axes control range.” Not only is the JXC92 highly flexible, but it also saves valuable space as less wiring is required and the controller is smaller in size when compared to using three individual units. Valuable time is also saved when it comes to programming the motor controller and it’s also quicker for operators to connect and disconnect the PC cables, as they can set up to three axes at any one time, with just one step connection. Overall the JXC92 provides a complete solution in one, with the ability to make linear (3 axes) and circular (2 axes) interpolation, and is capable of positioning and pushing operations, making it ideal for a wide range of applications.

SMC is building on the success of its ZSE20(F)/ISE20 pressure switch range that features 3-screen display, 3-step setting mode and selectable delay time function, with the ZSE20(F)#/ISE20# (A, B and C). The extended series will help operators deliver efficiencies in terms of control and time saving. Now including IO-Link connection. SMC is kickstarting 2018 by extending its ZSE20(F)/ISE20 digital switch range. The A, B and C variations share the original ZSE20(F)/ISE20's display, setting, selectable delay time, as well as the lightweight and compact design. All models simplify the visualisation process for operators, while saving time as there are fewer push button operations to perform. The added variations also match the terms of enclosure, output type and media of the current series: A Model-> Current ZSE30(F)/ISE30A-> IP40, NPN/PNP and Analogue output B Model-> Current ZSE40(F)/ISE40A-> IP65, NPN/PNP, IO-Link and Analogue output C Model-> Current ZSE80(F)/ISE80-> IP65, NPN/PNP and Analogue output, for fluids.   A spokesperson from SMC, said: "Following the success of our ZSE20(F)/ISE20 pressure switch last year, we have taken the step to extend the range with these latest models. Customers have been particularly impressed with the functionality of design, its ease of use and accuracy of information that is readily available with minimal delay. They have found it both energy efficient and cost effective to operate." Further flexibility and advantages of the ZSE20(F)#/ISE20# include the peak and bottom values are maintained, even if the power supply is cut, offering greater control in the process. Also, being compact and lightweight, the models not only deliver space savings, but due to the weight reduction there are less inert moments when the sensor is mounted in mobile applications such as robotic arms. For more information about the Z/ISE20 range, please visit SMC's New Product Section at www.smc.eu

SMC is building on the success of its ZSE20(F)/ISE20 pressure switch range that features 3-screen display, 3-step setting mode and selectable delay time function, with the ZSE20(F)#/ISE20# (A, B and C). The extended series will help operators deliver efficiencies in terms of control and time saving. SMC is kickstarting 2018 by extending its ZSE20(F)/ISE20 digital switch range. The A, B and C variations share the original ZSE20(F)/ISE20’s display, setting, selectable delay time, as well as the lightweight and compact design. All models simplify the visualisation process for operators, while saving time as there are fewer push button operations to perform. The added variations also match the terms of enclosure, output type and media of the current series:  · A Model-> Current ZSE30(F)/ISE30A-> IP40, NPN/PNP and Analogue output  · B Model-> Current ZSE40(F)/ISE40A-> IP65, NPN/PNP and Analogue output  · C Model-> Current ZSE80(F)/ISE80-> IP65, NPN/PNP and Analogue output, for fluids. A spokesperson from SMC, the world’s leading expert in pneumatics, said: “Following the success of our ZSE20(F)/ISE20 pressure switch last year, we have taken the step to extend the range with these latest models. Customers have been particularly impressed with the functionality of design, its ease of use and accuracy of information that is readily available with minimal delay. They have found it both energy efficient and cost effective to operate.” Further flexibility and advantages of the ZSE20(F)#/ISE20# include the peak and bottom values are maintained, even if the power supply is cut, offering greater control in the process. Also, being compact and lightweight, the models not only deliver space savings, but due to the weight reduction there are less inert moments when the sensor is mounted in mobile applications such as robotic arms.

Energy efficiency: amplifying the benefits of working at 4 bar. Although most pneumatic machinery and equipment operates at 7 bar, I know from experience that taking steps to reduce the system’s operating pressure to 4 bar can enhance energy efficiency, cost savings and environmental credentials. After all, every company is usually looking to save something, be it money, air, CO2, or even the planet. Unfortunately, in the majority of cases, big savings do not happen overnight. Only by implementing small improvements step-by-step is it possible to bring about the overall gains desired. Here at SMC we have a simple yet highly effective product that can be one of those steps.   By Marek Strojil, Customised services, SMC Czech Republic JANUARY 2022 Our ZH-X185 air amplifier multiplies air blow/suction by 4 and 3 times respectively. The upshot is that you can save up to 70% in air consumption through the ability to reduce input pressure, without any compromise in results. In fact, the ZH-X185 outperforms alternative products from other suppliers in Europe, typically by around 20%. SMC´s Air Amplifier - Blow your air consumption away An air amplifier has many uses, such as blowing away machining chips and water droplets. In suction applications, the device can collect dust/powder when performing resin part marking, and transfer or relocate loose items such as pellets in material handling tasks. Our ZH-X185 is maintenance-free, easy-to-use and safe. Importantly, an air amplifier can provide the solution to a number of your every-day workshop challenges, such as where an existing device has insufficient blow, where high air consumption is proving costly, or where air flow is too slow. In instances such as these, I’m well aware of the temptation to simply turn up the pressure, but this of course comes at a price. The reality is that a cost-effective alternative exists wherever you require a bigger output: an air amplifier. Although this solution is often not considered, it should be, because it can bring about notable savings. It’s worth me pointing out that the ZH-X185 is also a good solution for use in potentially explosive (ATEX) environments, as the product is entirely air-driven (no electricity required). In fact, the only type of application not suitable for an air amplifier is where extremely clean air is necessary: the device uses surrounding air to amplify. In relation to their impact in reducing energy costs, you’ll be pleased to learn that air amplifiers are not expensive devices, as evidenced by a major brewery in Eastern Europe. The brewery’s bottling line was suffering from an inability to consistently adhere labels due to wet glass. However, by adopting our ZH-X185 it was possibly to blow dry the bottles sufficiently to allow proper label adhesion. Along with a much-improved process, I can report that ROI (return on investment) was achieved in just 7½ months thanks to annual savings in air consumption. The brewery is also enjoying improved safety and simplified maintenance. You’ll probably be aware that an alternative approach is to use a common air nozzle, which can sometimes be the right fit in applications where you require a high peak pressure. With an air amplifier, the output pressure is lower but the volume of air is higher to achieve a similar result. Most importantly of all, an air amplifier needs less pressure to achieve the same air flow, allowing you to reduce air consumption and enjoy the energy savings that come with generating less compressed air. In all cases, the optimal way forward is to seek the advice of one of our specialists here at SMC.