What's New at Congress 2002
Universal test system
Froude Hofmann's Universal Test System (UTS) features state-of-the-art software that covers all possible checks regarding end-of-line tests. As a unified automation and measuring system, the UTS can control roll test stands, wheel-alignment machines, and headlight-aiming stations. It provides programming and diagnosis of vehicle control units and testing of electronic components.
Nameplate process
GM Nameplate's Electra-Graphics is a new technique in electroplating that creates a detailed, custom graphic in gold or chrome on a stainless steel flat surface. To manufacture the nameplates, an image on a film layer is applied to stainless steel and a chemical process allows the image to grow onto the steel's surface, forming a raised graphic in gold or chrome. In addition to making an elegant nameplate, the process does not require tooling, which eliminates some up-front costs to customers.
Fan-cooled black light
When magnetic particle inspection is needed to check for cracks in long parts, the fan-cooled ZB-100F MB black light from Illinois Tool Works' Magnaflux division can energize power packs or wet benches remotely. The black light has a remote button intergraded into its handle to eliminate the need to return continuously to the MPI Unit for another shot. The light can be retrofitted easily into existing equipment by obtaining the specific kit designed for the particular MPI Unit. A schematic and instruction sheet is provided with each new light.
System simulation tool
Release 4.0 of AMESim from Imagine Software is a system simulation solution for fluid power, powertrain, thermo-fluid, pneumatic, and electromagnetic analysis. Version 4.0 introduces a completely rewritten GUI and software structure. Many new features are incorporated, including multi-layered "supercomponents" and model management through databases, while retaining the proven numerical solver. A completely new plot manager allows easy manipulation of simulated results and a vast array of plotting options.
Contour welding
Leister Lasersystems' Novolas C is a flexible system that performs welding as the workpiece is guided beneath the laser spot on a precise x-y table. The Windows-based software allows for easy programming of various weld patterns and features two levels of password protection for safe and secure operation. The versatile clamping device enables quick changeover and economical job lot production.
Embedded control code
Real-Time Workshop Embedded Coder 2.0 from The MathWorks, Inc. is a model-based design solution that meets the need for production-quality C-code generation for embedded target deployment. It is efficient, readable, clean, and accurate in implementing the Simulink model and is customizable for specific customer needs. The code has improved in terms of embedded RAM size, ROM size, and execution speed over the first version released in November 2000. Code generated from Simulink models with pre-production versions of Real-Time Workshop Embedded Coder has already been used in automotive powertrain-control designs and received FAA certification in aerospace applications.
