HARDWARE/SOFTWARE.

Bulk solids metering

The Disocont gravimetric control specializes in mechatronics (the integration of the mechanics and electronics associated with gravimetric bulk solids metering) for the company's screw feeders, weigh feeders and solids flow meters. The Disocont control module is mounted and pre-wired to the mechanical portion of the equipment, making installation as simple as applying power and communications to the PLC. (AccuRate, 746 E. Milwaukee St., PO. Box 208, Whitewater, 14/153190)

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Seal design software

Total inPHorm is a software package said to take the guesswork out of seal design and material specification. Total inPHorm offers an expanded media compatibility section and custom sizing capabilities that allow the user to design application-specific glands and seals. The software automatically cross-references thousands of part numbers, and recommends materials based on the requirements of MIL, SAE and other standards. (Parker Seal Group, 18321 Jamboree Rd., Irvine, CA 92612)

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Image analyzer

The Vieew digital image analyzer system allows laboratory personnel to analyze surface structures quickly, precisely and with reproducibility, according to the manufacturer. Its combination of sturdy hardware and intelligent software is said to make Vieew an indispensable tool for the objective inspection of surface defects. The Vieew system consists of a solid

temperature-resistant and shock-resistant cabinet, an integrated black and white CCD camera, and high-end apochromatic lenses. Vieew uses the camera and lenses to capture data from a sample, and then this data flows into an intelligent teachable processor where it is processed, evaluated and stored. The software allows the development of customized tests and assessments. The classification of surface damages on the sample, such as gravel impact, cross hatch, filiform corrosion and delamination, is done in accordance with standards or customer specifications used for visual evaluation. (Atlas Material Testing Technology GmbH, Vogelsbergstrasse 22, D-63589 Linsengericht-A ltenhablau, Germany)

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Lab robotics

A laboratory automation system with a seamless integration of the company's relative viscometer with the Zymark robotics hardware for complete automation of the solution viscosity testing process is available from the company. The operator of this system simply presents the sample(s) to the robot and is then free to do other important laboratory duties, according to the company. The robot prepares each sample the same way, every time, without operator subjectivity and variability in preparation method. The robot is continually checking for new samples and has increased throughput of 10-15 minutes per sample, depending on the number of capping operations necessary for the samples. There is increased safety because the robot prepares the sample and the operator has less exposure to hazardous chemicals, according to the company. Each integrated system is customized and guaranteed for quality. (Viscotek, 15600 W. Hardy Rd., Houston, TX 77060)

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