Complete Electromechanical Solutions

Modular integrated space-saving control box modules from LQ Mechatronik-Systeme GmbH take up to 50 percent less space, thanks to the way the functionality of the whole module has been intensively integrated.

In Booth E-4020 at IMTS 2012, the mechatronics experts of LQ Mechatronik-Systeme GmbH (Besigheim, Germany) will exhibit complete electromechanical solutions for customer-specific power supply system assemblies, including interfaces and aggregated individual components for space-saving control box modules.

Everyone who uses a mobile phone knows the problem: different models and manufacturers all use different cables and connectors. It’s impossible to swap or combine different phones with different charger cables. For individual phone users it’s a nuisance, but for large companies it can present a major headache. Trying to connect different makes of machine parts and components from different manufacturers can lead to endless electronic interface problems. LQ has a unique solution: the universal W-TEC 15 cable.

The ready-made, unshielded W-TEC 15 power cable with extruded, extremely compact pin-and-socket connectors reduces the complexity of the different types of cables used on your products. It contains six 2.5 sq m wires. This innovative design allows a nominal 16 amp current at 630 volts in constant use on the three power contacts and 10 amps on the two auxiliary contacts. This is the only device on the market providing such extraordinarily high performance for its small size. Other ready-to-use products offering similar performance are much larger. The W-TEC 15 cable is also lighter, making it ideal for use in energy chains.

The fully-automatic extrusion-coating of the pin-and-socket connectors provides excellent protection against dust and liquids and also makes it tamper-proof. Thanks to these features, the product is ideal for all kinds of applications, particularly for manufacturers of assemblies, equipment and machinery.

The pin-and-socket connectors have a quick locking device for easy assembly. The plug is securely locked by turning the fastener less than 90 deg. A vibration protector prevents the pin-and-socket connector coming loose. LQ has also produced sockets in two different models to suit the standardized, ready-to-use cable. These are available with integral thread and mounting flange for easy attachment to motors and assemblies.

Conventional control cabinets contain a multitude of complex wiring and components in order to ensure the correct functioning of the machinery. Constructing, wiring and testing these control cabinets is hugely time-consuming. To modularize secondary functions, such as starting and stopping the motor, and focus on the machine’s key functions, the A-TEC motor starter revolutionizes the control cabinet system by using a single device to install, connect – and it’s ready to go.

In order to install the A-TEC, it is important to have an ASi-bus or ASi-gateway for overall control. In this way, the power and data reach the motor starter module via the standard input interface. The ASi communications interface is housed inside the module mounting. The integration of this interface was both logical and long overdue. The new construction is a winner because it needs up to 50 percent less space, thanks to the way the functionality of the whole module has been intensively integrated. It also saves time because the board is already completely wired and tested, so the individual components no longer have to be wired up.

The question of saving materials also plays an important role in the production process. The compact A-TEC unit needs fewer cables than standard control cabinets. These cables cannot be pre-assembled for use in conventional systems and it takes time to lay them out correctly. The A-TEC motor starter can be easily integrated into all existing wiring schemes and machine layouts thanks to its clear input, output and software interfaces. Fitting is made easier by the fact that the module mounting has a hook on the rear so that it can be attached directly to the existing mounting rail. When installing the control cabinet, the engineer only needs to take a quick look in the clearly laid-out cabinet in order to understand the whole motor starter unit.

Savings on time, space and materials also bring clear cost reductions for machine and plant engineering. Staff can be deployed elsewhere, because LQ takes care of the necessary pre-installation work. The motor starters are available in two different models to suit the two different layouts and requirements of the motors and their users. The smallest module is for motors up to 3.0 kW, while the larger model is suitable for motors up to 5.5 kW. Depending on their intended use, other variations are available for safe and non-safe areas. The input interface platform is also available as a purely I/O module. Individual components can be mounted to it as required.

The A-TEC motor starter can be directly installed wherever there is an existing ASi-bus. In all other systems it can be easily integrated using a gateway. It is suitable for the operation of asynchronous motors or for supplying power to equipment assemblies. The I/O module is suitable for climate control, area shutdowns, external automation and diagnosis modules. www.lq-group.com