MENZEL
Shredder motor powers through blockages
Menzel Elektromotoren designs and manufactures motors for shredding applications from the timber industry to the recycling sector. Recently, the electric motor manufacturer replaced a slip ring motor for a metal shredder. Now, the shredder does not have to be emptied in case of blockages or when starting up but in many cases the motor starts the loaded shredder and powers through blockages.full text
Menzel Elektromotoren designs and manufactures motors for various high-performance shredding applications from the timber industry to the recycling sector. The company builds both squirrel-cage and slip ring motors for these demanding tasks, which involve powerful, irregular vibrations and shocks, and also offers load tests and a maintenance service.
Recently, the electric motor manufacturer replaced a slip ring motor that had failed due to overload. A shredder designed for mixed scrap metal had to process entire car bodies. As a result, exceptionally strong vibrations were transmitted to the motor, disrupting the contact between the carbon brushes and slip rings and causing sparks, brush fire and severe damage to the slip rings.
Menzel, a medium-sized company from the outskirts of Berlin with a large inventory of stock motors, had a suitable unit at hand and quickly equipped it for the application. The slip ring motor is particularly well suited to shredding applications because it delivers the full starting torque from standstill. In the event of blockages or when starting up, the shredder does not necessarily have to be emptied first. In many cases, the motor starts the loaded shredder and powers through blockages.
Menzel selected abrasion-resistant brushes, fitted springs with high contact pressure in the brush holders and installed more brushes to ensure a sufficiently large contact area for current transfer even if a brush momentarily lifts off. This was complemented by a range of measures for vibration damping and absorption as well as motor monitoring. A spherical roller bearing on the drive side absorbs impacts, compensates for slight shaft misalignment and, with good maintenance, achieves a long service life in shredding applications.
The motor manufacturer supported the definition of new best-practice guidelines, working in close collaboration with the machine builder and the scrapyard manager. For instance, in future, car bodies will be cut in half before being thrown into the shredder, especially electric vehicle bodies, whose underbodies are reinforced around the drive battery, making them extremely hard to shred. Menzel also conducted an operational vibration analysis, installed temperature and vibration sensors to continuously monitor the bearings and helped establish an effective maintenance plan. Plant availability has improved significantly since then.
More reference projects: https://www.menzel-motors.com/crusher-drive/
RAFI
RAFI Standard Keypads and Encoders for robust Off-Highway Applications
RAFI is expanding its HMI portfolio of standardized keypads and encoders for off-highway vehicles. The new control units are specifically designed for rugged use in construction machinery, agricultural vehicles, mining vehicles, forestry machinery, and other off-highway applications. full text
RAFI is expanding its HMI portfolio of standardized keypads and encoders for off-highway vehicles. The new control units are specifically designed for rugged use in construction machinery, agricultural vehicles, mining vehicles, forestry machinery, and other off-highway applications. They support modern vehicle architectures and enable safe, intuitive, and durable operation directly within the driver’s environment.
The product family includes keypads with silicone keys and rotary push encoders for precise input, menu navigation, and function control. Depending on the model, solutions with 16 or 20 keys, integrated encoder keypads, and compact encoder variants are available. This allows for the implementation of both simple direct functions and more complex operating concepts with high functional density. Typical installation locations include armrests, control consoles, side panels, steering columns, and cockpit trim.
Designed for use in challenging environmental conditions, the standard keypads and encoders are specified for a temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C. The products feature CAN-FD interfaces with J1939 and UDS, a power supply ranging from 6 to 48 volts, and an IP 69 protection rating when installed. The variants are also designed for safety-critical applications in accordance with ISO 25119 AGPL d, ISO 13849 PL d, and ISO 19014 MPL d. Security features such as Secure Boot and Secure Update support current requirements for cybersecurity and CRA compliance.
RGB status LEDs, along with function and backlighting, provide clear visual feedback on operating states, active functions, and switching states. This makes the controls particularly suitable for applications where frequently used functions must be reliably accessible and tactile blind operation is required during the work process. The products’ customizability allows them to be adapted to different machine classes, operating concepts, and customer-specific requirements.
Live at the iVT Expo in Cologne
RAFI will present its new standard keypads and encoders at the iVT Expo in Cologne at its booth in Hall 1, 5130. The trade fair will take place on June 10 and 11, 2026, at the Cologne Exhibition Center and focuses on components, systems, and technologies for industrial off-highway vehicles. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the new control elements firsthand and discuss HMI solutions for construction machinery, agricultural machinery, mining vehicles, and other mobile work machines with RAFI.
The new Steering Stick from RAFI provides authentic, individually customizable control characteristics with software-controlled force feedback.
Image source: RAFI
The compact, slim design expands integration possibilities in the cabin and supports an ergonomic seating position with an optimal field of view.
Image source: RAFI
RAFI
RAFI Steering Stick:
Intelligent steering joystick with adaptive force feedback
With the Steering Stick, RAFI presents an innovative joystick solution for precise and ergonomic vehicle control. The steering joystick combines modern drive technology with fully programmable haptics, opening up new possibilities for the intuitive operation of mobile work machines.full text
With the Steering Stick, RAFI presents an innovative joystick solution for precise and ergonomic vehicle control. The steering joystick combines modern drive technology with fully programmable haptics, opening up new possibilities for the intuitive operation of mobile work machines.
At its core is software-controlled force feedback that dynamically adjusts steering behavior based on the situation. Steering force, steering angle, and zero and park positions can be flexibly configured and precisely tailored to the specific application. Users thus benefit from customizable control characteristics and a significantly improved operating experience.
TrueMotion technology, in combination with direct torque adjustment, ensures particularly realistic and precise feedback. Joystick movements are translated into steering movements synchronously and without delay. At the same time, the selected position remains stable, enabling safe and controlled maneuvering even in demanding situations.
By eliminating mechanical components such as springs or damping elements, the Steering Stick operates wear-free and enables freely configurable haptic feedback. The contactless Hall sensor technology ensures reliable and long-lasting signal detection.
The compact and slim design expands integration options in the driver’s cockpit and supports an ergonomic seating position with an optimal field of view. This makes the Steering Stick particularly suitable for industrial trucks as well as mobile agricultural and construction machinery. Furthermore, it can be used as an ergonomic supplement to traditional steering systems.
INELTA
Calibration of Force Sensors According to ISO/IEC 17025:2017:
The Foundation for Globally Comparable Measurement Results
Reliable measurement data is a key prerequisite for stable processes and consistently high product quality in industry. The calibration of sensors, especially force sensors, plays a crucial role in this regard. full text
Reliable measurement data is a key prerequisite for stable processes and consistently high product quality in industry. The calibration of sensors, especially force sensors, plays a crucial role in this regard. This is because even high-quality force sensors are subject to external influences during operation, such as temperature or humidity. Aging processes can also impair measurement accuracy.
For companies with a certified quality management system according to DIN EN ISO 9001, regular recalibration is therefore mandatory. Against this backdrop, calibration in accordance with the European standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is relevant. It ensures that measurement results are traceable, reproducible, and comparable worldwide, a decisive factor for companies with international supply chains and high-quality requirements.
As part of the INELTA Group, VYPRO operates its own accredited testing laboratory and offers calibration services for force transducers of various designs, manufacturer-independent and compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017. Users benefit from internationally recognized calibration results that provide a solid foundation for audits and certification processes.
The range of services includes, among other things, calibrations of tensile and compressive force sensors, ring force sensors, bending and shear bar sensors, tensile test slats, and custom force sensors.
ISO and in-house calibrations are performed up to 200 kN in both tensile and compressive directions. The service offering is complemented by technical inspections and, if necessary, repairs to the test specimen. Time-sensitive calibrations can also be performed upon request. An internationally recognized calibration certificate confirms successful calibration.
This offers clear advantages for companies: measurement deviations are detected early, processes can be stabilized over the long term, and regulatory requirements are reliably met. In addition, the comparability of measurement results across locations and countries is ensured, a key success factor in globally networked production environments.
Please send inquiries to kalibrierung@inelta.de
RAFI
Ergonomics study on steering systems for agricultural machinery: Scientific research confirms the advantages of joystick steering
The traditional steering wheel in agricultural machinery is facing serious competition. An ergonomics study completed in early 2026 by Furtwangen University in collaboration with HMI specialist RAFI now provides scientific proof that using a joystick to steer agricultural machinery can significantly reduce physical strain. full text
The traditional steering wheel in agricultural machinery is facing serious competition. An ergonomics study completed in early 2026 by Furtwangen University in collaboration with HMI specialist RAFI now provides scientific proof that using a joystick to steer agricultural machinery can significantly reduce physical strain.
RAFI has extensive experience in the development and design of custom control levers. On the basis of its own technology platform, the company manufactures a wide range of variants, from Tiny to Rough, with a variety of guide mechanisms, control functions, and durability features. While joysticks were previously developed primarily as right-hand controls for operating attachments, RAFI is now focusing on steering joysticks for direct vehicle control.
This trend is scientifically supported by research initiated by RAFI at Furtwangen University. The study compared the strain levels of steering wheel and joystick steering using objective measurements of muscle activity via electromyography, as well as subjective evaluations by 21 participants from the agricultural sector.
The results are clear: a steering joystick positioned to the left of the driver’s seat allows mobile machinery to be operated with significantly less effort and fatigue than a steering wheel. Short, precise hand movements with the forearm resting comfortably on the armrest eliminate strenuous steering actions and frequent wheel turning, which place considerable strain on the shoulders and neck. Only the forearm muscles exhibit slightly higher activity with the joystick.
The subjective assessments of the 21 participants, aged 19 to 56, confirm the objective findings: in the categories “physical demands” and “effort,” the steering wheel was rated as significantly more strenuous. Moreover, despite its novelty, the joystick achieved higher satisfaction ratings than the long-established steering wheel, indicating strong usability and intuitive operation. The combination of significantly reduced physical workload and high user satisfaction makes joystick steering a promising alternative for the future of agricultural technology.
RAFI
Autonomy Kit for autonomously operating machines
The market for autonomous machines and vehicles is developing dynamically. With the AUTONOMY KIT, RAFI offers a scalable system solution for industrial applications.full text
The market for autonomous machines and vehicles is developing dynamically. With the AUTONOMY KIT, RAFI offers a scalable system solution for industrial applications. RAFI is thus positioning itself as an enabler in the field of autonomy and supports machine manufacturers in the structured further development of existing systems into partially or fully autonomous platforms.
Many manufacturers have products that are powerful but not autonomous. This is exactly where RAFI comes in. Existing machines and systems are specifically autonomized. Individual automation competencies, for example in specific control or charging processes, can be expanded into a holistic autonomous integral system. Even finished, previously non-autonomous products can be converted into an autonomous process by integrating suitable hardware and software solutions.
A central focus is on industrialization and support. RAFI combines production technologies, in-depth production know-how and software expertise to create an integrated solution approach. The aim is to develop robust solutions based on existing concepts that are suitable for series production.
RAFI’s expertise in the area of autonomy includes hardware development, software architecture and system integration as well as the industrialization of series solutions. RAFI covers the entire value chain from electronics production to assembly and testing technologies to synthetic material and metal processing. This makes it possible to implement all process steps from development to industrial series production in close coordination with the customer.
Trade fair information:
RAFI will present the AUTONOMY KIT and other innovations from March 24 to 26, 2026, at XPONENTIAL in Düsseldorf in Hall 1/A43.
LOSYCO
LOSYCO at LogiMAT 2026: Production logistics for all automation levels
LOSYCO will showcase innovative rail-based intra-logistics and production logistics at the LogiMAT trade fair in Stuttgart, Germany, March 24 to 26, 2026, at booth #7-F09. The manufacturer designs and implements complete transport and handling solutions from a single source and will be presenting new developments extending its LOXrail system.full text
LOSYCO will showcase innovative rail-based intra-logistics and production logistics at the LogiMAT trade fair in Stuttgart, Germany, March 24 to 26, 2026, at booth #7-F09. The manufacturer designs and implements complete transport and handling solutions from a single source and will be presenting new developments extending its LOXrail system. LOXrail tracks, which are available in two sizes, are designed for payloads up to 60 tons and more. The system enables economic and energy-saving transport on customer-specific trolleys in a wide range of production processes, from the manufacture of tools and agricultural machinery to wind turbine building and modular house pre-fabrication. Even loads weighing several tons can be transported manually and alternatively powered via batteries.
LOSYCO will furthermore present a new fully automated transport solution as next innovation stage for rail-based production logistics: the LOXrail smartCURVE system combines the load-bearing capacity of intra-logistics rails with the advanced levels of automation of current AGV technology, creating a cutting-edge smart-factory heavy-duty transport solution. The autonomous transport system, which LOSYCO has successfully deployed in an automotive production plant, consists of self-propelled transport trolleys, latency-free, fail-safe Wi-Fi communication, sensor-based position detection and inductive charging technology. The trolleys navigate the manufacturing site with sensors, transport material or assemblies between work stations, find their exact positions and independently charge their batteries.
In addition, the German systems provider LOSYCO will exhibit floor-level crossing systems, AllRounder steering platforms as well as material feeding and warehouse logistics solutions. The team is looking forward to engaging contacts and professional exchange at the trade fair.
SAB Bröckskes
Trade fair premiere from SAB at IT-Trans: New high-performance data cables for rail vehicles
SAB Bröckskes will premiere newly developed high-performance data cables for railway technology at the IT-Trans trade fair in Karlsruhe, Germany, 3–5 March 2026, at booth #1-G60. The three new SABIX R flex Data IQ cables extend the manufacturer’s range of permanently flexible rail cables according to EN 45545-2. full text
SAB Bröckskes will premiere newly developed high-performance data cables for railway technology at the IT-Trans trade fair in Karlsruhe, Germany, 3–5 March 2026, at booth #1-G60. The three new SABIX R flex Data IQ cables extend the manufacturer’s range of permanently flexible rail cables according to EN 45545-2. The cable design combines high transmission performance for modern infotainment, display and communication systems with a comprehensive safety concept. Depending on type, the cables support DVI Dual-Link, HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort and USB 3.0 / USB 3.2 Gen 1×1. The series fulfils the fire protection requirements R15 (EL1A) and R16 (EL1B) according to EN 45545-2 for hazard levels HL1 and HL2 and flame resistance according to UN/ECE R118 for international use. In the event of a fire, smoke development, emission of toxic gases and consequential damage to electrical components are reduced due to cables’ safety features, i.e., halogen-free design, low corrosivity, low toxicity, attested smoke density. SABIX R flex Data IQ cables are flame retardant and self-extinguishing according to IEC 60332-1-2, bundle fire tested according to IEC 60332-3-25 and oil and fuel resistant according to EN 50264-1. The cables, which are made of RoHS-compliant, PFAS-free materials, are approved for temperature ranges from -50 °C/-40 °C to 90 °C (DIN VDE) or 75 °C (UL/CSA). The minimum bending radius is 4 x d in fixed installations and 12 x d for flexible applications. The high flexibility facilitates installation in confined spaces, supports the standardization of modern interfaces and thus contributes to efficient development and maintenance processes.
RAFI
embedded world 2026: RAFI puts its focus on E2MS, robotics, and Safety Touch
From 10 to 12 March 2026, RAFI will showcase its product and solution expertise at embedded world in Nuremberg, covering everything from PCBs through to complete system integration and device assembly, all from a single source.full text
From 10 to 12 March 2026, RAFI will showcase its product and solution expertise at embedded world in Nuremberg, covering everything from PCBs through to complete system integration and device assembly, all from a single source. At its trade fair appearance in Hall 3, Booth 330, the HMI specialist will focus on the four thematic areas of E2MS production, robotics, command-and-control devices, and Safety Touch operation.
As an experienced partner for Electronic Engineering and Manufacturing Services (E²MS), RAFI supports its customers throughout the development and production of electronics, from the initial concept to series production. With its new Autonomy Kit, the manufacturer has developed a scalable platform technology for automating machines for the agricultural industry, logistics, and construction. The synergy of modular hardware and smart software supports machine manufacturers in transforming mechanical systems into semi-autonomous or fully autonomous solutions.
A third area of focus is the broad range of command and control devices, from micro-switches and the diverse RAFIX and RAMO push-button series to encoders and joysticks. A highlight is the key switches of the RAFIX 22 FS+ series, which combine flat construction with aesthetic design and can be customized as required.
For use in safety-critical applications, RAFI makes specially secured joystick variants built on its JOYSCAPE platform. The manufacturer has also developed Safety Touch, a new technology platform for the series-ready manufacture of touchscreen systems at Performance Level d.
PiL
Hygienic Ultrasonic Sensors for Demanding Production Environments
With the P53 series, PiL Sensoren GmbH offers robust ultrasonic sensors for applications with stringent hygienic requirements. The fully encapsulated stainless-steel housing (1.4404) features a gap-free design and a polished surface finish (< 0.8 µm), meeting the requirements of EHEDG and FDA.full text
With the P53 series, PiL Sensoren GmbH offers robust ultrasonic sensors for applications with stringent hygienic requirements. The fully encapsulated stainless-steel housing (1.4404) features a gap-free design and a polished surface finish (< 0.8 µm), meeting the requirements of EHEDG and FDA.
Thanks to protection class IP69 and ECOLAB certification, the sensors are resistant to acidic and alkaline cleaning agents and can be cleaned efficiently using CIP (Cleaning in Place) processes. The P53 sensors operate without contact and accurately detect solid, liquid, and pasty media.
Their fully encapsulated stainless-steel housing provides reliable protection against steam, dust, and moisture, making the series particularly suitable for use in harsh industrial environments. Available with housing diameters of Ø18 mm and Ø30 mm, the series covers measuring ranges from 150 to 1500 mm and is designed for ambient temperatures of up to 70 °C.
Analog or switching outputs, along with integrated temperature compensation, make these sensors ideal for a wide range of applications, including filling and packaging systems, coagulators, and pharmaceutical production lines.
Agro DE EN
AIRTEC DE
AutoVimation DE EN
BI-BER DE EN
Biesse DE EN
CONTA-CLIP DE EN
EGE DE EN
Excelitas DE EN
FIBOX DE EN
Flexa DE
Gossen Metrawatt GmbH DE EN
Hummel DE
INELTA DE EN
IWB DE
JOB GmbH DE
Kaiser DE
LOSYCO DE EN
MENZEL DE EN
PiL DE EN
RAFI DE EN CN
SAB BRÖCKSKES DE EN
Scheer Koch DE
ALLE KUNDEN DE EN