New online CAD configurator by Festo works for actuators, accessories

Festo continues to enable OEMs to bring machines to market faster with the new online 3D configurator for pneumatic actuators and accessories.

Festo Canada has just launched a new online three-dimensional CAD (computer-assisted design) configurator, developed to reduce engineering and purchasing overhead for original-equipment manufacturers and bring their products to market more quickly. This intuitive, user-friendly tool is designed for pneumatic actuators and their accessories, including fittings, tubing, and sensors.

Since Festo customers depend on assured component availability, this configurator focuses exclusively on the in-stock, fast-change core range of the company’s actuators and accessories.

All error codes eliminated

After the engineer picks the actuator from a choice of cylinder, drive with guides, or semi-rotary guides, he or she clicks on accessory hot spots to pick every accessory. The configurator ensures compatibility between actuator and accessory, while eliminating all possible error codes. A 3D CAD file of the actuator assembly is ready for download at the end of the tool’s streamlined design process.

Next, actuators and accessories are shipped in a kit with a unique identification number that covers all the kit components. The ID number makes reordering quicker and simpler. Kits are sent to customers from the Festo Global Production Center in Mason, OH. Festo recognizes the unique component number globally to make sure replacement kits are available wherever the machine is located. The tool supports the most common CAD formats for workflow compatibility, while consolidating and simplifying parts lists.

When the actuator and accessories are chosen, ordering from the Festo online store is seamless. Core products in the configurator’s database include the award-winning SDBT-MSX proximity sensor, the world’s first programmable proximity switch with automatic switching-point setting for a quick setup.

One of the most compact units available, the DGST pneumatic mini slide and yoke plate are machined from one piece of aluminum, which ensures low torsion and accurate alignment. Small, light components like this contribute to low footprint and more energy efficiency. Among other compact options from Festo are the new ADN-S ultra-compact double-acting cylinder, which is significantly shorter and lighter than competing actuators, and the DSNU-S round body metric cylinder, a smaller and thinner variation of the DSNU (but with the same stroke and bore).

To learn more, contact Festo.

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