Tuesday 28 February 2023

Next-generation industrial Wi-Fi access.

The AWK Series is a new lineup of next-generation industrial wireless networking solutions offering 802.11ac Gigabit Wi-Fi, IEC 62443-4-2 SL2 certified security* from Moxa, and dual-band Turbo Roaming™ for unmatched wireless reliability and availability. When combined, these advanced features meet the current and future demands of applications where Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are at the heart of boosting productivity and operational safety, such as mobile automation and IP surveillance in mining, manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation, among others. 

The Moxa AWK Series is made up of three models: the AWK-3252A, AWK-4252A, and AWK-1151C AP/bridge/client.

Enabling Futureproof Wireless Automation.
According to LogisticsIQ’s latest market research study, AGV and AMR Market, the market for AGVs and AMRs are expected to exceed $18 billion (USD) by 2027 with an estimated growth rate of roughly 24% and 43% for the AGV and AMR segments, respectively. The combined number of AGV and AMR installations is set to cross the 2.4 million mark by 2027, paving the way for mobile robots to become the new normal for day-to-day operations.

“AGVs and AMRs bring remarkable benefits to a variety of industries, making them a firmly established part of day-to-day operations, anywhere from manufacturing sites, logistic and warehouse centers, to mining farms, hospitals, and even last-mile delivery vehicles for packages and goods,” said Tony Chen, Product Manager, Industrial Wireless, Moxa, Inc. “We are seeing sophisticated applications emerging in mining, for example, where handling devices are being enhanced with HD video streaming and 3D sensing technology to improve operational efficiency and safety. These developments give rise to innovative remote-controlled solutions that require high-bandwidth wireless infrastructure capable of seamlessly integrating mobile systems and operations.”

Moxa AWK Series AP/bridge/clients simplify wireless operations and the integration of mobile systems outfitted with complex sensors and cameras, while also addressing the heightened requirements for industrial-grade reliable networks. With speeds of up to 400 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, AWK Series AP/bridge/clients enable a high-bandwidth, dynamic mobile environment to accommodate a large number of devices and support high-volume data communication. In addition, support for one-to-many network address translation (1-to-n NAT) helps optimize the machine integration flow by simplifying IP address assignment while avoiding IP conflicts between existing devices connecting to the OT network wirelessly.

Moxa considers security an integral part of network reliability. Engineered on the principle of Secure-by-Design, the AWK-3252A, AWK-4252A, and AWK-1151C are certified for IEC 62443-4-2 by the IECEE*. Compliance with this standard not only ensures device-level security for industrial automation and control systems (IACS), but also verifies that these devices are suitable for building an IEC 62443-3-3 compliant security environment, resulting in lower development risk, time, and cost. The lineup also supports the latest WPA3 encryption for an additional layer of WLAN security.

Wireless reliability is a key challenge for mobile automation applications. Several long-term stability tests showed Moxa AWK devices achieved an average roaming handover time of less than 150 ms and an average network availability rate of 99.95%. Powered by 802.11ac, the AWK devices support millisecond-level Turbo Roaming and automatic 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band switching to ensure a seamless transition between APs while on the move.

Moxa AWK devices have RF compliance certifications from the FCC, Industry Canada, Europe, and many other countries. Combined with an intuitive RF configuration tool, the new devices allow users to build a cost-effective single-model inventory for global market development without the need to stock diverse wireless devices due to regional RF regulations.

The AWK's modern user-interface simplifies device configuration and network management. Additionally, a full-feature set of tools simplifies collecting specific data, such as Wi-Fi performance and network services for review and troubleshooting. From the intuitive dashboard, users can get a clear overview of system status. Physical LED indicators on both sides of the device display the status of the AWK regardless of mounting orientation.


*Industrial Certifications - Moxa AWK Series models are certified for IECEx, C1D2, ATEX Zone 2, and E1 Mark to support a wide variety of demanding industrial applications, including hazardous areas.

@MoxaInc @OConnellPR @thelogisticsiq #Pauto #IIoT #Cybersecurity 

Environmental monitoring experts appointment.

OTT HydroMet has announced the appointment of Dr Liam Goodes as Sales and Business Development Manager in the south of Britain.

Dr Liam Goodes
Liam has an MSci in Oceanography from the University of Southampton and the University of Bordeaux, and a PhD in Marine Surface Engineering from the University of Southampton. He has since worked in optics and scientific hardware sales for a number of years, and in his spare time, he is a keen competitive archer.

Looking forward, Liam says: “Working closely with customers, the OTT HydroMet Group is constantly developing new technologies, and now offers a comprehensive package of solutions for environmental monitoring, communications and data management. I am therefore extremely excited to be appointed to this role, and look forward to helping customers gather the measurement insights they need.”

@OTTHydromet @_Enviro_News #Environment #PAuto

Monday 27 February 2023

On line shop for drives spares...

Nord Drivesystems' comprehensive TCO approach ensures a high level of application and development expertise, long-term experience and wide range of modular products.
NORD Shop offer From 14 February to 13 May 2023, NORD grants a discount of 5% on online shop orders. This offer is valid in Denmark, Switzerland, Spain, Austria, Poland, the Netherlands and Germany. Drive electronics products and accessories are excluded from this offer.

The company provides its customers with practical and fast support in their daily work with its digital customer self-service solutions. One example is the NORD Shop that is now available in 15 markets.The drive specialist implements the optimal solution for almost every application case. A strict customer orientation is therefore essential. Digital self-service solutions such as the NORD Shop provide fast and easy support and facilitate cooperative activities.

In the NORD Shop, spare parts for NORD drive systems can be simply identified and ordered directly online. Just one click and the customer finds out about the availability, expected delivery time and price. Orders received before 12.00 pm will be dispatched the same day. An express delivery is also offered. The NORD Shop is currently available in 15 markets. The company is continually working on the further development of its self-service solutions.

@NORD_Drive @mepaxIntPR #PAuto 

Rugged managed Gbit Switch built in robust IP67 housing.

Rugged managed Gbit Switch built in robust IP67 housing The µMAGBES Family is a 5-19 port manageable Gbit Ethernet switch. The solution is designed according to MPL's design philosophy which includes flexibility, low power consumption, fanless, extended temperature capability, and long-term availability.

The µMAGBES-MIL can be built extremely compact, therefore as the most compact switch solution, eg MPL can offer a 10-port switch in an IP67 housing with two 38999 connectors in the size of 130 x 130 x 55 mm. Hence it is the perfect SWaP-C switch solution and can be integrated in the smallest space. Other housings and configurations are available, as shown below.

It comes with lockable headers to interface to 38999 connectors. If the solution needs one or more fiber ports, then this can be provided with a standard product available from MPL.

The standard input power requirement of the µMAGBES is 5-36VDC and the device uses less than 6W at full speed with 10 ports operational. Other input voltages can certainly be offered depending on specification. The switch can be operated in an environment of -20°C up to +60°C, and optionally -40°C to +85°C and does not need to be cooled by a fan.

The µMAGBES is designed to be operated in a master-slave configuration, making a flexible system with a cascaded switch easy. The solution is available with up to 19 ports or more, including a Command Line Interface (CLI) option.

The µMAGBES supports features such as (but not limited to):
• Configurable via Web Interface (including SSL), Telnet, SNMP (incl. SNMPv3) or RS232/USB (CLI)
• Port-based and IEEE 802.1Q VLAN
• IEEE 802.1D Rapid Spanning Tree
• IEEE 802.1X MAC Address Checking
• Quality of Service
• Port monitoring & Switch statistics
• Firmware Update via HTTP or TFTP
• Download/upload configuration files in XML format
• GMPv3 support
• gPTP support

All MPL products are designed for long-term availability and the µMAGBES will be available for at least 10 years. MPL's own component stock guarantees repairs for up to 20 years. Extended temperature ranges can be fulfilled and are tested in MPL's own climatic chambers according to customer's request.

@MPL_AG @PresseBox #PAuto 

Friday 24 February 2023

Fluid and pneumatics Tour de Force near you!

The biggest roadshow yet from the global technology and software leader will bring the latest fluid control and pneumatics solutions directly to customer sites.

The newest fluid control and pneumatics solutions and team of experts from Emerson are on their way directly to European customers via their mobile, interactive service centre over the next year. Covering more kilometers than tours past, the Emerson Mobile Roadshow will visit customers in nineteen countries, including new stops in Turkey. With a personal trade show at their doorstep, customers can meet with Emerson experts and receive meaningful answers to their most demanding challenges related to digital transformation, sustainability, machine automation and more.
Austria
Belgium
Czech Republic
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Great Britain
Hungary
Italy
Lithuania
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Slovakia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey

During the preplanned site stops, visitors can engage with innovations from Emerson’s ASCOTM, AVENTICSTM, TopWorxTM, PACSystemsTM and MoviconTM portfolios in a dynamic way. The hi-tech demonstration truck features an interactive digital experience and an embedded ultra high definition (UHD) screen that offers vibrant demonstrations of the latest fluid control solutions in action.

Roadshow presentations will reveal how sophisticated, smart pneumatic technologies monitor plant operations in real time, how intuitive PACSystems Edge computing and control systems powered by Movicon.NExTTM HMI/SCADA automation software provide advanced analytics and powerful visualization and how these scalable solutions work together to systematically optimize processes and drive plant sustainability, productivity and profitability. Manufacturers of all sizes can learn how to digitally transform their operations and turn collected data into actionable insights that empower decision-making and can significantly improve energy efficiency, overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and much more.

Visitors will also find proven products with global certifications that are engineered specifically for their needs. Highlights include reliable industrial automation fluid control technologies for combustion, dust collector systems and industrial and commercial machinery, as well as ASCO components for process, industrial, rail, analytical and medical applications.

By visiting the innovative mobile service centre and experiencing the Roadshow, companies across Europe can GO BoldlyTM. Emerson is committed to helping the world’s leading companies reliably reach their sustainability goals and optimize their operations. GO Boldly is an invitation for companies to join Emerson in making the world healthier, safer, smarter and more sustainable.

@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @EmersonExchange @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #LifeScience #Europe 

Polyurethane specialists appointment.

Yves Souguenet is to take on the role of CFO at Hennecke GROUP, polyurethane specialists headquartered in Sankt Augustin (D). The management and advisory board at the group have deliberately selected a finance manager with international experience, a solid background in accounting and internal auditing, and considerable experience in managing machine construction companies.

Yves Souguenet
The business graduate and certified tax consultant began his professional career in assurance services at one of the renowned big four auditing firms, and then held key positions in finance management at the national and international sites of one of Germany's largest, listed, industrial corporations. Before joining Hennecke, Yves Souguenet served as Managing Director and CFO at a group subsidiary for industrial compressor solutions. His areas of responsibility included finance & controlling, IT, sales & project management, and export control.

"I'm delighted to have Yves Souguenet on board as our new CFO. He complements our management team perfectly, bringing outstanding expertise in international management functions and a focus on growth and cost optimization," says Thomas Wildt, Hennecke GROUP CEO. "His track record in transforming businesses, increasing profitability, and optimizing reporting and controlling processes speaks for itself and will really support us," continues Wildt. "Under Yves Souguenet’s management, the Hennecke GROUP will remain on a profitable footing for the long-term with our Hennecke 2.0 strategy, redefining the global PUR market with high-grade, innovative technologies and services."

The Hennecke GROUP's management team includes Thomas Wildt, who as CEO oversees the areas of strategy, R&D, operations and HR, and Rolf Trippler, who as CSO is responsible for sales and service. As CFO, Yves Souguenet will assume global responsibility for purchasing and IT, in addition to finance and accounting.

@HenneckeGroup @PresseBox#Pauto 

Thursday 23 February 2023

Simulating metaversally!

Anritsu Corporation and InterDigital have developed a simulation environment that demonstrates how a user’s experience of an immersive metaverse can be enhanced.

Jonathan Borrill, Head of Global Market Technology at Anritsu stated: “We are very pleased to continue our collaborations with InterDigital and to bring demonstration of these concepts to the industry. Ensuring that future networks have the required features to enable an immersive metaverse user experience is an important contribution to future telecoms strategy. This collaboration is showing the industry how such experiences may become reality.”

To be shown live at the Mobile World Congress Barcelona (27 Feb - 2 Mar 2023), the demonstration will combine a 5G communications environment developed by Anritsu with an immersive metaverse user experience provided by InterDigital.

The 5G communications environment uses the advanced features of Anritsu’s MT8000A Network Simulator and the RTD custom script environment. InterDigital is using the 5G environment to demonstrate innovative connectivity concepts that enable a high-quality immersive user experience.

Using techniques to improve connectivity during handovers, the demonstration will show visitors how these features improve their experience of an immersive metaverse. The Anritsu MT8000A is able to support the latest 3GPP features and has the flexibility and powerful programming environment required to demonstrate these capabilities.

@AnritsuEMEA @Anritsu @InterDigitalCom @NapierPR @MWCHub #TandM #Communications

Unique switch technology adds to group expertese.

The Variohm Group is continuing its strategic product range expansion, manufacturing capacity and application solving capability through the recent acquisition of the high-performance magnetic switch and sensor manufacturer, Magnasphere Corporation.*

Magnasphere was founded over twenty years ago, successfully launching its patented high security switching technology as a replacement for security-vulnerable reed switches which are easy to defeat using simple magnets. Whilst competitors had developed expensive and complex alternatives, Magnasphere’s solution offered a low-cost and non-defeatable solution with similar magnetic field strength, product size and with much improved durability over reed switch-based security contacts. Other advantages included higher temperature extremes, no power source required, and excellent resistance to EMI and surge voltages.

Magnasphere’s patented switch technology
The basic principle behind the Magnasphere high security switch involves a magnetic ball held within a durable, hermetically sealed metal housing. In its open state, the ball attaches to a ferro-magnetic base within the housing and is drawn magnetically to a contacting ‘closed’ position when a magnet is moved within an activation zone outside of the housing. This ‘tamper and defeat-resistant principle’ also works where the magnetically charged ball is drawn towards a ferrous target – allowing a very low-cost proximity sensor. This principle also forms the basis for Magnasphere’s low jitter, non-mercury tilt switches – an environmentally safe and competitively priced solution. Magnasphere’s technology perfectly suits high security applications, and its cost and durability also makes it a compelling alternative for reed and Hall Effect switches for industrial and commercial OEM applications.

A comprehensive range of products of security contacts and switches, available in a wide variety of installation configurations and sensing zone alternatives, include recessed and surface mounted variants with single and multiple switch capability. Magnasphere’s products comply with UL -634, Levels 1 and 2 and CE listed equivalents. Magnasphere also manufactures smart motion detectors based on FMCW radar technology.

Variohm EuroSensor provides full technical and commercial support for Magnasphere’s products throughout Europe. Magnasphere’s acquisition brings The Variohm Group to nine sensing, switching and motion control manufacturing companies, offering highly differentiated components and systems across almost all areas of industry. With a total staff of more than 500, including 25 engineers, each Group member has high degree of autonomy but maintains complete access to the Group’s shared expertise and resources – this synergy promises a service and expertise level that is more than the sum of its parts.

As the Variohm Holdings Group expands with this latest acquisition Graham Pattison, Variohm Holdings’ managing director, is looking forward to the opportunities offered. “This latest acquisition further reflects Variohm Group’s collected vison and reinforces discoverIE’s continued investment. Now, with an even more diverse range of products and an increased application capability across the Group, we can extend a more progressive and comprehensive service to our valued customers”. 

Joseph Hedeen, Magnasphere’s general manager is anticipating great things from the increased market opportunities The Variohm Group will present. “We are looking forward to working with our new sister companies in The Variohm Group and the cooperation and opportunities on hand from the diversified range of sensing and switching products available”.


*Magnasphere joins the Variohm Group with fellow USA-based members Control Products Inc., from New Jersey (harsh duty position sensing and switching technologies) and Indiana based Phoenix-America (magnetic encoder and magnetic sensors). In Britain are Variohm EuroSensor (sensor and transducer supplier and manufacturer), Herga Technology (switching and sensing solutions), Ixthus Instrumentation (specialist measurement systems), Heason Technology (motion control components and custom engineered systems), and Positek Limited (specialised linear and rotary inductive displacement sensor technologies). The European mainland manufacturer Limitor GmbH (temperature control components) completes the line-up and Variohm EuroSensor also has a German subsidiary and Variohm Group products are extensively served by global distributors.

@Variohm @mepaxIntPR #PAuto 

Sustainable Sensor People!

Leuze, "The Sensor People," has achieved the goals for 2022 to become a CO-neutral company in Germany thanks to improved energy efficiency. Indirect emissions in the supply chain will also be examined going forward. Environment Social Governance (ESG) is part of the company strategy. "Growth means taking responsibility - for the environment and society, too." In this context, they have achieved an initial goal that they were aiming for and the company is CO2 neutral in Germany since 2022.

Improved energy efficiency.
As part of their growth strategy, Leuze had set the target to become CO2  neutral in Germany by the end of 2022. To do so, the company first examined its direct emissions and on this basis, it optimized the issues that were identified: thanks to comprehensive investment in new buildings and the modernization of existing buildings, it was possible to achieve a substantial reduction in energy consumption. Leuze was also able to significantly improve its energy efficiency in production: this was due to a massive expansion of its own renewable energy generation using photovoltaics, among other measures. As a result, The Sensor People were able to reduce last year the purchase of electricity from external sources by about half. Leuze has been using 100% green electricity by external electricity for years. Some of this is supplied by Leuze's own, leased hydroelectric power stations. The vehicle fleet has also been optimized: hybrids and fully electric company cars are already in use. And more will follow. In addition, Leuze provides charging stations to its customers and employees. The company also offers its employees "Job-Rad" (bicycle to work), and opportunity to charge e-bike batteries at the company.

Small regional projects can also contribute to climate protection: with the Leuze SenseBees colonies, Leuze supports the local ecosystem at the headquarters of the company in Owen (D).
Preventing deforestation.
In order to avoid direct CO2 emissions, Leuze supports an international forest protection project in northern Brazil on approx. 148,000 hectares. This is not related to reforestation but is a project that supports the preserve the rainforest as a natural CO2 store. The forest protection project saves emissions by avoiding the deforestation of the jungle.

Sustainability remains firmly on the agenda.

Leuze trainees are bee sponsors and built nesting
aids for wild bees together with a beekeeper
For Leuze, it is not enough to avoid direct emissions. As an international company, The Sensor People also want to make a contribution to more sustainable management worldwide. Therefore, it also includes checking the indirect mission in the supply chain. With most companies, these make up a large part and are more difficult to implement. In this context, the question arises: where do the components come from? How and in what conditions are they manufactured? Do these reflect Leuze’s ethical and ecological ideas? What does this mean in terms of competition? In order to get answers and initiate improvements, Leuze carries out regular audits, not only in Germany but also in manufacturing countries such as Asia.

For a circular economy.
Further, Leuze also plans to become CO2 neutral on the product side. For this purpose, individual new sensor series are already being considered in the sense of the "cradle to cradle" approach. In this context, The Sensor People check to what extent a specific product contributes to CO2 emissions and what this means for system operators with Leuze sensors.

@LeuzeUK @LeuzeUSA @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Environment #Germany

Handy videoscope series is versatile.

Flexible videoscope form factor enables non-destructive inspections in difficult and dangerous-to-access areas while providing high image quality and reporting.

The newest and most powerful of Teledyne FLIR'sExtech videoscope series, the Extech HDV700 is now available. This High-Performance Videoscope brings to market the most versatile device in its class to support automotive, building inspection, plumbing, manufacturing, and HVAC personnel with unmatched camera probe options for inspecting difficult-to-reach areas in order to quickly find problems and start repairs.

With a selection of eight easily-maneuverable, narrow, and waterproof (IP67) probes, professionals can inspect without expensive and time-consuming disassembly of machines, pipes, air ducts, and more, thanks to the various fixed and articulating probe options.

“Across condition monitoring use cases, technicians need to perform inspections in hard-to-reach and often dangerous spaces, whether that’s a vehicle, building envelope, or piping,” said Rob Milner, business development director, Teledyne FLIR. “With the new Extech HDV700, professionals have access to videoscope kits with clearer, brighter, and superior image quality from the wide field of view (FOV) lens. Inspections are now made faster, safer, and more cost-efficient.”

Inspect Efficiently with Improved Imagery and Reporting Capabilities.

Weighing only 705g, the HDV700 makes for comfortable, single-handed inspection via the color capacitive touch screen that is functional while wearing utility gloves. Its image quality also plays into inspection efficiency – the 1280 ×720 high-definition probe option combined with the wide FOV lens makes for effective inspection in the most difficult locations. Adding to inspection ease, the side-by-side live on-screen comparison makes for quick and easy reference image checks throughout. If an inspector is wondering whether a borehole is clean or not in comparison to their reference image, there’s no second guessing with the split-screen feature. Further, the HDMI video output allows the live footage to be shared on a separate device for an additional inspector to monitor.

The HDV700 also features multiple data recording options, making it simple to create reports anywhere by easily transferring imagery and videos to another device.

Each kit is complete with a HDV700 Videoscope Screen; camera probe (model dependent on kit ordered); 32 GB Micro SD card; USB-A to USB-C cable; HDMI Type A to Type D cable; Li-ion rechargeable battery (built-in); and universal adapter. Probe options include general purpose, dual view inspection, two-way 180° articulation, four-way 110° articulation, and pipe inspection options.

@flir @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Automotive #HVAC

Wednesday 22 February 2023

Keeping fishing rivers crystal clear.

The English rivers Test and Itchen are two of the world’s most famous chalk streams and are renowned for crystal clear water and trout fishing. The ecology of these rivers is therefore extremely important, and a network of twenty-one continuous water monitoring stations has recently been established for Southern Water, in compliance with its abstraction licence for the Testwood water supply works near Southampton. The Test and Itchen catchments supply much of Hampshire’s public water needs, as well as a significant proportion of the Isle of Wight’s requirements. Both rivers drain into Southampton Water, and in turn, into the Solen`t.
The River Itchen

Meteor Communications was contracted to install and maintain a network of its ESNET (Environmental Sensor network) systems in early 2021. “We have been delighted with the performance of the ESNET systems,” says Tim Taylor, Water Resources Compliance Advisor at Southern Water. “They were installed and became operational extremely quickly, measuring the key parameters, with data from 30-minute readings immediately available via the MeteorCloud® web portal. We have experienced virtually no down-time with this network, so we are generating excellent continuous datasets.”

Under the terms of the water monitoring contract, Meteor Communications have complete responsibility to deliver accurate, real time data to key stakeholders within Southern Water and externally. This includes site selection, installation and ongoing maintenance. Scheduled site visits and laboratory calibrations ensure that data is robust and reliable, with proactive and reactive site visits. “The Meteor Water Quality as a Service (WQaaS) model is the differentiator to other systems,” explains Meteor’s MD, Matt Dibbs. “By establishing a dedicated Water Quality Services Hub, we can calibrate sondes in laboratory conditions which ensures the accuracy and reliability of the data, and minimises time spent on site.”

Each of the 21 ESNET systems measures temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, ammonium, and pH using EXO multiparameter sondes. Pressure transducers are employed for the measurement of water level. The equipment is frequently located in visually sensitive and publicly accessible spaces, so a variety of discrete mounting options have been developed to ensure robust data delivery with appropriate equipment protection.

Southern Water’s network of monitors is comprised of both portable and kiosk-based ESNETs, with version selection dictated by site conditions and access. No pre-existing power or communications capability is necessary for either version, with solar panels providing sufficient charge for the units’ internal batteries.

The MeteorCloud® platform provides secure data visualisation, analysis and alarms to Southern Water, and also provides the Environment Agency with real-time access to the data, with agreed alarms for both water quality and water level limits. For example, whilst operating under a drought permit, the system will issue an alert when five consecutive water quality measurements on any sonde breach the alarm condition. Once an alarm has been triggered, Southern Water is able to implement remedial measures such as river aeration. However, where the alarm is a result of low water, abstraction would be stopped.

As part of its agreement with Southern Water, Meteor Communications’ staff check the network remotely every day. “This is a major benefit,” explains Tim Taylor. “By constantly checking the performance of the network, Meteor is able to implement corrective measures very quickly. Consequently, we are able to take timely action to protect river water quality and remain in compliance with our abstraction licence.”

Summarising, Matt Dibbs says: “There are a number of key factors underpinning the successful implementation of a water monitoring network such as this. First, the equipment has to be robust, reliable and able to operate in remote locations on solar power. Second, communications and data management have to be seamless and easy to use. Third, the support infrastructure needs to be in place to check the system daily; to service and calibrate spare sondes; and to visit all sites regularly for sonde swaps.

“All of these factors mean that we have had to make significant investment in staff and facilities. However, we now have over 700 ESNET systems operating all over the UK, so we have the experience and resources to ensure that they deliver valuable insights into the health of our rivers.”

@MeteorComms  @SouthernWater @_Enviro_News #Environmental #Water #Britain

Industrial COBOT delivers speed, accuracy and safety.

ABB has launched the SWIFTI™ CRB 1300 industrial collaborative robot, bridging the gap between industrial and collaborative robots. Combining class-leading speed and accuracy with expanded load handling capability of up to 11kg, the SWIFTI CRB 1300 can be used in a wide variety of production and product handling applications – from machine tending and pelletizing to pick-and-place and screwdriving.

It is is part of their wider cobot portfolio covering payloads from 0.5 to 11kg, with options including the YuMi® single and dual-arm robots, the GoFa™ CRB 15000 and the SWIFTI CRB 1100 industrial collaborative robot for payloads up to 4kg. 

“Our customers are looking to robotic automation to make their processes more flexible, efficient and resilient, helping to counter labor shortages by enabling their employees to perform more value-added work,” said Andrea Cassoni, Managing Director for Global General Industry Robotics at ABB. “The latest addition to our SWIFTI family is a highly accurate, high payload cobot that’s up to six times faster than other robots in its class. This means it can be used by both SMEs and large manufacturers looking for collaborative automated solutions to achieve new levels of flexibility and productivity.”

Featuring a high-quality design, backed by expert support, the SWIFTI CRB 1300 incorporates several features that can improve production efficiency by up to 44 percent compared to other cobots in its class. In a typical palletizing application, SWIFTI’s speed and performance enable it to handle up to 13 boxes per minute compared to the nine boxes possible with other cobots in its class.

Powered by ABB’s OmniCore™ C30 and C90XT controller, the SWIFTI CRB 1300 is up to five times more precise than any cobot in its class, making it ideal for tasks requiring consistent accuracy and repeatability. This, combined with a top speed of 6.2m/s, and payload options from 7 kg to 11 kg and reaches from 0.9 to 1.4, enables the SWIFTI CRB 1300 to perform a range of higher payload tasks including screwdriving, assembly, pick-and-place, and palletizing. With protection against dust and moisture (up to IP67), it can also be used in demanding environments, making it ideal for machine tending applications.

The SWIFTI CRB 1300 prioritizes operator safety, with a safety laser scanner integrated with ABB’s SafeMove collaborative safety software. The technologies enable safe collaboration to be achieved without the space and cost associated with installing protective fencing or other physical barriers.

If the laser scanner detects a worker within SWIFTI’s operating area, ABB’s SafeMove software will automatically slow the robot or stop it completely. As the worker moves away, movement will be restored, returning to full speed for full productivity only once the working area is completely clear. As a further protective measure, a built-in interaction status light provides a visual indication of the cobot’s status when a worker is within the workspace area. Integrating the scanner and software is simple, with SafeMove’s software add-ins enabling workers to quickly set up a safe working zone and other safety features using their handheld FlexPendant operating unit.

The same simplicity applies to programming the SWIFT CRB 1300. Users can set up the robot by either physically guiding it through a process (lead-through programming), or through ABB’s new Wizard Easy Programming software. Based on simple graphical blocks, Wizard Easy Programming makes programming accessible for non-specialists in robotics.

@ABBRobotics @ABBgroupnews @ABBMeasurement @abb_automation #Robotics #PAuto

Communicating logger.

Additional communication options have been added to the OTT HydroMet water level and temperature logger - the OTT ecoLog 1000. Now equipped with low-power LTE-M (CAT M1) connectivity, the device provides water professionals with simple, fast access to their water level data.

LTE-M is a type of low-power wide area network communication technology standard for a wide range of cellular devices and services in machine (M2M) and IoT applications, such as networks of groundwater monitoring sites. LTE-M has 5G compatibility making it future proof as cellular networks evolve. Mobile devices, smart phones, and tablets operating with Android, iOS or Windows 10 are all supported. In addition, simple local communication is available via Bluetooth.

By supporting 4G and cellular IoT transmission, LTE-M increases the speed and lowers the cost of data transmission, enabling users to conduct remote two-way operations such as configuration, network management, data download or the viewing of real-time data.

Robust, simple to install, and running on low-power with a 10-year battery life, the ecoLog 1000 has been designed specifically for long-term, unattended deployment. Enhanced connectivity further reduces the requirement for site visits, and lowers the cost of ownership.

@OTTHydromet @_Enviro_News #Water #Waste

Tuesday 21 February 2023

Current sensor for high-power EV traction inverters.

Distance and speed of charging are vital in the competitive EV sector and, like all vehicle components, high-power integrated traction inverters – which convert DC into AC and capture energy for the vehicle – need to combine superior performance with being as small and light as possible. Measuring just 29mm x 21mm x 12mm and weighing 27g, LEM’s new HSTDR current sensor is significantly more compact than a traditional C-core sensor, making it much easier to be integrated into space-limited inverter boxes.

Sofiane Serbouh
, LEM’s Global Product Manager, Motor Control says: “Based on 50 years’ experience in electrical measurement, LEM is continually pushing the boundaries when it comes to developing the solutions that design engineers in the automotive industry are looking for when working with traction inverters. The designers’ challenge is to create EV car components that are not just high-performance but are also compact and light. The HSTDR fits the bill perfectly.”

The sensor enables traction inverters to operate at maximum efficiency by combining high accuracy with affordability and the ability to operate in demanding environments (the sensor has an operating range of -40°C to +125°C and is robust enough to cope with vibrations up to 10G). Using open loop Hall effect technology and an innovative magnetic core design, the HSTDR offers excellent immunity against external field and cross talk as well as consistent behaviour over frequency with little part-to-part phase shift dispersion, ensuring more accurate torque control.

What makes the sensor unique is not only that it is 42% smaller than its predecessor (LEM’s HSNDR) but also weighs 50% less and offers 50% greater measuring range, as well as best-in-class accuracy and a global error over temperature and lifetime below 3.5%. Giving EV manufacturers the choice of having different current measuring ranges in the same housing – from ±300 A up to ±1500 A – the sensor ensures galvanic separation between the primary circuit (high power) and the secondary circuit (electronic circuit), which is also suitable for 800V battery systems.

One way LEM’s designers managed to minimise the footprint of the HSTDR was by making it the only sensor for EV traction inverters, DC link and 3-phase current measurement to feature an integrated busbar, starting with the earlier HSNDR, fitting perfectly into the smallest possible core aperture. Now, with access to a fully calibrated package of core, busbar and sensing element, car component designers and EV manufacturers will have the flexibility to achieve major reductions in their products’ time to market.

@LEM_Inc @NapierPR #PAuto #Electrical #Automotive

Organisational changes at leading automation company.

Dr Klaus Endress is to give up his responsibilities as president of the Supervisory Board of Endress and Houser next year (2024). He is to be succeeded by CEO Matthias Altendorf. The new CEO of the Group will be Dr Peter Selders, the present head of the centre of competence for level and pressure measurement technology. Steven Endress, currently managing director of Endress+Hauser UK, will become the second member of the family to sit on the Supervisory Board.

Dr Klaus Endress (l) and Matthias Altendorf

Klaus Endress (born 1948) has put his stamp on the development of Endress+Hauser for nearly 45 years. It was in 1979 that he joined the company his father founded. He then took over the management of the Group in 1995. In 2014, he handed over day-to-day operation of the company to Matthias Altendorf and became president of the Supervisory Board. Much of the company bears his signature to this day. He also focused in recent years on ensuring a smooth generational change within the shareholder family.

New management for the group of companies.
Matthias Altendorf is slated to take over as president of the Supervisory Board on 1 January 2024. He will be proposed for election at the Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2023. According to Klaus Endress, the shareholders believe he is right person for this position: “He has known our company for 35 years and has led the Group with prudence and success for nearly a decade. Mr Altendorf also embodies the Endress+Hauser culture in an exemplary manner and stands for the values that distinguish our company.”

Dr Klaus Endress to leave the Supervisory Board by the end of the year; Matthias Altendorf named as successor; Dr Peter Selders will become CEO Changes are to take place at the top of the Endress+Hauser Group at the beginning of 2024.

Dr Peter Selders will take over the reins as CEO. The 53-year-old executive, who holds a PhD in physics, joined Endress+Hauser in 2004 and has led the centre of competence for level and pressure measurement technology based in Maulburg, Germany, since 2019. “As head of Endress+Hauser Level+Pressure, he has demonstrated that he can lead and inspire people, that he lives and breathes our culture and that he is capable of successfully growing a large organization,” says Klaus Endress.

Family remains closely linked to the company.
Considerable thought and extensive discussions among the shareholders, the family and the Supervisory Board went into making these decisions. “It goes without saying that the family will continue to be closely connected with the company,” emphasizes Klaus Endress. As before, it will be represented by two members on the Supervisory Board. In addition to Sandra Genge, Steven Endress will join the board on 1 January 2024. The 44-year-old grandson of the company’s founder has worked for Endress+Hauser since 2012 and served as managing director in Britain since 2016.

Even though Klaus Endress will no longer have an active role at Endress+Hauser, he will remain chairman of the Family Council, which decides on all important issues in the relationship between the family and the company. For years, a family charter has governed the shareholders’ interaction and their relationship with the company. Established institutions and regular meetings strengthen solidarity within the family and provide a path for members of the younger generations to become involved in the company.

Further succession arrangements in place.
Peter Selders will be succeeded at the top of the centre of competence for level and pressure measurement technology by 49-year-old Dr Dirk Mörmann, currently director of technology and member of the board of directors. The fortunes of Endress+Hauser UK will be in the hands of Iain Cropper (51) from May 2023. As a member of the board of directors, to date he has been responsible for the sales centre’s operations.

@Endress_US @Endress_Hauser @Endress_UK #PAuto #Automation

New President for automation body.

Ian Clarke, Sales & Marketing Director at InControl has been elected as President of the GAMBICA board. He takes over from Steve Leech, Business Manager at Siemens, who now becomes Vice-President.

Ian Clarke
GAMBICA is the the trade association for Instrumentation, Control, Automation and Laboratory Technology in Britain, and is governed by a Board of Directors who are responsible for overseeing the organisation’s activities.

The board is formed of individuals within the membership, all of whom actively input into the organisation’s culture, strategic focus, effectiveness, and financial sustainability, as well as serving as ambassadors and advocates.

Steve Brambley, Chief Executive GAMBICA, said: “I’d like to thank Steve Leech for bringing energy and insight to the role of President, as well as his support to the GAMBICA team and me. Steve was the initiator for the GAMBICA Young Council, a valuable addition to the GAMBICA community that brings benefits to participants, members and staff.”

New President Ian said: “I have worked with GAMBICA as a member since the early 90s, so it comes as a great honour to take on the role as President for the association at this time. During my tenure, I hope to champion the topic of the Internet of Things and Industry 4.0, these are exciting digital technologies which touch almost every aspect of the organisation’s four sectors.”

He added: “I’d also like to support the good work of the GAMBICA Young Council which recently started under the guidance of the outgoing President. These forward-thinking topics are going to shape the future of UK industry and bolster the country’s productivity in years to come.”

@gambica #InControl #PAuto #Automation #Britain

NTC thermistor designed for rapid response.

A new NTC thermistor aimed at mid-range temperature measurement where high accuracy and fast response times are critical has been launched by Variohm Eurosensor. The competitively priced ENTC-MTP-65-10k3977-02 features a resistance tolerance of ± 0.2°C over a zero to 70°C temperature range that will suit many areas of medical, industrial, and environmental control and monitoring.
The thermistor’s 1.1 mm diameter x 5 mm long tube design, encapsulated in black STYCAST 2850FT thermally conductive epoxy, provides maximum moisture protection and excellent thermal transfer for a response time of 0.5s in liquids - and its diminutive tip size allows straightforward integration in measurement instruments and equipment.

With a 10 kΩ no-load resistance at +25°C the ENTC-MTP-65-10k3977-02 has a full operating range of -40 °C to +125 °C and a Beta Value 25/85 constant of 3977K ± 1%. Further reinforcing its application durability, the thermistor has 60 mm long PVDF insulated 30 AWG silver plated copper leadwires that can be optionally specified to suit customer requirements. A datasheet with a resistance vs. temperature table and full specifications is available for download from the Variohm EuroSensor website.

The ENTC-MTP-65-10k3977-02 is part of an expanding range of temperature sensing components manufactured by Variohm EuroSensor. Other types of temperature devices available include specialist temperature probes adapted as components such as ring terminals, hex bolts, and other tubular probes for direct mounting on customers equipment. The comprehensive range also includes temperature transducers, and space qualified thermistors, temperature switches, thermocouples, infrared sensors and more.

@Variohm @mepaxIntPR #PAuto

Rotary sensor for industry and science.

Positek Limited has expanded its range of rotary sensors with a new cost competitive model aimed at demanding industrial and scientific applications. Based on their patented PIPS® technology, the P530 offers an effectively infinite resolution and linearity of +/- 0.25 % FSO. Application flexibility is ensured with a wide choice of industry standard outputs calibrated to a customer specified angle from +/-50° to +/-160° in increments of 1 degree. 

Positek’s non-contacting technology, a major advance in displacement sensor design, is based on simple inductive coils and micro-electronic circuitry that provides an exceptionally long MTBF life of up to 350,000 hrs at 40°C as well as excellent durability against shock, vibration, and temperature extremes.

The new P530 rotary sensor’s 35 mm diameter housing is IP67 sealed and together with its flange mounting and shaft drive is finished in 316 stainless-steel. A machined registration mark identifies the mid-point of rotary travel. The comprehensive selection of supply and instrument-level signal outputs extends to input voltages of +/- 5V DC or +/- 24V DC with ratiometric and buffered voltage outputs as well as 4…20 mA current outputs. EMC performance conforms to EN 61000-6-2 and 6-3. A choice of M12 connector or cable gland connection is available with cable length specified by the customer.

Positek’s PIPS technology (Positek Inductive Position Sensor) scores well when compared to other LVDT technologies. Its simpler coil design is more compact and utilises inexpensive magnetic materials – which makes for easier installation, competitive costs and lowered environmental susceptibility. The well proven ASIC technology simply decodes the absolute position of embedded inductive coils providing a proportional, high-bandwidth and readily useable high resolution analogue output that does not require further signal conditioning. Furthermore, in comparison to potentiometer-based displacement sensors, the non-contacting PIPS technology ensures an extremely long working life.

@positekltd @mepaxIntPR #PAuto 

Monday 20 February 2023

Information officer for memory leader.

Neumonda has appointed Oliver Philippsen as its Chief Information Officer. In his role, Oliver will oversee the IT teams, technologies and processes within the Neumonda group, which consists of the specialist memory distributor Memphis Electronic, the manufacturer of industrial-grade memory products Intelligent Memory, as well as the memory IP powerhouse Neumonda Technology.

Oliver Philippsen
“Digital has become a core competency, especially in high-tech sectors like semiconductor,” said Marco Mezger, Executive Vice President & COO of Neumonda Holding. “With this new role in our holding, we will be able to provide the technology backbone for an excellent customer experience. This will enable Memphis Electronic, Intelligent Memory and Neumonda Technology to focus on their growth.”

Oliver is a seasoned IT expert with over 30 years of experience in various industries. He combines extensive knowledge of the latest technologies with in-depth experience in agile software development, automation, digital transformation and change management. In previous roles, he has built a track record of turning dependencies between technology and people into strengths by introducing modern development methods to traditional embedded environments, training product ownership and bringing e-commerce from on-premise to the cloud.

@PresseBox #Memphis-Electronic #PAuto 

Antennas for the next generation.

Cellmax new 12- and 8t-port platforms ,1207xx and 1209xx, further enhance CellMax world record efficiency levels and allows for more than 18 dBi on the low band and up to 21.6 dBi on the midband.The first release of these new products goes from 698 to 2690 MHz and will later be released to support both L-band and 600.

Antenna Characteristics.
 12-Port / 8-Port Multiband Antennas
4 x 698-960MHz
8 x 1695-2690 MHz (8-port antennas: 4 x 1695-2690 MHZ)
Low band gain 18.2 dBi
High band gain 21.6 dBi
PIM -160dBc
Maximum coverage
Maximum indoor penetration
Maximum data transaction throughput and speed
With a higher antenna gain the coverage area is increased and fewer sites need to be deployed, rendering massive CAPEX and OPEX savings for the operators.

The increased mid/Hhgh-band coverage allows for a higher level of aggregation between the available frequency bands, allowing the subscribers to use more bandwidth and hence enjoy higher throughput levels.

Today, operators lose millions of kWh as heat in traditional base station antennas. By using the high-efficiency antennas from CellMax an operator can maintain today's coverage even if you decrease your output power on site. Allow for increased subscriber satisfaction and enhanced throughput during busy hours, and use the new features enabled by the triple band radio's to reduce transmitted power during off busy hours. Our antennas allow you not only to save the planet and associated cost while off-busy hours but still maintain great service and access to your customers.

Increased Satisfaction.
The improved traffic distribution between low band and mid band that comes with Cellmax antennas, allows for more connections, fewer dropped calls and higher throughput on the low band while increasing coverage, indoor penetration and data throughput on the high band. This means increased subscriber satisfaction and higher revenues.

Looking at the total costs of ownership end-to-end, this antenna is the natural choice. By improving coverage, frequency utilization and data throughput, this antenna improves and maximizes existing assets.The platform supports 4X4 MIMO for both mid band and low band.

@cellmax.com @PresseBox #PAuto #Wireless

New technology enables the green transition away from natural gas.

Antti Heikkila* explains how GHG emissions can be reduced by replacing natural gas with biomethane, but he says this can only be a viable solution if it is environmentally and financially sustainable.

Antti Heikkila - Vaisala
Countries around the world are urgently seeking alternatives to fossil fuels in order to lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and thereby limit global warming. One of the ways in which this can be achieved is by replacing natural gas with biomethane, but this can only be a viable solution if it is environmentally and financially sustainable. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to monitor biogas production continuously so that the process can be optimized. Vaisala has therefore developed monitors that are capable of measuring methane, carbon dioxide and humidity in-line.

Formed over a timespan of millions of years when layers of organic matter decompose deep underground at high temperature and pressure, natural gas consists of methane and small amounts of other gaseous hydrocarbons. Natural gas is therefore a fossil fuel, and its combustion is responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. For example, according to the USEPA, emissions from natural gas consumption represented 79% of the direct fossil fuel CO2 emissions from the (USA) residential and commercial sectors in 2020.

Spiralling energy costs, supply chain disruption and the GHG emissions associated with the extraction, transport, and combustion of natural gas mean that cheaper, reliable, and more sustainable alternatives to natural gas are required.

As fossil fuels are phased out during the green transition, it has become necessary to find alternative sources of clean energy through innovation. New technology therefore has a vital role to play as we move into a profitable and sustainable era of green energy.

Replacing natural gas with biomethane.
Biogas represents an important green alternative, but only if it is economically viable and able to compete with alternative forms of renewable energy. In-line monitoring of biogas production and the upgrading process to biomethane enable significant production efficiency improvements; making biomethane an economically and environmentally viable alternative to fossil fuels.

Around 75% of the biogas currently produced in the EU is used as a source of local heat and power generation, with almost 20% of biogas being converted to biomethane. According to the European Commission’s RePowerEU scheme, biomethane production is projected to increase tenfold by 2030 and to grow even more rapidly up to 2050. Today, the production cost of biomethane has been estimated to be around 80 euros/MWh, but the European Biogas Association expects this to fall to 55 euros/MWh in the future. These increases in both production and efficiency can only be achieved with the latest technology in process control instrumentation.

Biogas also offers an opportunity for a more circular economy. This is because the feedstock for anaerobic digestion (AD) can include waste products such as food, crop residues, animal manure, and wastewater sludge, and the digestate from AD can be returned to the land as fertilizer.

Reducing methane slip.
Biogas represents an attractive opportunity, but its sustainability credentials would be damaged if methane is allowed to slip into the atmosphere from either the AD reactor or the gas upgrading process. This is particularly important because methane is a powerful GHG; roughly 30 times stronger than carbon dioxide, so it is vital that advanced monitoring and process optimization is employed to lower or prevent any potential emissions.

Renewable energy solutions.
Biomethane is a useful alternative where a gas fuel must be used, or where natural gas is used as a feedstock instead of a fuel. In the chemical industry, for example, natural gas is used as an energy source, and as a raw material for the production of ammonia, which in turn is used to produce fertilizers.

Substantial infrastructure is in place to facilitate the utilization of natural gas, so biomethane represents a logical alternative. However, there will be many instances where fossil fuel energy sources can be replaced by other forms of renewable energy such as wind and solar. Biomethane production must therefore be as efficient as possible if it is to compete, and this is where the latest monitoring technology has a vital role to perform.


* Antti Heikkilä is an Industry Expert and Product Manager at Vaisala, where he has been in charge of bringing Vaisala’s ground-breaking and sustainable innovations for biogas measurement to market.

@VaisalaSuomi, @VaisalaGroup  @_Enviro_News #PAuto #Energy

Building secure certified systems.

Moxa UC-8200 Series computers running on the Moxa Industrial Linux 3.0 (MIL3) platform offer a highly secured edge computing solution for IIoT environments in energy, industrial automation, and oil & gas applications.

In an IIoT environment, data is collected from a multitude of OT edge devices and transmitted to an enterprise IT cloud for analysis and storage. Insights gained from the processed data are then used by OT systems to implement appropriate actions. However, as cyberattacks are increasingly targeting cloud networks, more enterprises are looking for ways to secure the computing infrastructure that collects and processes data for their IIoT environments.

Industrial computers play a critical role in connecting industrial automation and control systems (IACS) to the cloud. Although this connectivity allows formerly private systems to be accessible from practically anywhere, transmitting confidential data over untrusted networks requires greater attention to network security and access to edge devices. Consequently, asset owners are becoming aware of the importance of cybersecurity and starting to adopt IEC 62443-3-3 system security practices to protect their IIoT applications from threats, such as unauthorized access, tampering, and data breaches.

UC-8200 Industrial Computers Features:
Compact Arm-based computer for distributed IIoT applications 
ISASecure SDLA (IEC 62443-4-1) and CSA (IEC 62443-4-2) SL2 certi-fied host device 
Wi-Fi and LTE communication redundancy 
Robust LTE Cat. 4 connectivity with RF and carrier approvals (Verizon, AT&T) 
Rich set of communication interfaces including 2 serial, 2 Giga LAN, 1 USB, and 1 CAN ports and 4 DIs, 4 DOs

Certified for ISASecure SDLA (IEC 62443-4-1) and CSA (IEC 62443- 4-2) security level 2, Moxa UC-8200 computers feature the security functions and tools users need to easily redevelop and build a secure edge computing system, reduce unnecessary operational costs, and increase the usability and reliability of industrial assets to return higher profits. This bundled solution also provides a security diagnostic tool to help system integrators comply with IEC 62443-4-2 standards when any changes take place in the redevelopment process, as well as an accompanying hardening guide that instructs users on how to install, deploy, operate, and maintain their systems securely.

Moxa Industrial Linux 3.0.
Device availability is often the most critical aspect of an IACS. MIL3 provides UC-8200 computers with a system failback function, enabling automatic system recovery in case of a failure to ensure system data integrity. MIL3 also offers system snapshot and backup functions, ensuring that the UC-8200 can roll back to a designated secured backup when the system fails to boot due to a power outage during critical updates or under other circumstances, such as a security breach.

For comprehensive protection of system data from cyberthreats, the UC-8200 computers come with an NXP i.MX7 processor and OTP (one-time programmable) fuse, which acts as the Root of Trust and initiates a chain of validation sequences during bootup to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the bootloader and kernel before allowing them to decrypt the root file system with sensitive data using the password stored in the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. System integrators can further extend the chain of trust to validate the integrity and authenticity of their deployed applications on the UC-8200.


@MoxaInc @OConnellPR #Pauto #IIoT #Cybersecurity

Friday 17 February 2023

Valve certified for Hydrogen applications.

Bureau Veritas Italia approval has been granted for Emerson's BM6X Series Slam-Shut valve for use in applications with up to 100% hydrogen and pressures up to 100 bar was completed in December 2022. The certification was achieved as a result of the commitment of Emerson and Bureau Veritas Italia to ensure suitable products are available for use in new hydrogen infrastructure. The certification granted to the Emerson BM6X Series Slam-Shut valve confirms the verification of material suitability, based on internal and external seal tests performed at the Emerson production plant in Castel Maggiore, Bologna, Italy.

BM6X Series Axial Flow Slam-Shut Valve
Emerson is working with its customers to develop a hydrogen ecosystem, starting with research and innovation, and scaling up production and transportation. These efforts are an important focus of the European Union’s strategy on hydrogen, adopted in 2020, and of similar efforts in other countries and regions worldwide. Certifying key components, such as the Emerson BM6X Series Slam-Shut valve, is a critical step for these types of projects.

“The Bureau Veritas procedure, relating to the issue of Type Approval for hydrogen-operated actuators and valves, defines the audit process for the issue, maintenance and renewal of the certification for actuators and valves used with hydrogen or hydrogen mixtures,” says Giuseppe Signoretta, hydrogen technical manager, Bureau Veritas.

“This procedure supports the certification of products ready to be used in the hydrogen field, and it provides a suitable tool for the concrete implementation of the European plans for energy independence and reduction of CO2 emissions. The collaboration between Emerson and Bureau Veritas demonstrates a concrete commitment to offer suitable and safe products for natural gas distribution networks,” adds Signoretta.

“To ensure product quality, safety and conformity, Emerson is collaborating with the testing and certification agency Bureau Veritas Italia, and it has developed internal procedures to assess the suitability of products to be used in gas infrastructure applications,” said Oscar Bressan, standardisation and product engineer with Emerson’s pressure management research and development team.

“The Emerson procedures describe the requirements, tests and inspection methods for metallic and non-metallic materials, as well as internal and external sealing necessary to use pressure control products in contact with natural gas and blended hydrogen, or pure hydrogen. After the first certification obtained for the Emerson BM6X Series Slam-Shut valve, Emerson will continue to certify other equipment used in hydrogen infrastructure to ensure sustainability and reliability for this rapidly developing market,” concludes Bressan.

The Emerson BM6X Series Slam-Shut valve has multiple applications throughout gas transmission networks, regulating stations and end use infrastructure. For example, natural gas transmission and distribution companies can blend hydrogen into their distribution systems, reducing emissions when the blended mixture of hydrogen and natural gas is burned in homes for cooking, heating and other uses. Industrial end users can reduce emissions by using a mix of hydrogen and natural gas as fuel for turbines used for power generation.

@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @EmersonExchange @HHC_Lewis @bureauveritas #PAuto

Robotics software now available in-line!

Fuzzy Logic has announced the launch of its no-code industrial robot programming and simulation software, Fuzzy Studio, on its website. Fuzzy Studio allows non-experts in robotics to create virtual cells and control industrial robots, enabling them to robotize their production at an affordable price and lower risk, even in situations that were once considered impossible, such as for small batches or complex parts. Previously reserved for a select few, it is now available online to a wider audience and comes with informative documentation and tutorials.

Fuzzy Logic was founded by Ryan Lober and Antoine Hoarau

Fuzzy Studio is a no-code software that enables non-robotics experts to simulate and program industrial robots. It is universal, compatible with most robot brands on the market, and allows even those who lack expertise in robotics or programming to create, program, and simulate their own robotic cell. With the rise of robotics in France and Europe as a means to relocate production, Fuzzy Studio provides an easy and low-risk solution for investment.

Fuzzy Studio comes in two licenses on the Fuzzy Logic website: the Fuzzy Studio Simulation license allows non-robotic users to create and preview a robotic cell in a simulated environment, while the Fuzzy Studio Production license provides all the tools necessary for the integration and operation of a real robotic cell.

Ryan Lober, CEO of Fuzzy Logic, says, "This online launch is the culmination of two years of Fuzzy Studio evolution built on deployment in production with our existing customers. Fuzzy Studio is now ready to be offered to a wider audience and is currently the most advanced and accessible industrial robotics software on the market."

He adds, "Fuzzy Logic will revolutionize mass-customization and flexible production. Our ambition is to make industrial robotics accessible to a wider audience, such as for the production of small batches or unique parts, which are difficult to automate due to high costs associated with complex robot programming. By democratizing robotics, making it simple to program and simulate a robot for everyone, we make robotic automation feasible where it once seemed impossible."

Fuzzy Studio, instant access to an interactive digital twin robotic cell.
Today, solutions for creating robotic cells are often complex. With Fuzzy Studio, this process becomes incredibly simple and accessible. The software provides a wide library of robots and is highly compatible with 3D digital design formats (CAD). It enables the creation of an interactive virtual cell, which is intuitive and easy to handle for robotics novices. It offers anyone the opportunity to design, program, and simulate a robotic work cell for a fully functional real-time digital twin.

Optimizing the cell in just a few clicks.
Fuzzy Studio includes a collision detection function to immediately validate cell sizing. The positions of objects are configured and visible in minutes, and potential collision sources between parts of the digital twin are anticipated. Any object can be easily reconfigured in just a few clicks. When the positioning of an object is modified, the trajectories associated with that object are updated accordingly. Interactions are dynamic, and the feasibility of robot trajectories appears immediately.

Automatic trajectory generation without programming, a uniquely powerful feature.
Robot trajectories require lengthy and complex programming by a roboticist. With Fuzzy Studio, these complex trajectories are automatically generated in just a few clicks through the 3D information of objects placed in the digital twin. On the contours of a part for deburring or its surface for sanding and grinding, the possibilities are endless and available to all. An unlimited number of waypoints can be added to these trajectories. This functionality offers order of magnitude time savings to users, as the generation of trajectories frees them from dependence on robotic experts.

With Fuzzy Studio, the basic specifications of a project can be validated in just a few minutes instead of several weeks, and at a lower cost. Information on the sizing of the robotic cell is displayed for easy decision-making before moving on to real-time control. Parameters can be quickly modified in the simulation, reducing the investment risks of a robotics project. These advantages are unique in the market and allow for a drastic reduction in investment risks.
All of these features are available in the Fuzzy Studio Simulation license. 

Real-time execution of robot trajectories bridges the gap between theory and practice.
The Fuzzy Studio Production license includes the features of the Simulation license, with the addition of a connection to the robot for real-time control. This control validates all the hypotheses formulated in the simulated cell, including trajectories, implementation, and collisions in the real world. With fast simulation, the risk of error is reduced to almost zero. If a problem is detected, it can be easily corrected directly in the simulation.

The Fuzzy Studio Production license includes an I/O input and output module, which allows the behavior of a PLC in the virtual cell to be easily simulated and programmed with simple functions such as generating a trajectory or launching a grip. This feature adds flexibility to robotic program architects. The use of the Production license also does not require any special coding skills. A simple click of a button in the software allows for real-time connection with the Fuzzy RTOS software installed in the robot bay, enabling real-time control of the robot.

The potential for significant economic benefits for the industry has been recognized by BPI France.
The BPI (France Banque Publique d'Investissement) has just granted Fuzzy Logic a 1.75 million euro aid for Deeptech development. The project to democratize industrial robotics, which is part of a perspective of reindustrialization of territories, has caught the attention of BPI France . In the current context, with conflicts and an energy crisis following the pandemic, French industry faces the challenge of rapid reindustrialization. There is a strong demand for increased production, at lower costs and with better quality. However, without qualified personnel or tools, the solution lies in technology, with robotics being the key to increased productivity. However, industrial robots are largely inaccessible because of their costly and complicated use, which require robotics expertise. Fuzzy Logic, with its software that allows non-experts to easily control a robot, offers industry a cost-effective solution to this massive problem.

@fuzzylogicrobot @Bpifrance @mepaxIntPR #Robotics #PAuto