Friday 26 April 2024

Lab Info Management for Australia.

The Australian branch of Autoscribe Informatics, Autoscribe Informatics Pty Ltd, has moved to new offices in West Lakes Adelaide, to better service its growing customer base across the Asia Pacific region. The operation is headed by Jodie Poole Director, Asia Pacific for Autoscribe who has over 23 years’ experience in information technology and laboratory informatics.

“We have an increasing number of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) clients across Australasia,” said Jodie. “Our new office in West Lakes provides a superb working environment to attract and retain the very best staff in the industry and drive further expansion. It has good links across Australia and the wider Asia Pacific region.”

A wide variety of industries from across Asia Pacific are supported by Autoscribe’s Australian team including veterinary, medical research, defence, environmental, biobanking, pharmaceutical, manufacturing and contract laboratories, ensuring a varied and interesting workload.

“The ease of configuration of the Autoscribe product, Matrix Gemini LIMS, lends itself to being used in a wide variety of applications," said Simon Wood, Product Manager, Autoscribe Informatics. “Our recent merger with Xybion adds a strong preclinical LIMS offering and a QMS solution that includes predictive compliance risk analysis. Together the Xybion/Autoscribe combination offers depth of knowledge and a range of solutions to provide end-to-end laboratory digitization and automation for any industry.”


@AutoscribeLtd @AutoscribeCorp #LIMS #Laboratory #Australia

Hardy camera targeting smart agriculture, food, and beverage industries.

Designed for reliability in demanding industrial factory automation environments.

The Forge® 1GigE IP67, the latest in the Teledyne FLIR IIS industrial camera series, is designed to perform in harsh industrial environments while ensuring highly efficient production capabilities. Forge 1GigE IP67 is the latest in our commitment to deliver advanced imaging systems for factory automation.

“We are proud to announce the launch of our latest machine vision product, exclusively designed for smart agriculture, food, and beverage industries,” said Sadiq Panjwani, General Manager at Teledyne FLIR IIS. “Unlike general-purpose cameras in a crowded machine vision market, our solution is tailored to address the complexities of a specific industry. We focus on key markets, and develop solutions from the ground up, armed with a clear understanding of the market, customer partnerships, and technology innovation.”

The Forge 1GigE IP67 camera series has an IP67 cylindrical enclosure for optimal and easy system integration, simplified post operation washing, and the prevention of dirt accumulation. A wide selection of IP67 rated components are available with partners such as Smart Vision Lights® and Components Express, LLC. (CEI) to create an entire IP67 vision ecosystem for our customers.

With advanced on-camera features such as auto-brightness functions (AGC and Auto-Exposure), the new cameras dynamically adjust in variable and outdoor lighting conditions. The IEEE1588 protocol enables multi-camera image capture synchronization, and Lossless Compression (LLC) provides higher frame rates and lower bandwidth requirements, maximizing camera output without compromising image quality for high-speed applications.

Key Features.
• IP67 ingress protection minimizes dust and debris accumulation for simplified maintenance
• Onboard processing for no-drop image capture and delivery
• Highly robust and reliable Teledyne GigE framework within the Spinnaker® 4 acquisition SDK
• Support for Sapera® Image Processing Library with AI capability
• Newest Sony® CMOS image sensors, and 1.2 MP to 12 MP resolution options
• Includes a three-year warranty, access to rich online resources, and world-class technical support


@flir  #PAUTO #TandM

Thursday 25 April 2024

Ring light guides...

Creative Lighting is becoming just as important in the instrument and machinery marketplace as it is in the consumer world – sophisticated lighting adds that “extra edge” to differentiate one product from another.

Multitron has announced the availability of MENTOR’s Ring Light Guides. The shallow, single LED design is believed to be unique, enabling functional and aesthetic added-value to be simply added to the end-product.

A very wide range of applications are possible – for example switches, buttons, knobs, controllers, jacks or logos can all be illuminated. Totally homogeneous lighting is created using just the single LED.

The compact, space-saving design and flat 4mm deep construction means that PCB space is saved and the size of the housing is minimised compared with other solutions, for example a ring of multiple LEDs.

Many LED options are offered: monochrome, duo, RGB, or special colours. Two standard sizes are available with internal Light Guide diameters of 12mm or 16mm, both featuring a lighting ring up to 2mm thick.

Options include a choice of bare wires or wires terminated with a plug. The printed circuit board can be supplied with optional I²C controllers or series resistors.

In addition to the range of standard products, the modular product design enables customised solutions to be rapidly developed from standard products. In many cases, additional tooling costs are either non-existent or very low.

Special sizes are also possible as are special geometries eg rectangles, ellipses, triangles, crescents or free contour-following forms, such as a door lock shape. Depending on the complexity of the solution, one or more LEDs are used to ensure consistently uniform lighting.


@MultitronUK #PAuto #OEM

Glove touch display.

The new Powertip PH800480T030-ZHR06 high-resolution, high-brightness, glove-touch 5” display featuring rugged 3mm screen glass is nowavailable from Inelco Hunter. This touch display is particularly suitable to outdoor environments where a bright, rugged screen is required or where the user will be wearing gloves, such as hospital and factory settings.

The potential uses are vast and will include (but not limited to) industry, environment, energy, EV, medical and scientific applications

Designed and manufactured to deliver clear content, the display features a high-resolution 800 * 3 (RGB) * 480 Dots screen with a full viewing angle. The display is a Transmissive type touch screen, normally black, featuring a high brightness of 850 cd/m2 when in operation.

The Powertip PH800480T030-ZHR06 features a Parallel RGB (Data) interface with an SPI configuration. The operating temperature is -20°C to +70°C and the lifetime is up to 50,000 hours (25°C, IF= 200mA).


@InelcoHunter #PAuto 

Wednesday 24 April 2024

AI and air quality success!

A new web-based AI tool, designed to help create air quality assessments, is receiving rave reviews from initial users. Over 20 air quality consultancies are currently beta testing the Airly AI tool*, which has been developed to accelerate air quality assessments for planning and development proposals.

Following two weeks of evaluation, during which the tool was used extensively over 100 times, and Airly Product Lead Marta Steiner said: “The feedback has been very positive, 80% of all testing users reported very significant time saving, with data collection taking seconds - instead of hours or days! and 70% of the Airly AI users said that the product exceeded their expectations.”

Developers and planning authorities utilise air quality assessments to model the air quality impacts of proposed developments, and with around 30,000 people dying prematurely from air pollution in Britain every year, these reports perform a critical role in sustainable development.

The Airly AI tool automates the gathering of information that would previously have been painstakingly obtained from multiple online sources of local geographic, environmental and transport data. For example, the Annual Status Reports, which include monitoring data, from 99% of Councils have been digitised by Airly AI, and 92% are now automatically available in the tool.

Certain features of the new tool have been found to be particularly beneficial. For example, the majority of users indicated that editable tables with diffusion tube and monitoring site data bring the greatest value to their work, and most commented that the quality of AI generated content is equal to their own. Similarly, the automatic drawing of road links on the GIS map has been extremely popular; typically reducing the time taken for this task by around 70%.

The beta testing will end shortly, but Marta says: “This evaluation period has provided a great opportunity for air quality professionals to understand how Airly AI can help them. The users are using the Airly AI tool extensively in their everyday work, which clearly demonstrates the willingness of air quality companies to adopt new technologies and embrace new opportunities for their businesses.

“Feedback from these early users is being used to further enhance the tool’s capability because we are determined that it should be developed to meet their precise needs,” she adds. “The next milestone on the Airly AI road map is to enable air quality consultants to automate other types of air quality assessments.”


* Anyone with an interest in air quality assessments can book a demonstration here


 @airlyorg @_Enviro_News #Environment #AI 

Regional Distributor of the Year award for Northern Europe.

The British team of TTi Europe has won the 'European Regional Distributor of the Year 2023 – Northern Europe' award from Molex. This accolade recognises the valued commitment TTI Europe makes to Molex customers across Northern Europe, contributing significantly towards shared growth.

L to R: Darrell Gibbs, Outside Sales Manager,
Stephen Radford, Branch Product Manager &
Helen Thurston, General Manager Sales
Great Britain, TTI, Inc. – Europe
“We are pleased to present TTI UK with this award in recognition of their commitment to our demand creation efforts,” says Paul Keenan, Director of Distribution, Europe at Molex.

“Congratulations to the entire team for their continued engagement across the region. We are incredibly honoured to win this coveted award from Molex,” says John Islam, Manager Supplier Development – Product Marketing at TTI Europe. “The teams from Molex and TTI UK have worked closely together and I would like to thank them for their collaboration. We have continually invested in Molex’s inventory; as a result, we have the widest and deepest portfolio in the channel, with the newest products available. This is backed by local sales and technical support, meaning we can offer the best solutions to customers.”


@ttiinc @MolexConnectors @Publitek #Energy #PAuto

Environmental monitoring system for pharmacies.

The construction of a new building prompted one of Denmark’s largest pharmacy businesses to invest in Vaisala’s viewLinc Continuous Monitoring System (CMS) to protect the production, handling and storage of medicines. Regionsapoteket Midtjylland produces and distributes pharmaceutical products, serving customers throughout the central Jutland region of Denmark, and the new monitoring system was installed at the new facility in Aarhus as well as the company’s site in Gødstrup near Herning (DK).

With GxP regulatory compliance as a key objective, the CMS was supplied, installed and commissioned by Insatech, Vaisala’s local distributor, and partner for Regionsapoteket Midtjylland.

Data reliability in GxP environments.
To meet the GxP regulatory requirements, the Vaisala viewLinc CMS was configured to monitor temperature, particles, humidity, and pressure, as well as alarms from water treatment systems, isolators, and safety cabinets in Regionsapoteket Midtjylland's medicine production, handling, and storage facilities. The system logs measurement data from the respective measurement points as well as the use of the monitoring system (including entry log, alarm handling, communication errors, instrumentation errors, etc.), ensuring an accurate representation of the production environment at any given time.

With viewLinc, Regionsapoteket can verify and prove to auditors that medications are produced, stored, and handled under the correct environmental conditions. Data integrity is ensured through an ‘Audit Trail’ function in the viewLinc software, which leaves a trace of all activities and prevents data from being edited or manipulated.

24/7 monitoring.
The viewLinc CMS enables Regionsapoteket Midtjylland to document production conditions around the clock. This is essential if there is any suspicion that a specific medication batch deviates from required storage and handling conditions. Therefore, viewLinc is a crucial factor in allowing Regionsapoteket to achieve data integrity and to guarantee the quality and safety of the medications that it produces.

With the viewLinc CMS, Insatech delivered a comprehensive monitoring solution consisting of data loggers and sensors strategically placed in cleanrooms, storage areas, laboratories, etc., either via lamp outlets or ventilation ducts. The system includes:
• 83 temperature measurement points in rooms, refrigerators, freezers, etc.
• 19 humidity measurement points in rooms and handling areas
• 19 particle counters, in production areas where personnel produce medicines. The limit is very low, and Insatech configured the system to activate lights and sounders in the rooms when alarm conditions are reached.
• 55 light towers that give an alarm if any limits are exceeded; indicating the criticality of the situation with a color scale.

Insatech also installed 105 differential pressure transmitters in 13 industrial panels (approximately 210 measurements). These measurements indicate the differential pressure between two rooms, where an alarm is activated in viewLinc if the pressure thresholds are breached. For example, if production room air pressure becomes lower than that in the distribution corridor, contamination of the production environment may occur. Monitoring the differential pressure in these areas helps to ensure against this.

Data collection and reporting.
Data from viewLinc’s distributed network of sensors is collected in the system’s server and presented in a user-friendly interface where it is also possible to print reports. The system logs data every minute, and if one or more parameters exceeds the allowed limit, the staff receive visual, acoustic, and SMS/email alarm notifications, allowing them to stop the batch immediately in critical productions. This ensures that the medicines are processed and stored within specified conditions.

In case of communication errors between the sensing instruments and viewLinc, data is stored locally in each device. Data storage capacity depends on the device logging interval, which is set up using viewLinc. Local memory in each device provides the data redundancy and integrity that is crucial for Regionsapoteket’s quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

Progress and successful installation.
Throughout the installation process, Insatech provided advice, project support, quality control, network installation, and data integration – all crucial to the success of the monitoring system. Insatech also enabled collaboration with Regionsapoteket’s partners to guarantee successful installation and commissioning.

Following the successful completion of the project, Regionsapoteket Midtjylland issued the following statement: "We have been very pleased with our close collaboration with Insatech. The project manager has been a good collaborator and sparring partner. He has focused on being solution-oriented and helped us find the right solution when challenges arose."


@VaisalaGroup@_Enviro_News #PAuto #Denmark

Gas analysis in Korea.

Signal Group has announced the further expansion of its network of international distributors with the appointment of Y&J Eng in South Korea. “Asia is fast becoming one of our major markets, so it is important that we have a local partner in the Korean market,” explains Signal MD James Clements. “We recently welcomed two members of Y&J Eng staff to our factory in Camberley for training, and were impressed by their levels of expertise and experience in emissions sampling, monitoring and analysis.

“Factory training is important for our distributors because it instils high levels of confidence when serving customers when they return home, and provides us with an ideal opportunity to learn more about their local markets.

“The appointment of Y&J Eng as our distributor is great news for customers in Korea because they will be able to rely on local support from factory trained experts with over 12 years’ experience in environmental monitoring instrumentation.”

The partnership between Y&J Eng and Signal began with a successful evaluation of the Signal 3010 MiniFID, and prompted the requirement for factory training in Great Britain. Initially, the Y&J Eng staff were mainly interested in portable VOC measurement instruments, but following the training, they are now able to offer and support the full range of Signal gas sampling, handling and analysis instruments.


@GasAnalysers @_Enviro_News #PAuto #Environment #Korea

PV Analyzer and I-V Curve Tracer.

Major step forward in serving the large-scale solar utility market.

The new Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 PV Analyzer and I-V Curve Tracer has been launched by Fluke. The announcement means that installation and maintenance engineers working on large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays and farms can now test up to 1500V and measure high efficiency (HE) strings up to 30A continuously.

The company also introduced the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500T2 PV Analyzer and I-V Curve Tracer, which can measure 3.5MW in under an hour and handle up to 30A for strings of modules < 19% efficiency and 10A for strings of high-efficiency modules with ≥ 19% efficiency. 

Will White, Fluke solar application specialist, says “The Solmetric name is widely respected around the world and bringing these high-quality products into the Fluke family means we now have tools in our portfolio that can test the entire solar sector. No other I-V curve tracer in the world can offer users such impressive levels of performance, efficiency, throughput and reliability as the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2.”

With the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 PV Analyzer and I-V Curve Tracer, solar energy engineers, energy consultants and field technicians have access to a unique tool that boosts on-site productivity when verifying PV performance. The device minimises the time required for each testing cycle by delivering unprecedented measurement throughput speeds and provides a much higher return on investment than other PV testers by delivering superior levels of stability and accuracy.

The Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 provides best-in-class I-V curve tracing for large-scale solar installations. Similar products can often struggle to obtain accurate readings due to high capacitance levels and are incapable of recording data continuously without overheating. Having to disconnect an I-V curve tracer until it cools down is disruptive in an environment where time is crucial but the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 eliminates this problem because it can be used throughout the day without any interruptions.

The Solmetric kits.
For optimal user experience, Fluke has bundled the new PV Analyzer into a number of kits. They are the first kits to combine the Solmetric product with such Fluke devices as the TiS75+ thermal camera, the 393 FC Solar Clamp Meter and 87V Industrial Multimeter, and the 1537 Insulation Resistance Tester. 

The company also offers a range of training packages for getting the most out of the Fluke Solmetric PVA-1500HE2 and kits while addressing the shortage of skilled workers in PV installation testing.


@FlukeCorp @Solmetric @NapierPR #TandM #PAuto #Solar

Tuesday 23 April 2024

Significant co-operation announcement by standards-based entities.

After years of close collaboration, FieldComm Group® and FDT Group™ the leading global standards-based non-profit entities have executed a term sheet to combine resources into a single business focused on creating device integration technology standards and products serving the user and vendor communities of industrial process, hybrid, and factory automation.

This term sheet outlines a plan to create a single business aimed at advancing integration technology and harmonizing control system applications across multiple protocol topologies supporting both process and factory automation. Subject to the completion of a definitive agreement, the new business will continue to support all existing FieldComm Group and FDT Group technologies, including Field Device Integration™ (FDI™), Field Device Tool / Device Type Manager™ (FDT/DTM™), Process Automation Device Information Model (PA-DIM®), HART®, and FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus. FieldComm Group will acquire all FDT® technology and resources, and an independent Strategic Integration Committee will be formed to guide future directions for protocol-independent device integration technologies.

This strengthened relationship represents a significant step forward in streamlining process automation and factory manufacturing device management, enhancing interoperability throughout the industry. The unified organization is pioneering a transformative vision where industrial device management seamlessly bridges the present and future, ensuring support for the current installed base while facilitating evolution towards harmonized technologies.

The new Strategic Integration Committee focused on a protocol-agnostic device integration approach will foster alliances with major field protocol organizations, including CC-Link Partner Association, EtherCAT Technology Group, FieldComm Group, ODVA, OPC Foundation, Modbus, Profibus/Profinet International, and others, spearheading innovations to improve engineering efficiency, plant uptime, and user satisfaction across various industrial automation fields. Within this strategic committee, cutting-edge technologies, tools, and certifications will streamline cost-effective adoption for members while providing a single device package compatible with any operating system that will enable effortless data access from field devices to cloud, edge, and mobile applications. This initiative promotes comprehensive integration between Information Technology and Operational Technology (IT/OT) systems.

“This collaboration is a strategic move aimed at providing the best service to our members and the industry at large,” emphasized Ted Masters, President and Chief Executive Officer of FieldComm Group. 

Steve Biegacki, Managing Director of FDT Group, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that “the enhanced harmonization of standards and technologies will significantly empower end users and manufacturers in their quest to achieve out-of-the-box Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) capabilities across their systems.”


@FieldCommGroup @FDTGroup #PAuto #Standards

Leading-Edge video imaging capabilities.

The new THEIA-CAM™ 13MP PDAF Camera, THSCJ101*, for the NVIDIA® Jetson Orin™ NX and Jetson Orin™ Nano platforms has been announced by THine Solutions. Along with its pre-optimized ISP firmware and Linux driver, Jetson users are now able to easily integrate advanced imaging capabilities into their systems.

Applications include:
embedded vision systems,
medical scopes,
AR/VR systems,
barcode scanners,
vision assistive glasses,
drones,
surveillance cameras,
body cams,
USB webcams,
biometric devices, and
proof of concept for platform development for AI and IoT vision systems
.

The THSCJ101 Kit is a Camera reference design kit for embedded camera applications that are using the NVIDIA® Jetson Orin™ NX or the Jetson Orin™ Nano platform. The THSCJ101 Kit is based on THine’s THP7312-P Image Signal Processor (ISP) and Sony’s IMX258 13MP CMOS PDAF image sensor.

THine’s optimized ISP firmware provides ultra-quick autofocus using Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) technology and Best-in-Class image quality. The Kit hardware includes all items required to interface with Jetson Orin™ carrier boards with a 22-pin MIPI CSI-2 input connector, including a Camera Board in an acrylic case and a Flat Flexible Cable.

The Video4Linux2 (V4L2) driver for the THSCJ101 is also available to control various video functions. The performance of each Kit is repeatable for use in high volume production due to our production process to characterize the image parameters of each image sensor and to calibrate the image signal processing to compensate for variation from sensor to sensor.

All technical information including the reference circuit schematics, ISP firmware, and V4L2 Driver are available to customers.

Also, for customers that require unique image performance features, THine can provide a GUI based software development tool that customizes the ISP firmware and/or the image sensor selection. As a result, the THSCJ101 can accelerate NVIDIA® Jetson Orin™ NX/Nano platform users’ time-to-market without expensive integration cost or additional effort for developing embedded camera systems.

“We are providing the quickest and most reliable integration of Best-in-Class image quality and imaging performance into the world-leading AI platform,” said Tak Iizuka, Chief Solution Architect of THine Solutions, Inc. “By bypassing the camera system development and image quality tuning hassle as well as all in-production camera issues, AI system designers are able to focus on the AI development relying on our THEIA-CAM™ support.”

THSCJ101 Key Features:
• Designed for NVIDIA® Jetson Orin™ NX/Nano
• Various High Resolution options including but not limited to 13MP at 20fps, 4K2K at 30fps, and 1080p at 60fps, in YUV422 format.
• Ultra-Quick Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF)
• Best-in-Class Image Quality with well-optimized Auto White Balance and Auto Exposure
• Perfect Unit-to-Unit Image Quality for High Volume Production
• Single 1.38” x 1.38” (35mm x 35mm) Camera Board


*The THSCJ101 is available for purchase at Amazon and Digi-Key

#Thine  #PAuto

Monday 22 April 2024

Pulse ranging technology applied.

Compact Distance Sensor with up to 60 m Measuring Range

The trend toward miniaturization continues, creating demand for increasingly powerful sensors with more compact housing dimensions. To keep up with this trend, the time-of-flight principle of measurement has been integrated into Pepperl+Fuchs' R20x compact housing design, combining precise and rugged long-distance measurement technology for areas where space is very limited.

Today's automation functions place ever greater demands on the performance of the sensors used while simultaneously reducing the occupied space. The new R200 distance sensor with Pulse Ranging Technology satisfies this market trend exactly. In the compact housing of the R200 series, the optical sensor achieves detection ranges of up to 10 m on white objects and up to 60 m in combination with a reflector. It always outputs a rugged distance signal and maintains a repeat accuracy of up to 3 mm. Featuring an integrated IO-Link interface in the latest version V1.1.3, this sensor is also ideally suited for future Industry 4.0 applications.


@PepperlFuchsUSA @mepaxIntPR #PAuto 

Friday 19 April 2024

Measurement technology high-tech plant in Malaysia.

Electrical measurement technology specialist LEM has inaugurated a new €15.7m state-of-the-art factory in Malaysia that combines environment-friendly design with advanced manufacturing technology.

Setting up this new factory reflects LEM’s growth plan which is driven by increasing global demand for the company’s core products, current and voltage sensors. The need for decarbonization in mobility, industry, energy production, as well as our private lives has led to an increased need for our products across all sectors where LEM’s products are used, including automation, automotive, traction, and renewable energy.

LEM chose to make such a substantial investment in the state of Penang in recognition of the region’s expertise in semiconductor production.

From employing around 70 people in April 2024, LEM expects to increase the Headcount to more than 200 people by March 2025 and eventually more than 500, with sales from the factory expected to reach over €200m. With plans in place already for an extension on the additional 5,000 sqm of land, the new 11,800 sqm factory features a state-of-the-art logistic system including automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) on the shopfloor which transport components from the warehouse to the high-tech production lines. LEM Malaysia is also the pilot for the roll-out of our new ERP system and will produce a substantial part of its energy through solar panels.

Right Honourable Mr. Chow Kon Yeow, the Chief Minister of Penang, declared: “We are delighted that such an internationally renowned company as LEM, with a reputation for dedication to quality, has chosen to invest not just in the region, which is renowned for its supply chain resilience and a well-developed ecosystem, but also in the acknowledged expertise of our people.”

According to LEM CEO Frank Rehfeld, it is vital that the company continues to invest in state-of-the-art facilities where it can manufacture world-leading products for a range of rapidly developing markets. “We are always looking to find solutions that will secure our operations while diversifying our global footprint. The new Penang factory is the latest venture in this quest. It is essential in uncertain times that LEM looks to increase its resilience and serve our customers better. We will achieve this by investing in advanced production facilities and personnel capable of manufacturing the best products designed to meet the demands of this growing sector,” he said.

Andreas Hürlimann, LEM chairman of the Board of Directors, added: “I’m very optimistic that having a state-of-the-art facility in this region with the ability to test our own semiconductors will be a major boost for our integrated current sensing business.

“It was vital when we commissioned this new factory that it complied with the Green Building Index (GBI), Malaysia’s industry-recognized green rating tool for buildings. With 300kW of solar energy systems already installed and another 400kW scheduled for 2026, the building also uses rainwater harvesting and building automation to optimize energy consumption. This new factory is proof of LEM’s commitment to its CO2 roadmap which is part of a long-term vision to help customers and society in general transition towards a more sustainable future.”


@LEM_Inc #PAuto #TandM

Chief Sales Officer Software in Pharma appointed.

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) leader in the pharmaceutical industry Körber, has announced the appointment of Arnaud Portet as the new Chief Sales Officer (CSO) for the software business of the Business Area Pharma. He succeeds Jan-Henrik Dieckert, who took over the role as Chief Operating Officer Software in the Körber Business Area Pharma.

Arnaud Portet
Arnaud Portet, a Sales Executive with over three decades of extensive experience, has been appointed as new Chief Sales Officer (CSO) starting on 1 April 2024. He has a proven track record in the manufacturing and software industry and has served eleven years at a market-leading software company. For the last four years, as Senior Sales Director, he supervised a team supporting customers Global Operations transformation with digital manufacturing and planning solutions. Before that, he held various other executive positions within different industries. With a Technical & Economy Engineering background from the Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt, (D) he enlarged his knowledge with an Executive MBA in Strategic Company Management from Audencia Business School in Nantes, France.

He steps into his role at Körber with a clear vision: “My career has been driven by the pursuit of innovative solutions that meet the needs of our customers’ satisfaction. I am thrilled to continue this customer-centric approach at Körber and look forward to working at the forefront of digital-twin transformation in pharma, biotech, and cell & gene therapy manufacturing, driving growth and fostering strong relationships with our clients worldwide.”

“We are delighted to welcome Arnaud Portet as a member of the leadership team. As a profound software and manufacturing specialist, he is a perfect match for our software business,” says Jens Woehlbier, CEO Software, Körber Business Area Pharma. “His extensive experience in Sales and deep understanding of the manufacturing industry will be instrumental in driving our global market and sales strategies for our PAS-X MES and PAS-X Savvy Suites as well as our comprehensive service offering. We are sure that he will make a significant contribution to the successful and future-oriented further development of our global organization.”


@WerumKarriere #Koerber #PAuto #Pharma

Intelligent industrial camera.

A new IDS NXT malibu camera expands IDS's product line for intelligent image processing. It enables AI-based image processing, video compression and streaming in full 4K sensor resolution at 30 fps – directly in and out of the camera. The 8 MP sensor IMX678 is part of the Starvis 2 series from Sony. It ensures impressive image quality even in low light conditions and twilight.

Industrial camera with live AI.
IDS NXT malibu is able to independently perform AI-based image analyses and provide the results as live overlays in compressed video streams via RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol). Hidden inside is a special SoC (system-on-a-chip) from Ambarella, which is known from action cameras. An ISP with helpful automatic features such as brightness, noise and colour correction ensures that optimum image quality is attained at all times. The new 8 MP camera complements the recently introduced camera variant with the 5 MP onsemi sensor AR0521.

To coincide with the market launch of the new model, IDS Imaging Development Systems has also published a new software release. Users now also have have the the option of displaying live images from the IDS NXT malibu camera models via MJPEG-compressed HTTP stream. This enables visualisation in any web browser without additional software or plug-ins. In addition, the AI vision studio IDS lighthouse can be used to train individual neural networks for the Ambarella SoC of the camera family. This simplifies the use of the camera for AI-based image analyses with classification, object recognition and anomaly detection methods.


@IDS_Imaging @mepaxIntPR #Pauto #Vision #AI

Speedy safety shutoff service for industrial fuel burners.

New motorized actuator and shutoff valve solution improves safety and reliability in combustion systems.

The new ASCO™ Series 148/149 safety valve and motorized actuator from Emerson is designed for industrial fuel oil burner recirculation and safety shutoff applications. The new solution provides a reliable, versatile tool for industrial users to prevent overpressure, leaks, and system malfunctions that can lead to health and safety incidents, with one configuration suited to a wide range of combustion system applications.

The valve and actuator are designed to be used together in one system for fuel oil recirculation as a safety shutoff. The combination is a compact two- and three-way system with a motorized actuator that achieves rapid, reliable fuel line shutoff from an open to closed position in less than one second.

The system features a high-flow and high-pressure design that enhances heat output and meets approvals from UL (Underwriter Laboratories), FM (Factory Mutual) and CSA (Canadian Standards Association) certifications, improving fuel oil combustion system performance through higher pressure and media temperature tolerance. It is engineered for robust and reliable operation in harsh outside environments, supporting an operating range from -40 degrees to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees to 66 degrees Celsius). The valve’s high-pressure design makes it a versatile option for use across multiple fuel oil burner applications.

“The ASCO Series 148/149 valve and actuator combination includes features that align with industry best practices such as redundancy, leak testing ports and overpressure protection,” said Ali Sarwar, global director of marketing, discrete automation, Emerson. “Safety being the highest priority, our new design strengthens the reliability of a critical piece of equipment found in burners and combustion systems throughout the manufacturing industry.”


@ASCOValve @EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @EmersonExchange @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Safety

Thursday 18 April 2024

Durable embedded computer.

The introduction of the AAEON BOXER-6406-ADN has been announced by Review Display Systems (RDS). This is a compact embedded computer that implements the power efficient and capable Intel Atom Processor X Series and the Intel Processor N-series processor platforms and a range of rugged features that provide support industrial applications.

The BOXER-6406-ADN is powered by the Intel Processor N200, Intel Processor N50, or the Intel Atom x7211E. System memory of up to 32GB of DDR5 running at 4800Mhz via SODIMM slot, enables high-bandwidth data transmission for a wide range of peripheral interfaces, including DB-9 and DB-15 ports for RS-232/422/485 and digital I/O functions.

Additional I/O includes two RJ-45 ports for Intel I226-LM ethernet running at 2.5GbE, dual HDMI, and a total of four USB type-A ports (USB 3.2 Gen 2 x 2, USB 2.0 x 2). Flexible storage is offered with a 2.5" SATA drive and a M.2 2280 M-Key, with further expansion supported by an M.2 2230 E-Key for Wi-Fi, as well as full-size Mini Card and SIM slots.

The rugged processor platform features include an operating temperature range of -20°C to 60°C and wide input voltage range of 9V to 36V, which includes over/under-voltage current protection and short-circuit protection.

With external mechanical dimensions of just 222mm (l) x 104.6mm (w) x 56.1mm (d), the BOXER-6406 is a compact embedded box PC which can be easily mounted in confined usage environments. The system relies solely on passive, fanless cooling, which helps reduce the build-up of contaminants when deployed in harsh operating environments.

To enhance durability, the system is equipped with IEC 60068-2-27 anti-shock tolerance and advanced anti-vibration capabilities. Lockable I/O connectors have also been implemented to safeguard against wear and tear.


@ReviewDisplays @ReVis_Solutions #PAuto 

Automation ticks the box!

Cutting-edge automation in box forming machinery.

Amidst the rapidly evolving landscape of the box forming machinery sector, the demand for more efficient, sustainable, and robust machinery is escalating. Delta's innovative automation solutions have played a pivotal role in enhancing the production capabilities of Tecnobox, a box forming machinery company in Spain. This transformation has not only fortified Tecnobox's position in a competitive market, but it has also set new standards in the industry for technological advancement and environmental responsibility.

Nestled in Levante, a bountiful food-producing region, Tecnobox is renowned for its dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability. With around 40 employees, this medium-sized company has carved a niche in manufacturing robust, low-maintenance cardboard box assembly machinery.

Its products are distinguished by the use of standard components to speed up production and a commitment to replacing metal and plastic containers with biodegradable alternatives.

However, the post-pandemic landscape posed unprecedented challenges for the company. A critical component crisis threatened the continuity of Tecnobox's production, putting its market leadership at risk. This crisis coincided with a period when Delta was seeking to establish a stronger presence in the market.

Tecnobox's need was clear. It required a system that mirrored its current architecture's reliability, while offering enhanced efficiency. The solution had to be complete and incorporate EtherCAT communication while aligning with its ethos of innovation and sustainability. With its AX3 PLC, MS300, ASDA-B3, DOP100, and LITE Power Supply. Delta emerged as the candidate most suited to meeting Tecnobox’s requirements, not just for the completeness of its offering, but also its ability to deliver it promptly.

Operating two distinct machines within the system, Tecnobox required specialized control architectures tailored to each machine's unique tasks and performance metrics. The first machine, TB-Pack, utilizes a servo system with the MS300 drive, achieving a production speed of 3000 pieces per hour. Along with the servo system and MS300 drive, it is also equipped with an HMI, PLC, and I/O, making this machine optimally forms boxes of specific types.

The second machine, TBQ-Pack, shares a similar configuration with TB-Pack but substitutes the MS300 with another servo system, allowing it to operate at a faster pace of up to 10000 pieces per hour. These variations in control architecture stem from the distinct production requirements and speed capabilities of each machine.

A synergy of expertise and innovation.
The journey began with Delta's proactive approach. Collaborating closely with its regional partner, INDA LEVANTE, Delta offered its comprehensive automation solutions to Tecnobox. This collaboration was not just about providing hardware; it involved an intricate process of understanding Tecnobox's needs and tailoring its hardware and software solutions according to Tecnobox’s unique requirements.

Delta’s Project Managers and Field Application Engineers spearheaded the initiative, conducting extensive technical training sessions for Tecnobox and INDA LEVANTE. Within five months, a prototype machine was manufactured which integrated Delta's advanced automation systems. As with all implementations, in the early stages there were challenges to overcome, but they served to prove Delta’s confidence in problem-solving and commitment to complete customer satisfaction.

Enhanced performance and cost-efficiency.
Following the implementation, the results were remarkable. Tecnobox not only overcame the production hurdles, but it did so with a solution that saved approximately 25% in electronic materials costs. Furthermore, the stability and efficiency of Delta’s solutions were not just in line with Tecnobox’s expectations, but also reinforced its market position during a critical period.

This collaboration between Delta, Tecnobox, and INDA LEVANTE transcends a mere business transaction; it exemplifies a synergy where challenges are converted into opportunities. The success story is best encapsulated in the words of Edwin Gomez Rodriguez, Field Application Engineer, Industrial Automation Business Group at Delta EMEA: "This project with Tecnobox not only demonstrates our capabilities in delivering efficient, cost-effective automation solutions but also reinforces Delta’s commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation. We're proud to have played a key role in supporting Tecnobox through a challenging period, and this collaboration signifies a major step in our journey towards becoming a recognised name in the automation industry."

Delta’s commitment to innovative problem-solving and customer satisfaction, coupled with Tecnobox’s strategic market insights and operational excellence, have created a formidable partnership that stands out as a beacon in the manufacturing and automation industry. The resilience and innovation serve as a compelling model for others navigating the complex landscapes of modern industry.


@DeltaEMEA @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Manufacturing #Spain

Wireless automation for chocolate!

Looking for a way to upscale its production lines, the German leader manufacturer of chocolate decorations and ingredients, Ulmer Schokoladen, turned to CoreTigo, to utilise its IO-Link Wireless solution for automation of chocolate manufacturing processes. Ulmer’s flexible production lines use mobile machines for sealing cartons with finished goods. Moving these machines from one location to another within the manufacturing facility creates complexity, which includes rewiring them for communication with the main control unit in each location.

“Integrating CoreTigo’s industrial-grade wireless connectivity enabled us to increase productivity and agility of Ulmer Schokoladen’s production lines by enabling us a new level of flexibility”, said Justus Ulmer, Ulmer Schokoladen CEO, “This enables us to continue offering our customers the best quality products, even in high-pace production.”

CoreTigo’s industrial wireless automation solutions enable a quick, simple, and scalable retrofit on Ulmer’s existing machines. By connecting an IO-Link optical proximity sensor on each machine to CoreTigo’s IO-Link Wireless Bridge, the TigoBridge, it enabled wireless real-time communication of product carton counts to the TigoMaster IO-Link Wireless Master unit, and from there to the PLC via PROFINET for data processing. This enabled full wireless automation of the process, implemented on several machines, located in different halls. The solution eliminated Ulmer’s dependency on manual counting as well as the complex communication wiring and machine relocations.

Additionally, Ulmer intelligently utilized CoreTigo’s IO-Link Wireless connectivity to wirelessly connect PLCs on the production line. This is done by connecting an IO-Link Wireless Hub (TigoHub) to collect the digital outputs from the secondary PLCs and pass the data back wirelessly to a TigoMaster unit, connected to the main PLC and the factory’s MES system.

By going wireless Ulmer gained several benefits, including:
• Flexibility and agility: With the elimination of the cables between the PLC and the machine’s sensors, moving the sealing machines to new locations became quicker and easier, saving valuable time and effort.
• Easy deployment: As CoreTigo’s IO-Link Wireless devices offer quick and easy retrofitting of existing machines, switching to wireless required a very low effort and minimal downtime until the machine was up and running again.
• Reliability: Being an industrial-grade wireless communication protocol, IO-Link Wireless allows full and ongoing connectivity, even when there is no line of sight between the IO-Link Wireless Bridge and Master, thus contributing to the seamless operation of the machine.


@CoreTigo @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Ulmer_Schokoladen #Germany

Wednesday 17 April 2024

Surface vision Product Marketing Manager.

Ametek Surface Vision has appointed Jacqueline Peintinger as Product Marketing Manager to drive customer engagement and product development.

Jacqueline Peintinger
In this new role Jacqueline’s primary responsibilities will be developing and implementing an international marketing strategy with a strong focus on global event management and digital marketing with lead generation initiatives.

Voice of Customer (VOC) is also key to this role, with active market research being undertaken through ongoing customer and partner site visits to understand the challenges they face. Jacqueline will take a proactive and strategic approach to develop initiatives to further meet these challenges.

Commenting on the role Jacqueline said: “With the experience I’ve previously gained in sales and marketing for leading international companies in the metals industry, I am excited about the opportunity to also dive into other industries and their needs that use our technology like batteries, paper and plastics. I am looking forward to working both internally and externally to support and further improve customer partnerships and our technologies to meet industry challenges.”

Jacqueline will be reporting to Breck Lewis, Director of Product Management, who said: “This is an important role for Ametek Surface Vision. We recognize that listening to our customers and addressing their challenges is key, and Jacqueline’s leadership in optimizing and executing Surface Vision's marketing strategy will be invaluable in supporting this.”

Ametek Surface Vision is the world leader in automated online surface inspection solutions for optimizing the monitoring and inspection of webs and surfaces, and process surveillance applications.


@surfacevision #PAuto 

Sensors for precision environmental monitoring.

Long-range data transmission combined with exceptional power efficiency for industrial sensing applications.

The launch of its innovative EVA-2000 series, a new line of smart wireless sensors incorporating LoRaWAN technology has been announced by Advantech. This series marks a significant advancement in the field of industrial sensing applications, offering long-range data transmission combined with exceptional power efficiency. The EVA-2000 series, comprising of diverse sensor models from temperature and humidity to water leak detection, is designed for the demanding sectors of industrial automation, equipment monitoring, and environmental monitoring.

Seamless Cost-Effective Wireless Integration - At the heart of the EVA-2000 series' functionality lies their ability to efficiently gather and transmit data wirelessly over extended distances through low-power, wide area LoRaWAN technology. This capability is further enhanced by their exceptional low power consumption, attributed to their double 3.6v Li-ion batteries, ensuring prolonged battery life. The adherence to LoRaWAN standards not only promises scalability and cost-effectiveness in the deployment of a multitude of devices but also simplifies integration within existing systems. Moreover, each unit in the series uses a built-in embedded antenna in a compact design that facilitates flexible installation across varied environments.

Current Meter Sensor - Standout products in this series include the EVA-2210, which is a 3-phase current meter equipped with 3 x 75A clamp-on CT. EVA-2210 is adept at measuring equipment currents up to 75A in diverse applications such as pumps, fan motors, compressors, computers, and servers. Eliminating the need for complex wiring, the EVA-2210 significantly enhances energy management efficiency for distributed devices.

Temperature and Humidity Sensor - Further enhancing the versatility of the series are the EVA-2310 and EVA-2311 models. The EVA-2310 is a temperature and humidity sensor for monitoring environments in offices, hospitals, classrooms, and warehouses.

Heat Probe Sensor - The EVA-2311 uses a PT1000 round head heat probe sensor, which extends its utility with a 2m length cable and IP67 rating, making it suitable for extreme temperature detection ranging from -70°C to 200°C.

Water Leakage Sensor - The EVA-2510 model is a water leakage sensor, which serves as a sensor for use in cooling and water treatment systems, detecting and alerting operators to potential issues before they happen. Such models are indispensable for industrial processes that rely on precise environmental parameter measurements.

All the EVA-2000 series products are seamlessly compatible with the Advantech WISE-6610, industrial LoRaWAN gateway, allowing for easy remote creation, synchronization of channel settings, and data rate adjustments. Once connected, application settings such as data update cycles and thresholds can be configured via downlink commands from WISE-6610, further streamlining the monitoring and management process.


@Advantech_IIoT @AdvantechIA #PAuto #Environment

VAR Partner for the Food and Beverage.

Swan-Black, an operating affiliate of GS Systems, has been appointed as the first Seeq Master Industry VAR (MIV) partner, specializing in the Food and Beverage industry sectors. This new partnership designation is reserved for select partners that possess the highest level of Seeq maturity and commitment to customer success in a dedicated industry vertical. This advancement is a testament to the fruitful collaboration between Seeq and Swan-Black, acknowledging Swan-Black's unparalleled expertise in this field.

A longstanding certified partner of Seeq with extensive knowledge of Seeq and significant experience across food and beverage, bio-nutrition, and food science domains, Swan-Black is uniquely positioned to deliver substantial benefits and swift returns on investment for their customers. Swan-Black supports some of the largest Food and Beverage manufacturers globally and, as an MIV partner, will broaden its reach within this targeted industry.

“We are thrilled to become Seeq’s Master Industry VAR for the Food and Beverage industry vertical,” says Joseph Gardner, President at Swan-Black. “This recognition validates the positive impact we have on our customers globally. We believe a collaborative partnership, one that combines our Seeq expertise and leverages our knowledge of common process data challenges in the industry, can significantly accelerate our customers’ time to desired outcomes. Whether it’s a challenge related to quality improvement, batch process optimization, or simply lowering the cost of curiosity, Seeq has proven to be an exceptional platform to help solve these problems for our customers.”

Swan-Black has a proprietary, proven customer engagement model, enabling the identification and realization of impactful applications for Seeq. These applications yield tangible results, including cost savings, improved production outcomes, sustainability advancements, and workforce development opportunities for customers. On average, support from Swan-Black's customer success team has enabled customers to realize a threefold ROI increase within one year of using Seeq.

Swan-Black was previously named the 2023 Seeq Partner of the Year – Top Value-Added Reseller and the 2021 and 2022 Seeq Partner of the Year – North America. Additionally, Swan-Black was selected as one of the founding members of the Seeq Partner Advisory Council in 2022, where it continues to play an active role.

“Seeq is pleased to continue our momentum with Swan-Black by appointing them as our first Master Industry VAR,” said Megan Buntain, Chief Market Officer at Seeq. “From significant global account expansions and wins to continued delivery of top-tier customer support, Swan-Black consistently demonstrates the partner excellence required of this new partner designation.”


@SeeqCorporation @_swan_black #PAuto #Manufacturing

Deep probing into machinery.

Sensor Technology has extended its new range of torque sensors with a model that has the sensing head and electronics in separate housings. This has two advantages: the sensing head can fit into very confined spaces, and the electronics can be located in a position where they are protected from physical damage, dust, dirt, moisture, electromagnetic forces, etc.

The new TorqSense SGR530/540 series operates on the same principle as all the other SGR510/520 units, namely a full four element strain gauge bridge. This uses four individual stain gauges affixed to the drive shaft; each measures the deflection of the shaft in a different direction as it rotates under load. The electronics collects readings from all four gauges and calculates the torque value.

Sensor Technology launched the TorqSense SGR510/520 range in 2020 as the successor to its RWT range which worked on surface acoustic wave (SAW) measurement and detection. It has specialised in real-time torque measurement for over forty years, and pioneered the development of wireless technologies that use radio frequency pickups rather than hard-wired solutions involving delicate and unreliable slip rings.

Initially launched in sizes up to 500Nm, interest in the SGR sensors was so high that the introduction of larger sizes up to 13,000Nm was brought forward 6-12 months to December 2020.

"Because of our experience with the RWT, we have been able to compress the development times for the new SGR models considerably,” says Sensor Technology’s Mark Ingham. “So, we have been able to react to specific enquiries from individual users and bring forward model launches. "

The new range is designed to meet emerging user requirements, notably accurately recording transient torque spikes. In the past transducers didn’t have the bandwidth to capture these spikes, so they were ignored. However, advances in automation, continuous operation and the increasing need for accurate track and trace data has led to the need for more detailed measurement and analysis, as Mark explains:

"A single spike could indicate say the wrong amount of an ingredient being added to a compound or an over-sized workpiece, both of which could affect product quality. A series of spikes would probably suggest the beginnings of a problem within the machinery, so their detection gives the plant engineers an early warning”.

In use, a rotor mounted ultra-miniature microcontroller, powered by an inductive coil, measures the differential values in each strain gauge and transmits them back to the stator digitally, via the same coil. The SGR510/520 series transducers then use state of the art strain gauge signal conditioning techniques to provide a high bandwidth, low cost torque measuring solution with high overrange and overload capabilities.

An advantage of the design of the SGR torque sensors is that they automatically compensate for any extraneous forces, such as bending moments, inadvertently applied to the sensor. They also offer high sensitivity and have a wide temperature tolerance, attributes that are required more and more and production machinery becomes more and more sophisticated and performance demands increase.

Other advantages of the SGR range include: elimination of noise pickup and signal corruption associated with slip rings and hard wired solutions, a 400% mechanical overload limit with accurate torque measurement even at these extremes, and multipoint calibration to eliminate linearity errors within the sensor.

All units are accurate to +/-0.1% and resolution to +/-0.01% of the transducer’s full scale. Other features include an adjustable moving average filter, power supply range from 12VDC to 32VDC, user settable analogue output voltages, and RS232, USB, CANbus and Ethernet comms options.

"Like the RWT sensors the new SGRs can integrate digitally with TorqView software and LabView virtual instruments," concluded Mark.


@sensortech #Manufacturing #Torque

Programming and maintaining with field controllers.

The BAScontrol and BASpi Open Control Series from Contemporary Controls, use BACnet/IP as an open communications protocol, Sedona function block programming, and the free BAScontrol Toolset for unrestricted use in program development and archiving.
 

Because of their rugged design and outdoor temperature operation, the BAScontrol series are ideal for unitary control of air-handlers (AHUs), fan coils (FCUs), and rooftop units (RTUs).

The BASpi-IO series of daughterboards for Raspberry Pi allow enthusiasts and professionals to create their own BACnet-networked, Sedona programmable controller.

The powerful BASpi-Edge series offer next generation controller features such as Azure IoT Central cloud connectivity, graphical dashboards, weather station, scheduling, email alarms/notifications, Wi-Fi connectivity, etc.

Both BAScontrol and BASpi-Edge series of controllers are freely-programmable or simply configured and ready to deploy out of the box by use of pre-programmed/canned applications for variety of applications provided as free downloads.

Contemporary Controls offers the N4 Sedona Driver for free use with their BACnet Open controllers to deliver a one-tool solution for your Niagara N4 (version 4.11 or later). The N4 Sedona Driver is licensed from Sedona community member, Ontrol, and is available for the Sedona controllers at no additional cost.


@ccontrolsgmbh #Pauto #TandM

Tuesday 16 April 2024

Delivering scalable recipe authoring and execution technologies for life sciences companies.

DeltaV™ Workflow Management, a next-generation software designed for life sciences companies in early-stage development has been introduced by Emerson. The new software continues Emerson’s expansion of capabilities of the evolving DeltaV automation platform to offer more scalable options to suit the needs of smaller life sciences innovators. For companies with limited IT infrastructure, DeltaV Workflow Management provides a cloud-based, software-as-a-service solution for simple recipe authoring, execution and electronic data capture.

In high-growth life sciences companies, such as those making advanced therapy medicinal products for hard-to-treat diseases and personalised medicines, manufacturing facilities still heavily rely on manual processes and record-keeping for bench-scale operations and recipe authoring. Many do not have robust IT departments, nor staff experienced in the complex coding necessary with traditional manufacturing execution systems.

The software removes this layer of complexity by transitioning recipe workflow data from manual records to digital ‘paper on glass’, providing a simple and scalable solution that helps accelerate the drug development process with no coding experience required. The software also generates searchable digital records that are easily organised and exported, and data that can be more easily analysed and reported. In addition, this digital shift minimises the contamination risks associated with paper records in sterile clean rooms.

“DeltaV Workflow Management enables innovation for both start-ups and established labs that demand speed and simplicity in early-stage drug development,” said Nathan Pettus, president of Emerson’s process systems and solutions business. “Recipes relying on standard, full-blown manufacturing execution systems can take years of experience and months to create and fully automate. With this new software, the timeline is reduced to days, providing companies with a head start toward commercialisation and getting new therapeutic medicines into the pipeline faster.”

Within DeltaV Workflow Management, users employ simple drag-and-drop elements to create steps for a recipe and automate workflows that meet Good Manufacturing Practice standards. Within those steps, they can add new parameters and e-signature requirements for quality control and regulatory compliance, run product recipes, authorise users for specific tasks and create digital batch records.

DeltaV Workflow Management expands and complements the user options for digital recipe development and execution already provided by Emerson’s DeltaV MES – the newest evolution of the Syncade MES. Users now have additional flexibility to match digital recipe solutions to their business needs, underscoring Emerson’s commitment to continuing enhancement of and investment in a portfolio of manufacturing execution solutions for organisations at any scale.


@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto #LifeSciences

Monday 15 April 2024

Tough Ethernet switches.

IT technicians are being helped by Moxa to build faster, more resilient networks in the harshest industrial environments with its ToughNet TN-5300A Series of unmanaged Ethernet switches.

Designed to extend IoT connectivity into rolling stock, factory robotics, mining and marine applications, ToughNet TN-5300A switches are hardened to withstand exposure to dust, moisture and other damaging elements. All six models in the TN-5300A Series comply with mandatory test items of the EN 50155 standard including stringent requirements for temperature, power input, surge protection, ESD and vibration, qualifying the switches for deployment on passenger and freight trains.

Available with 5 or 8 Fast Ethernet ports, ToughNet TN-5300A Series switches delivers advanced capabilities similar to other Moxa unmanaged switches yet in an IP54-rated die-cast metal housing. Key to their reliability is the use of push-pull M12 connectors that ensure exceptionally tight, strong connections and the most dependable resistance against external disturbances like shock and vibration. They also support an extended operating temperature range of -40 to 70°C, plus feature an isolated power input range of 24 to 110 VDC, with overload, reverse polarity, and inrush current protection to achieve stable performance in noisy industrial environments.

To reduce infrastructure costs, the ToughNet TN-5308A Series features several models with up to 8 IEEE 802.3af/at PoE ports to power cameras, sensors, Access Points, VoIP phones and other network PDs (Power Devices). Classified as Power Source Equipment (PSE), the TN-5308A PoE model, for instance, supplies up to 30 watts of power per port for a total PoE budget of 50.2 Watts. PoE is critically important on modern trains requiring a high-speed, reliable communication backbone in support of on-board video surveillance, NVRs, Passenger Information Systems, and Wi-Fi access, as well as the demands of multiple trackside and train-to-ground applications.

These Ethernet switches are economic solutions to a variety of industrial applications. Along with EN 50155, the switches meet NEMA TS2 requirements for traffic control systems and are E-Mark compliant with the regulations, laws and directives for vehicles in the European Union.


@Moxa_Europe @OConnellPR #PAuto #Ethernet

Board re-elected.

The members of the nonprofit CiA (CAN in Automation) international users’ and manufacturers’ association have re-elected the Board of Directors: 
 
Magnus Hell from Infineon as Technical Director (left),
Christian Schlegel from CHS Consulting as Business Director (center), and
Holger Zeltwanger as Managing Director (right).

In addition the regular CiA General Assembly appointed Bosch, Emotas, ESD, Kvaser, Microcontrol, and Murata as Technical Committee members. The elected Business Committee members are Emotas, ESD, Microcontol, Murata, and Vector.

CiA, established in 1992, has 755 members worldwide. The nonprofit association develops the CAN (Controller Area Network) ecosystem originally intended as in-vehicle network (IVN). Nowadays, the serial network is applied in different industry domains.

There are three data link layer versions internationally standardized: CAN CC (classic), CAN FD (flexible data-rate), and CAN XL (extended data-field length).

Recently, the ISO 11898-2 standard (CAN physical media attachment) has been released. It specifies all CAN transceivers: CAN HS (high speed), CAN FD, CAN SIC (signal improvement capability), and CAN SIC XL optionally with low-power mode and selective wake-up capability. The ISO 11898-1 standard (data link layer and physical coding sublayer) has passed successfully the final ballot and will be released, soon.

“With a data field of 1 byte to 2048 byte and a bit rate of up to 20 Mbit/s, CAN XL addresses new applications as IVN in road vehicles and as embedded (backbone) network in other industry domains,” explained Holger Zeltwanger. “CiA members develop the CAN XL ecosystem, which includes CANsec, a cybersecurity solution implementable in hardware.”


• See also "Bus technical manager" (11/3/2024)

@CANopen #PAuto #Communcations