Secure cloud-based monitoring for life sciences.

The life sciences field is showing a growing interest in cloud computing to improve scalability, efficiency, and risk mitigation. To help its customers make the move from on-premises IT infrastructure to the cloud, Vaisala is launching a scalable cloud version of its trusted viewLinc Continuous Monitoring Software.

Their subscription-based SaaS application, viewLinc Cloud, just launched, is the cloud native version of its viewLinc software for Continuous Monitoring System (CMS). It allows organizations operating in life sciences, such as pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies, to monitor, alarm, and report on facility conditions, ensuring full compliance with strict industry regulations.

The viewLinc Cloud offering will be expanded in three phases, eventually becoming a tiered system where customers can select the features that they need. viewLinc Cloud Standard, most suitable for customers operating out of a single facility, will become available in September 2024. The advanced and premium versions will become available later and will add capabilities to serve the most demanding life science applications.

GxP monitoring, superior data security, and simplified scalability.
viewLinc Cloud is specifically designed for validated applications in the GxP space and enables improved scalability and efficiency by removing the need for a heavy, local, and limited IT infrastructure.

“Currently, there is a trend in life sciences where companies are moving their on-premises, resource-intensive IT infrastructure to the cloud or are aiming to do so in the next few years. By choosing a cloud-based system, our customers reduce the need for internal IT resources and can focus on their core business. viewLinc Cloud allows Vaisala to deploy the software on a secure cloud server and manage maintenance activities, including scheduled software updates,” says Steven Bell, Product Manager at Vaisala.

At a facility monitored by viewLinc Cloud Standard, data loggers installed on-site record the temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels, and the encrypted data is then transmitted via Vaisala’s proprietary VaiNet wireless protocol to viewLinc’s database in the cloud. The system’s users, such as laboratory technicians and quality managers, can easily view the data via any standard web browser. If the viewLinc Cloud system detects any deviation from the permitted measurements, it automatically alerts personnel.

“For life science operations, data integrity and system security are not optional – they are a must. viewLinc Cloud was designed with these as the top priority. All data is recorded redundantly and encrypted, including data stored locally in the data logger, in transit to the cloud server and when stored in the secure cloud database. System data cannot be altered, and configuration changes are tracked in the secure audit trail. viewLinc Cloud also provides multi-factor authentication and granular user rights based on roles to provide system controls required by regulations,” explains Bell.

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@VaisalaGroup@_Enviro_News #PAuto #Cloud #LifeScience #Pharma

Low torque high band width.

A new benchmark performance standards for optical rotary torque transducers has been set by Sensor Technology, The digital ORT 230/240 series is ideal for applications when the demand is for low torque and/or high bandwidth, providing precise, dynamic measurement of rotary and static torque from 10mNm up to 100Nm and for bandwidths of up to 50kHz.

The ORT 230/240 devices benefit from electronics that deliver significant gains in resolution, frequency response, reduced sensor current consumption and faster digital data throughput.

The high speed capability comes from an inherently low inertia, since the electronics are not fixed to the shaft, while non-contact operation ensures a long and reliable life (backed up by Sensor Technology’s lifetime warranty) with high accuracy. The optical operating principle also ensures excellent noise immunity.

TorqSense ORT 230 series sensors provide fixed voltage or current analogue outputs – one for torque and one for either speed or power. The TorqSense ORT 240 provides two user selectable voltage or current analogue outputs – one for torque and the other for either speed, power or peak torque – plus digital outputs including RS232, CANbus and USB for interfacing with modern instrumentation and laptops. The ORT 240 enables users to connect up to 10 transducers via USB, and transducer configuration software for making changes to transducer variables.

Features of both devices include self-diagnostics to report if the transducer’s torque, speed ratings or calibration date have been exceeded, while inbuilt sensors monitor shaft temperature for better compensation and accuracy. The device also offers a simple ‘sensor status’ output.

Complementing these products is Sensor Technology’s TorqView software, providing an easy-to-use advanced torque monitoring package for Windows PCs to assist with data display and recording. It offers real time chart plotting, and is compatible with both Matlab and Excel. Further, LabVIEW VIs are available for users to design their own process control applications, and DLLs are available for users who wish to write their own custom software.

These sensors are an important extension to the Sensor Technology torque monitoring range, and offer an alternative solution when low torque or bandwidth requirements preclude the use of the TorqSense range.

Optical rotary torque sensors use a pair of gratings attached a short distance apart on a strain-sensitive shaft to modulate a light source. As torque is applied to the shaft, a slight twist results which changes the alignment of the gratings and thus varies the light transmitted through to a detector. The use of this technique results in a transducer which is able to detect torque bi-directionally, and which has a fast mechanical and electrical response, low inertia and complete freedom from brushes or complex electronics.

The absence of brush gear allows high-speed operation with a continuous rating up to 30,000rpm standard. Further increases in rpm are available depending upon shaft size. The torque shaft is of low compliance ½° maximum torsion deflection on the smaller transducers and ¼° maximum on the larger transducers at full-scale deflection. Any full scale torque can be specified within the range 10mNm to 100Nm.

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@sensortech #PAuto

Reducing the power consumption of equipment.

Responding to climate change is an urgent issue, and lowering power consumption further is required in various applications.

Omron Electronic Components Europe has launched the G5Q-HR, the latest addition to the G5Q family of 10A PCB power relays. The new relays can achieve reduced power consumption and heat, and are 45 percent smaller than equivalent 16A relays. For applications which require high inrush current such as lighting controllers, smart plugs, home appliances and power supplies, this can contribute to downsized equipment design, while opening up new printed circuit board configurations.

First launched in 2001, the G5Q series has sold more than 500 million units worldwide. Considered one of the industry’s leading compact power relay products, the G5Q portfolio now boasts a wide range of variants covering many diverse applications, from home appliances to industrial motor loads. In response to customer demand for compact design and improved energy performance for 10A applications, Omron has now expanded its high inrush offering with the addition of the G5Q-HR, which is available in both single stable and latching variants.

As the only device in the G5Q portfolio that meets the TV-8 standard at 10A class, the G5Q-HR compliments the existing high inrush offering, while offering new possibilities for more powerful and compact end product applications. At 20.3 mm (L) x 10.3 mm (W) x 15.8 mm (H), it is Omron’s smallest TV-8 product.

The G5Q-HR is compatible with a wide range of capacitive loads as well as ramp loads of up to AC 120V, Inrush 117A. In accordance with its TV-8 certification, the G5Q-HR has been rigorously tested to last a minimum of 25,000 cycles, ensuring maximum longevity and reliability. The device also meets the UL Electronic Ballast Rating at 3A 277VAC and 5A 277VAC over 6,000 cycles, and meets IEC60669-1 at 3A 250VAC over 5,000 cycles. The G5Q-HR achieves a high inrush current resistance and supports multiple inrush loads. It is compliant with high input load standards exceeding 100A, such as lighting and power supplies.

The latching type (G5Q—U/K-HR) variant achieves extremely low power consumption by maintaining the contact “on” state with only one pulse of current. This reduces coil power consumption by approximately 99.9 percent compared to standard single-side stable relays. As well as reducing the power consumption of the relay itself, this can also help to reduce the amount of heat generated, contributing to greater efficiency and longevity of related components and systems.

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@OmronEurope @OmronComponents @napierPR  #PAuto #Climate

Partner for the Caribbean and Latin America appointed.

The appointment of Vertix as the first Seeq Master Regional VAR (MRV) partner, specializing in the Caribbean and Latin American (CALA) region has bee n announced. 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 region. This advancement is a testament to the fruitful collaboration between Seeq and Vertix, acknowledging Vertix's unparalleled expertise in this region. As the first MRV, Vertix will also launch the first Seeq Regional Authorized Training Center in Lima, Peru.

Vertix is a longstanding certified partner of Seeq with extensive knowledge of the Seeq advanced analytics and AI platform and significant experience across oil and gas, mining, pharmaceutical, pulp and paper and other process industry domains. Vertix is uniquely positioned to deliver substantial benefits and swift returns on investment for customers and partners, supporting some of the largest mining and metal organizations in Latin America. As an MRV partner, they will continue to evangelize the value of Seeq directly and through other Seeq partners within the region.

“We are thrilled to become Seeq’s Master Regional VAR for the Caribbean and Latin America,” says Daniel Villón, General Manager at Vertix. “This recognition confirms the significant positive influence we have on our customers and our eagerness to enable and support other partners in the region to do the same. We firmly believe that by forging collaborative partnerships—combining our Seeq expertise with our deep understanding of the CALA region and the process industries—we can accelerate our customers’ journey towards achieving their business objectives.”

Vertix was selected for its deep competency and dedication to working with customers in CALA to grow their Seeq adoption and usage, resulting in improved decision-making and increased production efficiency.

In 2024, Vertix will launch the first Seeq Regional Authorized Training Center in Lima, Peru, providing Seeq’s instructor-led training for both partners and customers in the region to improve technical training and certification efficacy. All trainings will be delivered by Seeq-certified instructors in English, Spanish or Portuguese following the Seeq approach and requirements.

Vertix was previously named the 2023 Seeq Partner of the Year – Operational Excellence and 2022 Seeq Partner of the Year – Latin America. Additionally, Vertix 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 excited to build on our ongoing success with Vertix by naming them our first Master Regional VAR,” said Vince Heidenreich, Vice President Global Partnerships and Ecosystem. “Through substantial regional account growth and expansions, as well as their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional customer support, Vertix consistently exemplifies the excellence required of this new partner designation.”

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@SeeqCorporation #Vertix #PAuto #Pery #Caribbean

Enhanced outdoor display.

TFT display modules deliver optical performance suitable for outdoor use.

A range of TFT displays designed and developed for use in outdoor applications has been announced by JDIT-K (JDI Taiwan Kaohsiung). The JDIT-K TFT outdoor use display modules range in size from 6.4-inch to 15.6-inch and feature high brightness white LED backlights and high contrast ratios to ensure outdoor readability.

The range of outdoor use TFT display modules are specifically designed to provide robust, durable and reliable display solutions for use in outdoor applications and high ambient light environments. TFT display modules used in outdoor applications need to provide consistently high levels of optical performance in terms of high brightness and high contrast. Brightness specifications on up to 1500cd/m² are supported.

Across the JDIT-K standard product portfolio, a wide range of display sizes and resolutions are suitable for use in outdoor applications. This extensive line-up enables customers to select the multiple display module options according to their preference for screen size, aspect ratio, resolution, data interface and LED backlight driver.

In respect to outdoor-use, JDIT-K's display solutions typically exceed the general requirement for environmental specifications with high-level reliability testing procedures which include continuous long-term operation testing (up to 1000 hours), extended temperature range cycling, thermal shock, mechanical shock, vibration and drop tests, and electro-static discharge testing.

Internal components featuring industrial, wide temperature range specifications enable the outdoor use display modules to support an extended operating temperature range of up to -40°C to +85°C.

Benson Huang, marketing manager, JDIT-K said, “JDIT-K is keen to offer our customers a broad range of display products suitable for many industrial applications. Offering a range of display modules that are design and developed specifically for use in outdoor applications enhances our ability to support a broader range of market segments and applications.”

JDIT-K also offer a number of additional value-added features to enhance the usability, reliability and functionality of these outdoor usage display modules. These include:

- projected capacitive (PCap) touchscreens
- protective cover glass options
- enhanced impact resistance to impact protection rating IK10
- surface coating treatments for anti-glare, anti-reflection and anti-fingerprint
- optical bonding with optically clear adhesive (OCA) or optically clear resin (OCR)
- monitor enclosures for specific industry requirement or custom projects

Typical outdoor applications include EV charging stations, ticketing systems, parking meters, portable devices, information kiosks, rugged tablets, marines, agriculture and construction equipment. The new range of outdoor usage TFT display modules are now available from JDIT-K's sales channel distribution partners.

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@KOE_Europe #JDIT#PAuto #TFT 

Redefining panel PC boundaries.

The expansion of Advantech's modular Human-Machine Interface (HMI) lineup with the new TPC-B300 and TPC-B520 models, along with more screen size options has been announced. The modular design enables customers to choose from a range of CPU and I/O configurations and pair them with screens ranging sizes from 12" to 24". This flexibility creates over 30 distinct HMI combinations, tailored to meet diverse industrial needs. The entire series features a sleek, dark blue aesthetic, providing customers with a stylish and cost-effective solution.

Advanced CPUs and Rapid Delivery for Enhanced Flexibility.
Advantech's modular HMI meets the demand of modern factories by offering both stability and flexibility. The modular design enables rapid product development, allowing Advantech to continuously release HMIs with the latest CPUs, ensuring enhanced stability and extended product lifecycles. This approach also allows for faster delivery times, eliminating long wait periods for customers. Additionally, the design simplifies maintenance and upgrades, minimizing downtime and reducing costs in industrial settings. Advantech's modular HMI series provides the ideal balance of stability and flexibility for modern, forward-thinking industrial applications.

Rugged HMI Design with Extensive I/O for Industrial Environments.
Advantech’s modular panel PCs are designed to perform exceptionally well in demanding industrial environments. The TPC-B series features a fanless design that operates across a wide temperature range and incorporates TPM 2.0 for enhanced security. These units are compatible with various mounting options, including panel, wall, stand, and VESA mounts. They support both Windows 10/11 LTSC and Advantech Linux, offering flexibility in operating system choice. The new TPC-B520 provides higher computing performance, while the TPC-B300 offers a compact form factor with basic I/O and a power-efficient design. Both models are suited for a range of industrial applications, delivering reliable and stable HMI solutions.

TPC-B520 Powered by 13th Gen Intel® Core™ processors with a DDR5 memory slot supporting up to 32GB. Multiple I/O including 2 x USB 3.2, 2 x USB 2.0, 2 x 2500 Mbps, 2 x RS-　232/422/485, as well as 1 x DisplayPort, and 1 x Type-C interface for an additional monitor. Features M.2 expansions for NVMe SSD, and 5G and Wi-Fi modules supporting ultra-high-speed data transmission. TPC-B300 Features a rugged, compact form factor (269 x 203 x 30 mm) quipped with robust Intel® Atom™ and Intel® Celeron® processors with a DDR5 memory slot supporting up to 32GB. 3 x USB 3.2, 1 x USB 2.0, 2 x 2500 Mbps, 2 x RS-232/422/485, as well as 1 x DisplayPort, and 1 x Line-out Versatile Display Options for Every Application

Advantech's modular HMI series seamlessly integrates with panel modules ranging from 12" to 23.8", all equipped with IP66-rated P-CAP multi-touch displays. These screens are designed to operate in temperatures from -20 to 60°C. For optimal visibility in bright outdoor environments, select models (12", 15", 15.6", and 21.5") are available with high-brightness options. Advantech is committed to continuously expanding its screen size options, offering customers an even broader range of HMI combinations to suit their specific needs.

Ideal for Versatile Industrial Applications.
Advantech's modular HMI series, with its modular design and stability, is ideal for various industrial settings, including MES workstations, production lines, and equipment manufacturing. The series supports data processing, real-time connectivity, and display functions. Its expansion capability allows seamless integration with sensors and industrial protocols like Profinet, Profibus, and EtherCAT, streamlining data collection and monitoring. Bundled with proprietary or third-party software, it enables robust SCADA and HMI deployments. These features help create Industry 4.0-ready factories, providing both on-site and remote control for efficient operations, thus driving industrial automation and smart manufacturing.

This modular HMI series marks a significant leap forward in industrial computing technology. By combining flexibility, durability, and advanced features, these new offerings are set to revolutionize HMI across various industries, paving the way for smarter, more efficient manufacturing processes in the era of Industry 4.0.

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@Advantech_IIoT @AdvantechIA  @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #HMI

Modular assembly for flushing and bleeding applications.

The TESCOMTM AGI BR Series Flushing Ring from Emerson is a a comprehensive packaged solution for flushing and bleeding applications in petroleum refineries, biofuel refineries and petrochemical facilities. By providing a complete, modular valve assembly with a single part number, the AGI BR Series flushing ring streamlines ordering and allows for easy reordering with customer specific test requirements. Both traditional BRS “sandwich” and BRW “wafer” style rings are available, as well as the BR7 “integrated bonnet” design, which includes the bleed/flushing functions in the flange ring itself.

For distillation towers, hydrotreaters and more.

Most flushing ring products are sold as separate components and assembled in the field. This often involves on-site welding and non-destructive examination (NDE) requirements such as pressure testing, Positive Material Identification (PMI), dye-penetrant and radiography. In comparison, the AGI flushing ring includes valve assembly, welding, painting and testing in one comprehensive, compact package.

“Ordering and installing flushing ring products as separate components is overly burdensome and often results in additional costs and long lead times for product delivery,” said Md Wasfi, product marketing manager at Emerson. “What’s more, the entire process must be repeated when reordering. With the new TESCOM AGI flushing ring, customers can order a complete, modular valve assembly under one SKU, simplifying the process as well as reducing on-site installation costs.”

The AGI flushing ring meets piping and instrument class requirements according to the ASME B16.34 standard and is ideal for installation in processes requiring flushing of residue in front of diaphragm seals such as distillation towers, hydrotreaters, coking towers, reactors and separators. The one-piece forged design reduces leak paths and helps minimize emissions compared to conventional products. Fugitive emissions bonnets and ball valves that follow ISO 15848-1 & 2 are also available.

With the flexibility to meet each application, the TESCOM AGI flushing ring features flanged connections that are available in a range of sizes from 1 to 6 inches, pressure class ratings from 150# ANSI to 2,500# ANSI, and temperature range options from -3,143 to 1,000 degrees F (-192 to 538 degrees C). Additionally, Emerson can provide custom variations and NDE testing to meet specific project requirements.

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@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @EmersonExchange  #Pauto