Monday 31 August 2020

Food pressure winner!

A panel of experts from the food processing industry selected the Baumer PP20H pressure sensor as the winner of the Innovations Showcase Award in the dairy product category at the Process Expo in Chicago.

This pressure sensor prevailed among the 17 finalists due to its condensate-resistant silicon measuring cell, exceptional precision across the entire temperature range, and IO-Link interface

“An IO-Link interface is the latest trend in the sector and we have incorporated this technology in our PP20H,” says Baschar Al Hammoud, product manager for pressure sensors. However, "in true Baumer style," the company did not settle for that without offering its customers extra benefit – in addition to the digital IO-Link interface, the PP20H also offers an additional analog output. “With this combination, the PP20H offers users more flexibility than any other pressure sensor.”

This way, during commissioning of the sensor, users can benefit from all IO-Link advantages, which considerably simplify sensor parameterization while still allowing process control by the sensor via the 4 ... 20 mA analog output. Furthermore, the IO-Link makes it possible to call up additional process data such as the pressure of the measurement cell or the temperatures of the pressure sensor and the microchip in the central processing unit. Access to this information allows for interesting investigations: for example, whether an unusual temperature rise has occurred in a container, which may indicate a defect or faulty dosage of the ingredients in a tank. As high temperatures may decrease the service life of the sensor or other system components, this may indicate the need for preventive maintenance – one of the promises of Industry 4.0. Of course, the PP20H series offers all the advantages of IO-Link, such as quick parameterization during operation and prior to installation. Even more, a new sensor easily learns the parameters of the old sensor via the master and is immediately ready for operation upon installation. For Baschar Al Hammoud, this is only the first step: “We are planning additional functions based on IO-Link.”

The PP20H also exceeds all standards also in terms of robustness. Its measurement cell is completely sealed even during relative pressure measurement. This prevents the entrance of warm and humid ambient air, which may precipitate with low process temperatures. This is the case, for example, in milk or ice cream processing. At the same time, the sensor must be somehow “open” to the surroundings because the sensor will also determine the difference to the ambient temperature.

The Baumer engineers devised a unique technical solution for this challenge – they placed a barometric pressure sensor in the back of the housing that can measure the reference pressure of the environment via an opening. This way, the actual silicon measurement cell in the front remains hermetically sealed. The PP20H is therefore not only suitable for CIP (Clean in Place) and SIP (Sterilization in Place) processes, but also for sudden changes in process media temperatures.

@ProcessExpo #BaumerElectric #Pauto #Food #MEpax

Mixed signal oscilloscope.

Yokogawa has launched the DLM5000, a new generation mixed signal oscilloscope with options for four or eight analog inputs.

Terry Marrinan, VP Sales & Marketing Yokogawa Europe and South-East Asia, says: “With its eight analog channels and the ability to link up with other units, the DLM5000 sets a new standard in measurement flexibility. The large number of data points needed in the analysis of inverters, motors and mechatronic systems means that more channels are needed to capture that data. The Yokogawa DLM5000 meets the demands of today’s development engineers, giving them the features they need to analyse thousands of captured waveforms.”

The new oscilloscope is the successor to the previous 8-channel DLM4000 model. With redesigned hardware, the DLM5000 offers major improvements in both performance and operability, including a sampling rate double that of the DLM4000.

Designed to be supremely adaptable and flexible, the DLM5000 meets the exacting needs of companies in industries such as mechatronics, power electronics, automotive, aerospace, railway and consumer electronics.

The DLM5000 is ideal for developing high-performance and intelligent power-semiconductor technologies and mechatronics applied in modern electric vehicles, motor controls and energy efficient electronic designs.

The flexibility these users need is achieved with up to eight analog channels and 32 bits of logic, together with additional math channels, vehicle serial bus analysis, and numerous other analysis features.

A large number of channels are key to developing efficient and reliable high-performance electric motors. Based on modern inverters, successful development of these motors demands multi-channel, highspeed waveform measurement. These types of measurement often need more than four channels, which is why the DLM5000 offers eight true analog inputs, giving today’s engineers the tools they need for convenient and comprehensive measurement.

The DLM5000’s capabilities also make it ideal for the development of Electronic Control Units (ECU) for mechatronics systems. In this application, numerous I/O analog, digital, and serial-bus waveforms need to be measured. With the ability to monitor eight analog channels and up to 32-bits of logic input, 16 as standard plus 16 optional, while simultaneously performing protocol analysis such as UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, CAN FD, LIN, CXPI, SENT and FlexRay, the DLM5000 can speed up development when four channels are not enough.

Additionally, the new feature DLMsync, available soon, allows two DLM5000s to be linked and work together, extending measurements to gain even more information about the performance and behaviour of electronic systems. With this feature, connecting two DLM5000s with a dedicated cable enables sampling clock and trigger synchronous measurement of up to 16 analog channels (8 + 8) plus 64 bit logic.
Alternatively, the eight channel and four channel models of the DLM5000 can be connected to give a configuration of “8 + 4 = 12 channels”.

The DLM5000 can be used as an eight analog and 16 digital input mixed signal oscilloscope, with all channels able to be used simultaneously. With the /L32 option, up to 32 logic signals can be measured. Also included are a Bus/State display and an optional DA calculation function, useful for evaluating AD/DA converters.

The DLM5000 features low residual noise, extensive voltage ranges and a variety of real-time low pass filters to ensure signal fidelity.

Ease of use was another design objective for the DLM5000. It combines a large, highly responsive 12.1-inch touchscreen allowing easy monitoring of waveforms, not only when inputting eight channels, but also when the number of waveforms is increased by calculation or zooming. In addition to the touch screen, the DLM5000 also provides a traditional oscilloscope panel, allowing users to easily navigate through the unit’s wealth of analysis features.

Managing and accessing data is made easy through the DLM5000’s large memory, which can save up to 100,000 captured waveforms. With the History function, the user can display one or all of the captured waveforms on screen and perform cursor measurement, computation, and other operations on these displayed waveforms. The History function allows the analysis of rarely-occurring abnormal signals, even when an appropriate trigger condition is hard to find because its waveform shapes are not constant.

Numerous methods can be used to search for waveforms meeting characteristics defined by the user, while users can also automatically play back, pause, fast forward, and rewind the waveform history record.
The DLM5000 offers dedicated serial analysis function options (/F01 to /F05) for embedded systems and in-vehicle bus signals, along with decode display analysis. The logic input can also be used for specific serial buses including I2C, SPI, UART and SENT. Complicated trigger and decode settings such as bit rate and threshold level are automatically detected.

Simultaneous analyses of four different buses can be carried out, with waveforms and analysis results from buses with different speeds being displayed using dual zoom windows.

@Yokogawa_Europe @Yokogawa_UK_IRE @ArmitageComm #TandM #PAuto

Friday 28 August 2020

Communications update announced!

IDEC Corporation has added EtherNet/IP™ communications update to the MicroSmart FC6A Plus PLC. This update provides more options for end users, designers, and OEMs to integrate the FC6A Plus with many types of I/O systems and intelligent automation devices.

The FC6A Plus is already expandable to support up to 2,060 I/O, making it ideal for controlling machines or small-scale manufacturing operations. With the addition of industry-standard EtherNet/IP scanner capabilities, the FC6A Plus can now connect with, monitor, and control any I/O, variable speed drive, motor controls, or other intelligent automation device using this popular industrial protocol. In addition, the FC6A Plus can be configured as an EtherNet/IP adapter, allowing it to interact with other peer and supervisory systems, such as PLCs and HMIs.

All new FC6A Plus CPUs will ship with the latest firmware and EtherNet/IP connectivity already installed and ready for use. For FC6A Plus CPUs already in service, users can obtain the current WindLDR software (version 8.15.0 or later) for free, and then use it to easily perform the upgrade. This ability to get the latest enhancements at no cost by field upgrading existing units is another benefit of using IDEC PLCs.

Once a new or upgraded FC6A Plus CPU is deployed, Ethernet port 2 can be configured with the EtherNet/IP protocol. This enhanced connectivity gives users new options for architecting their machine and manufacturing operations. The already flexible FC6A Plus PLC platform can now interact with more industrial automation devices than ever before.

As with all its products, IDEC offers free tech support for the FC6A family of PLCs, with no service or support contract required.

@IDECUSA #PAuto 

Thursday 27 August 2020

Acquisition expands commitment to advanced software!

Leading software provides real-time management and optimisation across the smart grid

Emerson has agreed to acquire Open Systems International, Inc. (OSI Inc.) for $1.6 billion (€1.36 B) in an all cash transaction. OSI Inc. is a leading operations technology software provider that broadens and complements Emerson’s robust software portfolio and ability to help customers in the global power industry, as well as other end markets, in their quest to transform and digitise operations to more seamlessly incorporate renewable energy sources and improve energy efficiency and reliability.

Digitisation is critical for the power industry to modernise and improve the reliability of the electric grid. Incorporating clean and renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, requires balancing the variable nature of renewable energy with the often bi-directional demands of the grid. By combining Emerson’s domain expertise and leading technology in power generation with OSI Inc.’s complementary software and reach within the power transmission and distribution sectors, the acquisition will equip customers with the end-to-end ability to monitor, control and optimise real-time operations across the power enterprise through scalable, software-enabled automation and data management.

“An enormous change is underway as utilities globally are investing to digitise the grid and adapt to rapidly evolving energy sources and new technologies that increase consumer choices,” said Lal Karsanbhai, executive president of Emerson’s Automation Solutions business. “This acquisition will help the power industry maximize the remarkable opportunity to harness renewable energy sources and to accelerate the transformation to the smart power grid. Emerson now has the opportunity to be a leader in this large, rapidly growing market with a compelling and complete software and technology offering.”

OSI Inc.’s advanced modular technology offers customers tailored solutions for their power grid management needs and is scalable to other industries. Combining this technology with Emerson’s Ovation control system, which is a market leader for power generation control, will provide utility customers with increased visibility into the current status of their power system, enabling unparalleled ability to optimize energy efficiency from generation through customer delivery – enabling the broader industry goal of minimising carbon footprint.
The acquisition will complement Emerson’s existing robust portfolio of software and automation technologies that support the world’s essential industries.

“Our $1 billion standalone software and associated engineering implementation services portfolio is quickly growing to meet customer needs and support operational performance, analytics and digital transformation,” Karsanbhai said. “OSI Inc. is a great business with a track record of high growth, strong profitability and long-term customer loyalty. This acquisition builds on Emerson’s software footprint and supports customers in providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to help the power industry continue transforming to meet the needs of tomorrow.”

“Emerson and OSI share a commitment to excellent customer service and offering advanced technologies to help customers manage the reliability and resiliency of the electric grid,” said Bahman Hoveida, President & CEO of OSI Inc. “We are excited to combine our advanced technologies, engineering expertise and unsurpassed customer service not only to better serve our electric power customers but also to expand the reach of this critical software into other industries with the Emerson team.”

OSI Inc. is headquartered in Minneapolis, (MN USA) and has approximately 1000 employees globally. The acquisition is expected to close in early fiscal 2021, subject to various regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

• Centerview Partners LLC served as financial advisor and Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP served as legal advisor to Emerson. Wells Fargo & Co. and Lazard served as financial advisors and Fredrikson & Byron, PA served as legal advisor to OSI Inc.

@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @OSI_USA #PAuto  

Mid and longwave thermal cameras.

The ability to accurately measure thermal events over a wide range of targets and temperatures is vital for industrial and manufacturing research and development applications. FLIR  has introduced the FLIR A6780 in two models, the A6780-MWIR (midwave infrared) and A6780-LWIR (longwave infrared) camera systems to make those tasks easier to execute.

The new cooled thermal imaging cameras feature manual and motor-focus lens options, offering the flexibility required to maximize the number of measurement pixels on the area of interest regardless of size and distance. Featuring 327,680- pixel (640 x 512) resolution MWIR or LWIR detectors, the new A6780 models offer a suite of lens options from the 200mm telephoto lens to the 3X microscope lens, which can achieve a 5 micron-per-pixel spatial resolution on extremely small targets.

These systems also feature short exposure times, advanced synchronization options and high-speed windowed frame rates to ensures researchers will always capture meaningful thermal data. The internal three-position warm filter wheel mechanism further empowers users to quickly switch between standard and high temperature ranges with a click of a button, eliminating the need to manually change neutral density filters.

In addition, a single standard Gigabit Ethernet connection allows the control of all camera features and thermal data streaming into FLIR Systems’ Research Studio software running on PC, Mac or Linux. The workflow of Research Studio is easy to comprehend and allows researchers to quickly and efficiently display, record, and analyze accurate thermal data from the A6780 in any one of the available 22 languages.

@flir #PAuto #Mepax

Webinar for EMC.

Schaffner are running a free Webinar on best practice design for EMC compliance of Industrial Equipment and Machines. Intended for manufacturers of variable-frequency drives and machine and control cabinet builders, all EMC-specific aspects of the latest international standards, their implementation and relevant solutions will be presented.

Holger Urban, Product Marketing Manager of Schaffner, comments, “EMC affects every part of everyday life but its effects are most serious in manufacturing systems where EMC disturbances can shut manufacturing process down completely. Our webinar will provide designers and system integrators with a range of tools and solutions to ensure the correct design of reliable industrial systems.”

EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) has steadily increased in importance with the increased use of variable-frequency drives in industrial applications and will continue to grow as applications in SMART factories, Industry 4.0, the IoT and industrial automation increase.

As the needs for automated industrial production expand and the demand for artificial intelligence increases, systems are becoming more and more complex and the costs of any breakdown in the production of goods, both products and services, is of growing concern to manufacturers.

It has never been more important that electrical and electronic devices are designed and constructed in such a way that it complies with the EMC directives and standards with regard to interference immunity and interference emissions and that they are coordinated with each other in any system. (Links to the EU Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive may be found on line.)

In addition to the Machinery Directive, the legally binding EMC Directive, among others, must be complied with if machines cause electromagnetic interference or are impaired in their function by such interference.

According to the EMC Directive, machines and systems are equipment that must be designed and manufactured in compliance with the main requirements of Annex I of the EMC Directive. Only then a certificate of conformity may be issued for the machine, system, device (incl. control cabinet) and the CE mark may be applied.

The EMC Directive defines electromagnetic compatibility in Europe as follows:
"the ability of an apparatus, installation or system to operate correctly in its electromagnetic environment without causing electromagnetic interference which would prevent any other apparatus, installation, machine or system in this environment from operating as intended."

In effect the EMC Directive applies not only to manufacturers of variable-frequency drives, but also to machine and control cabinet builders and system integrators. In order to do consider these various industrial suppliers and industrial market participants, appropriate standards have been defined for this purpose to ensure an effective cooperation.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto

Wednesday 26 August 2020

Radar system detects filling levels.

The radar experts at InnoSenT GmbH have developed a new system for focused distance measurement. The iSYS-6030 is the new edition of the successful iSYS-6003 filling-level radar. The product update is more economical, faster, and more accurate than its predecessor. The sensor’s features are adapted to the application of filling-level measurement and collision avoidance. The technical enhancements also extend the scope of applications.

Using contactless radar detection, the product accurately detects the filling level of a manufacturing or storage container. The iSYS-6030 radar system sporadically determines the distance between the sensor and an object’s surface. Thanks to its narrow antenna orientation, the product has a focused radar beam for high-precision measurements.

The iSYS-6030 detects a wide variety of materials regardless of their properties and reflection characteristics: Whether cohesive or coarse bulk materials, fine powder, granulate, slow-flowing liquids, or viscous pastes, the system detects any of these materials precisely thanks to its 60 GHz radar technology.

The new product handles the measurement of filling levels even in challenging indoor and outdoor measuring environments. Extreme temperatures, dust, fog, steam, formation of foam, vibrations, or pressure do not impede radar detection. Due to its focused field of view of 6° in azimuth and elevation, the system is also suitable for use in narrow vessels, asymmetrical special structures, or containers with internal mixing systems installed. The iSYS-6030 also provides reliable measurement results in this area by means of sporadic radar detection.

The robust technology is not susceptible to interference due to aggressive filling materials, harsh work environments, or dirt. No regular maintenance is necessary. This makes the product well-suited for use in many different sectors, such as the water, energy, construction materials, food, chemical, pharmaceutical, and environmental technology industries.

While the predecessor product was primarily focused on determining filling levels, the iSYS-6030 boasts a further area of application: thanks to its continuous and reliable distance monitoring, the system is ideally suited for collision protection.

Thanks to technical optimisation, the new product enables faster measuring cycles. The system is booted up and ready to collect data within 90 ms. The update rate in single-target mode is only 20 ms. This enables intervals to be monitored in real time and timely warnings in the event of an impending collision.

In another application, the radar helps to initiate safety measures such as speed reduction when a predefined zone is reached. The user defines the zone individually using the distance information. The iSYS-6030 radar system provides information on when the safety distance is neared or the zone is reached.

Integrating such a system proves beneficial not only with semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles, but also for controlling complex systems. The radar system continuously collects accurate measurement data. These are useful in maintaining minimum distances and precise positioning. At port facilities, this enables a distance between cranes, transport units, buildings, or containers to thus be determined on site with millimetre precision.

The iSYS-6030 radar system operates in the frequency band from 57 to 64 GHz. The sensor is compact and equipped with a signal-processing unit and a dome-shaped radome. The radar component can thus be easily integrated into end products or customer housings. The measurement data (signal strength and distance) are provided as a target list via a UART interface. The maximum range is 40 metres.

Customers choose between two detection variants, depending on the application: single-target and multi-target mode. This way, the system measures the distance to the object surface either at a single point or at different points within the detection area. The radar distinguishes between two targets with the same radar cross-section with a resolution of 12 cm.

The low deviation rate of ±0.1% ensures outstanding precision even with increasing distance between the object and the sensor. The system can be operated in a temperature range of -40 to +85° C.

Since the new system has the same structural design, it can directly replace the old iSYS-6003 product version and offers useful enhancements to existing customers.

‘We have made significant progress in radar development in recent years. In addition, we have learned quite a bit about our customers’ needs through the practical use of our filling-level radar. We thus decided to optimise the system’, explains Product Manager Dr Eva Buchkremer regarding the product update, and she adds:

‘Compared to its predecessor, the iSYS-6030 is more energy-efficient and accurate, longer-range and faster. We thus provide our customers with greater flexibility in using the product. We also offer more customisation options. Its technical features make the new system the ideal radar solution in industry for avoiding collisions and measuring filling levels.’

Using the user manual and the API software protocol, the customer adapts the radar detection to their intended purpose. For example, they can limit the range or use the signal strength setting as a filter. In addition, customers have the option of configuring the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) in 1 dBm increments, for example in order to comply with technical limits required for approval purposes.

The system also has four digitally, freely assignable and programmable outputs. These enable simple control tasks and can be used as targeted signal triggers. For easy integration and configuration of the sensor, InnoSenT also provides an evaluation kit with a GUI.

@InnoSenT_GmbH @pressebox #PAuto

Ground-breaking ceremony heralds expansion.

Since Regloplas reported a healthy statement of accounts last year and a steady increase in demand for its products the face a problem. Various departments such as production and logistics are now facing a state of emergency in terms of lack of space.

Christian Eckert, CEO at ground-breaking ceremony.
In order to continue to compete on the world market, the company site required swift expansion. The planned new building will provide 6 storeys, each with a floor space measuring 2500 m2. The construction project compares favourably on energy efficiency and sustainability with its more environmentally friendly process design. The plan is to use the entire roof area for photovoltaics to produce as much of the process energy consumption as possible in house.

Regloplas employees expect a stunning, modern and open working environment. The integration of digitalised processes will achieve greater process efficiency. The goal of a state-of-the-art Smart Factory is a reality.

"With the ground-breaking ceremony, the management is setting a clear intent, even in Corona times, to continue to pursue its plans for the future," said a spokesman.  "We will leave our current site on the Flurhofstrasse in favour of a larger and completely reconceived factory on the Spühlstrasse in St Gallen (CH)."

Building work has already begun. Completion of the final construction phase is planned for the start of 2022.

@regloplas #Pauto #MEpax

Enclosures on-line.

Moore Industries' BH, SB, LH, and D-BOX field mount enclosures are now featured in the Instrument Enclosures and Panel Systems category of their online catalogue. Each BH, SB or D-BOX housing with solid or clear cover may be selected, or the LH1 or LH2 Connection Heads.

Each listing now includes 3D CAD models. The model for each housing can be accessed quickly by clicking on the 3D CAD button.

The pop-up viewer provides a rotating view, and you can download the 3D model in many popular file formats.

@MII_Worldwide #Pauto 

Tuesday 25 August 2020

Distributor for Turkey.

Silicon Designs has announced the appointment of the Istanbul-based Elektro Elektronik San Ve Tic As (Elektro) as its exclusive authorized distributor in Turkey for all of the company’s product lines (MEMS capacitive accelerometers and chips) effective June 2020.

Since 1979, Elektro has been supplying semiconductor, passive, and electromechanical components, including sensors, switches, and inertial measurement units, to aerospace, OEM, and industrial equipment customers in Turkey, and via its role as experienced technical sales representatives for some of the industry’s top manufacturers. In addition, Elektro is both an ISO 9001 and TRACE certified manufacturer of its own product technologies.

#SDI #Elektro @EmbassyGlobal #Pauto 

Webinars on industrial communications.

The seminars’ target groups are system integrators, development engineers, and technical decision-makers.

CAN in Automation (CiA) has scheduled web-based CAN and CANopen seminars to increase attendees safety in times of the coronavirus.

The CAN Seminars take place on September 23, and October 07, 2020.

The CANopen Seminars are on September 24 and October 08, 2020.

They provide in a compact format the contents of our well-known on-site seminars. The seminars, held in German language, discuss CAN and CANopen in depth including CAN FD and CANopen FD. Additionally an outlook e.g. to CAN XL is provided.

In the CAN online seminar, attendees learn the CAN principles, the differences between Classical CAN and CAN FD, which possibilities CAN communication offers and in which markets CAN is used. The event explains CAN as it is specified in ISO 11898-1:2015. This comprises the Classical CAN, the CAN FD protocol, as well as the CAN physical layer standards.

During the CANopen online seminar, participants learn the basic principles of CANopen, as specified in CiA 301. Furthermore, CANopen additional application layer functions as well as the basic principles of CANopen profiles are introduced. Additionally, attendees get an insight to the new CANopen FD protocol, according to CiA 1301. The seminar enables to select the right CANopen device for individual applications, to integrate devices in a proper control application, or to design the intended CANopen device behavior. In addition, there is enabled to assess the possibilities and effort to introduce CANopen FD in own projects.

@canopen #PAuto 

Safe and flexible UPS.

Voltage fluctuations and voltage dips can have serious consequences for machines and systems. Losses of data and an uncontrolled process stop result in downtimes and expensive consequential damage. Uninterruptable power supplies compensate these fluctuations with the help of a buffer medium and conduct a controlled shutdown or process stop for industrial PCs, machines, and systems.

J. Schneider Elektrotechnik is one of the pioneers of uninterruptible power supplies when it comes to batteries or capacitors as a buffer medium. The CAPTEC 2410-14 is new in the product portfolio of the company, which is located in Offenburg, Germany. With 24 V or 12 V in the input and output and an output current of max. 10 A, i is indispensable for protecting an industrial PC or important functions in machines and systems. The possible buffer time depends on the state of charge, the output current, and the cell voltage of the capacitors. For example, with an output current of 2 A, the device can achieve a buffer time of five minutes while at 10 A 47 seconds will be buffered.

The TECControl software, which controls the shutdown of the IPC, is optionally available. As a special highlight, this software can be used to focus on the service life (10 / 15 / 20 years) or the buffer time. For the user, this means the greatest possible flexibility: By changing the cell voltage, depending on the application, it is possible to choose between a longer buffer time, or a longer service life for maintenance-free units.

@pressebox #Schneider_Elektrotechnik #Captec #PAuto 

Greater connectivity, maintainability and flexibility for actuators.

Thomson Industries has announced the availability of the CANopen industrial networking protocol as an option for its line of heavy duty Electrak HD electric actuators. Designers of linear motion systems requiring up to 16 kN load handling can now enjoy the cost savings and flexibility of this CAN bus standard.

“Many of our customers are seeking to reduce costs and gain flexibility by integrating their motion systems into higher-level, open automation strategies and have asked us to support CANopen. We are pleased to announce that we are now offering both CANopen and SAE J1939 capabilities for our popular Electrak HD actuators,” said Anders Karlsson, Product Line Specialist – Linear Actuators at Thomson.

CANopen is an open industrial integration protocol built on the Controller Automation Network (CAN). Originally developed for industrial systems,it is increasingly becoming the protocol of choice for factory automation systems, most notably AGVs and PLC-controlled material handling systems.

CANopen offers all of the functionality of SAE J1939, another protocol built on the CAN network bus, but uses an independent standard platform that enables plug and play integration with other standard devices. This makes it possible to integrate motion into other, higher-level automation schemes.

In addition to simplifying connectivity, CANopen enables users to finely control the motion of a linear component using programmable parameterssuch as distance travelled, temperature and speed. Programs can provide data, which can help diagnose problems, signal maintenance alarms, improve quality control and optimize operations.

Taking full advantage of the CANopen data handling capabilities are the onboard electronics embedded in the Thomson Electrak HD actuator, which eliminate the need for standalone controls. This smart electric actuator offers an intelligent, powerful and compact alternative to hydraulic systems. In addition to load handling up to 16 kN, the Electrak HD provides up to 1 meter of stroke, up to 75 mm/s of speed and high environmental resistance, including IP69K.

ThomsonElectrak HD linear actuators with CANopen are available immediately and are compliant with specification 301 published by the CAN in Automation (CiA) standards body. Additional Thomson electric actuator models are being considered for future implementation.

@Thomson_Ind @bcm_pr @CANopen #PAuto

Implementing PHMSA "Mega-Rule."

In October 2019, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) published new regulations on the design, construction and operation of onshore gas transmission and hazardous liquid pipelines throughout the U.S., commonly referred to as the PHMSA “Mega-Rule”.

Being a long-term provider for pipeline management solutions, Krohne actively supports their customers to match all PHMSA requirements for pipeline safety and integrity management. Therefore, the pipeline projects team located in Houston, (TX USA), has been significantly expanded within the first half of 2020, and trained to support pipeline operators to manage the additional workload.

With the extended workforce, the company is able to support more customers with integrated pipeline management services under the well-known PipePatrol brand that has been in the market for over 20 years. Being extended and updated continuously, PipePatrol is a comprehensive suite of software modules for long or short distance single and multiproduct pipelines for oil, gas, water, chemical or refined products, and offers monitoring and protection of pipelines in all operating conditions.

For example, it can include a stress monitoring module for evaluation and documentation of lifetime stress and remaining pipeline service life, and a predictive modeling module that forecasts pipeline operation and identifies possible threats such as shortage in supply or pressure violations. It can be used to find corrective measures as well as for planning of optimized operation in the future. In addition, the pump monitoring module enables predictive maintenance and higher system availability by monitoring essential mechanical, electrical, and hydrodynamic measurement values.

@krohnegroup @KROHNE_USA @PHMSA_DOT #PAuto 

Monday 24 August 2020

Effective tool change cleverly designed with inductive miniature sensors.

In modern processing centers, inductive sensors are the components of choice for monitoring the motor spindle clamping process. Integrated into the spindle, they must be exceptionally small and offer high repeatability to ensure smooth tool changing at all times. Baumer offers a high-performance portfolio of miniature sensors for the intelligent design of effective spindle solutions. This can either involve a classic design with three switching sensors or a smart design with one measurement sensor.

Tool change in fully automated processing centers, from removal until the insertion of the new tool in the spindle, takes less than a second. To achieve maximum system effectiveness, this process must function with ultimate reliability. The error-free functioning of the smallest inductive sensors plays a major role in ensuring this. For the processing center to function error-free, the machine control requires the following key information regarding the status of the collet chuck: open and no tool clasped, closed and no tool clasped, or closed and tool clasped. The answer to this challenge are inductive sensors. The task can be handled using either one measurement sensor or three switching inductive sensors.

Largest portfolio, smallest sensors
In drive and clamping solutions, the sensor technology is integrated in the motor spindle. Given this confined space, the sensors must therefore be as small as possible, yet very powerful – characteristics found in the sensors from Baumer. The Swiss sensor manufacturer offers the market’s largest portfolio of miniature and sub-miniature inductive sensors with micrometer measuring accuracy. One example is the inductive proximity sensor IFRM 03 with a diameter of only 3 mm. It is available in various lengths starting at a mere 12 mm. Yet its miniature housing contains the complete evaluation electronics that are responsible for the high-repeatability switching points as well as the precise analog measurement values. In addition, these industrial-grade sensors are robust, EMC-stable, and comply with the protection class IP 67. The sensors remain unaffected by heat, oily environments, and vibrations that normally occur in tooling machines. This is where the decades of experience of Baumer in miniature sensor technology come to play.

Measuring instead of switching
Rather than detecting the three positions of the drawbar with switching sensors, an analog inductive distance sensor offers an alternative solution. It requires a steep angle taper on the drawbar rather than a retainer. With a steep angle taper connected to the drawbar, it is possible for the measuring sensor to detect the position of the drawbar and thus recognize the state of the collet chuck. The distances or the respective clamping values that are evaluated by the control can be allocated to the three positions of the bar. The use of a measurement sensor offers a number of advantages – on the one hand, the sensor requires less space than three individual switching sensors and also less mounting effort. On the other hand, the sensor constantly monitors the state of the tool clamp. This makes it possible, for example, to detect when the tool becomes loose or is not clasped centrally. This may happen if chips fall between the spindle and the tool. It can result in damage to the tool or quality problems of the machined part. The precise sensors from Baumer optimize the repeatability of the tool clamping. This minimizes a potential lack of concentric runout of the used tool or detects it early on. A measuring sensor improves the reliability of the clamping system while ensuring both the quality of the processing as well as system availability, which is reflected in increased overall system effectiveness. This requires micrometer precision of the sensor, a detection range that is as large as possible, and a limited temperature drift. In this regard, AlphaProx, the smallest inductive distance sensors from Baumer, offer the highest performance on the market. The reliable measured values and high precision ensure users a maximum reproducibility for tool tensioning. Baumer has introduced one of the smallest distance measurement inductive sensors on the market – the inductive analog sensor IF08. This product series has a box-shaped housing measuring 16 x 8 x 4.7 mm. Nevertheless, it contains the entire evaluation electronics and a drilled hole for flexible mounting even in confined mounting spaces. Its measuring distance is 2 mm with an output signal of 0 – 10 VDC.

Flexible with IO-Link
Even greater flexibility is offered by the miniature distance measurement inductive sensor of the IR06 series with digital IO-Link interface with a housing that is only 6.5 mm thick and 46 mm long. The standardized interface allows the easy integration of the clamping process into the control. The collected data can be recorded and evaluated via a histogram. This allows the early detection of measurement deviations and facilitates required error analyses. For example, the smallest changes in the process can be detected via the vibration and addressed before the machined part is damaged. The sensor also provides additional diagnosis data, for example, the temperature of the sensor, which the tooling machine designers can use to indirectly recognize the heating up of the spindle. In addition, the sensor offers all the advantages of IO-Link, such as easy parameterization and quick commissioning of a replacement sensor, by downloading the parameters from the IO-Link master based on the parameter server function.

No restrictions with sensors from Baumer
The comprehensive portfolio of miniature inductive sensors offers users maximum flexibility for reliable solutions in the tool clamping process. The customer can choose whether the clamping process is monitored by switching sensors or a measurement sensor – without restrictions or limitations.

#PAuto #Baumer #MePax

New general manager for aftermarket business.

Sensata Technologies has appointed Russ Stebbins as General Manager of the Global Aftermarket Business Unit. Russ’s appointment plays a critical role in supporting Sensata’s continual growth strategy and driving its leadership position in the automotive aftermarket.

­­­­
Russ Stebbins
Stebbins is joining Sensata with over 25 years of automotive experience. In the past decade, he has held aftermarket leadership positions with well-known brands like TRW, Lumileds, and Akebono Brake Corporation. Additionally, Russ is a current board member of the Automotive Sales Council.­

“I am excited to be part of Sensata's aftermarket family – we have a history of impressive growth with our flagship brand Schrader and a bright future ahead of us.” says Stebbins.

“I am humbled to work with this team of experts to continue bringing Sensata’s OE expertise to the aftermarket. I am confident in our ability to realize the full potential of our current TPMS business as well as the many other OE-leading sensing products Sensata offers.”

Kelly Sadler, previous General Manager, has decided to pursue another opportunity within the company and is leading the integration of PRECO, a leading supplier of radar solutions and a recent acquisition of Sensata. Kelly has played a pivotal role over the last 2 years in expanding Sensata’s aftermarket product portfolio globally.

“Many thanks to Kelly for her leadership over the past 2 years and her support with my on-boarding to this role. I wish her the best in her future endeavors,” says Stebbins.

@Sensata #PAuto

Friday 21 August 2020

Capacitive Accelerometers.

Silicon Designs has announced its high-performance, Model 2276 Series for zero-to-medium frequency aerospace and automotive testing, industrial vibration monitoring and robotics instrumentation applications.

Available in eight standard ranges from ±2 g to ±400 g, the single-axis Model 2276 Series combines an integrated low-noise, nitrogen-damped, fully calibrated MEMS capacitive accelerometer chip together with high-drive, low-impedance buffering. Sense elements are contained within an epoxy-sealed, rugged anodized aluminum housing. This design allows the Series to reliably withstand shock inputs of up to 5000 g, as well as standard operating temperature ranges from –55°C to +125°C. The accelerometers further offer superior bias performance, including a temperature shift coefficient of -100 to +100 PPM of span/°C, and a scale factor temperature shift coefficient of -150 to +50 PPM/°C. Model 2276 Series accelerometers respond to both DC and AC acceleration, with choice of either two analog ±4 V (differential); or 0.5 to 4.5 V (single-ended) outputs, both of which vary with acceleration. At zero acceleration, output differential voltage is nominally 0 VDC (DC response). Onboard voltage regulation also minimizes supply voltage variation effects.

All Silicon Designs MEMS capacitive accelerometers and chips, including dies, are 100% designed, manufactured, assembled and tested at the company’s state-of-the-art global corporate headquarters and R&D center, located just outside of Seattle, Washington. Each module is serialized for traceability and fully calibrated prior to shipment.

The high-performance, low-impedance design of the Model 2276 Series is ideal for vibration and acceleration measurements within industrial and commercial environments, particularly in applications where an accelerometer’s low mass (9 g) and small size (0.94" by 0.63" by 0.425") can help to minimize mass loading effects on the test article. Typical applications include aircraft flight and flutter testing, automotive RLDA, industrial vibration monitoring and analysis, robotics, biomechanics, industrial machinery and equipment control, modal and structural analysis, crash event detection, and general in-laboratory testing.

 #SDI @EmbassyGlobal #Pauto #Testing 

Deep learning camera.

Cognex has introduced the world’s first industrial smart camera powered by Deep Learning software. This combination expands the possibilities of what can be successfully and precisely inspected in factory automation

Deep Learning and Artifical Intelligence (AI) are among the buzzwords not only in the manufacturing industry but also in many other fields. Deep Learning, a type of AI that leverages neural networks can be easily explained: Similar to how humans learn what a house is from a large number of examples, so too can a deep learning system come to understand the nature of an object from labeled images. Whether a car’s bumper, a package’s envelope, or something else, deep learning is an examples-based approach to solving inspection challenges. Furthermore, each inspection can be continually improved by feeding the existing algorithm with more example image data. This new data enhances the system leading to more accurate results.

Expanding the limits of automated inspection
Whether this is real intelligence or not, might be discussed by experts. From a practical point of view, the benefits for manufacturers are obvious and multiple. Manufacturers still rely on human inspectors throughout the production process because traditional machine vision systems cannot handle the complexity or variability within certain tasks. But humans can be prone to inconsistent results from one human to the next, or they can tire over the course of an eight hour shift. Additionally, there are many aspects throughout production that still go uninspected from one reason or another. Both of these realities open manufacturers up to quality control issues or the chances for recalls.

A vision system with integrated artificial intelligence, for example, is able to combine the judgement of a human inspector with the robustness and consistency of an automated solution for inspection or quality control. This is exactly the main advantage of the new In-Sight D900 vision system from Cognex.

As a first-of-its kind solution, it embeds Cognex’s deep learning software, known as In-Sight ViDi, inside an industrial-grade smart camera. This combination expands the possibilities of inline factory automation inspections.

Hardware: State-of-the art flexibility
The In-Sight D900 hardware is a compact, industry-grade smart camera that can easily be installed and deployed on the line without the need for a PC. The highly-modular, IP67-rated vision system includes field-changeable lighting, lenses, filters and covers that can be customized to match the individual application requirements.

For all three application tools, users can take advantage of the intuitive In-Sight spreadsheet interface allowing for a fast setup of Deep Learning applications without programming. The In-Sight spreadsheet simplifies application development and streamlines factory integration with a full I/O and communications function set. It also enables the ability to combine traditional Cognex rules-based vision tools (like PatMax Redline™) and Deep Learning tools in the same job, leading to quicker deployments.

Since In-Sight ViDi requires vastly smaller image sets and shorter training and validation periods than other deep learning solutions, applications are quick and easy to set up, teach, and deploy.

ViDi Read: Complex OCR

With the In-Sight ViDi Read tool, the user is able to solve challenging OCR applications in minutes. This module deciphers badly deformed, skewed, and poorly etched codes using optical character recognition.

This tool works right out of the box, dramatically reducing development time, thanks to the deep learning pretrained font library. The user simply defines the region of interest and sets the character size. In situations where new characters are introduced, this robust tool can be retrained to read application-specific characters that traditional OCR tools are not able to decode. In comparison to conventional vision systems without Deep Learning, this feature offers obvious advantages.

ViDi Check: Verifying assemblies and part location

Assembly verification
The ViDi Check tool on the In-Sight D900 allows manufacturers to perform fast and accurate assembly verification.

The system is able to detect complex features and objects. It verifies whether parts and kits are assembled correctly based on their location within a user-defined layout. The tool can be trained to create an extensive library of components, which can be located in the image even if they appear at different angles or vary in size.

ViDi Detect: Find defects and other unwanted variations

Airbag bad!
A third tool called ViDi Detect was designed for analyzing complex defect detection tasks.

It is able to learn from images of good parts in order to identify defective parts. In-Sight ViDi Detect is ideal for finding anomalies on complex parts and surfaces, even in situations where defects can be unpredictable in their appearance.

Summary: A new paradigm for high-quality vision inspections

The integration of the In-Sight ViDi deep learning based vision software on a smart camera helps factory automation customers easily solve challenging OCR, assembly verification, and defect detection applications that are often too difficult to deploy with traditional, rule-based machine vision tools and require reliable, fast and consistent results not possible with human inspection.

With the introduction of this system, Cognex addresses three application fields: optical character recognition (OCR), assembly verification and defect detection. Others might (and will) follow, but these three alone open up a wide range of possible tasks that the new system can tackle successfully and with more precision than a conventional vision system. With respect to the markets, the In-Sight D900 can be used across a range of industries including automotive, consumer electronics, consumer products, packaging, food and beverage, medical devices, and logistics.

@Cognex_Corp #PAuto #Mepax

Thursday 20 August 2020

High-resolution sensor for camera.

IDS integrates the high-performance, extremely high-resolution sensor IMX541 from the Pregius S series into the versatile uEye SE camera family. Thanks to its compact 1.1" format, the 20.35 MP CMOS sensor is compatible with C-mount lenses. The industrial cameras feature a practical USB3 Vision interface, deliver 20 fps and will be available from September either as board-level models or with a robust metal housing.

Pregius S – the fourth generation of extremely powerful CMOS image sensors from Sony – makes BSI ("Back Side Illuminated") technology available for the first time in global shutter sensors. The benefits are smaller pixels (only 2.74 µm, which allows a significantly higher pixel density), higher resolution and also improved quantum efficiency and sensitivity. The new camera models deliver outstanding image quality that leaves nothing to be desired even in demanding machine vision applications such as surface inspections, detailed image evaluation in medical technology or use in the traffic sector. Anyone who values high-resolution images – for example to detect even the smallest material defects – will hardly be able to overlook these sensors in the future.

The compact industrial cameras are therefore also a sensible alternative to cameras with similar high-resolution, but large-format sensors, for which F-mount lenses are usually required. With the uEye SE models, C-mount lenses can be used – which means considerable cost savings. Thanks to the USB3 Vision interface, the cameras are also uncompromisingly Vision Standards-compliant and can therefore be used comfortably with IDS peak, for example. The free SDK is characterized by an easy-to-use programming interface developed by IDS. Users no longer need to work directly with GenTL and GenAPI. Convenience classes help to reduce programming effort and thus minimize potential sources of error.

@IDS_Imaging #PAuto

Driving by eye!

Xilinx technology is powering the new version of Subaru’s vision-based advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS), EyeSight. Integrated into the all-new Subaru Levorg, the new EyeSight system will provide advanced features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and pre-collision braking, putting best-in-class safety technology into the hands of consumers.


“At Subaru, we continuously strive to make the Subaru brand prominent in our customers’ hearts and minds by focusing our efforts on providing ‘Enjoyment and Peace of Mind,’ and we believe ADAS is one of the technologies that will help us achieve that goal,” said Tetsuo Fujinuki, chief technology officer, Subaru Corporation. “Stereo cameras are at the heart of Subaru’s ADAS applications. Unlike common approaches, the image processing technology adopted in our new generation system scans everything captured by stereo cameras and creates high-precision 3D point clouds, enabling us to offer advanced features such as pre-collision braking at an intersection and assisting with hands-off driving in traffic congestion on a highway. Xilinx technology plays an important role in this. Because Xilinx automotive devices contain built-in capabilities that allow us to meet strict ASIL requirements, they are unquestionably the best technology to implement Subaru’s new ADAS vision system.”

The Xilinx® Automotive-qualified (XA) Zynq® UltraScale+™ multi-processor system-on-a-chip (MPSoC) 16 nanometer technology provides the high-performance, ultra-low latency, and functional safety (ASIL) capabilities that the EyeSight system requires to accurately depict and react to dynamic driving scenarios.

“We are excited to see Xilinx automotive devices enabling the new generation of automotive safety for Subaru,” said Yousef Khalilollahi, vice president of sales, Asia-Pacific region, Xilinx. “Subaru’s name has long been synonymous with road safety and reliability, and we’re proud that our XA products have been selected to continue our shared vision of providing drivers with the most advanced safety features on the market.”


@XilinxInc @NeeshamPR #Automotive #Vision

AC/DC converters.

The latest models in the PULS Power PIANO series have been introduced to the market. The PIANO-PIM family have been designed for use in the many industrial applications which only require a basic power supply so that customers do not have to pay for unnecessary control and communication facilities.

Marco van der Linden, UK Country Manager for PULS Power, comments, "Our PIANO range continues the PULS philosophy of offering our customers “more with less”. Our new PIANO-PIM range of power supplies are ideally suited for worldwide applications requiring a simple, basic, cost effective power supply with no compromise on quality. The compact size of the PIM36, PIM60 and PIM90 allows more flexibility in system design while the simple installation provides significant time and cost savings. PULS power supplies continue to set new records in their respective performance classes in the quality-critical functions such as efficiency, lifetime and size."

The PIANO-PIM series offer a cost effective, space-saving, efficient, reliable and durable DIN-Rail mounted AC/DC converters. The 100-240VAC wide range input, 24VDC output units are available in three versions: PIM36 (36W), PIM60 (60W) and PIM90 (90W). With these additions to the already very successful PIANO power supply range PULS now provides users with a complete, cost-oriented, product family with outputs from 30-480W. At ambient temperatures between -10°C and +55°C, the devices work at full power without derating. The PIM90 is also available as an NEC Class 2 version for the US market.

This range uses innovative technology to make savings in cost and space. The single PCB design uses a reduced number of high-quality components, lowering cost, simplifying manufacture and improving reliability. The PIM90 is currently the smallest 90W DIN-Rail power supply on the market. The compact design saves space on the DIN-Rail in the control cabinet and makes them ideally suited for decentralised use in cramped systems or spaces – e.g. building automation.

The high efficiency synchronous rectifier design based on MOSFET technology (90W PIANO achieving over 93.8% at full load and +40°C ambient temperature) reduces the need for system cooling and further increases reliability. With exceptionally low losses even in idle or standby mode at < 0.5W, the PIANO-PIM range particularly is useful for applications in building automation. In building safety systems power supplies often remain in standby mode for days or even weeks. Due to the very low no-load losses in the idle state, considerable energy costs can be saved over the long term.

The high efficiency and optimised thermal design allow polycarbonate housings to be used, reducing weight and providing a robust impact resistant enclosure. The use of a plastic housing means the small, low power PIANO power supplies can be operated without grounding, saving additional installation time and cabling costs.

The PIM60 and PIM90 power supplies are available with either screw terminals or time saving push-in terminals. PULS devices are optimally prepared for automated wiring processes. The PIANO-PIM range meet all international safety agency approvals and are CE marked.

@PULSPowerSupply @proactivefleet #PAuto 

Wednesday 19 August 2020

Opto-sensors for touch-free life.

A full range of Omron touch sensors to reduce the need for contact and shared surfaces, as facilities adapt to coronavirus counter-measures is being offered by Anglia. The Omron B5W LCR sensors, W7ED capacitive touch sensors, and D6T non-contact temperature sensors all enable future generations of automated devices to further improve safety and help prevent the spread of disease.

David Pearson, Technical Director at Anglia Components, commented, “With social distancing set to become a new norm, there are opportunities for sensing technologies to provide extra protection. Anglia FAEs are fully trained to support this portfolio of Omron solutions which draws on the company’s expertise in presence, proximity and touch sensing. In addition to typical applications such as security and energy management, these sensors are ideal for detection of raised body surface temperature, a key symptom of Coronavirus.”

Omron’s B5W Light Convergent Reflective sensors have a wide sensing range to allow object shifting and are particularly well suited to detecting challenging objects such as those that are reflective, transparent, or diffuse. Photo sensors are widely used to automate equipment such as door openers, hand sanitiser dispensers, bathroom taps and toilet flushers. Contactless operation in such high-traffic applications is effective in reducing the spread of germs.

Omron W7ED capacitive touch sensors are designed to simply fasten to the touch electrode with a screw, unlike others which usually require complex set up. They combine the simplicity of a mechanical switch with the advantages of touch control, and enable designers to create aesthetically pleasing products. By allowing use with wet hands or when wearing latex gloves as personal protective equipment, they also permit additional safety. In other applications such as lift controls, touch sensors provide a reliable alternative to traditional mechanical switches.

Omron’s D6T thermal infrared sensors could provide a way forward for the new need to check for raised body surface temperature. This compact device is well suited to embedded applications and relieves key signal-processing workloads from the system host processor. D6T sensors can be added to an access-control system, for example, to automatically check the surface temperature of a visitor on arrival, protecting the occupants and warning the individual, who may not know that they are infected.

@angliaLive @NeeshamPR #Pauto #coróinvíreas #COVID19 #coronavirus

Easy assembly interface.

The RJ Industrial® MultiFeature series, from Harting, is an RJ industrial interface which is now significantly easier to assemble in the field as it no longer requires a separate tool.


The RJ Industrial in the new MultiFeature series meets customers’ wishes and requirements for simpler operation and field assembly capability. The continued development of the successful RJ Industrial® standard now offers tool-free assembly, easier use and a robust metal housing. An additional area of application for AWG 26 to AWG 22 stranded wires, along with robust cable fixation, are features that simplify fitting and improve installation.

As the classic RJ45 was developed for telecommunications, it did not always meet the demands of the industrial sector. The Harting RJ Industrial® MultiFeature series is designed specifically to resist all the difficulties posed by harsh environments. Safe Cat. 6A performance and IP20 and IP65/67 housing paired with PoE power supply variants IEEE802.3af (PoE 15.4W) / IEEE802.3at (PoE 25.5W) / IEEE802.3bt (PoE 100W) provides data and power for every device.

The robust metal housing provides a reliable Ethernet connection and is suitable for industrial markets thanks to its metal locking and tough strain relief. This consistent development progress has simplified the interface that has proven its worth a million times over.

@hartinguk @Harting #PAuto 

Workplace distancing and contact tracing technology!

Location Awareness technology helps manage workplace density, improve worker safety and ensure business continuity during global pandemic

Emerson has enhanced its Location Awareness (pdf) technology to include social density management and contact tracing to protect employee health and help essential industries safely continue operations during challenging times, such as the current coronavirus pandemic. Part of its Plantweb™ digital ecosystem, Emerson’s Location Awareness provides an easy-to-install, cost-effective and reliable solution in the most severe industrial environments for companies to better safeguard employee safety and help create new work processes and practices for operational continuity.

By utilising WirelessHART® networks, a secure standard adopted in tens of thousands of industrial plants worldwide, along with battery-powered anchors and rechargeable personnel location tags, Location Awareness provides relevant-time, safety-focused monitoring of personnel, enabling enhanced geofencing and monitoring, improved safety mustering and more effective safety alerts. It is estimated that the system can help address more than 70% of common personnel-recordable incidents. It can also be installed in just days, compared to weeks for existing systems, and costs less than half of traditional alternatives.

“Worker safety has always been paramount for our customers, but now more than ever, they need tools to help them manage employee exposure risks and navigate new regulatory requirements,” said Bob Karschnia, vice-president and general manager of pervasive sensing at Emerson’s Automation Solutions business. “The majority of our customers are part of the essential, critical infrastructure around the world, and the new Location Awareness social density and contact tracing features can help keep workers safe while maintaining vital operations during this global pandemic.”

The updated Location Awareness technology enables manufacturers to use the Plantweb Insight Location application to digitally design geofenced areas that limit the number of personnel in specific locations to promote social distancing. If the social density – the number of people in a given area – exceeds a predetermined threshold, an alert is sent to the operator. The technology also provides reports for contact tracing in the event an employee becomes ill, enabling employers to quickly identify and notify other employees who may have come in contact with the individual and to determine the physical environment areas requiring deep cleaning. Plantweb Insight data will help identify high-risk scenarios and determine preferred manufacturing workflows for enhanced safety.

In addition, Location Awareness can be used for safety mustering for drills and emergencies as well as safety alerts initiated by personnel involved with or observing dangerous situations. The advanced technology can also be used for creating known hazardous zones and contractor work zones using geofencing.

@Emerson_News @EMR_Automation #Pauto  #coróinvíreas #COVID19 #coronavirus

Tuesday 18 August 2020

Probe with dital interface.

The EE072 by E+E Elektronik is a highly accurate humidity and temperature probe for demanding process and climate control tasks. The probe can be used for example in agriculture and livestock farming, the food and pharmaceutical industries or in clean rooms. The digital interface with the Modbus RTU or CANopen communication protocol facilitates the design-in of the EE072.
Versatile in Use and Highly Accurate

A wide temperature range of -40 to 80 °C (-40 to 76 °F), the robust IP65 stainless steel or polycarbonate enclosure and various filter caps make the EE072 a versatile sensing probe. The very good temperature compensation and configurable pressure compensation ensure high measuring accuracy of up to ±1.3 % RH and ±0.1 °C.

The Sensor-Coating protects the humidity sensing element against corrosive and electrically conductive contamination. This ensures excellent long-term stability even in harsh environments. In combination with the rugged sensing head and the encapsulated measuring electronics, the EE072 is ideally suited for particularly demanding measuring tasks.

The digital sensing probe is available with an RS485 interface and the Modbus RTU protocol or a CAN interface with the CANopen protocol. The two standardised communication protocols allow the direct integration of the EE072 into the control systems commonly used in the industrial sector. In addition, the industry-standard M12x1 connecting plug allows for fast electrical system integration.

The EE072 not only measures relative humidity and temperature, it also calculates all humidity related parameters, such as the dew point, frost point or wet bulb temperature, etc.

The sensing probe can be easily configured with the help of an optional adapter and the free configuration software.

E+E Elektronik products are marketed in Ireland through Instrument Technology.

@CANopen #Epulse #Pauto #Modbus 

Investment in mining AI solutions.

BASF Venture Capital (BVC) is leading a strategic investment round in IntelliSense.io with follow-on participation from a group of British-based technology angel investors including Dr. Steve Garnett and Stephen Kelly. IntelliSense.io is a leading provider of AI-based solutions for the global mining industry. Its customers include mining majors and diversified mining groups.
To extract metals from the mined ores, mining companies must overcome two main challenges: First, today’s known ore deposits are increasingly difficult to mine, with declining ore grades and greater environmental challenges. Second, the composition of the orebody is not known with high accuracy. This variability impacts operational conditions and control, as well as plant performance and throughput. This is where IntelliSense.io’s technology comes in.

IntelliSense.io has combined the disciplines of mining expertise with software engineering and data science, enabling products to be designed by industry experts for end-users in the mining industry. The result is a unified technology platform, including a portfolio of process optimization applications spanning the entire mining value chain, from the mine to the plant and the markets. This is unique in the industry due to its breadth, scope and scale and it helps mining operations to become more efficient, sustainable and safe with accelerated value delivery. The platform also includes built-in simulation tools that can be used to test alternative operating conditions, train staff and run non-intrusive ‘what if’ scenarios.

BASF has a broad portfolio of mineral processing chemicals and technologies to improve process efficiencies and aid the economic extraction of valuable resources while offering global technical support to mining customers. In addition to the investment by BASF Venture Capital, BASF Mining Solutions has entered into an exclusive partnership with IntelliSense.io, bringing together their expertise in mineral processing, ore beneficiation chemistry and industrial artificial intelligence technology. The joint offering is called “BASF Intelligent Mine powered by IntelliSense.io” and delivers artificial intelligence solutions embedded with BASF mineral processing and chemical expertise.

“The world is becoming increasingly digital and artificial intelligence can make a vital contribution in many areas,” said Markus Solibieda, Managing Director of BASF Venture Capital. “The IntelliSense.io team offers a flexible and future-proof system which can help to optimize the metal lifecycle from extraction to processing to disposal. We believe in the IntelliSense.io team and the potential of this technology, and we are happy to support the further development and distribution of this innovative solution with our investment.”

Sam G. Bose, Founder and CEO of IntelliSense.io, commented: “Our fast-establishing leadership in industrial AI is driven by vertical industry-specific applications that require partnerships combining decades of industrial experience with emerging technologies. In the BASF group we are humbled to have found such a partner. We are delighted to have BVC’s support in building a category-leading industrial AI company and the capital raised will be deployed to increase our applications portfolio and support distribution capacity globally.”

 @IntelliSenseio @BASF #PAuto #AI