3D Line Profile Sensors.

LMI Technologies (LMI) has released the Gocator® 2430/2440/2450 blue laser line profile sensors. This latest addition to LMI's popular 2400 series, these new blue laser models are designed for 3D scanning of shiny metal surfaces in electric vehicle (EV) battery inspection, rail inspection (rail geometry), small to medium-size electronic and automotive parts, and general factory automation applications. 

The 2400 series also offers several red laser models for optimal performance and maximum flexibility in your scanning applications.

Due to its shorter wavelength, blue laser light performs better than red or green lasers when scanning specular surfaces. Blue laser generates “cleaner” profiles (ie, less laser speckle) on shiny targets, allowing it to achieve higher measurement accuracy as a result. For example, Gocator® 2450 blue laser sensors are able to deliver high-quality 3D scan data of train rails even in full sunlight and when the track ballast is wet.

These sensors are ideal for customers who need to perform:

Battery cell pre-assembly inspection (Electrode Width Gauging, Electrode Edge Profile Measurement, Tab Distance Gauging) Battery cell assembly inspection Flat and cylindrical battery surface inspection Rail geometry inspection And a range of general factory automation applications

Gocator® 2430/40/50 models feature the latest 2-megapixel imaging technology, custom embedded processor, and optimized optics that allow for fast inspection rates (up to 5 kHz) and increased sensitivity in handling reflective targets.

“These three new line profilers add high sensitivity blue laser scanning to the 2400 series. Offering a balance of speed, high resolution data, and wide fields of view, customers can achieve precision 3D scanning and inspection of shiny surfaces with the most cost-effective sensor setup possible,” said Terry Arden, CEO, LMI Technologies.

The Gocator 2430/40/50 blue laser profilers come in an IP67-rated industrial housing offering all-in-one functionality, including web-based user setup, built-in 3D visualization, drag and drop measurement tools, and communication protocols that are unmatched in the 3D sensor market.

@lmi3d @PresseBox #PAuto 

Visualising gases.

Building on the previous methane-detecting GF77 camera release, FLIR now offers two lens types for finding a wider variety of gases with just one camera.

The new FLIR GF77™ Gas Find IR Series provides professionals with the flexibility to use one uncooled gas detection camera for gas detection and thermal inspections across chemical and industrial manufacturing, electric power utilities, natural gas supply chain, food and agricultural, and public safety. The most notable feature updates include visualizing a completely new category of gases in sulfur hexafluoride, ammonia, and ethylene. The GF77 Series also offers IR high-temp ranges, increased temperature measurement accuracy and improved inspection flow/reporting with optional add-ons for FLIR Thermal Studio Pro and FLIR Route Creator.

The versatile GF77 does more than visualize gases; this ergonomic, easy to use camera is calibrated for IR temperature measurement, so inspectors can use it as part of predictive maintenance programs, such as verifying tank levels and searching for electrical or mechanical issues without the need to change a lens.

New Lens Options

The GF77 Gas Find IR Series offers two types of lenses—low-range (LR) and high-range (HR)—in a standard 25° field of view or as a 6° telephoto lens. The LR lens has a built-in 7-8.5 µm wavelength filter for visualizing methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, R-134a, and R-152a. The HR lens filters the 9.5-12 µm wavelength for visualizing sulfur hexafluoride, ammonia, and ethylene.

Professionals have the option to purchase the lens combination that meets their needs, the GF77-LR, the GF77-HR or the GF77 with both the LR and HR lenses. Further, each lens is calibrated to a specific camera body at the time of purchase to visualize the gases of interest and measure temperature accurately.

For customers who already own a GF77 and would like to expand its capabilities, the FLIR service center can calibrate any new lens purchased for that specific device.

Improved Camera Options The GF77 Gas Find IR Series now includes a broader temperature detection range, from -20 °C to 500 °C, with improved accuracy of +/- 3 °C, down from +/- 5 °C, within the full temperature range. The optional on-board routing capability, Route Creator, allows end-users to simplify surveys by pre-planning the route that includes a list of assets that need to be inspected at each location, reducing the risk of missing an asset that could lead to an unexpected failure. The reporting add-on, Thermal Studio Pro, offers an easy final comprehensive report option.

@flir #PAuto #MEpax

Cutting-Edge applications in artificial intelligence.

Mouser Electronics has released Artificial Intelligence: The Next Wave in Life Sciences , the first eBook from The Intelligent Revolution series. In the new eBook, experts from Mouser and the life science industry explore cutting-edge applications for artificial intelligence (AI) in areas such as speech therapy, flu prevention, and wildlife protection. The captivating new AI series is the latest addition to Mouser’s award-winning Empowering Innovation Together™ program.

“We are excited to provide this type of enlightening content for our customers and followers. Artificial intelligence has revolutionized many high-profile industries, and we are now seeing this groundbreaking technology applied to new applications in life sciences,” said Kevin Hess, Senior Vice President, Marketing at Mouser Electronics. “This first eBook in The Intelligent Revolution series explores some of the most exciting new uses for AI in life sciences, as industry leaders highlight what has been achieved as well as what’s to come.”

Artificial Intelligence: The Next Wave in Life Sciences eBook features a fascinating article about Tanya Berger-Wolf, a computational ecologist at the Ohio State University, as well as insightful contributions from noted science writer David Freedman. The first article explores Berger-Wolf’s use of AI in matching photographs to specific animals, a critical function in wildlife protection. Specific animal matching enables scientists to determine whether a population is increasing or declining, and to determine how much funding and land should be allocated to protect the animal population.

Freedman’s contributions explore the role of AI in two medical applications: analyzing the sounds of coughs to track flu outbreaks, and identifying patterns in brain scans to predict the outcomes of speech therapy.

@MouserElecEU #AI #Health #Environment #LifeScience

Virtual robotics.

ABB has created a virtual exhibition stand demonstrating its latest products and solutions for processing and packaging applications since the PPMA exhibition this year has been cancelled. The stand is built around a panoramic tour that enables you to discover the benefits robots can bring to many industries worldwide. 

“Our interactive exhibition stands provide an ideal way for visitors to find out more about our latest robots and how they can help to deliver value in industrial applications” says Julian Ware, Sales Manager for ABB Robotics in Britain and Ireland. “While there is obviously no substitute for personal contact, features like the inclusion of online enquiry mechanisms included on the stand provide the next best thing, enabling people to easily get in contact with us to find out more about how we can help them make a switch to robotic automation.”

A featured solution on the stand includes the ABB FlexPicker IRB360, demonstrating its fast picking capabilities in a compact footprint. Featuring easy to rinse-off surfaces and joints and designed for picking and packing applications with high payloads up to 8kg, the FlexPicker has established a reputation for fast, flexible, and accurate performance in a wide range of food and beverage and pharmaceuticals applications.

With space at a premium in many factories, solutions that can offer high performance in the smallest possible footprint are ideal. ABB’s fastest and most compact robot yet, the IRB1100, provides 35 percent increased productivity with up to 10 percent space savings, and consistently outperforms other robots in its class in terms of payload and repeatability, even when working in confined locations.

Also on the stand are examples of ABB’s single and dual-arm YuMi® seven-axis robots. Incorporating extensive safety features including padded arms and collision detection that automatically stops the robot if it detects the presence of a human worker. Both robots provide the flexibility needed to meet the production requirements of small and medium enterprises, with the ability to handle a range of precise and repetitive tasks involving components up to 0.5kg. The YuMi robots are part of a suite of exciting collaborative automation solutions that help people and robots work more safely and closer together than ever before.

Visitors to the virtual stand will also find a range of other interactive exhibits including display boards covering videos on elements such as the new RobotStudio® AR viewer, downloadable information including ebooks and white papers and 360 degree rotating models of each robot for full view so you don’t miss out on a thing.

There’s also a chance to visit a dedicated stand showing B&R Automation’s groundbreaking Adaptive Machine. As the machine automation specialists within the ABB Robotics and Discrete Automation Business, B&R Automation’s solutions allow OEM and special purpose machine builders to speed time to market, minimize development risk and reduce costs. Using the virtual stand, visitors can find out more about the Adaptive Machine concept and explore B&R’s ACOPOSTrack, which has been designed to deliver decisive technological advantages for adaptive, connected manufacturing by transporting parts and products quickly and flexibly.

@ABBRobotics @NapierPR #PAuto #Packaging

Load cells for agricultural applications.

VPG Transducers' Agribar™ 5330 series load cell is specially designed for use in challenging load measurement and control applications on mobile agricultural machinery and farm mixing, spreading and dispensing equipment. Its single-ended bending beam design is especially robust, load rated at 6150 Kg and a CANbus option is available that enables added operational analysis and increased efficiency for heavy-duty farm machinery applications.

The Agribar’s robust alloy steel housing has a dust and water tight IP67 rating (optionally IP69K) and is finished in a special electro-deposited organic coating for added corrosion and abrasion protection. Its robust design includes an impressive temperature tolerance and compensated range from 0 to +50 °C for high-accuracy temperature measurement in harsh conditions. With other load capacity options available on request, the Agribar is a compelling choice for OEMs and farm machinery manufacturers of feed and stationary mixers, manure spreaders, harvest trailers and grain carts as well as bins, tanks and other storage equipment.

These products receive full support from Variohm EuroSensor, the manufacturer’s distribution partner in Britain.

@Variohm #VPG_Transducers #Agriculture

Switch aids smooth traffic flow!

In 2019, it was announced in China that by the end of the year 90% of vehicles on Chinese expressways should be enabled to use their new electronic toll collection (ETC) system. The DG sub-subminiature switch from ZF Friedrichshafen AG, succeeded in winning business exceeding 10 million pieces from one of the leading ETC companies in China.

The Ministry of Transportation of China planned a complete removal of manual expressway toll booths, replacing them with ETC systems at provincial borders to reduce the issues of expressway traffic congestion, to enhance traffic efficiency and to reduce logistical costs.

To implement the electronic toll collection process, the toll station was equipped with electronic readers, each vehicle needed a transponder fitted, and the driver needed to apply for a dedicated bank card to actuate the cost deduction from the individual’s account. When vehicles pass through a toll booth on the expressway, they no longer need to stop because the ETC system recognizes the vehicle details and deducts the toll fee automatically.

The DG sub-subminiature switch from ZF Friedrichshafen AG is installed in the transponder for each vehicle and is used as a core component to prevent disassembly. This unique transponder is required by the ministry to protect the security of the unique ID and account of each vehicle.

@zfswitch_sensor #Transport #China

Shut-off valve.

As first shut-off valve or for connecting pressure measuring instruments: The new ball valve, model BV, is suitable for a variety of applications. It is available in process and instrument versions.

The instrumentation valve is compact and can therefore also be integrated in space-restricted environments, like a control panel. Thanks to its robustness, the model BV is suitable for heavy-duty applications and processes with critical media. Its pressurised parts correspond to the safety factor 4:1, its leak tightness has been tested in accordance with BS 6755 / ISO 5208, leakage rate A. An antistatic design, a blow-out-proof valve spindle and self-relieving valve seats ensure the safe operation of the ball valve. The high-quality processing of the inner parts also enables constant precise and smooth operation.

For the model BV, WIKA offers an application-specific assembly with a measuring instrument. Such an instrument hook-up is delivered ready-to-install and leak tested.

• WIKA products are marketed in Ireland through Instrument Technology.

@WIKANews #PAuto

Miniature CO2, temp & pressure sensor.

The new EE895 sensor module from E+E Elektronik measures CO2, temperature and ambient pressure. The small 3-in-1 module is an ideal choice for measuring instruments used for ventilation and climate control, in building automation or for process control. Due to its low power consumption, the module is also suitable for battery-operated devices such as hand-held meters, data loggers or wireless transmitters. The temperature and pressure compensation ensures high CO2 measurement accuracy under changing environmental conditions.

Additionally to CO2 concentration up to 10 000 ppm the EE895 module measures also the temperature and ambient pressure. The pressure and temperature compensation with on-board sensors minimizes the environmental influences onto the CO2 measurement. Thus the module offers a constantly high CO2 measurement accuracy, independent of altitude or changing ambient conditions.

The dual wavelength NDIR CO2 measuring principle with auto-calibration ensures long-term stable measurements, as it automatically compensates for aging effects and is particularly resistant to contamination. The factory multi-point CO2 and temperature adjustment procedure leads to an excellent CO2 measurement accuracy over the entire temperature working range of -40...60 °C (-40...140 °F).

The measured data for CO2, temperature and pressure is available on the I2C or UART interface. The very small dimensions of only 35 mm x 15 mm x 7 mm (1.38" x 0.6" x 0.27") and various mounting options facilitate the design-in of the sensor module.

The EE895 module can be flexibly configured via the digital interface. The CO2 measurement interval can be set according to the application and the power requirements.

With the separately available EE895 Evaluation Board, the sensor module can be tested on a PC. The free evaluation software displays the measurement data in graphical form and allows the user to set the sampling rate and the measurement units for temperature and pressure. 

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

#Epulse #PAuto #ITL

Check valve.

The new model CV check valve from WIKA is designed for a wide range of applications in the process industry. Its sealing system with a self-centering piston reliably prevents backflow of liquid and gaseous media.

The reliability of the new instrumentation valve is mainly due to its redundant sealing, consisting of an O-ring and a metal cone. Its leak tightness has been tested in accordance with BS6755/ISO 5208 leakage rate A. The solid-machined, robust design of the model CV ensures high repeatability and a long service life, even in heavy-duty applications. The pressurized parts correspond to the safety factor of 4:1.

For the new check valve, WIKA offers an application-specific assembly with a measuring instrument. Such an instrument hook-up is delivered ready-to-install and leak tested.

• WIKA products are marketed in Ireland through Instrument Technology.

@WIKANews #PAuto

Building automation award.

Delta Controls, Inc., has won Frost & Sullivan’s 2020 Global Building Automation Systems Company of the Year Award. The honor by the prestigious market research firm recognizes Delta Controls’ ability to provide superior value to worldwide customers with its industry-leading technologies that offer a full suite of smart features and functionality, as well as with its best-in-class technical support. Delta Controls’ signature O3 Sensor Hub 2.0, an innovative system integrating multiple sensors and IoT interfaces to enable next-generation smart and energy-efficient buildings, served as a key factor in receiving the Frost & Sullivan award.

“Delta Controls exemplifies superior best practices in best-of-breed technology offerings and innovative solutions because it incorporates a convergence of technologies with a dedicated customer service partnership experience,” said Neha Tatikota, an industry analyst for energy and environment at Frost & Sullivan.

Mr. Bill Lo, general manager of Delta’s Building Automation Business Group, said, “We are extremely proud of Delta Controls’ passion in always pushing the envelope. They are a tremendously valued part of Delta – enabling us to collectively create a more energy-efficient built environment for a smarter and greener future.”

Frost & Sullivan called the IoT-enabled O3 Sensor Hub 2.0 “revolutionary,” before concluding “it is beneficial not just for building owners, managers, and occupants, but also accepted by architects, installers, and consultant community as a highly cost-effective installation.” The hub utilizes sensor fusion technology for superior room control and to optimize occupant comfort. The ceiling-mounted device observes its environment and reports interior temperature, occupancy, humidity, lighting, heating and cooling – while serving as a connectivity platform for sensing air quality, ventilation, window contact and shade positions. It also supports multiple protocols that allow for integration with nearly any system, including native BACnet, MQTT and REST API for third-party integration and BLE API for custom app development.

“Winning this award is a testament to the hard work, spirit and dedication that shines across our organization every day,” said John Nicholls, president of Delta Controls. “Our guiding philosophy is to ‘do it right,’ which fuels our ambition to develop only the most innovative solutions.”

@deltacontrols @Frost_Sullivan #BAS #MePAX

Detecting power transformer air leaks.

The new method, based on measuring total pressure of all dissolved gases in the power transformer insulation oil, will help customers detect andrepair any air leaks early. This can extend the lifetime of a transformer and lead to significant cost savings.

A uniquely accurate and reliable method for detecting air ingress in sealed power transformers is being brought to market by Vaisala. With the increased number of sealed transformers, ambient air leaks have become a significant issue as oxygen acceleratesthe aging of paper used in the insulation.

Measuring total gas pressure (TGP) is a step forward from the traditional measurement methods that are currently available in the market to detect air leaks. An oxygen sensor cannot detect an air leak, if there is a reaction in a transformer that consumes oxygen. Even if all oxygen has been consumed, TGP value will still give a reliable indication of a leak because the nitrogen value will both dominate and increase over time because it is neither formed nor consumed in the transformer. Additionally, TGP measurement can indicate if the nitrogen cylinder of a nitrogen blanketed transformer is empty – another task that oxygen measurement cannot detect.

“We are always looking for new solutions to help our customers to optimize their measurement needs and therefore wanted to develop an innovative, accurate and robust solution for detecting air leaks in transformers. We are very happy now to introduce this innovative new method, based on measuring total gas pressure,” says Teemu Hanninen, Product Manager from Vaisala’s Industrial Measurements.

The new measurement solution will be made available to the current customers via a software release for Vaisala’s Optimus™ DGA Monitor OPT100, which is the world’s first maintenance free dissolved gas analyzer for power transformers. For new OPT100s, the new software will be incorporated as a default factory setup.

“We are delighted to offer this software upgrade to our existing OPT100 customers and support them with an even more comprehensive solution unlike seen in the market before. Striving to develop both new solutions and improve the existing ones is deep in Vaisala’s DNA.” 

@VaisalaGroup @_Enviro_News #Pauto

Support safe reopening!

Omron is supporting the safe reopening of spaces after lockdown with a wide range of optical sensors. These components can form a vital part of an effective infection control regime within buildings, rooms and even crowd-controlled spaces by monitoring body temperature measurement, counting the density of people in an area and reducing the need to touch surfaces.

Commenting on the range, Gabriele Fulco, European Product Marketing Manager for Omron, commented, “Opto-sensing technology has an important role to play in coronavirus countermeasures and no-contact sensors provide a solid basis to solutions for access control and body temperature measurement. They can also replace ‘touch-based’ switches to operate lights and other services with the potential to becoming the norm once COVID is a distant memory.”

Omron D6T thermal sensors are based on an infrared sensor which measures the surface temperature of objects without touching them, using a thermopile element which absorbs radiated energy from the target object. The D6T 4x4 sensor can measure face temperature at distances up to 1m for access control, whilst the D6T single-eye sensor is more suitable for wrist or forehead wearable devices. With suitable calibration, the temperature accuracy on the D6T 4X4 sensor can reach ±0.2degC, giving a reliable identification of fever, and a matrix type sensor makes it easy to separate human and background temperatures.

The Omron HVC-2 image sensors can detect faces, facial features and human bodies, even estimating age and gender of the humans in the captured image. Basic sensing functions could aid distancing in the workplace or public spaces by counting the number of people in the room or detecting when people are too close together. The sensor can also reduce physical interaction for customers who stand in front of digital signage, providing targeted messages to people in at-risk categories.

The Omron B5W-LB LCR contactless switch can be implemented in environments where the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses needs to be reduced, such as doors, drinks dispensers, light switches, soap dispensers and toilet flushes. The sensor is distinguished by the reliability and repeatability of detection performance, even when presented with target items of different colours and types of surface, including reflective surfaces. Long detection distance and a convergent light beam triggers accurately on an object within a tightly specified target area, ignoring any objects in the background or foreground.

@OmronEurope @NeeshamPR #Pauto #Safety

Footswitch suitable for medical use.

Herga Technology's Modular Base System has successfully gained UL- and IEC- 60601-1 medical product approval. In combination with Herga’s best-in-class medically approved electrical and Bluetooth® footswitches and puckswitches, this building-block platform now provides a globally unique solution for multipedal medical equipment footswitch selection and purchase. Renamed for medical switching tasks as the Medical Footswitch Design Platform, OEMs can be assured their complete multipedal switching module has medical approval on delivery - saving cost by reducing product design effort, simplifying their medical approval process and speeding time-to-market.

The Medical Footswitch Design Platform is an attractive and ergonomic solution for medical equipment manufacturers offering wide flexibility for application-specific switching. OEMs can easily accommodate their specific switching requirements for a single machine or range of machines with varying functionality through seamless range expansion. The base system consists of moulded thermoplastic single and double plinths that mechanically lock with joining spacers to provide electrical connections for 1-, 2-, 3- 4-, or 5- plinth configurations. Each single plinth can accommodate a single footswitch as well as one or two puckswitches.

Complementing the Medical Footswitch Design Platform, Herga’s IEC 60601/UL 60601 medically approved range of footswitches include the well proven 6226 series that can be selected with environmental protection options EN60529 IPX7 or IPX8 on request. Whilst the electrical ratings for each complete base unit are determined by the application, the typical electrical switching range for each footswitch is up to 3 A at 24V AC/DC with momentary function for SPST, N/O or SPDT. Medically approved 6241 puckswitches, 6244 haptic puckswitches and Otto switches can also be included with typical ratings of 0.1 A at 24V DC for SPDT/DPDT switching.

All of the electrical switching functions for the Medical Footswitch Design Platform are typically output via a single cable for straightforward machine connection, with flying leads and stripped cable cores or with a preferred connector as required, or alternatively via our closed network Bluetooth connection. A wide range of modular accessories may be included such as tubular steel carrying handles, open guards or roll bars. For improved operational safety, each footswitch may also be separated with a raised divider built into the joining spacer. Steel base plates are available for added durability. The switch components can be suppled in a range of standard colours and customer logos included. Additional options include LEDs, screen printing and USB connection. Fully customised base systems are available in OEM quantities.

The Modular Base System is also suitable for industrial and commercial machinery switching tasks where medical approval is not essential. Herga has developed a comprehensive range of standard variants that use the new modular base system to combine commonly specified 6226 series footswitches and single 6241 puckswitches. With a series of detailed datasheets including reference dimensions and ordering information available from the Herga website, this range covers straightforward selection in eight combinations that span a single footswitch to a multiple switch combination including 4x footswitch plus 4x puckswitches switch configuration. This range can of course include Herga’s medically approved foot and puckswitches switches allowing a fully medically approved product on-delivery.

@HergaTechnology #PAuto #Medical #MEpax

Collaboration to accelerate adoption of continuous pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Emerson has signed a joint commercialisation agreement with Integra CMS, a specialty consulting company focusing on specification and implementation of continuous pharmaceutical manufacturing systems, to provide comprehensive technologies and services for continuous processes. The two companies aim to quicken adoption of continuous manufacturing processes throughout the industry.

 

Continuous manufacturing reduces costs and improves the quantity, quality and reliability of pharmaceutical manufacturing compared to traditional batch manufacturing methods. Continuous processes are complex, however, and require specialised expertise, which contract manufacturers and makers of over-the-counter and generic drugs, ingredients and supplements often lack. Emerson and Integra CMS bring deep knowledge and practical experience to provide customers with end-to-end support, from process design to regulatory approval.

“Many companies that are interested in implementing continuous manufacturing systems have relatively little experience in the use of process engineering methods,” said Fernando Muzzio, president of Integra CMS and director of Rutgers University’s Engineering Research Centre for Structured Organic Particulate Systems (C-SOPS). “Emerson’s extensive toolbox and worldwide presence provides a foundation of technology on which we can deliver end-to-end support in selection, implementation and optimisation of the formulation and the process to customers anywhere in the world.”

Integra CMS will apply its unique understanding of continuous manufacturing and the technology integration process to define requirements, process parameters, and materials specifications, while Emerson will oversee project management, helping customers select, design and implement automation systems. Emerson’s global engineering and large installed base of advanced life sciences technologies – including the DeltaV™ distributed control system and Syncade manufacturing execution system – will facilitate faster global adoption of continuous manufacturing.

Emerson has supported the pioneering development of continuous manufacturing technology at C-SOPS over the last ten years. In 2015, Rutgers University licensed Integra CMS to develop, practise and commercialise advanced continuous manufacturing services.

“The design of an integrated continuous manufacturing system and selection of the best equipment for each application requires a rare and deep scientific expertise,” said Xavier Marchant, vice president of life sciences at Emerson. “Integra CMS through their thorough process understanding, their top network of global universities and their step-by-step approach, have already helped many pharmaceutical manufacturers achieve their goals of maximum product quality at minimal cost. Emerson’s advanced process control solutions are key to continuing to achieve these objectives.”

@EMR_Automation  @Emerson_News  @ContinuousMFG @HHC_Lewis #Integra_CMS #PAuto #Pharma

Shows & conference cancelled.

For the past 35 years, Sensors Expo & Conference has established itself as the engineering community dedicated to sensors, connectivity, and IoT. Together with co-located events Embedded Technologies Expo & Conference, Autonomous Technologies Conference, and IoT Implementation Forum, Sensors Expo & Conference provides a focus on design, implementation, and disruption, bringing together engineers, technology influencers, investors, analysts, and more to share ideas, learn, network, and keep the industry moving forward.

Questex, the parent company of Sensors Expo & Conference, Embedded Technologies Expo & Conference, Autonomous Technologies Conference, and the IoT Implementation Forum, has announced that due to the COVID-19 circumstances, they have been forced to cancel the events. 

The state of California has prohibited all professional, social and community gatherings until further notice, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The events were scheduled to run November 16-18 in San Jose, CA. 

They are planning to resume these events at the McEnery Convention Center in San Jose, CA, on June 28-30, 2021.

@SensorsExpo @embtechconf #PAuto #IoT 

New vortex flowmeter.

The OPTISWIRL 2100 has been added to Krohne's  OPTISWIRL family. The new vortex flowmeter aims at basic utility applications in the process industries and is an economical solution for the measurement of liquids, (wet) gases, saturated and superheated steam where high accuracy is not required.

The new flowmeter features the robust vortex technology of the OPTISWIRL product series and is also equipped with the Advanced Vortex Frequency Detection (AVFD) technology for signal filtering: it provides stable measurements even under demanding process conditions with medium temperatures from -40…+240°C / -40…+464°F, thus making it one of the most cost-effective vortex flowmeters in the market. 

The 2-wire 4…20 mA / HART 7 device is available as flanged version DN15…300 / ½…12" or sandwich (wafer) version DN15…DN100 / ½…4". For a large measurement span even in pipelines with large diameters, a version with integrated nominal diameter reduction is available. For convenient on-site parametrisation and measurement reading, a remote option allows to install the signal converter up to 50 m / 164 ft away from the sensor. Approvals for use in hazardous areas are in preparation.

The new device adds to the OPTISWIRL vortex series as an economical alternative to the OPTISWIRL 4200. Advanced features such as pressure and temperature compensation, SIL 2/3 certification, heat quantity calculation, and fieldbus communications are only available with OPTISWIRL 4200.

@krohnegroup #PAuto 

Force sensor and load cell in aerospace.

Strainsert’s load cells, load pins, and other force sensing components and systems find use in a wide variety of measurement tasks across a wide range of industries. All applications require uncompromising levels of quality and reliability but none more so than the aerospace sector. Strainsert has a comprehensive standard product offering but characteristically for the aerospace industry, its custom design service comes to the fore – led by a proven multi-stage approach that is supported for British customers by its exclusive distribution partner, Ixthus Instrumentation.

Strainsert’s standard and custom force measurement products include a patented transducer design made possible by an innovative internal gauging process. Through its extensive in-house design and production capability, this process facilitates the manufacture of load bearing components as complete piece parts and structures where strain gauges and all circuitry are actually bonded and hermetically sealed inside small bore holes within the component. Supplied with NIST traceable force calibration, typical specifications range from -40 to +150 degrees Celsius and pressures to 100 bar with MTBF ratings of billions of cycles. With the strain gauges bonded to the neutral axis of the particular load bearing component, they are insensitive to extraneous loading and so are typically more accurately reliable and consistent when compared to competitive components with externally mounted sensor electronics.

Strainsert’s internal gauging process has proven rugged and durable, survivable and highly reliable in extremely harsh environments. This technology has helped to keep Strainsert at the forefront of the aerospace industry with cutting-edge applications such as the Mars Exploration Rover Mission for NASA and the Space Shuttle launching pad.

For custom force sensors, applications can range from research and testing of materials that are evaluated for use in aerospace to complete manufactured component parts that will eventually be used to monitor and control forces during installation, assembly, or operation on ground test equipment or actual aircraft.

For large aerospace projects, many international companies and institutions are typically involved and Strainsert’s force and load sensing products are often utilised to ensure operational safety when interfacing these multiple supplier’s sub-assemblies. In many instances, these same load cells are designed to be permanently integrated in the system to both bear the load and measure the force for the life of the product.

Strainsert’s load cells also find use for force determination and evaluation of aircraft hardware in loading simulation trials to determine and verify the expected fatigue spectrum encountered during the actual life of the hardware and even the aircraft over many millions of loading cycles.

The aerospace industry is a great proving ground for the integrity of Strainsert’s load cells, load pins, and other force sensing components. Applications include but are not restricted to monitoring force on aircraft landing gear, wings, flaps, slats and ailerons as well as engine/wing mountings and interfaces. Other aerospace related measurement tasks include ejection seat and parachute force monitoring, satellite antenna forces, rocket separation bolts and many other interesting applications.

Ixthus works closely with Strainsert and other global sensor technology leaders for force, torque and vibration measurement, providing a complete sales and support service at component level or for complete instrumentation systems. Ixthus’ knowledgeable technical staff are on hand to assist with measurement solutions - from the first enquiry, to supply and to after-sales support.

@IxthusInst #PAuto

Ultrasonic Imaging Camera.

FLIR has made its Si124 industrial acoustic imaging camera available for purchase globally, thus enabling customers to take advantage of the benefits of ultrasonic imaging.

Acoustic imaging, or the ability to see ultrasonic sound, has emerged as an effective method for manufacturing and utility organizations to locate compressed air leaks or the existence of partial discharge (PD). It enables professionals to conduct more frequent predictive maintenance routines, to help provide a crucial first warning of impending electrical/mechanical failure that could lead to energy loss and even worse, downtime of critical systems.

The FLIR Si124 industrial acoustic imaging camera senses, displays and records sound waves producing a precise acoustic image. The acoustic image is overlaid, in real time, onto a digital camera image all with an easy-to-use, ergonomic, one-handed camera solution weighing a little more than 2 pounds (980 grams).

The blended visual and sound image can be viewed live on screen to help users’ pinpoint issues from the sound source, helping staff identify issues up to 10 times faster than traditional inspection methods for common mechanical, electrical, vacuum and compressor systems.

Built with 124 microphones and a high definition visible-light camera, the battery-powered Si124 can detect potential issues up to 100 meters away, even in loud industrial environments, for up to seven hours of continuous use.

Pressurized Air Leaks & Partial Discharge (PD)
Two primary use cases for the Si124 include detecting compressed air leaks and partial discharge (PD) such as corona, arcing, and tracking.

Compressed air is often the single most expensive energy source in factories, but air is often lost due to undetected leaks or equipment inefficiencies. That leaked air can be difficult to detect by the human ear or touch, particularly in loud manufacturing environments where workers are required to wear hearing protection. The Si124 can solve this issue by visually pinpointing the exact source of a leak instantaneously, especially in hard to reach places that might otherwise go unnoticed.

For high-voltage electrical systems, PD can preface a catastrophic failure, creating an unsafe environment and potential unplanned downtime. The Si124 provides the ability to perform quick non-contact inspections from a safe distance. The system then immediately provides the PD type, allowing users to prioritize repairs.

Take Action with Wi-Fi and Onboard Analytics
What sets the Si124 further apart from other cameras is the FLIR Acoustic Camera Viewer cloud service. Image captures are quickly uploaded over Wi-Fi to the cloud service then immediately analyzed, providing the user in-depth information such as the size and energy cost of a compressed air leak or the PD classification and pattern of an electric fault. This information is accessible on the Si124 and through the online cloud portal. In addition, users get 8 GBs of storage and wireless data transfer capabilities, making sharing photos and data simple and efficient.

@flir #PAuto #MEpax

Sensor for laser output.

The new HP60A-15KW-GD power meter from Gentec-EO, through Laser Components,  is designed for the high intensities of powerful lasers with comparatively small beam diameters (> 50 mm). With a damage threshold of 10 kW/cm², it withstands continuous output powers of up to 15 kW. A gold cone reflector directs the incoming light to the sides of the aperture to spread the intensity of the beam effectively over a larger area. The latter is coated with a high threshold absorber developed by the manufacturer. Since the light is deflected into the interior of the water-cooled detector, there are considerably fewer back reflections than in conventional surface absorbers. This allows the device to be easily integrated into compact optical setups.

The HP60A-15KW-GD is equipped with an integrated USB interface for direct operation on a Windows PC, as well as with the "intelligent" DB15 plug for connection to the manufacturer’s display devices. Another version features an integrated wireless module (BLU) to display the measurement results on a free app for iOS and Android mobile devices. The low-energy Bluetooth protocol used in this case offers a range of up to 30 meters and can also be used reliably in industrial environments

@LCGermany @PresseBox #PAuto

Pneumatic Valve System with Embedded Wireless Connectivity.

Emerson has introduced a wireless automatic recovery module (ARM) for its AVENTICS™ G3 electronic fieldbus platform that makes it easy for technicians to perform pneumatic valve system commissioning and diagnostics from a mobile phone, tablet or laptop computer.

“The AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform is the first in the industry to offer wireless technology that puts valve system configuration and diagnostics at the control engineer’s fingertips,” said Enrico De Carolis, vice president of global technology, fluid control and pneumatics, at Emerson. “This offering furthers our quest to help manufacturers reduce production downtime and simplify valve system commissioning, while creating a path for using diagnostics/prognostics for analytics and advancing our offering of intelligent devices with IIoT capability.”

The new wireless ARM module and AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform are ideal for pneumatic valve system applications in the automotive, food and beverage, tire, packaging and metalworking industries.

The wireless ARM module provides easy access to the AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform’s diagnostic and commissioning capabilities via an internal Wi-Fi access point and mobile website — even when the valve system is located inside a machine or on a ceiling. It offers the visual benefits of a hard-wired human machine interface (HMI) at lower cost and with higher flexibility. The wireless ARM module generates error notification for alarms, voltage levels, short circuits, module errors, open load errors and distribution errors to reduce system downtime.

The device has a small footprint that connects easily to the AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform in the space of a jumper clip. It features three power settings for low-, medium-, or high-distance signals to ensure safe and secure access to data — regardless of where the valve system is mounted. Additional security benefits include wireless signal that can be turned off during configuration, multiple password options, and diagnostic and commissioning information provided with no control capability.

The wireless ARM module is compatible with Ethernet/IP DLR, and PROFINET protocols. Additional protocols are targeted for future release.

The  module also protects the AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform’s configuration information from a critical failure, including all settable node and attached I/O module parameters.

Emerson also has introduced an upgraded ARM clip for the AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform that is backwardly compatible to existing ARMs and G3 fieldbus platforms. The ARM clip improves system reliability by protecting configuration information from critical valve system failure.

The AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform’s electronic parameters and settings are automatically stored in the ARM’s nonvolatile memory and then the ARM is automatically disconnected from power, to ensure stored information is not erased during a power spike or critical failure. “A replacement G3 fieldbus communication node can automatically download the required parameters from the ARM module,” said De Carolis. “This enables the valve system and production line to quickly resume operation without the need for re-commissioning by a controls engineer, offering true ‘plug and play’ capability.”

The compact ARM module is easy to install in the space of an AVENTICS G3 fieldbus platform’s jumper clip without having to change the mounting.

@Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @AVENTICS  #PAuto #MEpax 

Digital Transformation and ICS Cybersecurity.

This webinar or conversation with Emerson and Dragos discusses dealing with the new challenges facing ICS cybersecurity and ensure digital transformation is secure. The session was held on 14th September 2020.

The conversation

Maintaining a competitive edge means leveraging the IIoT and its technologies to digitally transform operations and achieve new levels of performance improvement across the enterprise. The gains can be impressive, but integrating these technologies into an operation also poses risk. As the number of smart, network-dependent devices in a plant increases, so too, does the need for access to enterprise-level networks. Simply put, more connections mean more potential vulnerabilities – and there’s an ever-growing number of bad actors looking to exploit these vulnerabilities through sophisticated cyberattacks.

Look and listen here while Peter Zornio, Emerson Automation Solutions Chief Technology Officer, and Robert M. Lee, Dragos CEO participate in this conversation on how to deal with these new challenges and implement a secure digital transformation. The session was chaired by Michael Lester, Director of Cybersecurity Strategy, Governance and Architecture at Emerson.

@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @DragosInc @HHC_Lewis #PAuto #Cybersecurity #digitization

Pressure reducing valve on virtual show!

The pressure reducing valve series 9000 Edition G06F, from Goetze, sets new standards on the Building Technology market. Two intensive years of development and innovation result in a new product, which cleverly combine high-quality materials with impressive performance. Customers are now able to discover this product immediately with all its facets in their newly set-up virtual showroom.

The virtual Goetze Showroom enables all customers and interested parties, the possibility to discover the Goetze Products in a digital way. They can study all details of the new pressure reducing valve at leisure: These range from technical details and download options up to tips for correct installation on video. They will also be able to contact product experts, to help find the ideal solution for pressure control in their application.

At the heart of the new virtual showroom is the new pressure reducing valve series G06F. This valve which combines gunmetal and plastic represents a new product for the environmentally and health-conscious user. Due to the use of a lead-free body the drinking water is not contaminated in any way and the environment is not polluted with any heavy metals.

Goetze makes use of a new combination of high quality materials for its new pressure reducing valve series G06F. The body is made of lead-free gunmetal, which avoids the possibility of traces of lead being able to infiltrate the drinking water or installations. On the other hand the valve insert is made of a high quality plastic, which is also used in medical technology applications. In this way, an ideal cavitation-, temperature and medium resistance can be guaranteed.

However, not only in the area of materials employed has Goetze taken particular care with regard to performance. By means of flow optimization and benchmarking of all concepts at a very early stage with the aid of the most modern simulation software the flow capacity was designed for maximum performance. This flow optimization means that a higher maximum flow than those from comparable products is achieved. Due to the use of physical properties in the valve a higher flow capacity at the same pressure drop is possible. This advantage is gained by each and every pressure reducing valve user directly.

The user not only has the advantage of a new kind of material mix, but also easy installation and maintenance. Installation is easily achieved thanks to the setting scale which can easily be viewed from both sides and carried-out without the need for special tools or a pressure gauge.

Due to the 160 μm fine strainer the valve and the downstream plant components are protected against soiling. The filter screen itself can be removed without the need to remove the valve insert or re-setting of the set pressure. Possible soiling can easily be identified by anyone through the transparent filter bowl.

For particularly demanding applications such as in hygienic areas (industrial kitchens, Filling Plants) the sister product G06Fi has been developed. Due to the design in robust AISI 316Ti even in the case of aggressive and complicated media the correct outlet pressure is guaranteed. Consequently, the user does not have to forego the advantages which the unique design of this series offers.

@PresseBox #Goetze #PAuto 

Programmable power supply units.

The PSB series of programmable digital power supplies/loads from Interpro Systems,  are microprocessor controlled bi-directional supplies that feature two devices in one: an auto-ranging DC power supply and an electronic DC load with energy recovery. The bi-directional package replaces individual programmable sources and loads, and the regenerative load returns up to 95% of test energy to the grid.

The PSB series enables two-quadrant operation in a single, efficient, and easy-to-use instrument eliminating the need for two topologies. Combining the features of a programmable source and regenerative programmable load into one chassis frees up rack space, reduces weight and cost, and reduces generated heat while recovering load energy back to the grid.

Bidirectional DC-DC converters (BDCs) are becoming increasingly popular due to the growing need for systems to have the capability of bidirectional energy transfer between two DC buses. In addition to traditional applications in DC motor drives, new applications for BDCs include energy storage in renewable energy systems, fuel cell energy systems, hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).

Intepro PSB power supplies are available with outputs of 15KW in a 3U x 19” rack chassis (PSB 9000) and 30KW in 4U (PSB 1000), and they may be connected in parallel for operation up to 2MW. The auto-ranging bidirectional output stage maintains full power over a wide output range while bidirectional operation provides seamless transitions between source and sink modes.

The unique capability of the Intepro PSB series is the ability to be programmed to seamlessly switch between source and sink with no “off” time. When operating as the load the device synchronizes with its 3-phase power input to recover upwards of 95% of the energy. When operating as a source, the unit has an efficiency of up to 93%, generating less heat in both modes. This provides further energy savings by reducing the cooling costs in the test environment

The PSB series features a wide range 3-phase input voltage from 342-528V, 45-66 Hz, with output voltage ratings of 60V – 2,000V and current ratings from 40A-1000A. The devices include a wide range of programmable functions to simulate complex testing such as electric vehicle load profiles, battery charging, PV simulation per EN 50530 and MPP tracking and others.

Other features include automatic crossover when the unit goes from load to source or vice versa once specified conditions are met, remote sensing with automatic detection, temperature controlled cooling fan speeds, control panel with gorilla-glass touchscreen for actual values, set values, status and alarms, USB and Ethernet port integrated or alternatively installed IEEE/GPIB Port, SCPI command language and LabVIEW VIs supported, Windows control software provided.

Intepro Systems offers a wide selection of Auto-Ranging programmable DC Power Supplies. All Power Supplies are MOS-FET based, providing a high-performance power stage that offers high speed slew rates and low output ripple. Intepro’s electronic DC Power Supplies are designed for ultimate flexibility and configuration in providing the ideal power input solution for testing converters, chargers, batteries, adapters, and power electronic components.

@InteproSystems #PAuto #PSU

Monitoring hazardous agents.

In line with China’s new occupational exposure limits for Chemical Hazardous Agents in the Workplace which took effect on 1 April 2020, Purolite Corporation China is using a Mercury Vapour Indicator (MVI) from Ion Science to help ensure the health and safety of its employees. The handheld instrument is measuring mercury vapour levels in an area used for mercury intrusion porosimetry to calculate the porosity of speciality ion exchange resin.

Purolite is a leading manufacturer of quality ion exchange, catalyst, adsorbent and speciality high-performance resins for complex regulatory environments including biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food, fine chemical and electric power generation. The company focuses 100% of its resources on the development and production of resin technology.

Xihua Yu, Purolite’s Lab Instruction Engineer comments: “As part of our quality control process, we conduct mercury intrusion porosimetry to measure the porosity of our resin. This is because the porosity of a material not only affects its physical behaviour but also its durability and decay rate.

“In line with the requirements of the newly updated ‘occupational exposure limit of hazardous agents in the workplace’ GBZ 2.1-2109 regulations, it is important we monitor the mercury vapour concentration in the area where the porosimeter instrument is located to ensure the health and safety of our staff.”

In accordance with the Chinese regulations, short term exposure limit of hazardous agents in the workplace is mercury vapour: 0.040mg/m3.

“We chose the Ion Science MVI over competitor instruments due to its simple, lightweight design and ability to detect mercury within three seconds, as well as the after sales service and technical support,” Xihua Yu adds.

Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) is a technique used for the evaluation of porosity, pore size distribution, and pore volume (among others) to characterise a wide variety of solid and powder materials. The porosimeter employs a pressurised chamber to force mercury to intrude into the voids in a porous substrate. As pressure is applied, mercury fills the larger pores first. As pressure increases, the filling proceeds to smaller and smaller pores.

Ion Science’s MVI is a revolutionary handheld instrument that can detect mercury in just three seconds. Ergonomically designed for simple, one-handed operation, it is the ideal survey unit for rapid and reliable mercury detection. It helps to pinpoint mercury sources in even the most challenging environments.

The MVI’s dual beam UV technology eliminates the problem of saturation and the need for regeneration between readings, maximising its availability and uptime. A high-performance pump ensures fast indication and recovery and the instrument’s audible alarm and large digital display clearly indicate the levels of mercury present.

Fast and accurate, the MVI provides continuous readings and offers two detection ranges of 0 – 200 µg/m3 (res. 0.1 µg/m3) and 0 – 2000 µg/m3 (res. 1 µg/m3). These two ranges provide critical coverage for the OSHA PEL at 100 ug / m³ and the IDLH at 1000 ug / m³.

Xihua Yu concludes: “The Ion Science MVI operates very well and provides fast, accurate results. Based on our experience so far, I would be pleased to recommend it to other manufacturing businesses.”

@ionscience #PAuto #Safety #China

More PLC options.

With the addition three new 12V DC CPUs, the capable MicroSmart FC6A All-in-One PLC family now offers users more options for automating battery-backed systems, traffic controls, and mobile equipment.

IDEC Corporation has expanded the already capable MicroSmart FC6A All-in-One PLC family, with three new 12V DC CPUs. End users, designers, and OEMs now have more options for automating battery-backed equipment, traffic controls, and heavy equipment vehicles.

The Right Balance

New Modules

· FC6A-C16R1DE: 16-point 12V DC Relay Output
· FC6A-C16K1DE: 16-point 12V DC Transistor Sink Output
· FC6A-C16P1DE: 16-point 12V DC Transistor Source Output

Many applications require 12V DC power. Smaller smart relays may support too few I/O points and lack enough programmability, while more full-featured PLCs are too expensive and don’t provide the necessary I/O voltages. The new 16 I/O FC6A All-in-One CPUs with 12V DC offer the right balance, enabling these PLCs to handle over 100 I/O points in an economical and expandable form factor.

Standard Features
Still included are all of the standard FC6A All-in-One features users have come to rely on: Ethernet, USB, and serial connectivity; SD memory slot; replaceable battery; HMI module; up to three I/O expansion modules with removable terminal blocks; other digital and analog expansion modules available; and easy expansion of communication ports.

The rugged form factor can with withstand the -25 to 65°C operating temperatures and Class I Div 2 environments found at the types of remote conditions where these PLCs are often installed. Users can configure and monitor the PLC using the WindEdit app for iOS and Android over Bluetooth and Ethernet. The popular Modbus TCP and RTU industrial protocols are built-in, as are data logging and web server functions.

Wide Range of 12V DC Applications
At any remote locations where solar power supplies batteries, or on board any vehicles or portable equipment, 12V DC batteries are commonly used to power automation and control systems. This is why the FC6A All-in-One 12V DC PLC is ideal for:

· Solar-powered traffic controls · Remote chemical injection systems · Isolated weather monitoring stations · Mobile equipment like gutter cutting machines, portable chillers, compressed natural gas skids, and air compressors

@IDECUSA #PAuto #PLC

Driver for robotic navigation systems.

ACEINNA has announced the availability of their new OpenIMU ROS Driver for developers of robots and robotic applications.

“This new ROS driver makes it simple to integrate a wide variety of ACEINNA IMUs  - Inertial Measurement Unit sensors) into almost any robotics applications (warehouse robotics, autonomous vehicles, last mile deliver robotics, etc., which uses ROS,” says James Fennelly, Product Marketing Manager – Inertial Systems at ACEINNA. “When combined with our IMU’s industry leading reliability and accuracy, as well as very competitive pricing (under $100 {€85}), developers of robotic solutions finally have an easily integrated, rock-solid solution for their navigation and localization challenges.”

Available on the Sensors Page at ROS.org and GitHub this new driver enables robotic application developers to quickly and easily integrate highly accurate (>1 .5) IMU’s into their navigation guidance systems.

The new ROS Driver currently works with their versatile OpenIMU family, which includes the OpenIMU300ZI, OpenIMU300RI, and OpenIMU330BI. Each sensor has its own distinct hardware features, allowing the user several options for their unique application. The open-source nature of this architecture makes each device highly configurable as well. The OpenIMU’s have several software applications available, with source code available via Github and the ACEINNA Extension on Microsoft Visual Studio Code. Software applications include IMU, VG-AHRS, and INS.

Extremely compact, ACEINNA’s IMUs integrate a triple-redundant architecture, that, when combined with their small, low-cost packaging, meets the challenging performance, reliability and cost requirements of the robotic and autonomous market.

The Robotic Operating System (ROS) is a set of software libraries and tools that help developers create robotics applications. It can be described as a software development kit (SDK). As stated on ROS.org : “The ROS user community builds on top of a common infrastructure to provide an integration point that offers access to hardware drivers, generic robot capabilities, development tools, useful external libraries, and more.” This allows users to get their robotics projects up and running a lot faster than starting from scratch.

Combining the architecture of the ROS environment with the versatility of the OpenIMU platform the possibilities are endless and at the users fingertips.

@MEMSsensortech #PAuto #Transportation #Automotive

IIoT monitoring and automation almost anywhere.

The Quantum Remote Telemetry Unit (QRTU) and the QSolarBattery is being shipped now by Quantum Automation. These standardised yet customisable hardware platforms are part of the growing array of Q-Line products which are enabling end users and systems integrators (SIs) to deploy industrial internet of things (IIoT) and automation solutions anywhere, regardless of whether internet connectivity or power are readily available.

The QRTU is a complete edge hardware solution for all remote commercial, industrial, and utility/infrastructure data collection and control applications. Numerous options are available to incorporate PLCs from major suppliers such as AutomationDirect, IDEC, and Allen Bradley.

Any type of I/O signaling or communications protocol can be supported, and an edge wireless gateway provides connectivity via the cellular network of choice for installations where internet service is not available. Power can be supplied by the user—supplemented with the Quantum Uninterruptible Power Supply (QUPS) if desired—or by the QSolarBattery for a complete off-grid solution.

A customised QRTU system can be shipped in one box and is easily installed, so you can begin monitoring and controlling your remote applications quickly. The system is UL Listed and includes detailed documentation and engineering drawings.

The QSolarBattery system is a complete package with everything needed to power remote monitoring and control panels anywhere there is sunshine. It includes:

· Solar panel · Lithium ion battery · Charge controller · Pole-mount or ground-mount options

Over a dozen configurations are available, with four different solar panel wattage sizes and battery capacities ranging from 30Wh to 480Wh to support up to four hours of runtime, depending on the load. These systems are designed to deliver regulated power output, not just a variable battery voltage, using a battery management system with eight layers of safety and optimisation built in.

Battery and solar components carry the relevant UL certifications, and the compact form factor is built for outdoor operation in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 65°C. Quantum Automation is available to help size a system to best meet your needs.

While the QRTU and QSolarBattery can each be used for standalone applications, they work together particularly well for industrial-grade monitoring and control applications located near or far, with or without available networking or power connectivity. Applications include:

· Oil & gas: Production, well and tank monitoring, leak detection, compressor stations · Environmental: Solar and wind tracking, paint booths, HVAC equipment, landfill monitoring, water treatment · Agriculture: Soil moisture monitoring, weather monitoring, irrigation, pump houses · Golf courses: Lake monitoring, pump control, timers, sprinklers · Water districts: Tank monitoring and pump control · Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Bridge/tunnel/freeway signage, overpass pump houses, battery charging stations, temporary power, smart trucks · Entertainment: On-location movie filming support

Combined with the Quantum Cloud Server (QCS) IIoT remote monitoring and control cloud-based solution, users can interact with remotely-sourced vital data anywhere via any device capable of hosting a web browser, such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.

@quantautomation #PAuto #IoT

Star quality pressure regulation.

If you are a fan of the big screen, you are going to love the new VPPI proportional pressure regulator from Festo. It features a large, high definition display that makes set-up and diagnosis a doddle.

A strong and silent type, the VPPI proportional pressure regulator delivers outstanding performance in various roles within the electronics, machine tool, assembly technology and food and packaging sectors – such as regulating pressure, testing, dispensing, press and press-fitting. Its quiet operation also makes the VPPI a class act in desktop and laboratory applications.

The VPPI has a flow rate of up to 1000 litres/min and a port size of ⅛“. Highly dynamic to 30Hz, it offers precise and stable operation in vacuum applications as well as tasks up to a pressure range of 12 bar.

The HMI properties of the VPPI are a major benefit for users, saving time and simplifying programming and fault diagnosis. A high definition TFT display makes information clear and easy to read. It is large enough to communicate using complete words and not just abbreviations or fault codes, so there is no need to refer to a separate operator manual. The display can be rotated depending on whether the device is mounted vertically or horizontally, making it easy to read even in confined conditions. The large screen is complemented by three large function buttons, which make the device easy to program and interrogate.

The VPPI allows customers to regulate pressure dynamically and precisely by specifying a setpoint. Three preset performance levels are possible: for small volumes, large volumes or continuous flow. In addition, a customer-specific preset enables users to achieve a suitable, independent control behaviour. This preset value also speeds up the adjustment of the setpoint value, since the regulator adapts to the application.

The precise and highly dynamic VPPI is directly actuated in all sizes within the range, with no need for preliminary stages or pilot valves. This results in a rapid, repeatable dynamic response and virtually eliminates the noise and heat associated with 3/2 mechanical valves.

Flexibility is another star quality. It is possible to connect up to five VPPIs together on a common pressure supply without the need for a separate manifold, reducing complexity and the potential for leakage. DIN rail and other mounting options enable other configurations too, giving users the ability to create pressure zones.

The VPPI family contains eight variants, with or without the display option. Combined with the wide pressure range and flow rates, this enables users to specify a single family of proportional pressure regulators for all their needs: simplifying purchasing and maintenance.

@festo_global @FestoGB #PAuto