New initiative to foster technology co-operation to innovation.

First phase of this initiative is focused on enabling part manufacturers to start production preparation before machine delivery.

Meet at the Machine is a new initiative from Siemens, designed to bring together machine builders, software and automation technologies to accelerate innovation across the machine tool industry and help manufacturers achieve productivity faster. It provides a framework for Siemens and machine builders to jointly deliver integrated machining solutions that address real manufacturing challenges. The initiative is designed to make manufacturing customers more productive and enhance quality and performance. It brings engineering software, automation hardware and machine expertise together in one solution, helping machine builders deliver differentiated value.

Manufacturers today face increasing complexity, workforce shortages and growing pressure to become productive faster. While advances in software, automation and digitalization continue to create new opportunities, many manufacturers still face challenges connecting those technologies into efficient production workflows.

Siemens believes the next step in machining innovation is creating a continuous digital thread that connects engineering, programming, virtual validation and execution to deliver next-level productivity starting from the first machine power-on. By improving the flow of data across the part manufacturing lifecycle, organizations can reduce complexity, accelerate ramp-up and create a foundation for continuous improvement.

“Manufacturing truth has always ultimately been at the machine,” said Mark Hindsbo, head of Operations Software at Siemens. “By bringing together engineering software, automation hardware and machine expertise, we enable our customers and users to be productive faster, accelerate return on investment and reduce ramp-up time by up to 50 percent.”

Built in collaboration with TRAK Machine Tools, the first phase of this initiative is focused on enabling part manufacturers to be productive from day one. It addresses one of the most common challenges manufacturers face when purchasing a new machine: the time required to move from machine delivery to productive machining. The solution combines software, automation and machine expertise into a connected workflow that allows manufacturers to program, simulate and validate production while a machine is still being built.

“When our customers invest in a new machine, their goal is to achieve productivity and business results as quickly as possible,” said Steve Pinto, president, TRAK Machine Tools. “Meet at the Machine creates a new model for collaboration focused on customer outcomes, and we are proud to be the first partner helping bring this vision to life.”

Traditionally, many programming, validation and training activities begin only after a machine is installed. The new initiative shifts these activities earlier in the process, allowing manufacturers to prepare for production before physical machine delivery and helping reduce ramp-up time.

Through the initiative, Siemens plans to work with machine builders to develop future solutions that address key manufacturing challenges through collaborative innovation.

---

@siemensindustry @prototrak @Siemens @siemens_press #PAuto #MachineBuild #Manufacturing

Simulating ring resonators - a first.

The multi-topology MT-FIMMPROP photonic simulation tool from Photon Design, which uses its unique, patented and well respected, EigenMode Expansion (EME) computational method, can now simulate ring resonator designs - a first in the photonics industry. The company quantified the performance of its new EME capability in a recent white paper. It concluded that EME delivered equivalent accuracy to industry-standard, Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) tools, but was over 100 times faster using a workstation PC, with no cloud processing necessary. Engineers run many simulations to fine-tune photonics designs, so the shorter runtimes provided by EME enable practical, iterative workflows. In addition, the efficiency of the MT-FIMMPROP software itself, also plays a valuable part in engineers achieving optimal, photonic design results.

Dominic Gallagher, CEO of Photon Design, said: “Photon Design’s MT-FIMMPROP is the only EME-based simulation tool to successfully model ring resonators. Our EME delivers the accuracy of FDTD at far faster simulation speeds and without the need for expensive, pay-per-simulation, cloud computing; often needed for FDTD.

“Our recently published white paper showed that MT-FIMMPROP can process a typical 30um-radius ring resonator in just 11 seconds, on a laptop PC. By comparison, FDTD took four hours for a much smaller and simpler, 12um-radius ring resonator, using a workstation PC. FDTD is slower because it requires more than 11 trillion calculations to process the 12um example, with its computational load increasing eight-fold every time the device size doubles. Had FDTD been used for the 30um ring resonator, the simulation would have taken 15 times longer again.

“MT-FIMMPROP is an efficient computational modeller. Unlike FDTD, which processes the entire device bounding box, EME only processes the ring-resonators’ computational regions, which typically make up less than 5% of the device volume. It also enables engineers to combine and reuse repeated computational regions to avoid both design and process duplication. This simplifies the design process, reduces runtimes and actively supports an iterative photonic design approach.”

---

@photond  #Design #Simulation #PAuto

Choosing the correct photodetector.

The launch of a new Detector Selector, an intuitive online search tool designed to help customers find the right component based on their specific application requirements has been announced by Laser Components.

Selecting the optimal photodetector often requires a balance with multiple parameters. Each system demands unique combination of wavelength range, active area size, and packaging options, which are all easily visible within the Detector Selector. The process is simplified with the Detector Selector instantly displaying each product that matches the user’s defined specifications. Detailed product documentation is available with a single click next to each product name/code, providing comprehensive specifications such as gain, operating temperature, noise, quantum efficiency (QE), detectivity (D*), responsivity, and all other relevant parameters.

Users can filter results by each of the detectors types within the company's portfolio, including standard photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes (APDs), position sensitive detectors, pyroelectric detectors, and photoconductive detectors (PbS and PbSe).

For purchasing inquiries, the Detector Selector includes a "request product"feature, that allows users to add products to our contact form and quoting tool just below the Detector Selector. This feature provides engineers and system integrators a way to start a conversation with a dedicated sales contact to support them throughout the process.

---

@LaserComponents @lasercomp_uk @UnnGmbh @PresseBox #TandM #Pauto

Quantum dot laser simulator.

Photon Design has officially released its HAROLD QD, quantum dot laser simulation tool.

HAROLD QD enables engineers to model a quantum dot (QD) laser’s multi-layer, graded epitaxy structure, including dot size and distribution. It has an eight-band, K.P-based modeller to calculate the energy levels of the quantum dots, where previously it was six-band. As an evolution of the company’s HAROLD, hetero-structure semiconductor and laser simulator, developed over many years, HAROLD QD enables engineers to produce 3-D stress and strain models for each quantum dot shape. From this, HAROLD QD also allows engineers to calculate QD laser gain and absorption spectra, which reliably match the results of quantum dot lasers in field tests.

Dr. Dominic Gallagher, CEO of Photon Design, said, “OFC is the leading, global exhibition for the optical communications and networking supply chain; an ideal platform to officially launch HAROLD QD. Quantum dot lasers are critical to next-generation data centres, AI, and HPC applications and HAROLD QD puts Photon Design at the forefront of their design. QD lasers offer unparalleled, high-temperature operation, when compared to existing lasers, along with superior modulation, data transmission performance and power efficiency. They also bring practical, silicon-based manufacturing benefits, where quantum dots can be grown directly on silicon waveguides.

“HAROLD QD enables engineers to work in a single, integrated environment for gain materials, including InP and silicon. Seamless integration into Photon Design’s PICWAVE, to give engineers three-dimensional, time evolving, quantum dot laser models will follow.”

---

@photond #Design #Communications #OptimumPDM

Tool automates batch record creation.

Streamlining Life Sciences recipe creation for faster time to market.

The just announced DeltaV™ MES Recipe Importer Tool is a no-code paper-on-glass application designed to eliminate traditional barriers to digitalisation. By automating recipe creation, the software empowers pharmaceutical manufacturers to accelerate deployment and bring lifesaving treatments to market faster – even with limited information technology (IT) resources and no manufacturing execution system (MES) coding expertise.

“Many batch records that an operator must follow contain hundreds of steps, and building recipes has traditionally been tedious and extremely time-consuming,” said Nathan Pettus, president of Emerson’s process systems and solutions business*. “Our new DeltaV Recipe Importer Tool empowers teams to accomplish months of work in just a few days, accelerating validation and production while reducing costs and improving agility.”

Traditionally, converting paper batch records into digital MES recipes is a complex, time-consuming process requiring multiple workshops, configurations, reviews, tests and coding expertise. These steps often take months and demand close collaboration between IT and operational technology teams (e.g., manufacturing, quality, process, etc.). The DeltaV MES Recipe Importer Tool eliminates these bottlenecks, significantly reducing recipe creation timelines.

With a no-code approach, process developers can streamline batch record digitisation by first translating paper batch records into a preformatted Microsoft Word™ template that includes clear, step-by-step instructions. This template is then uploaded into the DeltaV MES Recipe Importer Tool for conversion into a digital batch record. Once converted, developers review and validate all content, including process instructions, step numbers and required signatures. Finally, they can use the built-in simulation tool to test workflow execution before moving into production, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

The DeltaV MES Recipe Importer Tool is part of Emerson’s Digital Batch Record (DBR) solution, which uses a streamlined approach to digitalising batch execution from recipe creation through manufacturing review. Built on the DeltaV MES platform, DBR eliminates error-prone paper processes while enabling audit-ready traceability, electronic signatures and simplified compliance – all within a validated environment.

---

*The DeltaV MES Recipe Importer Tool and Emerson’s DBR solution will be on display at Emerson Exchange 2026, to be held May 19-21 in Dubai (UAE).

@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto #MES 

Care support packages for industrial tools.

Customers can cut downtime while ensuring the accuracy, reliability and compliance of acoustic imagers, power quality analysers and more with these plans.

Fluke Premium Care covers the routine calibration and performance checks of tools to ensure compliance with the latest standards as well as the repair and replacement of damaged accessories. Fluke has expanded these packages to include a wider range of market-leading industrial and electrical tools. Top priority technical support is also offered to enable customers to solve critical equipment challenges faster.

Selected tools from Fluke’s range of acoustic imagers, power quality analysers and loggers, multifunction PV testers and performance analysers, ScopeMeters, motor drive analyzers and process calibration tools can now be covered by Fluke Premium Care. 

Chris Ulfig, Technical Sales Manager, Fluke has emphasised that Premium Care should not be seen as additional insurance or an extended warranty.

“Fluke Premium Care is a means of ensuring any gaps in production and performance are kept to an absolute minimum by maintaining the continuity of our customers’ work,” he said. “Less downtime means greater productivity, increased efficiency, higher profits, and more satisfied end-users. Additionally, equipment that is fully calibrated is not just reliable, it is safe – and the safety of personnel is non-negotiable. Fluke Premium Care takes away the headache of accidental damage or worrying about compliance, calibration, and performance testing to make the most out of your tools. It’s a no-brainer.”

Testing, calibration and compliance.
Representing a cost-effective way for customers to keep tools in peak condition, Fluke Premium Care provides coverage above and beyond a tool’s original product warranty, helping users to avoid unexpected downtime caused by damaged test equipment, accessories, or tools that need calibration or repair.

Annual cost comparisons show that upgrading to a Fluke Premium Care plan can save thousands on equipment maintenance and repair. At the same time, the package supports customers who need their industrial tools to be calibrated or performance tested on an annual basis.

Fluke Premium Care’s calibration and performance maintenance service ensures test tools always provide accurate results and comply with the latest standards. With the offer of expedited calibration, repair and freight, Fluke customers can also save time and get back to work faster while maximising efficiency, safety, and productivity in the workplace.

Accuracy and reliability cut operational costs and increase ROI.
Fluke’s ii900 Industrial Acoustic Imager and ii910 Precision Acoustic Imager can now come bundled with a one or three-year Fluke Premium Care plan. Fluke’s acoustic cameras are the fastest way for maintenance teams to accurately locate air, gas, and vacuum leaks in compressed gas systems. Those seemingly small issues can have a significant impact on a company’s operational costs with a single 1/8” (3mm) leak in a compressed air line costing more than USD $2,500 ( a year, according to the US Department of Energy for Industrial Technologies.

Additionally, a 100 hp air compressor consumes around $50,000 in electricity every year and can waste as much as 30% of that power on pressurising leaking air lines. It is a major benefit to use equipment that is annually performance tested to ensure accuracy, reliability and safety when scanning large areas or hazardous environments from up to 50m (164 ft) away.

For measurement tools that are used to generate safety and performance reports, such as power quality analyzers or multifunction testers, regular calibration is a must to ensure compliance and to guarantee precise and conclusive measurements. With Fluke Premium Care, the return on investment from Fluke’s market-leading industrial and electrical tools is substantially increased.

“Fluke’s industrial and electrical tools are renowned for their rugged design and safety features, but accidental damage to tools and accessories can happen, especially where equipment is used by new recruits or operators with minimal training,” said Mr Ulfig. “At the same time, calibration and performance tests are essential to guarantee the accuracy and reliability of equipment. Fluke Premium Care ensures customers have direct access to industrial and electrical tool experts who can help them to cut downtime, boost performance, control budget spent and save money in the process.”

---

@FlukeCorp @NapierPR #TandM #PAuto

Top tools and technologies.

Rising energy costs and more stringent legislation guiding sustainable practices is spurring companies to re-evaluate processes and seek new tools and technologies to reduce waste and overcome challenges in today’s industrial environments.

The top three trends that are enhancing operational efficiency in today’s industrial environments are highlighted by Fluke. Challenges posed to industrial operations managers by the pandemic have now been superseded by the rising cost of energy, and the need to deliver on net zero ambitions. As the price of energy continues to increase, the need to reduce costs and deliver on shared sustainability goals intensifies for small-to-medium sized enterprises through to large corporations.

Paul Feenstra, Vice President Fluke EMEA, at Fluke said: “We are working together with our customers to help drive new initiatives to improve operations, increase efficiencies, and take reliability to a new level in the 21st century.”

1 Reducing energy costs with upgraded technology and cloud-based data monitoring.
Approximately 90% of all companies use compressed air in some aspect of their operation, such that it is often referred to as the fourth utility. Recent developments in industrial acoustic imaging technology have enabled the fast identification of leaks in compressed air systems used in industrial and manufacturing environments. Fluke’s ii900 Industrial Acoustic Imager features an array of microphones, providing visualisation of sound field within an expanded field-of-view and on a distance of up to 70 meters, that enables maintenance teams to visually locate air leaks very quickly and accurately in compressed air systems.

Beyond the improvement of rugged handheld tools, monitoring practices are also evolving with the use of internet-connected instruments. Analysis and data is captured on a cloud platform allowing operators to monitor the key performance indicators (KPI) of compressed air systems including energy, electric power, flow, pressure and leakage flow. Fluke’s LeakQ™ Report Generator creates detailed air compressor leak reports from images captured by Fluke ii900 or the ii910 Precision Acoustic Imager and calculates the energy savings once the leaks are repaired.

2 Using data to deliver predictive maintenance.
For generations, maintenance professionals have used preventive maintenance to avoid equipment failures and turned to reactive maintenance when assets failed. With the emergence of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies, maintenance professionals can now connect tools, software and sensors to collect, store and analyse multiple data sources in one place. The pandemic accelerated investment in technologies that make remote monitoring possible. The technology enables reliability and maintenance teams to meet up-time requirements no matter how fluid on-site staffing might be. The trend for remote monitoring will continue, with small scale operations turning to remote condition monitoring services.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have held the promise to quickly identify trends and adapt quickly to changing operational conditions. Software armed with prescriptive analytics is finally meeting up with modern condition monitoring hardware to spark a revolution in the use of AI/ML in maintenance operations. Now a new race has emerged to pair that hardware and software with ML and AI algorithms. Companies, like Fluke, are working to combine technologies so that the software can identify trends, recognise data patterns and make specific recommendations for equipment maintenance.

3 Digital SI speeds integration of critical equipment measurements.
The accelerated uptake in digital measurement solutions for industrial applications can save time and money, whilst facilitating a shift towards predictive maintenance for systems. Although modern measurement digital devices are typically not fit-and-forget solutions, the increase in digital measurement solutions paves the way for verification technologies that can help to reduce the maintenance burden on personnel, without compromising on accuracy or reliability.

Digital SI (International System of Units), an initiative created as part of the industry 4.0 revolution, relates to the creation of a globalised system to transmit calibration certification information electronically. This is critical as the exchange of data and the data itself are the basis of highly automated industrial processes. The system ensures measurement traceability from all calibrations performed and enables sharing of information in a paperless manner. This speeds up the integration of measurements that can be performed using critical test equipment as part of an integrated factory enhancing maintenance efficiency and plant efficiency.

“The tests we have faced within the last 24-36 months is delivering a growing awareness among top management that fundamental changes in maintenance best practice need to occur in order to protect the bottom line,” said Paul Feenstra.

“This is music to the ears of progressive industrial managers who have been advocating for investments to improve efficiencies and reliability of systems. Now is the time to make the case to adopt innovative technologies, tools, and processes to ensure your company maintains a competitive edge and thrives in this new environment.”

@FlukeCorp @NapierPR #PAuto #TandM

Tools plus free products.

Fluke is offering a free product to customers who purchase Fluke products between today (15th February 2021) and 30th June 2021. Customers who purchase Fluke products through authorized Fluke distributors have the opportunity to claim a free product. Claim the free product through the Fluke website with the original proof of purchase, invoice, or receipt.

New choices in Free Fluke products

The Free Fluke products to choose from have been updated; you will find new choices in all eight levels of free tools to claim. They are separated based on the value of your qualifying purchase, starting at as little as only £200. For each level there is a fixed range of products to claim, based on the value of the original purchase through and authorized Fluke distributor. A qualifying purchase includes Fluke electrical and industrial test tools, Fluke Networks, and Fluke Calibration products. 

Full details for how to claim the free product, the range of tools available, and full terms and conditions 

How does it work?
For example, at level one, after spending £ 200 on a qualifying purchase, the claim can be made for a free unique Fluke TPAK™ Magnetic Hangclip, a soft carrying case to protect the newly purchased instrument, a Fluke 2AC VoltAlert™ Non-contact Voltage Detector, or a Fluke MT-8202-05 IntelliTone carrying case. At the top levels, levels seven and eight, a claim for the free tool can be made for a range of Fluke measurement tools such as the Fluke TiS20+ Thermal Imager, a Fluke 1664 FC Multifunction Installation Tester or a PTi 120 Pocket Thermal Camera. 

 Fluke has everything engineers need for installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair in commercial, industrial and residential applications. The intuitive operation will save time when tracking down faults, meaning that the instruments immediately start paying for themselves.

@FlukeCorp @FlukeCal @NapierPR #TandM #Pauto 

Digital twin technology for machine tool manufacturing.

Originally known as pairing technology, and first used by NASA in the early days of space exploration, digital twin technology is now rapidly gaining industry acceptance as one of the most cost-effective means of accelerating the development of products, processes and services.

NUM has launched digital twin technology that enables machine tool manufacturers to reduce their time to market dramatically, by using powerful Industry 4.0 simulation techniques.

For automation products such as machine tools, a digital twin is a virtual model that uses simulation, real-time data acquisition/analysis and machine learning techniques to allow full evaluation of a machine’s dynamic performance before constructing a physical prototype. The same technology can also be employed for customer presentations, virtual commissioning and operator training purposes – and all well before the actual machine itself has even been built.

NUM offers two versions of digital twin technology, to best suit customers’ needs. Both versions are designed for use with NUM’s powerful, open-architecture Flexium+ CNC platform. One version uses a naked Flexium+ controller and resident virtualisation software running on the system’s industrial PC to simulate the twinned machine automation. The other version uses the actual Flexium+ controller that will eventually be incorporated in the machine, linked via EtherCAT to a standalone PC running specialist high speed hardware simulation software to represent the mechatronics of the twinned machine.

The virtual controller version includes a software development kit for creating the software model of the machine. The model is a standalone PLC program that uses predefined components to simulate individual machine elements, such as sensors, spindles, pneumatic cylinders, etc. It is loaded into the integrated PLC of the Flexium+ controller. The Flexium NCK in the controller executes the NC programs and simulates the changing position values of the machine’s axes. To help users visualise the process, NUM’s package includes the CODESYS Depictor software tool produced by CODESYS GmbH, which is used to produce 3D visualisations from the IEC 61131-3 code created by the simulation.

The other version of NUM’s digital twin technology package accommodates real-time data acquisition and analysis. It is based on the ISG-Virtuous hardware simulation software produced by Industrielle Steuerungstechnik GmbH (ISG). The Flexium+ controller that is intended to be used in the physical machine is connected via an EtherCAT network to a standard PC, and interacts with the simulation software in real-time. The PC acts as the twinned virtual machine – with all simulated, virtual components behaving like real components in terms of their interfaces, parameters and operating modes – to accurately replicate the structure and dynamic performance of the real machine. The movements of the machine are displayed realistically on the PC, using the supplied 3D simulation software.

NUM’s new digital twin technology provides machine tool manufacturers with a very powerful and cost-effective means of reducing their developments costs and accelerating their time to market. The virtual controller version is especially useful for the early development stage of a project, before the CNC system has been finalised, while the real-time hardware simulation version has the advantage that all sequencing (PLC) and motion control (CNC) programs that are created during development can simply be transferred to the real machine as soon as it becomes available.

@NUM_CNC #PAuto #Manufacturing

Simplified motor integration for linear motion systems.

Mounting kit featured in improved Thomson Linear MOTIONEERING® online sizing and selection tool.

Thomson Industries has launched an upgraded RediMount option, a pre-engineered, modular adapter kit for seamlessly installing motors or gears in less than five minutes. The improved option is now the default for Thomson linear motion systems and precision linear actuators, and its capabilities are factored into optimal sizing recommendations generated through the company’s Linear MOTIONEERING product sizing and selection tool.

According to Alexander Schollin, Product Line Specialist EMEA & Asia at Thomson, “Lead time is minimised significantly as the motor or gear and systems can now be shipped with RediMount pre-installed. Whereas design engineers previously spent valuable time searching for the optimal motor flange kit and installing the individual components upon receipt, now they can order our upgraded solution, significantly reducing lead time and having only the simple task of bolting on their motor upon receipt.”

RediMount accommodates a wide range of motor types and sizes or gears, which can be mounted to linear motion systems and actuators faster and with less effort than ever before. “RediMount also includes updated smart part numbers with a specific motor ID, which reflect the motor or gear manufacturer and type,” added Schollin. “For engineers with old product numbers, we developed a translator, which converts the old product number to a new one including motor ID.”

Furthermore, by using the Linear MOTIONEERING tool, customers can now check if their motor is powerful enough and meets the specifications of their application. This is a critical enhancement for project-based machine builders and automation partners. Products now available with the enhanced RediMount kit include:

• M (Movopart®) linear units: These are ideal for economical, transport-grade applications such as packaging, material handling and factory automation.
• WH (SpeedLine) linear units: The units are designed for high-speed material handling and packaging.
• WM (PowerLine), WV units (DynaLine) and MLS units (ForceLine) linear units: These units are developed for applications such as machine tool automation and test/measurement.
• T-Series actuators (T60/T90/T130): These rod-style precision linear actuators are designed for use in material handling, machining and factory automation applications. They are ideal for replacing hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders.

RediMount facilitates various Thomson linear motion systems and precision linear actuators.

Finally, apart from reduced lead and engineering time on the overall system, RediMount is also designed with a flexible coupling that matches or exceeds the high input torque of the linear unit.

#PAuto @Thomson_Ind  @bcm_pr

Software framework tool for CNC machine tools.

NUM has launched a powerful new software framework tool that enables users of CNC machine tools to generate and test ISO part programs offline. The tool looks set to win across-the-board approval in busy machine shops, where an uninterrupted workflow can provide a key productivity advantage.

The new Flexium Office framework software runs under Windows 7/8 or 10 on any standard PC. It allows any of NUM’s technology HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces) to be used for specific projects – without requiring access to the target CNC machine tool. The corresponding ISO part program can be created offline, and can also then be tested offline using NUM’s Flexium 3D simulation software, before being transferred to the target machine.

NUM’s application-specific technology HMIs form part of the company’s Flexium CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software suite. The HMIs cover every type of CNC machining operation, including hobbing, shaping, milling, threaded wheel grinding and cylindrical grinding.

After selecting the most appropriate technology HMI for the task, the user simply carries out basic data definition tasks for the project in hand, using the highly intuitive tools and workflow commands provided by Flexium Office. Multiple projects can be started and saved at any time – allowing collaborative team development if desired – and the framework software provides support for 14 languages. As soon as the user is satisfied with the process and workflow of a project it can be used to generate the corresponding CNC part program – entirely automatically.

The CNC program can either be transferred directly to a nominated machine in the production plant, usually via a TCP/IP network, or input to the Flexium 3D simulation software for thorough evaluation before being issued for production purposes. The key advantage of simulation is that it enables users to optimise any ISO-code part program offline, further helping to maximise productivity by leaving the CNC machine tool free for manufacturing purposes.

This simulation software is extremely powerful. It provides full visualisation of the tool centre point path and workpiece material removal, backed by automatic checking for collisions between machine components, the tool and the workpiece. The software creates a dynamic colour image, showing the workpiece as a 3D volume than can be rotated and viewed from any perspective.

Flexium Office framework software runs on any standard PC and has no special graphics handling requirements. It needs approximately 30 MB of free space on the PC’s hard disk or SSD, and a minimum of 4 GB of RAM due to the Flexium 3D simulation software. For maximum performance, an i3 or i5 dual core processor configuration is recommended.

#PAuto @NUM_CNC

Plug and play suite of kits and tools.

MeasureWare has been released by Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI). This is a plug and play suite of hardware measurement kits and software studio tools to help fulfil the growing need for precision measurement across multiple industries including precision agriculture, machine health monitoring, electrochemistry and other areas requiring precise measurement. The introduction of MeasureWare marries ADI’s electronic engineering experience with those who require real-time data insights yet may lack the time or expertise to digest corresponding datasheets or do complex firmware development.

ADI’s MeasureWare solutions are built to interface devices with the world around them, allowing users to more effectively measure the datasets necessary to their respective projects, such as temperature, weight, humidity, pH, pressure, etc. MeasureWare also offers flexibility to adjust and change measurement parameters as a project evolves. These solutions are currently being applied across such diverse applications as bee health monitoring, industrial monitoring, beverage production and cold chain for medication.

“We created MeasureWare to provide precision measurement solutions to a growing customer base seeking to leverage the best of ADI’s technology without needing to become fluent in component and hardware specifications,” said Lorna Keane, Director of MeasureWare, Analog Devices. “With MeasureWare and our associated partner network, we support users throughout their entire measurement journey, with solutions that scale from idea to production.”

The intuitive MeasureWare Software Studio includes:

·      MeasureWare Designer: Provides hardware recommendations to support the customer’s specific needs of their application.

·      MeasureWare Lab: Once the hardware is received customers can quickly stream and view monitoring results in measurement units.

·      MeasureWare Developer: For the more advanced users; support preferences for host microcontroller and integrated development environments for application coding. Initially offering an ARM^® Mbed^™ sample project and API but other IDEs will be supported in the future.

The MeasureWare web ecosystem is a hub where customers can learn and share experiences while receiving support and ultimately get their prototype to production.

#PAuto @ADI_News

Tough trigger switch!

A new miniature trigger switch for heavy duty control applications including industrial and domestic power tools has been introduced by Omron Electronic Components Europe. Its innovative design delivers exceptional dust, shock and vibration resistance within a very small overall size.

Commenting, Andries de Bruin, Senior European Product Marketing Manager at Omron said, “Omron is leading the way with a control switch that meets the needs of the new generation of brushless DC power tools enabling small overall size, protection against demanding environments and a high power output while withstanding vibration. The C3AW is one of the smallest solutions on the market offering this level of environmental protection.” He continued, “Omron manufactures this new switch using a fully automatic assembly process, guaranteeing the highest quality of production.”

Ideal for all types of brushless DC applications including industrial equipment as well as cordless DC power and gardening tools, the new Omron C3AW is a highly durable and compact solution. Rated at 10mA, 42VDC, the C3AW achieves dust resistance to IEC IP6x through with a sealed rubber cover over the moving parts and an ultrasonic welded connection between the cover cases. It can withstand shocks of up to 3000 m/s2 and vibration of up to 200 m/s2 experiencing no more than 100µs of chattering at the maximum rated shock level.

With an overall size of just 25mm wide by 13.5mm deep by 28.5mm high, the C3AW is rated for at least 300,000 operations. It can be used at temperatures between -20 and +65ºC.

@OmronEurope #PAuto 

Diagnostics and commissioning networks.

Softing has introduced an enhanced version of the proven PROFINET commissioning and diagnostics tool Analyzer IE. The new version is called Analyzer PRO and allows the measurement of passive parameters that give a more detailed insight into the PROFINET network.

As an enhanced version of the commissioning and diagnostics tool Analyzer IE, Analyzer PRO includes a TAP (Terminal Access Point) device called “profiTap”. profiTap records network communication such as jitter, load ratio and device update rate. These so-called passive parameters cannot be determined via actively communicating to devices. With the help of profiTap, all packets traveling to and from the controller are analyzed and network communication is recorded. Eventually, the parameters are integrated in the acceptance report and add an additional layer of information which provides more detailed insights into the PROFINET network.

Analyzer PRO is the combination of Softing’s products TH SCOPE software and TH LINK PC. It monitors and diagnoses the health of industrial networks so that field devices continue to communicate with PLCs which would otherwise cause plant downtime or outages. The generated acceptance reports correspond to the recommendations of the "PROFINET Commissioning Guideline" from PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI). Analyzer PRO is tailored to the needs of maintenance and production operations and requires no IT or network expertise on the part of the user. In addition to the PROFINET standard, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and PROFIBUS are also supported.

 @SoftingIA #PAuto

Programme fast-tracks digital transformation.

A new Engineered Solutions Provider programme designed to help Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) optimise automation and instrumentation to improve the reliability and performance of the modular process systems they design and manufacture, often referred to as skids, has been announced by Emerson.

These strategically-minded OEMs are identified by the company as being Engineered Solutions Providers to represent their commitment to staying ahead of the technology curve in their respective industries. The programme helps them simplify technology adoption and streamline interactions with Emerson, making it easier to get access to the information and support they need. This arms the Engineered Solutions Providers with the knowledge, confidence, and strategic benefits necessary to ensure short-term impact and long-term success.

Under mounting pressure from end users pursuing their own digital transformation, Engineered Solutions Providers are looking to build easily replicated, technologically advanced, IIoT-enabled solutions for their customers. They must navigate a rapidly changing marketplace where differentiation among competitors can be difficult, shrinking budgets strain production, and cybersecurity threats hinder their ability to provide reliable equipment to end users quickly, efficiently and at a cost that meets uptime expectations.

“By collaboratively solving business problems, Emerson’s new programme helps our Engineered Solutions Providers optimise the automation, instrumentation, and remote monitoring capabilities of their engineered solutions,” said Melissa Holler, vice president of the Engineered Solutions Provider programme, Emerson Automation Solutions. “It also creates opportunities to pass those benefits on to their customers, which ultimately strengthens their position to win more business.”

Additionally, Engineered Solutions Providers can differentiate themselves among competitors by leveraging solutions such as those found in Emerson’s Plantweb™ digital ecosystem. The ecosystem is a portfolio which offers a robust software, data analytics and product technology and services portfolio, all integrated and optimised to harness the power of digital transformation to improve reliability and performance of engineered solutions.

For example, from acquiring the right data using Emerson’s extensive portfolio of wireless transmitters - which providers can easily retrofit to existing skids - in combination with Plantweb Insight applications to remotely monitor critical equipment on supplied skids, Engineered Solutions Providers can help their customers shift from outdated reactive maintenance approaches to predictive maintenance strategies complete with sensors and remote monitoring.

Emerson’s new programme includes a series of tailored workshops to help Engineered Solutions Providers simplify and accelerate the evaluation of new technologies. Workshop participants will collaborate with Emerson experts during in-depth sessions. Topics include best practices for the automation of technology platforms, using pervasive sensing and remote monitoring as a differentiator, and application-specific technology options and pilots.

 @EMR_Automation #PAuto #OEM @HHC_Lewis 

Testing in vehicles and test benches.

HMS Industrial Networks has introduced version 5 of the IXXAT® Automotive Configuration Tool (ACT) for the IXXAT FRC platform, targeting automotive testing applications.

Together with the IXXAT hardware platforms FRC-EP 190 and FRC-EP 170, the new version 5 of IXXAT Automotive Configuration Tool form a sophisticated solution for testing automotive bus systems and devices. Logging and visualization are supported, and complex Residual Bus Simulation (RBS) and gateway applications using Matlab/Simulink can be achieved. User specific code can also be easily implemented. On the hardware-side, the FRC-EP’s include a stand-alone, high-performance microcontroller system and a variety of interfaces for CAN, CAN FD, FlexRay, LIN, EtherCAT, and Automotive Ethernet.

In addition to the data logger functionality, CAN/CAN FD gateways can now be implemented with the new freeware version and powerful functions for data visualization on HTML5-capable devices (tablet, smartphone) are available. Furthermore, customer specific functions can be implemented using C user code elements and the generic Ethernet interface of the hardware platforms is supported. A Generic Ethernet protocol interface enables e.g. transmission of CAN data via Ethernet, which for example can be used to link automotive test benches with cloud-based simulation environments. To use the freeware version, users need one of the two FRC hardware platforms. This enables customers to set up a low-cost and high-performance test system that already has a wide range of functions.

Besides the freeware version, the ACT tool is offered in a Lite version with Matlab/Simulink and EtherCAT support, and in a Standard version with full functionality. The standard version includes a powerful RBS functionality which provides an easy-to-configure simulation environment for testing of single or multiple ECUs independent of other network participants. In addition, extensive functions for signal manipulation via e.g. XCPonEthernet are included. Version 5 also supports Fibex 3.x, 4.x and AutosarXML and has full PDU support. Signal manipulation is now possible on all connected bus systems and is no longer limited to buses under the control of the RBS.

@HMSIxxat #Automotive #Pauto

Process Optimisation and Reliability.

Baumüller has developed a tool as part of its Industry 4.0 solution that can be operated via the cloud or local predictive maintenance or that can be used to determine potential for process optimization.

The task of BAUDIS IoT is to collect, analyze and communicate data. The software either runs as an integrated version e.g. on an industrial PC or on the retrofittable BAUDIS IoT box. The interface of choice for transmitting data to the cloud at Baumüller is OPA UA, but other interfaces can be chosen.

BAUDIS IoT is designed for two application scenarios: one for reducing downtimes from unplanned service cases and one for optimizing process and machine utilization. Data is recorded by local sensors e.g. on the drive or also via access on other electrical or mechanical components.

Relationships in the production process can be detected and evaluated through the continuous acquisition of data. This makes it possible, for example, to determine reasons for idle times and thus to improve the machine utilization. Data from several production lines, even globally, can be compared and thus standardizations can be made possible. All data can be prepared for communication to different user levels, from management to machine operator, customized in terms of representation and scope.

The second major strength of BAUDIS IoT is that service can be planned. Due to the continuous collection of data from the process or the drive system BAUDIS IoT enables an early warning regarding possible problems, such as bearing damage. In this way, maintenance intervals and service capacities can be planned in the long term and unexpected failures can be avoided. By monitoring data, such as regarding vibrations and machine utilization, the wear reserve of the monitored components can be largely completely utilized.

All data recorded via sensors or directly in the drive can be collected, analyzed and stored directly by the operator, or for example can be transmitted through the cloud to the service provider or the company headquarters. The algorithms on which the data analysis is based can be constantly updated in the cloud.

BAUDIS IoT is therefore ideal for both greenfield and brownfield systems. The system is either based on software on an industrial PC or the BAUDIS IoT box, which is a retrofittable hardware component. The system can be used independently of the manufacturer of the automation components and the sensors. When analyzing the data through the cloud, the latest algorithms are always available and the system constantly becomes more intelligent.

@be_in_motion #PAuto

RFID identification of tools.

Tool identification using Balluff Industrial RFID increases production efficiency, as it makes incorrect tool allocation or missing tools a thing of the past. This enables optimizing the service time utilization of the tools. In addition, scrap and rework due to excessive use of tools are virtually eliminated. With Easy Tool-ID Balluff now offers an economical entry into tool management. It is simple to retrofit and stands out with easy installation and configuration.

All this is required is a USB port (keyboard expander) on the machine tool and a presetter. The data are written via RFID technology from the presetter to the tool and then passed on through the Easy Tool-ID system to the machine tool. Manual entry is eliminated. Setup times and the risk of incorrect entries are significantly reduced. The system consists of a tool stand with integrated read/write head, a processor unit, a microcontroller and the power supply.

The solution's handling and functional principle could not be easier: At the tool presetter, each tool is measured and its data, such as diameter and radius, are written on the data carrier on the tool shank. The user simply brings the tool to the machine, places it in the tool holder and presses a key. The system then emulates the key input and automatically reads the data with the Balluff Tool-ID through the keyboard interface to the machine controller. Manual, error-prone entry is thus eliminated. This means that even existing machines can be modernized and upgraded with a cost-effective tool ID solution.

@Balluff #PAuto @BalluffSensors

Helping performing layout tasks fast.

Fluke has introduced Fluke Laser Levels, a new line of professional-grade, precision tools that are designed to survive a one metre drop and keep working. The Laser Levels feature a fast settling, self-levelling gimbal that quickly delivers accurate reference points, expediting electrical and HVAC layouts.

All laser level models include magnetic wall brackets for easy, stable mounting.

The Fluke Laser Level family

• Fluke-3PR (red laser) and Fluke-3PG (green laser) Point Laser Levels— self-levelling, three-point laser levels for fast, accurate layout of reference points. Accurate to 6mm at 30 metres, it includes a floor stand for fast, easy overhang and centreline measurements. The green laser (Fluke-3PG) is up to three times brighter for improved visibility in outdoor and long-range applications.

• Fluke-180LR and Fluke-180LG Line Laser Levels— self-levelling, horizontal- and vertical-cross line laser levels for rapid, accurate (3mm at 10 metres) levelling and layout.

• Fluke-LDR and Fluke-LDG Laser Line Detectors — laser line detectors for use in high ambient light settings with visual and audible indicators for ease of use. The detectors are compatible with Fluke-180LR (Fluke-LDR) or Fluke-180LG (Fluke-LDG) models and include mounting bracket for quick, steady positioning.

• Fluke-180LR System and Fluke-180LG Systems — comprehensive self-levelling, horizontal- and vertical-cross line laser level systems that include laser line detector and detector bracket for use in high ambient light settings.

ATEX inspection tools for hire!

Responding to increased market demand for equipment that is certified for use in potentially explosive environments (ATEX), Ashtead Technology has become one of the first rental companies to heavily invest in the latest ATEX certified remote control crawlers and push-rod cameras.

“We have received a large number of requests for these specialised systems in recent months from a wide range of customers,” says Ashtead’s Sales Manager, Jay Neermul. “Increasingly, drain inspection and remediation contractors are being required to offer services in potentially explosive atmospheres so we have expanded the fleet to include a selection of camera systems for both zone 1 and zone 2 operation.”

The new purchases include multiple units of the latest inspection equipment such as EX versions of the iPEK Rovion Crawler and the iPEK Agilios Push Rod Camera, which are both Zone 1 certified. The camera on the Rovion crawler has a 10x optical zoom for clearer images and produces high-quality PAL video, and both sides of the powerful 6-wheel-drive can be controlled independently. The Agilios push rod camera also offers advanced features; with high pipe-bend mobility, it has an operating range of up to 90m and is suitable for inspections starting at a diameter of just 52mm (house laterals). It also has LED lighting, a high quality, robust, axial camera, and a constantly upright picture.

The Zone 2 certified Minicam Proteus crawler has also been added to the fleet. Engineered, built and tested for safe use in some of the most dangerous situations, without compromising on any of the features of other Proteus crawlers, the ATEX version makes working in explosion-risk environments much easier and safer than alternative methods.

Summarising the justification for this investment, James Carlyle, General Manager says: “By adding this technology to our rental fleet we are enabling our clients to bid on a wider range of projects, confident in the knowledge that they have access to all the necessary technologies without the capital cost of ownership – put simply, we invest in this equipment so that our customers don’t have to.”

@ashteadtech  #PAuto