Industry USA | 28 - September 2020

28 | S E P T E M B E R 20 2 0

INDUSTRY INDUSTRIAL MARKET MAGAZINE

USA

ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN SMART FACTORIES: THE ROUTE TO LOWER RUNNING COSTS

6 COMPONENT CARRIER NOW REPLACING FLEXIBLE PCBS

28 THE TINY POWER PACK FOR INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS WITH POE FUNCTIONALITY

16

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC AUTOMATION RELEASESÂ MELSERVO-J5 SERIES OF SERVO PRODUCTS

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IN THIS MAGAZINE...

6 ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN SMART FACTORIES: THE ROUTE TO LOWER RUNNING COSTS 10 Artificial intelligence set to improve energy management 11 Digital solution for factory energy management 13 Load monitoring system with io-link communications 15 Polarization helps to reveal details that remain hidden to other sensors 16 Adjust with light 20 Ground-breaking ceremony for the new building Regloplas 21 LAPP North America Appoints New Chief Executive Officer 22 DMSC Measures Success with 15th Anniversary 23 Hygienic door handle for tool-less mounting 24 A lot of power in a very small space 27 Lemo’s new harpoon: press-fit contacts for elbow and straight pcb sockets 28 Component carrier now replacing flexible PCBs 30 Softing Diagnostic Tool Set 9: New Generation of the All-in-One Engineering Tester Now Available!

32 The SOURIAU 8STA series, a benchmark for high-performance connectors in the world of motorsport

34 The Energy Saving App, Coval’s software that measures energy savings 35 Business Boost as CMP Launches New Cord Grip 36 AGILOX Autonomous Mobile Robots are substantially saving costs by applying Artificial Swarm Intelligence

38 Interroll presents new High-Performance Crossbelt Sorter 40 Happening live: the EPLAN Virtual Fair 42 EPLAN and Revere Electric Announce Strategic Partnership 43 DataProphet Partners with Norican to Accelerate Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in the Foundry Industry

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Send your press releases to: editor@ipmediaonline.com To receive Industry USA magazine free of charge, please subscribe online at www.magazine-industry-usa.com Industry USA is the US-language magazine for engineers, published by INDUPORTALS MEDIA PUBLISHING. It contains the latest product and company news for industrial markets.

Industry USA edits its articles with the greatest of care, however we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information presented in them.

Our teams disclaim all responsibility concerning the content of this media or how it might be used. www.ipmediaonline.com

44 St. Joseph-Stift hospital in Dresden relies on networked solutions that secure the building envelope, but also much more

48 Arla Foods analyses energy consumption using flow sensors 50 Rohde & Schwarz presents cutting-edge conformance testing solution for 5G NR FR2 52 VICIVISION: from automotive to medical 54 Hyperturn 45 G3: Dynamic. Intelligent. Fully automated 56 PTFE thrust bearing conversion improves operations at hydropower station 57 New planetary gearboxes with fitted pinion 58 Contactless Glass Handling 61 Emerson’s New Laser Welder Enhances Manufacturing Capabilities 62 Specialized in packaging machines for confectionery and baked goods: The new DRT 25C from Leuze

64 New Intesis gateway makes communication between PROFINET and BACnet easy 66 Mitsubishi Electric Automation Releases MELSERVO-J5 Series of Servo Products 68 Manual work meets modern automation to empower workers with handicaps 71 New Low-Cost, High-Performance Alternative to Rod Actuators and Pneumatic Cylinders

72 Vision Research Introduces Phantom T1340 Four-Megapixel High-Speed Camera 73 Red Lion’s FlexEdge™ Intelligent Edge Automation Platform Integrates IT and OT 74 New TBN/TRN-S4 Series with SIL2 certification 76 Record working dimensions for the new XXL-Box INDUPORTALS

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Kip HANSON

EDITO

Contributor

COVID-19: NOW WHAT? Viruses. Bacteria. Fungi. They’re invisible to the human eye. And yet, they exist anywhere there’s life, and sometimes, even where there’s not. In fact, our microscopic neighbors are so small, so varied, and so numerous that— ultimately—it’s we who live in their world, outnumbered in ways that are difficult to fathom.

Most are harmless. Some are even essential to the proper functioning of macro-organisms such as plants, animals, and yes, humans. But occasionally, a dangerous strain causes damage that is as fundamental as it is unexpected. And so it is today. Statistics on lethality and transmissibility aside, COVID-19 has and will continue to have repercussions thus far unparalleled in the history of our global economy and the industry on which it depends.

Protecting production A number of us have been personally affected, some with disruptions to their daily routines, others in more profound ways. Sadly, it’s only a matter of time until everyone can say the same. As soon as the health crisis began, factories had to think about employee protection in ways they never had before. As a result, there were production cuts and even temporary site closures until these troubling questions could be resolved.

These were followed by supply chain challenges, order postponements, and even cancellations, often leading to deep changes in production floor organization.

No one’s questioning the reasons for these changes, nor their necessity, but many are now asking: how long will they last? Cities, regions, countries, and even continents have endured confinement for varying lengths of time. Some, mistakenly thinking the worst was behind them, have had to start over. Through it all, governments have tried to limit the impact of these shutdowns and stay-at-home orders on their economies, fearing collapse. Depending on the state or country, they’ve been more or less creative, and more or less successful.

The same can be said for businesses. For most small enterprises, the goal has been to strengthen their balance sheet, meaning increased capital and ownership of machinery, inventory, cash, and other assets. The solutions put in place by governments, on the other hand, negatively impact these companies’ liabilities, increasing corporate debt through zero or near-zero interest loans. In the short term, this has been a huge relief to business owners and their employees. Long term? Significantly increased output and revenue will be needed to pay these loans back.

Halting the crisis At the same time, many countries (in Europe, at least) are cutting taxes and helping finance business operations in the short-term. This offers considerable advantages, chief among them the fact that companies don’t lose their skilled workers and employees aren’t left without resources on which to live. Again, it’s a huge relief for those concerned with the immediate future. Yet this virtuous solution will produce long-term government debt that will have to be repaid at some point.

That said, public opinion—the youngest among us in particular—is calling for profound changes in the way the world works. All this because of a tiny bit of genetic material that none of us can see.

For industrial decision-makers, it’s a complicated situation. Let’s avoid painting a picture that’s too bleak or black and white, however; prime-time television shows and social networks are already doing that. But simply put, business leaders will have to adjust their strategies if they’re to go further in this strange new world. They must be both agile and flexible, and know how to test and validate assumptions quickly. We can expect that many markets—especially those that are underdeveloped—will be reborn differently after the crisis. In the meantime, we must all learn to survive in this sometimes scary new world, and continue doing what we are best at: producing value.

So, what now?

At the end of the 19th century, Louis Pasteur taught medical practitioners that they could slow the spread of microorganism-related disease by washing their hands and scalding their utensils between each procedure.

Though there was still a great deal to learn, we were beginning to understand how viruses and microbes behave. More than one century later, COVID-19 has shown us that we are still learning. The good news is, we know how to limit and even prevent its spread. Sanitizing gels, masks, gloves, visors, social distancing and continuous vigilance … thus far, these are the only weapons available to us in our ongoing battle against an unseen foe.

Industry is adapting. Aside from the precautions just listed, production areas are seeing the deployment of plexiglass walls. Employee arrival and departure times are now staggered, while tools, workstations, and door handles are regularly disinfected. Many operating procedures and protocols have been revised, with more changes to come, not the least of which are new roles and responsibilities regarding health and safety management.

Moreover, the phenomenon of reshoring has been accelerated by this pandemic, which spares no country. New ideas abound at the heart of industrial production platforms. Many in the industry have come to realize that they will need to relocate, rebuild, and re-equip machinery and production workshops if they’re to remain competitive. With this comes renewed emphasis on the environment and sustainability, with a host of control systems, field networks, sensors, actuators, and other industrial equipment growing smarter and more energy-efficient.

Underlying all this change is an uncertain political landscape, particularly in the United States. The past three and a half years have yielded shattered alliances, failed treaties, broken agreements, and a level of international distrust that hasn’t existed since the Cold War. Then came the Coronavirus.

With U.S. elections looming in November and a president who suggests he might not leave the White House regardless of the electorate’s will, the rest of the world must be wondering: what next?

28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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16 REGLOPLAS

LAPP

DMSC

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CONTACLIP

FAULHABER

LEMO

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HARTING

SOFTING

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SOURIAU – SUNBANK CONNECTION TECHNOLOGIES

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COVAL

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AGILOX

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MARKET OVERVIEW

ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN SMART FACTORIES: THE ROUTE TO LOWER RUNNING COSTS Author: Kip HANSON

Smart factories have grown even more intelligent recently as their owners and managers improve communications between shop floor devices and enterprise-wide software systems. Their goal? To ensure that productivity and quality—from quotation and order to manufacturing and dispatch— are maximized. Such an accomplishment also provides the perfect opportunity to address an often overlooked aspect of smart factory operations: energy efficiency.

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hey’ve had help. A host of innovative, future-oriented solutions has come to market over the past few years, offering real-time metering of electricity, gas, and water usage. By leveraging these technologies—a core component of Industry 4.0—manufacturers and distributors enjoy greater energy efficiency than ever before.

Few can argue that factories are among the world’s biggest energy consumers, and assuring access to dependable, efficient power sources is vital to the continuity and quality of end-to-end production processes. Most of these plants have large numbers of machines, systems, and devices that consume this energy, including machine tools, production lines, conveying systems, HVAC units, lighting, and more.

Before the development of real-time monitoring technology, plant managers interested in equipment efficiency would have to record data on energy usage at pre-defined intervals. And while this conventional approach might provide a snapshot of energy consumption, it does little to curtail energy use, predict peak patterns, or suggest what they can do to improve efficiency.

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In comparison, the use of smart monitoring systems means that managers can analyze energy metrics and trends as they occur. This not only helps them to optimize energy consumption, but they’re also able to track its use anywhere on the smart factory floor.

Visibility to energy flows and consumption data is key to exploring optimization potential. However, if these flows 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MARKET OVERVIEW

Advantech uses its solution to monitor and analyze energy consumption and other production at the company’s facilities.

28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MARKET OVERVIEW

are also integrated into cloud-based IoT systems, valuable knowledge can be generated and readily shared to optimize the entire factory and its business operations.

Ultimately, adopting an ecosystem of intelligent, energyefficient solutions for Industry 4.0 manufacturing delivers benefits that include energy management, remote connectivity, and improved process control. Sustainable solutions like those described in this article will facilitate safer, more energy-efficient, and productive manufacturing processes while simultaneously reducing operational costs.

MARKET OVERVIEW One case in point is Rexel, a leading electrical wholesaler that is taking advantage of the latest cloud-based energy monitoring solutions from Siemens to help drive anticipated annual savings in electricity costs of 25–30%.

“Increasingly distributed energy systems and renewable energy sources require new, intelligent solutions, and energy monitoring creates the basis for this,” says Ricardo Radowski, Director of Business Development at Rexel Germany.

At Rexel’s warehouse and distribution center in Maisach, Germany, for example, electrical data such as voltage, current, and power infeed is now being recorded around the clock. Data from outgoing power feeders—as well as

Data analysis results are clearly displayed and can be shown on different devices. providing maximum transparency in real-time.

individual consumers down to the machine level—is also being captured.

The Siemens power monitoring system includes software and various measuring devices from its Sentron portfolio.

More than 100 devices from the 7KM PAC series have been installed, providing precise status information on electrical power distribution, exact meter readings, and improved peak load management, allowing users to quickly assess system status and network quality.

Using Siemens’ MindConnect Nano interface, the energy data collected in Rexel’s facility is transferred directly into the company’s MindSphere product, a cloud-based, open IoT operating system. “We are now aware of where our energy is flowing,” says Radowski. “For instance, it was a surprise that such a large proportion of our energy consumption goes to lighting. Making this discovery means, we will soon be replacing our conventional lighting system with a more intelligent alternative that consumes 80% less energy.”

Rexel has installed the same solution at its distribution center in Weisskirchen, Austria, making the cloud connection an attractive option. “We decided on the cloud connection because of the cross-location opportunities and other available possibilities,” Radowski says. “It is now easy to benchmark energy efficiency between facilities, and share information and best practices.”

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Ricardo Radowski, Director of Business Development at Rexel Germany now has a real-time overview of important energy data, analyzed from the cloud.

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HOLISTIC MONITORING OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY The story is similar to the south, at the home of the Slovenian concrete producer, Salonit Anhovo. To comply with European energy regulations and meet reduced power consumption targets, the company decided to carry out an energy management project. They have since become one of the top 10% most energy-efficient cement factories in Europe, thanks in large part to the adoption of monitoring technology from Solvera Lynx.

“Our company wanted to understand, in detail, the energy flow through the factory, and we were looking for a system to handle energy consumption data automatically,” says Magda Gabrijelcic, energy manager at Salonit Anhovo.

“Using LoraWAN devices from Solvera Lynx allowed us to

MARKET OVERVIEW

The Salonit Anhovo factory spans more than six square kilometers.

focus on the project’s energy-saving potential, rather than wasting time on cabling and other hardware-related details.”

Salonit Anhovo uses over 90 GWh of electricity annually, more than 8 GWh of gas, and over 400,000 cubic meters of water. The cost of energy consumed by the company amounts to more than €6 million per year. The plant is located in an environment with high amounts of moisture, extreme temperatures, and widely spaced production areas, making the project even more challenging.

Ultimately, the project required a custom solution in order to optimize the plant’s energy-intensive production processes. Data transmission is performed by ComBox.L communication equipment, which according to the provider, offers long battery life and is suitable for harsh industrial environments. A total of 36 ComBox-certified devices were installed—eleven for monitoring gas usage, ten for water, five for compressed air, and ten for electricity.

The data is gathered and analyzed by the GemaLogic software platform.

every time. Every aspect of the hardware and software has already been field-tested and is mutually compatible, so implementation is quite fast.”

One example of this comes from Advantech’s service center at Eindhoven, the Netherlands, which is said to be, “a great showcase for the potential of industrial automation and systems developed by the company”. Here, warehouse management and production systems are monitored through a digital dashboard, giving users all the information needed to make intelligent decisions. In this way, Advantech shows its customers and visitors a real-world example of how they can obtain tangible results in productivity and energy efficiency via Industry 4.0 technology.

After using the LoRaWAN-based system for more than one year, Salonit Anhovo has achieved quantifiable results and accomplished its primary project goals: holistic monitoring of energy efficiency performance and the reduction of energy consumption. “We are quite satisfied with our selection,” says Gabrijelcic. “ComBox.L CI devices with LoRaWAN, together with the Gemalogic management system, have proven to be an excellent solution.”

TANGIBLE RESULTS IN ENERGY USAGE REDUCTION

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Taiwanese manufacturer Advantech has developed a comprehensive, integrated hardware and software solution that enables factories to quickly and efficiently convert into more profitable smart factories. What’s more, the company has successfully implemented the solution at its facilities.

“Our unique co-creation model of partnering with SRP providers means that we can provide a complete [hardware and software] tailored solution for upgrading to Industry 4.0 almost off the shelf,”explains Advantech’s Managing Director Jash Bansidhar. “We don’t have to re-invent the wheel 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MARKET OVERVIEW

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SET TO IMPROVE ENERGY MANAGEMENT

ABB and Verdigris Technologies have developed machine-learning algorithms to predict unplanned peaks in power consumption and identify strategies for prevention. Further, ABB is deploying artificial intelligence (AI) to help factories and other industrial buildings improve their energy management and tackle rising tariffs for peak electricity.

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o support this, the company has added two AIpowered apps to the ABB Ability Electrical Distribution Control System (EDCS): Energy Forecasting, and Intelligent Alerts. The Energy Forecasting app enables users to reduce electricity bills by reducing peak demand charges.

It leverages AI to give facility managers accurate power consumption predictions, using neural network methods to identify and learn patterns in a circuit or a factory’s energy consumption.

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By analyzing weather forecasts and historical information, the Energy Forecasting app can predict power consumption (kW) for the next 24 hours, updating its forecast every 15 minutes. In short, the app enables management to take timely actions and reduce unplanned consumption spikes by rescheduling or switching off non-critical loads, and take full advantage of Time of Use (ToU) tariffs.

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The Intelligent Alerts app, on the other hand, uses machine learning algorithms to help customers better manage their assets, identifying underlying issues before they become problems. It learns how various factors affect the factory and critical assets, minimizing the distraction caused by false alerts and information overload and allowing facility teams to focus their time more productively. Intelligent Alerts also identify the relevant circuits and make potential recommendations to ensure any response can be swift and decisive. www.abb.com

MARKET OVERVIEW

DIGITAL SOLUTION FOR FACTORY ENERGY MANAGEMENT

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) recently launched ENERGY CLOUD Factory, a service package that utilizes AI and IoT technologies. The solution is aimed specifically at factories within “Energy Cloud”, MHI’s dedicated energy solution service.

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sing data acquired by Netmation eFinder—MHI’s independently developed a system for collecting data on equipment operations—the system enables the visual monitoring of production equipment operating ratios and energy consumption. Moreover, a factory’s overall performance can be evaluated in parameters known as ENERGY CLOUD Score, a newly devised KPI (key performance indicator) that integrates indexes for measuring process productivity and energy consumption.

Proprietary AI technology also enables the forecasting of future factory performance. www.mhi.com MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MARKET OVERVIEW

LOAD MONITORING SYSTEM WITH IO-LINK COMMUNICATIONS

Weidmüller recently introduced its topGUARD load monitoring system and IO-Link communication interface, considered a key technology for the implementation of Industry 4.0 and IoT concepts.

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he system not only provides users with options for remotecontrolled operation, but offers operating data for optimal condition monitoring as well as reliable monitoring and protection of 24V systems. This type of intelligent networking between the machine, control cabinet, and IT system makes it possible to create novel control, monitoring, and analysis solutions.

With Weidmüller’s topGUARD load monitoring system, which intelligently safeguards DC loads and communicates via IOLink, users have the option of continuous communication from field level right through to the cloud. By connecting the IO-Link module and integrating an IODD file to carry out parameterization and control, the user is provided with all relevant operating data. www.weidmueller.com MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MONTH’S PRODUCT

S M A R T FA C TO R Y

POLARIZATION HELPS TO REVEAL DETAILS THAT REMAIN HIDDEN TO OTHER SENSORS

uEye CP camera with polarization sensor.

IDS adds 5 megapixels polarization cameras to its product portfolio.

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polarization sensor makes details visible that remain hidden to other image sensors. IDS now offers the IMX250MZR 5 MP sensor from SONY with integrated on-pixel polarizers in the uEye CP camera family. The models ensure better object detection in cases of low contrast or light reflections. They also provide a convenient way of detecting fine scratches on surfaces or the stress distribution within transparent objects.

Both USB3 Vision and GigE Vision are available as interfaces.

Using polarization filters, the sensor generates an image with four polarization directions in a single image. Based on the intensity of each directional polarization, the polarization angle and the degree of polarization can be determined.

This makes it versatile – for example, for checking residues on surfaces before further processing or for removing reflections for traffic monitoring.

Thanks to their innovative, patented housing design and the very high manufacturing quality typical of IDS, the compact industrial cameras also make designers’ hearts beat faster.

With dimensions of only 29 x 29 x 29 millimetres, the models are ideal for space-critical applications. Screwable cables also ensure a reliable electrical connection.

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https://en.ids-imaging.com/store/products/cameras/idssensor-model/imx250mzr-c.html

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S M A R T FA C TO R Y

ADJUST WITH LIGHT

A camera-supported alignment and measuring system ensures precise, fast measurement of straightness and flatness in mechanical engineering.

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traightness and alignment are essential for troublefree plant operation, especially with large machine components and rail constructions. Even small discrepancies can lead to increased signs of wear and paralyse a complete system. A precise alignment or measurement of e.g. linear guides is therefore decisive for the quality and service life of a system. With the ELWI-GER 3000, HOFBAUER OPTIK Mess- & Prüftechnik from Munich provides the machine and special machine manufacturers with the right instrument. The optical alignment and measuring system works precisely and quickly with the help of uEye industrial cameras and is suitable for long lengths up to 100 m.

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Electronic autocollimators use the absolute straightness of light for non-contact high-precision measurements. The smallest straightness deviations of a surface or a guide can be detected by angle changes. For this purpose, a collimated light beam, i.e. a light package with parallel individual beams, leaves an optical system and is reflected back into it by a plane mirror. The ELWI-GER 3000 electronic autocollimator from HOFBAUER OPTIK thus enables 2-dimensional precise and rapid measurement of straightness and flatness.

The flexible system can be used on technical surfaces for alignment and control of linear guides as well as for curvature measurement on large components and rail systems. This makes it just as suitable for plant construction as for track and tunnel construction. It can also be used for tasks such as testing stone rulers as straightness standards. For example, a granite ruler with a length of 160 cm can be measured in less than 5 minutes with an accuracy of <0.5 µm/m. The optical testing device records the straightness in X and Y directions simultaneously and enables use in any position (spatial axis).

The system includes the measuring head as well as extensive accessories such as an adjustable holder, a measuring mirror, an attachment laser as well as the corresponding USB connection to the display unit. Nevertheless, it is small and

Precise measurement of a 160 cm long stone straight edge with 0.5 µm/m.

compact and works up to 8 hours in battery mode – ideal for service applications.

The system is controlled directly using a robust IP65compatible tablet with intuitive touch screen – application and practice-oriented. Data transmission and remote control of the measuring system can also be done via smartphone. Straightness evaluation is possible directly without an additional PC. An automatic protocol with document tracking is available as a report in PDF format after each measurement.

Fast and precise thanks to camera technology “With the ELWI-GER 3000, we are continuing a consistent development of precision measurement technology in mechanical engineering. The integrated uEye industrial camera from IDS Imaging Development Systems makes a major contribution to this,” explains Dr. Engelbert Hofbauer, owner and development manager at HOFBAUER OPTIK Mess- & Prüftechnik.

Thanks to the patented vignetting method, Hofbauer is the only company in the world capable of overcoming the problems of the classic autocollimation method and measuring lengths of over 100 m with angular second accuracy even at extremely large angles (1000 sec = 17 mm/m) and evaluating them according to the tilt method.

Measurement techniques Two possible measuring methods are available to the user: With the inclination method, a measuring mirror on a mirror base or on the guide carriage of a linear guideway is led in equally large steps over the test specimen and the change in inclination is measured. The straightness is determined and displayed by summation (integration) of the determined height differences from the partial sections. With this method, the highest accuracy can be achieved with the lowest measurement uncertainty. Alternatively, depending on the application, the height method can also be used for measurement. The reflector is also attached via a suitable base or to the linear slide or the movable axis (machine table, cross beam, etc.) and can be positioned at any point on the

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The system sees a crosshair or a vignetted light area – i.e. with shading to the edge of the image – in monochrome LED light. These result mathematically from the correlation function of two circular areas of the same diameter. The latter in turn arise during autocollimation, as mentioned above, by reflection of the emitted light cone from a distant mirror. The intensity distribution in the image or on the camera results in a regular circular cone, whereby several so-called V-SPOTs

can also be visible in different applications. The precise position of the V-SPOT is calculated with subpixel accuracy (<1/50 pixel peak-to-valley and 1/100 deviation from the square mean). Based on this, corresponding angles in up to 3 dimensions (degrees of freedom) and simultaneously up to 3 degrees of positional freedom are determined.

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Curvature measurement on large components.

The UI-3272LE-M-VU is mounted on the central element of the sensor.

path. The deviation from the ideal straight line (optical axis) is measured and displayed immediately and directly. The advantage here: Adjustment processes can be carried out directly.

Camera models The ELWIMAT-GER 3000 contains one industrial camera each from the uEye camera family, depending on the customer application. Various models are available with a GigE or USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface, either as a board level variant or with a housing. Whether it is a low-cost project camera or a compact power pack, they all offer particularly easy handling, long service life and long-term availability. All models are 100% quality tested and pre-calibrated. Thanks to the extensive IDS software as well as IDS-typical plug & play, they can be integrated quickly and easily and are therefore particularly economical.

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The UI-3272LE-M-VU, for example, is a cost-effective and versatile project camera from the uEye LE USB 3.1 Gen 1 series with a pioneering, reversible USB Type-C connector.

Via USB Power Delivery it is possible to offer a variable peripheral power supply at the I/O port. It is equipped with the Sony IMX265 area sensor – one of the best image sensors in the 3 MP pixel class. The 1/1.8” size of the Global Shutter CMOS Sensor provides a large selection of suitable lenses.

The industrial camera delivers frame rates of up to 57 fps at full resolution (3.2 MP: 2056 x 1542 px) and 80 fps at Full HD resolution. Therefore, the USB 3.1 Gen 1 camera is perfectly 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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suited for visualization tasks in machine vision applications.

The board level variants are available with vertical (-VU) – as in the ELWIMAT – or horizontal USB Type-C connector and also have a 10-pin I/O SMD connector for GPIO, trigger and flash.

Thanks to the fast USB 3.1 Gen 1 technology, the data transfer rate could be increased from 480 MBit/s to 5 GBit/s with the same or an even higher cable length. The measurement frequency in full screen mode increased by a factor of 5 from 12 frames/second to 57 fps. For special applications in vibration and frequency analysis, the clock rates can be extended to the KHz range using AOI technology as well as subsampling and binning methods.

Software Hofbauer uses the IDS Software Development Kit to integrate the industrial camera into its system. “With the IDS SDK we have the advantage of a uniform programming interface for all IDS cameras. Programming is therefore independent of the connection of the model – no matter whether USB 2, USB 3.1 Gen 1 or GigE,” explains Dr. Hofbauer and adds: “In addition, new camera models are supported without software changes. This perfectly matches our goal of reconciling the highest demands on measurement technology with user-friendly operability.” Other reasons for using the IDS software were the simple use of additional functions such as EEPROM and GPIOs. The SDK is also compatible with Windows and Linux.

1) GigE uEye CP industrial camera: The tiny power pack for industrial applications with PoE functionality Model: UI-5240CP-NIR-GL Rev.2

2) GigE uEye LE boardlevel industrial camera: Compact CMOS single board camera with excellent image quality and additional features

3) uEye LE USB 3.1 Gen 1: The cost-effective and versatile project camera with USB Type-C connector and USB Power Delivery

Model: UI-5244LE-NIR-GL

Model:UI-3272LE-M-VU

Outlook Straightness and alignment are indispensable in mechanical and plant engineering. The ELWI-GER 3000 enables simple measurement, adjustment and logging of results for a wide variety of applications. Even the smallest variations in angle can be measured. In contrast to the competitors, it achieves measuring lengths of over 100 m with an accuracy of 0.5 micrometres per metre for straightness measurement, i.e. 0.05 mm per 100 m measuring distance.

The flexible and mobile applicability as well as the extensive range of accessories also ensure real customer benefits.

Camera-supported and using only light, the system ensures contactless “plane conditions”.

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Client HOFBAUER OPTIK Mess- & Prüftechnik is an owner-managed engineering office for optical metrology. The company develops devices including software and solutions for the optical industry and mechanical engineering, always with the aim of reconciling measurement technology and userfriendly operability. www.hofbauer-optik.de https://en.ids-imaging.com

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CO R P O R AT E

GROUND-BREAKING CEREMONY FOR THE NEW BUILDING REGLOPLAS

Regloplas AG sticks to its road map for the future and makes its future technology site a reality.

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egloplas AG, internationally leading manufacturer of temperature control units for the processing industry reported a healthy statement of accounts last year and a steady increase in demand for its products. For this reason, various departments such as production and logistics are now facing a state of emergency in terms of lack of space.

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For Regloplas AG to continue to compete on the world market, the company site requires expansion as soon as possible. The planned new building will provide 6 storeys, each with a floor space measuring 2500Â m2. The construction project scores points on energy efficiency and sustainability with more environmentally friendly process design. The plan is to use the entire roof area for photovoltaics to produce as much of the process energy consumption as possible in house.

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

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

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

CO R P O R AT E

LAPP NORTH AMERICA APPOINTS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

LAPP North America has announced the appointment of Jay Lahman as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer. Lahman will be responsible for the North American region and will report directly to Georg Stawowy, LAPP’s Chairman of the Board of Directors, Lapp Holding, N.A. Inc.

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ahman has 25 years of experience in the cable industry including electrical, industrial, utility, OEM, data communication and specialty markets. Prior to joining LAPP, he served as Senior Vice President of Electrical Raceway Sales at Atkore International and spent 14 years at General Cable U.S, including a role as Vice President and General Manager for General Cable in Barcelona, Spain, where he led a multinational team of 2,800 employees across seven sites. Lahman began his career with positions at Belden Wire and Cable, Thomas & Betts and ADC Telecommunications.

“The talented team at LAPP is devoted to helping our customers meet the challenges of increasingly automated and networked manufacturing environments. I’m excited to be part of that team as we join our customers in building the factories of the future.” https://lappusa.lappgroup.com

MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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CO R P O R AT E

DMSC MEASURES SUCCESS WITH 15TH ANNIVERSARY

The Digital Metrology Standards Consortium (DMSC) announced its 15th anniversary as a globally recognized standards development organization. The DMSC is officially an ANSI Accredited Standards Developing Organization and an A-Liaison to ISO ISO/TC 184/SC 4.

It operates as a nonprofit group comprised of member companies, academia, government agencies, and individuals with a primary mission to identify needed standards in the field of digital metrology in order to promote, foster, and encourage the development and interoperability of these standards.

Curtis Brown DMSC President.

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he DMSC, originally known as the Dimensional Metrology Standards Consortium, was founded in an effort to offer continuing support for the Dimensional Measuring Interface Standard (DMIS). DMIS was conceived by the CAM-I (Consortium of Advanced Management International) Standards Committee in 1983. In 1991 DMIS 3.0 was accepted by ANSI, and adoption had already begun by many leading companies. When the CAM-I Standards Committee was eventually dissolved, several of the Committee member companies moved on to form the DMSC in June 2005. Although DMIS is now considered mature on the development cycle, the standard is still supported by the DMSC and is in use today by multiple manufacturing industry sectors.

The most recent development by DMSC is a digital Model Based (MBD) metrology standard called QIF (Quality Information Framework). QIF is an XML (Extensible Markup Language) based schema that enables efficient and effective data exchange throughout the entire manufacturing quality measurement process. In 2018, ANSI/DMSC QIF 3.0 was accepted as an ANSI standard. As the QIF standard has evolved and grown, there has been considerable effort to coordinate and harmonize QIF with other related standards developed by outside organizations. The DMSC has responsibility to develop, maintain, and support the DMIS and QIF standards. The DMSC also charters new Working Groups for possible future standardization.

DMSC President, Curtis Brown, comments, “We are extremely pleased that our 15th year anniversary coincides with the anticipated acceptance of QIF 3.0 as an ISO standard. A key measure of the QIF success story has been attributed to broadening our development focus to support an integrated digital 3D model with robust product and manufacturing information.”

For interested parties, the DMSC offers the ANSI/DMSC QIF 3.0 - 2018 as a free-of-charge download – visit www.qifstandards.org

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ELECTRONICS

HYGIENIC DOOR HANDLE FOR TOOL-LESS MOUNTING

The CONTA-CLIP HYDH is a hygienic, easy-to-install hands-free door handle.

CONTA-CLIP has launched HYDH, an ergonomically optimized Hygienic Door Handle that is quick and easy to install. Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, hospitals and other public institutions and commercial buildings have a greater need for hands-free door handles as a way to lower the spread of infection.

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arious manufacturers have launched products that are operated with the forearm instead. However, most existing solutions require screw attachment can slip or tilt, or come in two different versions for left and right hinged doors. Therefore, CONTA-CLIP has designed a universal hands-free handle that fits left and right hinged doors with round, oval, or rectangular latches and that allows for secure attachment without screws or tools.

the hygienic door handle withstands frequent disinfection with aggressive cleaning agents. HYDH is available in nine colors. In addition, CONTA-CLIP offers to provide individual colors, lettering, or logos for hotels, restaurants, and other customers interested in maintaining a uniform corporate design. https://contaclipinc.com/home.html

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Featuring an ergonomic jacket design, HYDH allows for comfortable use with the forearm or elbow. The one-sizefits-all clasp is simply slipped onto the door handle where it latches tightly. Flexible spacers facing the door keep it firmly in place even if it is pushed or pulled with strong forces. If fixed with the tamper-protection clamps included in delivery, HYDH can afterwards only be removed with a screwdriver. Made of durable, chemical-resistant plastic,

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ELECTRONICS

A LOT OF POWER IN A VERY SMALL SPACE

The BXT motors deliver considerably higher torques than those usual in this drive class. (Copyright: FAULHABER)

Drive Systems evolved. Generally speaking, electric motors are not “lone wolves” but for most applications need to be combined with gearheads for speed reduction as well as encoders. To ensure that the components are perfectly matched to each other and to minimize installation requirements, it is recommended to obtain the individual components as a complete solution from a single source.

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ven in cases where installation space is extremely tight and where high-torque drives are required which, owing to the installation situation, need to be as short as possible, there is a practice-oriented solution that is especially suitable for applications in robotics, prosthetic joints, laboratory automation, pumps, medical technology or aircraft cabin equipment.

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The drive specialist FAULHABER has once again demonstrated its competence as a system provider and has extended its BXT flat motor series by adding corresponding gearheads and integrated encoders as well as speed controllers that are also exceptionally short in the axial direction. All components have been optimized to ensure that they function perfectly together. The three sizes can solve many different drive challenges. In the case of a lower-arm prosthesis, for example, the smallest drive with a diameter of 22 mm would be ideal for the hand and the 16 mm long motor for the elbow. Other possible applications for the small compact drive systems are robot grippers, industrial automation, humanoid robots and even bio-robotics for motorised – i.e. power-assisting – hand exoskeletons. Thanks to their precise speed control properties, they are also suitable for e.g. dialysis machines or medical pumps.

The powerful and compact drive systems are ideal for applications in robotics, prosthetic joints, laboratory automation, pumps, medical technology or aircraft cabin equipment. (Copyright: Schunk, FAULHABER)

Innovative winding technology for more torque The motors were developed based on the classic external rotor design. Thanks to innovative winding technology and optimized construction, the brushless DC-servomotors produce torques up to 134 mNm within a diameter of 22 mm, 32 mm and 42 mm and deliver a continuous output of up to 100 W with a high level of efficiency. This means the compact motors significantly exceed the standards usual in this drive class. Particularly the ratio of torque to installation space and weight is much better than what is common on the market. Thanks to the high copper filling factor and the design of the pole shoes, the magnetic field is strong and the cogging torque very small. The motors, which operate at speeds up to 10,000 min -1, are available with or without a housing, which again extends the range of potential applications.

Furthermore, the gearheads are extremely robust and tolerate continuous loads as well as rapid load changes. They have been developed for limited axial installation space and are significantly shorter than other models with the same diameter. The single-stage 22 mm version, for example, is only approx. 18 mm long and the four-stage version approx.

37 mm. With the 42 mm gearhead, the lengths are just under 31 mm and approx. 68 mm respectively.

Housed encoder with High-Positioning accuracy All BXT motors are equipped with digital Hall sensors and, thanks to their large number of poles, their speed can be controlled very precisely. The IEF3-4096 magnetic encoder is available for precise positioning tasks. The encoder is fully integrated in the housed motor variant, thereby increasing the length of the overall drive by just 6.2 mm. Despite of the flat design, it offers three channels with index function, a Line Driver and a high resolution of up to 4,096 lines per revolution. The combination of motor and encoder is an ideal system solution in cases where extremely precise positioning must be performed in constrained spaces and, at the same time, high torques are required, e.g. in robotics, medical technology, laboratory automation or industrial automation.

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Metallic planetary gearheads with numerous reduction ratios The GPT metal planetary gearhead family, which also impresses with compact dimensions and high torque, is suitable for speed reduction of the flat motors. The pure metal gearheads achieve performance values that are comparable to those of significantly more expensive technologies available, such as those that use ceramic components. The gearheads are available with motorcompliant diameters and offer reduction ratios from 3:1 to 1,294:1 with extremely fine graduations in up to four stages. Each stage was optimized for high performance with

respect to torque and speed. Depending on the diameter, the gearheads achieve continuous torques of 1, 8 and 18 Nm. Higher torques are also possible for a short period.

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Compact drive system from a single source: The high-torque flat motor series has been extended by the addition of matched gearheads as well as integrated encoders and speed controllers, which are also exceptionally short in the axial direction.

(Copyright: FAULHABER)

Integrated speed controllers complete the product range Beginning in April 2020, speed controllers will also be available for the BXT motors. They are integrated in the housed versions of the BXT motors and increase the length of these motors by just 6.2 mm. The well though-out design concept enables both the encoder and the speed controller to be installed in the same housing and also permits a large number of common parts to be used. Speed control is performed by the digital Hall sensors integrated in the motors. Thus, a wide speed range from 200 min -1 to 10,000 min -1 is available. The compact combination of motor and speed controller is ideal for space-critical applications and simplifies installation and commissioning.

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www.faulhaber.com/evolved/en

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ELECTRONICS

LEMO’S NEW HARPOON: PRESS-FIT CONTACTS FOR ELBOW AND STRAIGHT PCB SOCKETS

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EMO connector is well known for its Push-Pull connector. LEMO’s new harpoon earthing pins enable pre-installing easily various receptacles/socket. The advantage of these new press-fit contacts is the gain of time while doing the pre-assembly, no need to place the washers and screw 4 times the M1.6 screws. Simply align the connector and push firmly.

This pre-assembly will enable the assembly house or final customer to turn the PCB board upside down and run the parts through the reflow soldering oven. This solution is planned for elbow and straight PCB sockets of 0B & 1B series.

The current design works specifically with 1.6mm thickness boards. www.lemo.com

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ELECTRONICS

COMPONENT CARRIER NOW REPLACING FLEXIBLE PCBS

Flexible circuit boards offer numerous advantages. However, the mechanical fixation of these circuit boards is highly complex. HARTING has developed a new solution based on 3D-MID technology that is capable of replacing flexible circuit boards. Thanks to component carriers, cost savings of up to two thirds can be achieved.

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t the MID process, on the injection molded part a customized layout is applied. At electronic assembly the components are mounted on the desired surface.

Flexible printed circuit boards made of thin polyimide films have established themselves in many product areas thanks to their application flexibility. Populating and assembling them, however, is decidedly more complex. This is where a newly developed component carrier from HARTING enters the picture.

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A standardised component carrier for electronic components By harnessing all this new HARTING development, electronic components can be fitted directly onto the component carrier, thereby replacing flexible circuit boards. The component carrier serves as a connecting element between the printed circuit board (PCB) and electronic components such as LEDs, ICs, photodiodes and sensors.

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Electronic components are mounted directly on the new component carrier in automated processes. The frequently complex processes involved in processing flexible circuit boards are dispensed with, thereby reducing costs by up to two thirds.

The populated component carriers are delivered in tape & reel. In their standard design, the carriers can be processed in automatic assembly systems, just like other SMD electronic components. Two different sizes are currently available and can accommodate electronic components of standard size SOIC-8 and smaller. Moreover, HARTING can also produce the carriers in customer-specific sizes.

The smaller design of the component carrier is suitable for components of size SOT23 and smaller – with its dimensions of approximately 5x4x3mm.

Electronic components are mounted directly on the new component carrier in automated processes.

The frequently complex processes involved in processing flexible circuit boards is dispensed with, thereby reducing costs by up to two thirds.

The picture shows the flexibility of the component carrier. The sensor carrier is populated with electronic components on different surfaces.

HARTING has identified three example applications where the component carrier can replace flexible circuit boards • Components at a 90° angle to the circuit board: The component carrier is suitable for scenarios in which electrical components, such as sensors, need to be positioned normal to the circuit board. The automatic assembly process enables the placement of temperature sensors or hall sensors on the carrier to a high degree of accuracy, which in turn results in precise, reproducible measurements. Optical components are another salient example, such as LEDs or photodiodes used to generate precise light barriers.

• A ntenna function: The component carrier can be manufactured using different base polymers. In this way, different antenna material properties can be factored in, such as dielectric constant and loss factor. The specific

3D-MID technology as an alternative to flexible PCBs Thanks to the 3D-MID (mechatronic integrated device) technology, electronic components can be fitted directly onto a three-dimensional body without the need for circuit boards or connecting cables. The base body is produced through injection moulding, whereby the thermoplastic is provided with a non-conductive, inorganic additive. In order for this material to be able to accommodate electrical circuits, the additives in the plastic are “activated” through laser direct structuring (LDS). In this process, the laser beam writes the areas intended for the conductive tracks and creates a micro-rough structure. The metal particles released in the process form the nuclei for the subsequent chemical metallisation.

This process creates electrical traces across the threedimensional base body. The plastic employed offers high thermal stability and can therefore be soldered in the reflow oven. HARTING has been implementing the entire 3D-MID process chain in-house for over 10 years, from the project idea to the populated series product. The technology is finding use in application scenarios in areas such as medical technology, industrial electronics and consumer electronics and all the way through to safety-related components in the automotive industry. The HARTING 3D-MID business unit is the largest provider of 3D-MID components outside of Asia.

The component carrier developed by this process is suitable for various applications. It can be equipped with several sensors that, if desired, could be aligned in three directions to take measurements in three axes (X, Y, Z). Components can be fitted simultaneously on two parallel surfaces on the front and back sides, as well as on the end face. HARTING has submitted a patent application for the component carrier.

The component carrier cuts costs by two-thirds In an automated process, HARTING fits electronic components such as LEDs, ICs, photodiodes and sensors directly on the component carrier. The total cost of the component carrier is two-thirds lower than those of flexible PCB solutions. This is due to the fact that it eliminates the frequently complex handling involved with flexible printed circuit boards, e.g. populating, gluing and assembling. The process even delivers benefits in small volumes, as the component carrier can be used for different applications without adaptation, thereby eliminating the costs of a new injection mould. Compared with flexible printed circuit boards, this process achieves more precise component positioning, greater repeatability and better quality.

HARTING has identified another advantage of the component carrier, namely the short timeframe required to deliver finished components. Since the plastic carrier remains unchanged, all that is needed are specifications for placement of the electronic components. Experts in 3D-MID can use this to create a production-optimized layout proposal. Adjustments of the laser program are all that is needed to tailor the electrical traces to the respective application. Once the customer has approved the product and components have been received, initial production samples can be dispatched within two to three weeks – and even faster, if necessary.

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• Clearance from the circuit board: The component carrier also makes it possible to maintain a clearance between the circuit board and an electronic component. Consequently, a temperature sensor can be used to measure the temperature in the housing without being influenced by the waste heat from other components on the PCB. It also means that LED can be placed clear of the circuit board, thereby avoiding the risk of surrounding components casting shadows.

antenna layout can be used for various applications in the MHz and GHz frequency range, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee and 5G.

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ELECTRONICS

SOFTING DIAGNOSTIC TOOL SET 9: NEW GENERATION OF THE ALL-IN-ONE ENGINEERING TESTER NOW AVAILABLE!

Softing DTS9 Monaco

Following the successful launch at pilot customers, the new generation of the high-performance and use-case-optimized Diagnostic Tool Set (Softing DTS 9) is now available. New functionalities enable even faster and more cost-efficient diagnostic development – exactly what is needed for the growing complexity of E/E architectures and shorter product development cycles Softing DTS.monaco makes it possible for developers, engineers and technicians to create consistent diagnostic functions and sequences on the basis of international standards and to ensure that diagnostic communication works reliably over the entire value chain.

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he highlights of the new product generation include, in particular, remote diagnostic support in the engineering network (remote diagnostics) and the display and recording of Ethernet communication (DoIP – Diagnostics over Internet Protocol). New functions in the area of OTX support, based on the latest standard, enable a perceptible increase in the speed of work thanks to automation and the ability to precisely solve individual problems with self-generated user interfaces. In addition, the integration of function-oriented diagnostics with the Smart Diagnostic Engine (Softing SDE) has already made the leap to the next generation of diagnostic systems.

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Proprietary user interfaces are created in OTX whenever the intuitively usable and flexibly configurable interface elements (SmartDiagnostic controls), available for all frequently used diagnostic functions, need to be extended.

This means that entire release sequences, continuous operation controls and certifications can be safely incorporated into the Monaco workspaces to prevent operating errors.

DoIP continues to gain importance not only because of the high bandwidth required – especially in flash programming.

DTS is perfectly prepared for this in all applications. The product now also enables the remote access of test specimens. This can save a lot of time and money, especially in globally operating teams, as travel can be avoided and expensive test resources shared.

Softing Diagnostic Tool Set Generation 9

Alongside system-specific licensing, the additional floating license mechanism ensures flexibility and saves customers both time and money. Furthermore, the new DTS 9 platform offers international users multilingual capability with the provision of a German, English and Japanese translation of the user interfaces. This not only reduces the amount of training required but also leads to increased acceptance of the whole system, particularly in globally operating teams.

Incidentally, today’s customers don’t need to worry about migrating to the new generation: Both existing DTS projects and OTX processes can be migrated and reused with the new software.

The Softing Diagnostic Tool Set 9 offers an all-in-one diagnostic solution for all use cases from ECU engineering and development to vehicle integration and SOP – futureoriented, efficient and safe. https://automotive.softing.com/products/softing-dts.html MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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ELECTRONICS

THE SOURIAUÂ 8STA SERIES, A BENCHMARK FOR HIGHPERFORMANCE CONNECTORS IN THE WORLD OF MOTORSPORT

Its compact size and low mass, coupled with its incredible robustness and resistance to shock and vibration have made SOURIAUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 8STA the connector of choice for racing teams at the highest level of the sport looking for the state-of-the-art to improve the electrical performance of their machines. These connectors are commonly used on steering boss systems, temperature and pressure sensors, data acquisition and electronic control systems and inside fuel tanks.

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Miniaturization: a design challenge The 8STA series is a range of connectors derived from aerospace standards, where high-density, lightweight and reliable solutions must be able to withstand high levels of shock and vibration. For smaller spaces such as racing cars, the challenge was to miniaturize these connectors while maintaining the same electrical, mechanical and environmental performance characteristics. Manufacturing miniature connectors requires a high level of skill and expertise; processes must be very clearly defined and strictly controlled to maintain the precision necessary to repeatedly produce and deliver high quality products, especially when it comes to very small injection moulded plastic components.

Electrical performance characteristics such as signal transmission and insulation resistance are key aspects, as long-term reliability of data and power distribution can make the difference between a Did Not Finish (DNF) and winning the race. The choice of materials is also critical because each application may have different requirements such as resistance to fuel, lubricants or other fluids. Finally, the mechanical design means that the connectors must withstand more than 500 mating cycles and remain secure under high vibration. They must also be user-friendly for the technician who may have very limited time to couple and uncouple them during a pit stop.

New materials and designs Racing teams are constantly looking for innovative designs that would give them a competitive edge. Weight distribution has a significant impact on how a car performs on the track: every gram saved on components where weight is not needed can be redistributed where it will

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NEWS

bring performance improvements. For this reason, the trend in connector design is therefore towards increased miniaturization and higher contact density.

SOURIAU guarantees the availability of its products and the rapidity of its deliveries which, especially for highly competitive racing teams, are of paramount importance.

A connector that meets all requirements SOURIAU has developed a size 01â&#x20AC;&#x201C;03 connector, less than 2Â cm long and with three #26 contacts (0.5Â mm diameter).

This revolutionary development has taken miniaturization to a new level and is the basis for further improvements, meeting market requirements for size and weight reduction while maintaining high integrity of mechanical and electrical performance. With miniaturization, visual and mechanical protection to prevent mistakes in mating the wrong connectors together is also becoming increasingly important. This is why colour coding and mechanical coding options are a standard feature of the entire 8STA range.

https://usa.souriau.com/en-en

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SOURIAU has always worked closely with its customers and partners to promote innovation and efficiency. Sometimes a specific project developed to measure for a customer can turn into a new catalogue product on the market. This is the case of the fuel-resistant version and the quick-disconnect version of the 8STA series, both of which started as customer specific products and have now become standard components of racing car harnesses.

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ENERGY/POWER

THE ENERGY SAVING APP, COVALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SOFTWARE THAT MEASURES ENERGY SAVINGS

COVAL has been committed, for several years now, to improving the energy efficiency of their vacuum pumps. The French manufacturer of components and solutions for vacuum handling offers the Energy Saving App software, accessible online, which allows easy evaluation of energy savings made by an installation equipped with a vacuum pump using the ASC energy saving system.

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SC (AIR SAVING CONTROL) is an intelligent system which is used to stop consumption of compressed air as soon as the necessary vacuum level has been reached, avoiding any unnecessary consumption and ensuring energy saving during facility operations.

The Energy Saving App software measures the cost savings when using COVALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LEMAX, LEMCOM or GVMAX vacuum pumps, both equipped with the new ASC technology, compared to a conventional vacuum pump.

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Use of this software, unique in the vacuum world, is very intuitive. After entering the main characteristics of the installation (the duration of operating cycles, number of cycles, time of use, volume to be evacuated) the gain is displayed simultaneously in euros, in air volume and in percentage gain. In most cases it is very significant since it culminates with 97% of energy gain, in particular with the LEMAX.

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Therefore, it is easy to see that investment in a COVAL pump equipped with ASC pays for itself on average after less than one year of use.

This software can be downloaded from the COVAL website: https://www.coval-inc.com/company/our-technologies/ energy-saving-app/ This COVAL exclusivity strengthens the vocation of the Vacuum Manager company and their desire to contribute to improving the energy and productive performance of each installation. www.coval-inc.com

ENERGY/POWER

BUSINESS BOOST AS CMP LAUNCHES NEW CORD GRIP

Leading cable gland and cable cleat specialist, CMP Products, has extended its North American product range with the launch of a brand new cord grip cable gland.

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MP’s latest cable glands in the CG Range are designed and engineered specifically to suit unarmored flexible cable and cord as used predominantly throughout the USA and Canada.

Manufactured from high-grade 6000 series aluminum, the glands provide excellent corrosion and ingress protection in wet, dry or hazardous environments; and have undergone testing to the latest edition of UL50E. They join the company’s suite of existing UL and CSA certified cable glands, which have undergone some of the most stringent tests for cable glands. Jamie Hughes, head of CMP’s Americas operation in Houston, explains:

In relation to the timing of the launch Jamie added: “The timing of the launch is crucial in these unprecedented times and it’s credit to our R&D Team and manufacturing colleagues that we are able to launch and hold stock of these products for our customers despite everything that is going on in the world.

“We have been based in Houston for more than 20 years and the launch of the cord grip is a welcome addition that will give another boost to our business and that of our distributors.”

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“Cord grips have been used in the Americas for several years, with many designed and tested to dated standards.

Conversely, the CMP CG series is tested to the very latest edition of UL514B. It’s a much more challenging test and a better way to demonstrate how the cable glands will perform in real life scenarios.”

The cord grip has been developed utilizing CMP’s heritage of more than 60 years and covers a wider range of cables with fewer cable glands, hence reducing inventory levels and therefore cost. Available in sizes 3/8” to 2”; each product includes an entry thread seal and locknut as standard.

Other materials available on request include zinc-plated steel, stainless steel and nickel plated on request. www.cmp-products.com/cord-grip 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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I N T R A LO G I S C T I C S

AGILOX AUTONOMOUS MOBILE ROBOTS ARE SUBSTANTIALLY SAVING COSTS BY APPLYING ARTIFICIAL SWARM INTELLIGENCE

Swarm Intelligence (SI) and bio-inspired computing have attracted great interest in almost every area of science and engineering, including robotics, over the last two decades.

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eing an innovative manufacturer of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), AGILOX directs most of its effort into developing one of the most unique robotic material handling features on the market – completely decentralized autonomy. AGILOX Intelligent Guided Vehicles (IGVs) are completely independent, self-controlled, and intelligently designed to handle failover, recovery, and deadlock prevention perfectly. Our SI system can provide real-time solutions to impossibly complex optimization problems in the most efficient way possible, often in ways that a human designer could never anticipate. The swarm can also handle unexpected changes in dynamic environments without any human intervention.

AGILOX vehicles automatically exchange information about the environment and the current work order situation with each other via WiFi several times per second. Based on virtual transport costs, which each participant constantly recalculates for all pending orders, it is automatically decided which vehicle fulfills an order and which path that vehicle can take to fulfill this order in the shortest amount of time.

All of this is possible with almost no overhead cost to the endcustomer. There are no expensive server systems, no wires added under the floor, no reflector or beacon installations – no hardware of any kind, other than your regular 2.4 or 5 GHz WiFi network and the charger. There is no software to install or maintain, no version numbers to keep up with, and no licenses with ongoing subscription fees.

The nature of our Swarm Intelligence also provides another massive advantage in terms of setup cost. Once the first AGILOX unit learns its environment and workflow details, the system becomes immediately infinitely scalable. Adding additional vehicles to the swarm to increase throughput is as simple as turning on the power and assigning an IP address. Within minutes, the new vehicle will automatically

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download all of its configuration information from the swarm and begin working, no additional commissioning or programming required.

AGILOX represents a total departure from the traditional approach to material handling processes. We apply the principles of our decentralized IGV system to our entire business model from top to bottom as well, by providing our customers with the training and tools to perform their own maintenance and expand or modify the system as they see fit.

With open interfaces, infinite flexibility, and unrivaled collective intelligence, the possibilities for your AGILOX implementation are limited only by your imagination.

Welcome to the future of logistics automation. www.agilox.net

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I N T R A LO G I S C T I C S

INTERROLL PRESENTS NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE CROSSBELT SORTER

The width of the carriers was increased by an impressive 50 percent. This means an enormous gain in flexibility when sorting goods of different dimensions.

Faster, more flexible and even quieter: With the global market launch of the new High-Performance Crossbelt Sorter MX 025H Crossbelt Sorter, Interroll extends its innovative portfolio of automatic sorting solutions to include a new high-performance system capable of handling up to 20,000 conveyed goods per hour. This new solution also allows much heavier and larger goods to be sorted. As a result, even the most demanding users can now enjoy the performance and availability benefits offered by mechanically driven horizontal crossbelt sorters from Interroll.

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he new High-Performance Crossbelt Sorter MX 025H, offers an increased conveying speed of up to 2.5 m/s (8.2 ft/s) compared to 1.8 m/s (5.9 ft/s) for the still available Interroll Crossbelt Sorter ST 6160. The new sorter thus enables throughput rates of up to 20,000 conveyed goods per hour. At the same time, the HighPerformance Crossbelt Sorter MX 025H is able to transport goods weighing up to 50 kg. In addition, the width of the carriers has been increased by an impressive 50 percent. This means an enormous gain in flexibility when sorting goods of different dimensions.

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Maintenance for the HPCS is extremely easy and inexpensive.

This is true for many reasons. First of all, the drive chain has been replaced with a rubber belt. This means there is no need for lubrication. Secondly, it is now much easier and faster to replace the belt. However, extensive tests indicate this will not need to happen for many years, even in the case of 24/7 operations. The carriers can also be replaced much faster, and wear parts are also less expensive; all this contributes to significantly lower maintenance costs – around 50% less than with a conventional Crossbelt Sorter.

Thanks to the mechanical drive concept, the sorter operates extremely quietly—below 67 dB (A)—even at the highest throughput rates. In addition to extensive load and endurance tests in the in-house test center, the new sorter has already been in use for almost a year at selected customers’ sites. The new product will be presented to the

The modular sorter platform also includes innovative infeed conveyors.

Interroll’s new High-Performance Crossbelt Sorter can process up to 20,000 conveyed goods per hour.

The terminals can be customized to the needs of each user.

public at MODEX 2020, March 9–12, in Atlanta, Georgia (United States).

Over 400 Interroll automatic sorting systems already in use worldwide “With our entry into absolute high-performance sorting, system integrators can now offer users an innovative and at the same time proven technology range,” explains Jens Strüwing, Executive Vice President and Head of Products & Technology at Interroll. “Our unique, mechanical drive concept enables us to process an increasing number and variety of goods according to demand—with the highest reliability and economic advantages that are unparalleled in the world market.”

drive system offers power efficiency rates of over 85 percent.

It is designed redundantly so that if one drive unit fails, the sorting operation continues uninterrupted. Compared to electrical sorting systems operated with traditional linear motors, energy savings of up to 50 percent can be achieved.

At the heart of the sorter are the crossbelt carriers with patented mechanical drives. The modular sorter platform also includes innovative infeed conveyors and terminals that can be customized to meet the needs of each user. www.interroll.us

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One important reason for this global success is the basic mechanical principle of Interroll’s sorter platform. Today, more than 400 sorters are already in use worldwide by industry leaders such as Amazon, DHL, FedEx, UPS, Hugo Boss, Inditex (ZARA), Zalando, Swiss Post, Austrian Post and China Post. Unlike competing products, the number of electronic components in these sorters has been kept as low as possible. The unique design principle ensures maximum availability, very long lifetime, minimum operating costs as well as short payback periods.

Energy savings of up to 50 percent Interroll Crossbelt Sorters operate on a direct drive principle, in which the drive units can be positioned flexibly. The entire 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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HAPPENING LIVE: THE EPLAN VIRTUAL FAIR

On September 15, 2020, EPLAN will be live and online in all time zones with its international Virtual Fair. Numerous country pavilions have been integrated into the platform, where regional teams will be holding webcasts – shown here with the example of the US.

Last year EPLAN, the software and solutions provider, welcomed over 1,400 attendees from 73 countries to its international Virtual Fair. Impressive figures – especially in times before such virtual platforms had become the standard. This year the interest in new, innovative “Leadership Talks”, practice-oriented webcasts and worldwide chats to facilitate talking shop with other users is likely to increase.

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his year’s EPLAN Virtual Fair has a full sixteen-hour program planned. This will be the fifth year of the global “trade show on the net” and a growing number of visitors from all around the world is anticipated. The fair will be open and broadcasting, presenting and live chatting from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm (CEST). The concept for the EPLAN Virtual Fair has been further refined and now includes numerous country pavilions where regional teams, like Spain, France, China and the US will be giving live talks.

Live demonstrations will give users a deeper insight into the software, and EPLAN experts will be sharing current tips and tricks for daily work in engineering like: digitalizing engineering tasks with EPLAN Pre Planning or wiring machines and devices with the help of the digital twin.

EPLAN consultants will be sharing their knowledge with visitors in tutorials and webcasts. Keynote presentations from customers such as Magtronics from Japan, Systems Engineering from Denmark, and A&E Engineering from the US are just some of the highlights from the show. Anyone attending will receive many valuable, in-depth looks into specific best practices for engineering.

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Leadership Talks with the Management Board The event’s focus on practical application and efficiency will be further emphasized at the senior management level during the brand-new “Leadership Talks” with the CEO and Management Board. Strategic topics included in the agenda are:

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Live demonstrations provide users with deep insights into the software. EPLAN experts will be giving current tips and tricks for daily engineering work.

• Data continuity and data quality as decisive factors for success • Increasing productivity with services • The integrated value chain in control cabinet engineering Middle-management attendees can also look forward to an interesting mix of topics. Integrating configuration for automated engineering, cloud-based solutions in the ecosystem of industrial automation or implementing complete digitalization are topics of numerous live presentations.

Anyone interested can register for the Virtual Fair free of charge at: www.EPLAN.de/virtualfair

MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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EPLAN AND REVERE ELECTRIC ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Strategic partnership will provide customers with industry-leading software and products to maximize performance across electrical, automation and mechatronic engineering.

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PLAN Software & Services LLC & Revere Electric Supply Co. are pleased to announce they have entered into a strategic partnership, combining EPLAN’s industry leading electrical, automation and mechatronic engineering software with Revere’s world class electrical distribution products to deliver cost effective, efficient solutions to increase customer productivity.

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With technology playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of today’s business world, both companies recognize the need to accelerate the development of digital solutions to ensure a competitive edge. The EPLANRevere partnership brings together decades of acute business strategy, product development and technological advancement and deployment to support successful digital transformations.

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Revere will join together with EPLAN to provide access to software and tools that help Revere teams deliver breakthrough technological capabilities to customers.

“Partnering with Revere Electric to deliver digital solutions to clients will allow us to provide the very best software, products and strategies on which customers can build their next generation of transformative automation solutions and services.” said Jeff Kilburn, EPLAN USA Managing Director. By virtually connecting EPLAN’s software solutions expertise with Revere’s extensive product portfolio, the collaboration represents a monumental change in the way both businesses address the needs of the market. www.eplanusa.com

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DATAPROPHET PARTNERS WITH NORICAN TO ACCELERATE ADOPTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE FOUNDRY INDUSTRY

DataProphet, a leader in AI that enables manufacturers to step towards autonomous manufacturing, has entered an industry-exclusive partnership with Norican Global A/S (“Norican”), a leading metallic parts enhancement company, to bring meaningful AI applications into real-life foundry environments.

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he partnership follows a number of joint innovation projects carried out over the past 12 months with Norican brand DISA, the leading supplier of green sand foundry technology. The results of these projects are already maturing into products and the first commercial AI application developed under the collaboration is scheduled to go live in a customer production in a few months.

The new AI applications developed as part of the partnership are equipment-agnostic, meaning they will be available not only on solutions from the other Norican brands (Italpresse Gauss for die casting, StrikoWestofen for high-end furnace technology and Wheelabrator for surface preparation), but will also work with non-Norican equipment.

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Anders Wilhjelm, CEO of Norican Group, says: “We know foundries and how they work, DataProphet really knows AI. Together, we can bring practical AI applications into foundries faster – applications that will have a tangible impact for our customers now, not in a distant future. In DataProphet, we have found a partner who shares our pragmatic attitude and our passion for helping foundries work ever more productively and resource-efficiently. We have started with DISA applications, but we will fast forward to the full brand portfolio and beyond soon.”

Frans Cronje, CEO and co-founder of DataProphet, adds: “We first came across DISA when we worked on a project with a forward-looking foundry in South Africa, where we helped reduce defects by 40% over 24 months and achieved 0% defects for up to three months. Working closely with an equipment manufacturer of DISA’s deep expertise allows us to make a genuine difference to operations. The team at DISA understand where foundries are on their data journey – where to look for the largest gains, which data to collect and use, which problems to tackle first. Too often AI is a solution without a problem; together, we can make it a powerful tool that solves real operational issues.”

www.noricangroup.com www.dataprophet.com

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ST. JOSEPH-STIFT HOSPITAL IN DRESDEN RELIES ON NETWORKED SOLUTIONS THAT SECURE THE BUILDING ENVELOPE, BUT ALSO MUCH MORE

St. Joseph-Stift hospital

From isoled solution to Multi-services platform.

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n its efforts to provide more security against unauthorized access and improved monitoring and control, the technical services department of the St. Joseph-Stift hospital in Dresden relies on the proven technology of the BMS manufacturer PcVue and the door and window specialist GEZE. Over time the originally isolated PcVue solution becomes an all-purpose tool.

In the 2019 major hospital rating of the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (Frankfurt general newspaper, FAZ), the St. Joseph-Stift in Dresden came top six in the category “150 to under 300 beds”: The patients surveyed were not only above average satisfied with the medical and nursing care, but the hospital also received top marks for the organization of procedures and service. The hospital, which currently has 250 beds, treats around 35,000 patients a year. In order that the nursing and medical staff can concentrate fully on the patients, the hospital operator also regularly invests in the technical infrastructure. The new comprehensive control technology solution from PcVue and GEZE is an example.

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In the origin the visualization and control function of an existing intercom system was used for the building’s door and lock automation. Due to further requirements, especially with regard to scheduling and standardization of the data exchange with a heterogeneous field layer, the need for a comprehensive monitoring and control solution became apparent.

This solution exists in the form of PcVue 12.0, which connects doors and locks from different manufacturers via the OPC, ICX and BACnet communication protocols. That generates a powerful abstraction layer, at instant. A particularly elegant 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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solution is the connection of GEZE door systems via BACnet/ IP, as the PcVue software includes a dedicated library with symbols and function blocks for various GEZE module types.

Thanks to this simple integration, the connection can be carried out independently by the technicians on site.

PcVue enables the implementation of complex, buildingspecific logic, which is necessary due to the existing building topology. Sequential control and flexible networking options are of fundamental importance in such scenarios.

The same applies to the special purpose emergency switch in the emergency room. In the event of structural changes, it must be possible to convert escape routes at any time.

Thanks to the use of a PcVue developer license, as well as the intuitive configuration interface of the PcVue software and the intensive on-site training, it is possible for technical staff to reconfigure the system at any time.

His own department also benefits from the system’s versatile functionality. Thanks to the 100% Wi-Fi coverage within the building area, which has been in place since 2019, technical staff have access to the PcVue Web visualization (WebVue) via notebook and tablet anywhere and at any time, which is a decisive advantage for mobile maintenance workers. An additional screen is available in the technical area, which also serves as an alarm monitor for the on-call service.

A uniform architecture and extensive networking possibilities Torsten Klotzsche’s vision of “achieving intelligent control of neuralgic information and control points with manageable investments” is fulfilled by the solution in that the four main buildings and four annexes of the facility can be supervised with a simple yet flexible, future-proof architecture. The control system consists of a PcVue server station for up to 65,000 data points, five Web clients and a development and test station. All stations are networked with each other, so that new project versions can be created, deployed and distributed at any time. This happens almost in real time, as PcVue projects do not have to be compiled before deployment. Data and control commands are currently exchanged via several different communication protocols, including BACnet, OPC, Modbus, KNX and ICX. Also integrated into the project’s Web interface is the

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A multitude of benefits for various user roles Users of the system include medical and administrative staff.

Using Web-based thin clients on 32” flat screens at the gate and in the emergency room staff can always keep an eye on the status of the building’s lock status. At off-peak times, the medical staff in the emergency room and receptionists are authorized to acknowledge certain alarms autonomously.

Torsten Klotzsche, head of the building’s technical services department, describes the requirements for the system as follows, among other things “The aim is to […] facilitate the

daily work of the operating departments”. Above all, this could be achieved by relieving certain functional areas.

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WebScheduler, the user interface for managing PcVue’s native schedules and BACnet schedule objects. By now PcVue even monitors status messages from the intercom system by using the ICX protocol.

Connecting the doors brings more transparency, comfort and safety Locking the doors in the evening once forgotten is a thing of the past. Thus, for example, unwanted visitors remain outside, which could cause a lot of damage in such a property. Instead, the doors are now automatically locked by the system after a certain time using sophisticated scheduling. The controlled admission of persons is easily possible at any time.

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Other functions that have changed as part of the integration are: • Temporarily putting indoor doors into “permanently open” state; reducing the door cycles (movement of the door) • Connecting the weather station; enabling the doors to be opened and closed accordingly (e.g. in strong winds) or to switch into automatic mode.

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The first GEZE doors are now connected to the PcVue system thanks to the simple integration. This creates more transparency, offers more comfort and above all makes the building safer. Thanks to that technology, the conversion measures were changed while the building was still in operation without affecting the regular operation of the building. It was possible for the technical team on site to create an intelligent door control system with manageable investments. In the first stage of the expansion, three-door control units, three sluice systems, a revolving door and several other automatic doors were activated. This also relieves the staff, doors no longer must be locked manually, unexpected visitors have no access and the technician on site has an easier time managing the building. During the next round of door maintenance, a check is made to see which door systems can be connected to the PcVue system with little effort to use BACnet. This simplifies to connect the subsystem “doors” step by step.

Further system expansion After the planned handover of the control system to the IT department of the hospital and the associated virtualization of the system, the connection of further GEZE automatic doors, the integration of blind controls, as well as critical and non-critical power supply lighting over KNX into the system are planned for the near future. The incorporation of remote branch offices via the IOT protocol LoRa, as well as the integration of video surveillance systems in PcVue, also play a role in the considerations of the technical team.

NEWS

Schematic representation of the door lock subsystem.

Furthermore, a new part of the building is planned, where the entrance door will also be connected via BACnet. All this is easy to implement with the versatile PcVue solution. The technicians on site therefore now have a true all-purpose tool at their disposal. www.pcvuesolutions.com

MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MEASUREMENT

ARLA FOODS ANALYSES ENERGY CONSUMPTION USING FLOW SENSORS

Production location of Arla Foods in Falkenberg (Sweden).

Baumer FlexFlow® convinces with simple installation and efficient monitoring of the flow velocity and temperature of the medium.

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airy cooperative Arla Foods has, for the first time, created transparency over the energy consumed in cottage cheese production at its Falkenberg location.

This involves the use of the Baumer Flex-Flow® sensor, which is able to measure the temperature of the medium as well as the flow rate. This cost reductions this could achieve in the future quickly made this a worthwhile investment.

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At its Falkenberg location, dairy cooperative Arla Foods produces 20,000 tonnes of cottage cheese every year equivalent to 76.9 tons per day. An impressive quantity indeed. Arla Foods satisfies almost the entire cottage cheese demand on the Swedish market and also exports to Finland, Denmark and Greece. Production volumes of this magnitude call for a resource-efficient manufacturing process, and Arla Foods is a forerunner when it comes to sustainability: the dairy cooperative intends to bemaking its products completely CO2-neutral by 2050. A key element of this journey: energy efficiency. Mattias Abrahamsson, Production System Manager at Arla Falkenberg, reports: “In recent years, we have placed an increasingly strong focus on monitoring the energy consumption of our plants. In certain areas, however, we simply didn’t know where exactly 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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the energy was being used.” FlexFlow®, the calorimetric flow sensor from the Swiss sensor experts at Baumer achieved the breakthrough: Arla installed these sensors at the neuralgic points in the cooling and heating system and used the measurement results to obtain, for the first time, a clear image of the energy consumption. So the dairy producer can now derive concrete measures for reducing energy consumption.

Clear solutions based on long-term collaboration Cooling and heating – these were the tricky points in the energy consumption for Arla Foods in Falkenberg. Because of its commitment to sustainability, the food manufacturer had already made a great effort to reduce the energy balance when the plant was designed. It uses to the greatest possible extent, for example, the low external temperatures of the Swedish climate to achieve a cooling temperature of 0.5 degrees Celsius for the cooling circuit, which cools the produced cheese from 60 to 30 degrees Celsius. Yet energy losses that Arla had been unable to localize for some time occurred here as well. “The potentials of the FlexFlow® sensor,” explained Mattias Abrahamsson, “caught our attention as soon as we heard about them. This sounded

exactly like what we had been looking for.”“Baumer has been collaborating with Arla Foods for many years,” reports Martin Leupold, Product Manager for process sensors at Baumer.

“Our partnership dates back to the 1990s.” The cooperation has seen the development of a new process connection for milk production called Baumer Hygienic Connection, and this has effectively optimized the cleaning times. The temperature sensors from the CombiSeries product range were also created under the close collaboration between Arla and the Baumer Development Center in Aarhus in Denmark. “This close collaboration is allowing us to get to know our customers’ pain points,” explains Martin Leupold. “And we can use that knowledge to develop or suggest products that actually optimize their processes in a sustainable manner.” To solve the problem of monitoring energy consumption, the choice fell to the FlexFlow® sensor because it could easily be integrated into the existing plant and is able to measure both flow and temperature.

The FlexFlow® also meets the requirements for protection class IP 68 (Baumer proTect+), making this sensor, together with the materials used, the perfect solution for hygienic applications.

One exceptional feature is its maximum temperature range to 150 degrees Celsius, which also qualifies it for SterilizationIn-Process (SIP) tasks.

Arla has already installed around 15 of these flow sensors in the cooling circuit and heating system. The plan is now to also integrate these sensors into the CIP return line to monitor and optimize the energy consumption there as well.

Mattias Abrahamsson is extremely satisfied: “This has proven to be a cost-efficient solution. And because the sensors installed so far are reliably returning the results we need, we will now install more and more of them.” Martin Leupold is also pleased: “This solution is allowing Arla, our long-term partner, to systematically optimize its energy consumption, save resources and deliver on its sustainability promises. We, at Baumer, are working on these very solutions.”

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Simple to install and impressive features The simple installation of the FlexFlow® sensor is down to the symmetrical and centered design with one sensor element ahead of the sensor tip, which allows the sensor to be optimally installed in the process regardless of installation position and orientation. “We want our portfolio to make commissioning as easy as it can be for our customers,” says Martin Leupold. “This allows them to spend their precious time on what actually needs to be done.”The flow sensor has a robust stainless steel housing that accommodates all the

electronics, so there’s no need for complex wiring or control cabinet installation.

www.baumer.com/flexflow www.baumer.com/dairy

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MEASUREMENT

ROHDE & SCHWARZ PRESENTS CUTTING-EDGE CONFORMANCE TESTING SOLUTION FOR 5G NR FR2

Rohde & Schwarz highlights its innovative 5G conformance solution for both FR1 and FR2, featuring the latest version of the popular R&S TS8980 RF test system, now covering 5G NR. To enable over the air (OTA) testing, the solution includes the new R&S ATS1800C compact antenna test range (CATR) based 5G NR mmWave test chamber.

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G NR necessitates new testing approaches. The introduction of the new, mmWave based FR2 frequency range for 5G and the increased use of active antennas without physical connectors requires testing to be performed over the air (OTA). Rohde & Schwarz has developed a test solution able to perform the first tests for RF conformance in 3GPP FR2. The device under test, a 5G smartphone, is placed in the R&S ATS1800C chamber. The chamber is also available in a new special configuration for extreme temperature testing in 3D.

A test system for mobile technologies up to 5G The R&S TS8980 is a well-established family of RF conformance test systems. With the addition of the new R&S CMX500 radio communication tester, the RF conformance system gets 5G NR signaling functionality.

The upgraded R&S TS8980FTA is the only RF conformance test system in the market supporting mobile technologies all the way from 2G to 5G on one platform. A unique feature of the R&S TS8980FTA is the smooth upgrade path to 5G. Users who already have the previous version of the R&S TS8980 can upgrade to 5G RF FR1 testing by adding the R&S CMX500 as an extension box. While in FR1 all the tests are done in conducted mode the need in FR2 is to test overthe-air. This is realized by extending the TS8980FTA by a very compact CATR system.

Compact, flexible CATR system for FR2 testing A CATR testing solution features a reflector to minimize the space requirements for OTA tests. For the 5G frequency range FR2 user equipment conformance test, CATR designs

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are the best practical choice since the required plane wave signals are available in distances measured in decimeters from the reflector, instead of meters as in direct far field chambers. A CATR setup is reciprocal and can be used for the transmission characteristics of the device, as well as the receiver characteristics.

The setup includes the new CATR based R&S ATS1800C for FR2 testing. It is a turnkey, high-end chamber with the smallest footprint in the industry of only 1.3 m², featuring class-leading signal integrity and shielding in a small space. The solution includes a gold-coated reflector providing a large quiet zone of 30 cm, fulfilling 3GPP 5G NR conformance test requirements. Completing the test setup is a configuration for extreme temperature testing. With a frequency range 18–90 GHz, the solutions have potential applications well beyond the current FR2 bands.

Short demo videos about this and other industry-leading wireless test solutions from Rohde & Schwarz are available at www.rohde-schwarz.com/mwc MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MEASUREMENT

VICIVISION: FROM AUTOMOTIVE TO MEDICAL

For over ten years, VICIVISION has specialized in the production of optical measuring machines for turned and cylindrical parts across multiple industries. The use of non-contact metrology solutions reduces inspection times while increasing throughput and yield.

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VICIVISION optical machine measures the external profile of cylindrical components both statically and dynamically in a matter of seconds: from simple diameters, lengths, and threads to more complex form errors.

These unique advantages in technology and capability have returned a strong international response from dental implant and micro-mechanical manufactures. Because of this, VICIVISION has developed a specific product line to address increasing demand.

High resolution images combined with improved ergonomics for small components address the demands of dental implant and micro-mechanical manufacturers.

In this rapidly changing environment along with the transformation of global markets, it can be difficult for manufacturers to choose a machine and technology that offers capability and flexibility to see them through the coming years.

Limiting yourself to small components could be a shortlived option.

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A machine with a wide measuring range is the preferable choice, provided there are no compromises on resolution, accuracy, and the ability to detect the smallest details.

In a world where â&#x20AC;&#x153;all in oneâ&#x20AC;? solutions are ideal, VICIVISION makes its debut with a unique product offering.

Meet the X-360. A crossover combining the ability to capture the smallest details while offering a large field of view.

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The innovations don’t stop here, we have focused heavily on the ergonomics of the product to facilitate easy measurement of small components. The machine offers unobstructed, well-lit front access to facilitate loading and unloading operations, even for the smallest parts.

Particular attention was paid to the reduction of preventative maintenance. The optics housing are made of stainless steel rather than aluminum to prevent contamination and to facilitate easier cleaning.

The low friction bearings in the upper tailstock reduces the rotational slipping effect between the tailstock and the work piece in low force conditions. Across all high precision industry components being inspected are often delicate, so clamping force must also be very delicate as to not deform the parts being measured.

As an alternative to mounting parts between centers, the machine can be equipped with a large selection of fixturing solutions for pieces without centering holes.

The automated control option includes I/O communication and pneumatic fixturing systems (both chuck and tailstock).

With its long history in Industrial automation solutions.

VICIVISION can meet the needs of robotic integration as well as interface with MES and SPC software.

The resolution used by machines designed to measure dental implants is now available in a larger measurement volume (300 x 60 mm) typical for precision small parts produced on swiss screw machines and multi-spindle lathes.

The result is a unique solution to the market, which provides dental implant manufacturers with a single instrument capable of measuring both small and large components, such as those used in spinal and orthopedic surgery.

Micro-mechanical manufacturers can also benefit from a resolution capable of measuring very small radii, bevels, grooves, and threads, while still having a system capable of larger dimensional measurements (300x 60 mm) The unrivalled resolution combined with a large field of view completes VICIVISION’s exclusive “full-image” function. The “full-image” function captures the entire profile of the part loaded in the machine with maximum resolution, displaying and saving all the measurement data.

For the most advanced integration, our VVLinx communication software is available with closed loop feedback control to your machining centers. The data collected by our system is processed and sent back to the lathe (in the form of tool offsets) to keep production in tolerance and to help facilitate tooling changes.

With no international tradeshows or events being held this year, the launch of the product will take place via webinars and live demos. Contact a local VICIVISION representative for remote Web demonstrations on your parts by VICI experts.

“From high volume automotive looking for automation, to low volume high precision medical device manufacturers, the X-360 with its high-resolution imaging and large field of view, is the perfect solution for any industry.” www.vicivision.com

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Not only is the measurement data saved but so is the entire profile of the part.

This function enables the technician to save the image of the part so that it can be inspected at a later date; Should additional information be requested, measurements can be made by using the profile of the part without having to get the actual part remeasured.

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MECHANICS

HYPERTURN 45 G3: DYNAMIC. INTELLIGENT. FULLY AUTOMATED

HT 45 G3 with Turn/Mill-Assist

The machine base and the slide geometry of the HYPERTURN 45 G3 have been redesigned to enlarge the working space and accommodate a wider turret clearance to allow the integration of a 16-station tool turret and a larger Y-axis stroke of +/- 40mm. The machine remains compact, and the 72° slant bed perfectly supports the ergonomic requirements and optimal chip flow. What is more, EMCO offers holistic solutions for the automation of machine tools, e.g. “Turn/Mill Assist”, a standardized automation solution and currently the most compact solution for loading and unloading EMCO turning and milling machines.

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s the entry-level to the Hyperturn series, the new HYPERTURN 45 G3 is impressive with its increased spindle distance of 760 mm for collision-free processing with two turrets. The expanded working space offers sufficient room for the integration of BMT turrets in 12x or 16x versions. With its precision interface for fast tool changeover and direct drive for high power milling of complex workpieces, it is an excellent choice. The watercooled direct drive has 8 kW of power; it drills and mills at up to 12,000 rpm and offers 20 Nm of torque. The stable BMT interface ensures that tools have a long service life. Overall, it gives the user more possibilities in terms of workpieces processing or increasing productivity.

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EMCONNECT, the new assistant for control and production processes, is included in the machine’s standard equipment. EMCONNECT is a digital process assistant for the comprehensive integration of customer- and systemspecific applications for controlling the machine and the production flow. As the operating sequences focus on the user and their requirements, it is possible to create more efficient work processes without losing sight of the machines’ outstanding reliability in all operating modes.

Hyperturn 45 G3 with automation When selecting an automated complete solution by EMCO, the operator benefits, above all, from sophisticated technology and quality, whereas the programmer profits from the automation philosophy “everything from a single source” and its concrete technical implementation. Thus, they can capitalise on the ideal solution for their company.

Thanks to the very beginner-friendly control unit, the operator can quickly move into the implementation phase, thus increasing the processes’ efficiency, profitability and flexibility to a significant extent.

Turn/Mill-Assist EMCO’s Turn/Mill-Assist is the most compact complete solution when it comes to loading and unloading EMCO turning and milling machines. Turn/Mill-Assist is characterised especially by its user-friendliness. Thanks to the beginner-friendly control, users can get down to work without delay, which results in significantly higher efficiency, profitability and flexibility. The work will get effectively easier; customers will benefit from longer machine service lives and have an extremely flexible solution with a wide range of applications regarding weight and workpiece type at their disposal.

With the Turn/Mill-Assist series, EMCO offers different standard automation solutions, each of which comes with specific features. Each model – Turn/Mill-Assist Essential and Turn/Mill-Assist 200/270 – offers a wide range of robot payloads as well as options and modular expansions.

All advantages at a glance When opting for Turn/Mill-Assist, the customer acquires one of the most user-friendly and most reliable systems currently available on the market.

Flexible • Unique gripper design • Different gripper types • Built-in air nozzle • Workpiece recognition Straightforward and intelligent • Intuitive graphical user interface • Very short set-up and changeover times • Touch screen Capacity • Maximum capacity with minimum space requirements • No grid plates required • Workpiece stacking Extraordinarily compact • The most compact automation solution available on the market • Visible and open installation Options and modular expansions EMCO’s Turn/Mill series includes a wide range of standard products, standard options and modular expansions. With these components, every operator can compile their very own, tailor-made automation solution: additional features such as turning units, devices for placing the finished parts onto Euro-pallets or an axis extension for the handling of shaft-type components are available. It is even possible to operate the solution together with a bar loader.

This model is equipped with two servo-controlled stacking tables which are capable of stacking larger quantities of both blanks and machined parts

and an intuitive user interface. The housing features a reduced and precise design. Clean contours and precise joint patterns convey superior product quality. In order to keep track of the different product classes, price levels and equipment options are also reflected in the design features.

The recognition value of the technically sophisticated and ergonomic machines is fully guaranteed by the new design of the EMCO product family.

The machine design, too, is meant to convey the company’s conscious decision to go beyond what is standard and thus fulfil its commitment to quality, maximum precision and efficiency in turning and milling operations. In doing so, EMCO starts implementing its objective where others stop: beyond standard, that is. www.emco-world.com/de

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A new machine design reinforces the EMCO brand The repositioning of the brand – which is also reflected in the claim and commitment “beyond standard” – is now also being implemented in the machine design. As central brand ambassadors, the machines now feature a new look, a look that constitutes a functional and visual upgrade. This upgrade is reflected in a variety of design changes: In order to ensure efficient processes, user-friendliness and a clear arrangement, the machines’ main interaction areas (such as the work area) have been highlighted in both colour and shape. The operating panel comes with homogeneous aluminium surfaces, ergonomically adjustable controls 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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MECHANICS

PTFE THRUST BEARING CONVERSION TO IMPROVE OPERATIONS AT HYDROPOWER STATION

Michell Bearings has completed a PTFE conversion of white metal thrust pads at a hydroelectric power plant in Tennessee.

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onstructed in the mid-1930s, the Norris Dam was the first major project for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Its purpose was to bring economic development to the region and control the flooding that had long plagued the Valley.

TVA worked with Michell Bearings after experiencing numerous thrust bearing failures over the life of one of the two generator units. The failures of the original white metal bearings resulted in excessive downtime and associated loss of revenue.

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Michell Bearings was awarded a design contract to investigate the potential problems with the 1930’s design, which had been subject to various attempts over the years to improve reliability. The engineers at Michell Bearings created a 3D model of the thrust bearing support structure and performed a finite element analysis to determine any issues affecting the bearing performance.

Michell Bearings’ in-house performance prediction software was used to evaluate the performance of the existing white metal pads.

The bearing thrust pads were replaced using a PTFE lined alternative as a result of the study. The PTFE material provides a greater safety factor when compared with the white metal solution. PTFE is more durable and has a well-established and proven track record within the hydro power sector. The study concluded that the material will also increase the life of the bearing and provide greater reliability.

Steve Dixon, CEO at Michell Bearings, said: “Although the original contract was awarded as a study, we were pleased to hear that our advice was taken on board and led to the supply of the PTFE thrust pads for the Norris unit.”

Previously Engineering Director at Michell Bearings, Steve took on the role of CEO in May 2020. “We have been researching the advantages of PTFE for over 20 years and so we were confident that the material would solve TVA’s problem.”

Michell Bearings and TVA are working on an additional two projects at the Cherokee and Douglas hydropower plants.

Michell Bearings will be presenting a paper on the findings of this project at the Hydrovision exhibition in June 2021. www.michellbearings.com

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MECHANICS

NEW PLANETARY GEARBOXES WITH FITTED PINION

The pinion option can be combined with a total of eight gearbox series. This wide range of options ensures that not only can a solution be found for many different applications, but usually several. (Source: Neugart GmbH)

Powerful solutions for rack and pinion drives.

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eugart is extending its portfolio of planetary gearboxes, especially for rack and pinion drives, with an additional option for a fitted pinion from its inhouse production.

Two specific types of pinion are available: the PK1 pinion is fitted to the toothed output shaft of the gearbox, whereby the secure connection that is required is provided by internal gearing in accordance with DINÂ 5480. The PM1 pinion, on the other hand, is designed for gearboxes with a flange output shaft, and is equipped with a mechanical interface which is standardized in accordance with EN ISO 9409-1.

Both types are available with a helical cut, and the PK1 is also available with a straight cut. The pinions are also available in four different modules and with different numbers of teeth.

These numerous pinion/planetary gearbox type combination options ensure that not only can a solution be found for a wide range of applications, but usually several, meaning that the torsional stiffness of the flanged gearboxes is greater than that of gearboxes with an output shaft. If the construction space situation is the decisive criterion, the constructor can use the short gearbox with the output flange or the right angle precision gearboxes. If precision is the decisive factor, the constructor can opt for the greatest accuracy and torsional stiffness of the precision gearboxes.

On the other hand, economy gearboxes are a solution that is financially more attractive for standard applications. https://neugart.com/en/ MORE INFORMATION

The pinion option can also be combined with a total of eight gearbox series: including a coaxial planetary gearbox with an output shaft (PLHE) and an output flange (PFHE) from the Economy Line, which include durable and powerful standard gearboxes with an outstanding price/performance ratio. Two coaxial planetary gearboxes with an output shaft (PSN and PLN) or output flange (PSFN and PLFN) and right angle planetary gearboxes (WPLN and WPSFN) are available

in the Precision Line, which represents the outstanding accuracy of precision gearboxes.

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MECHANICS

CONTACTLESS GLASS HANDLING

Levitating substrate

Soft, maintenance-free and clean room compatible handling with ultrasound.

Industrial trends and challenges Construction glass, automotive glass or other special glasses are the largest segments of the growing flat glass industry.

Growth drivers such as technological innovation and energy consumption challenge the properties of the various glass products and their production processes.

Technical progress always leads to new, demanding requirements. Substrates are becoming thinner than ever; materials vary from flexible and fragile to specially treated surfaces (e.g. with adhesive). Time and again, processes are carried out in high-temperature environments. All this leads to an additional demand for sophisticated handling solutions.

Challenges in the processing of glass Contactless handling systems are already available to prevent scratches, marks or damage, often with the help of air bearings. However, there is still a risk of particles being deposited on the surface by movement in the air. In addition, flatness often cannot be guaranteed with materials that are unstable in shape. For some processes, such as surface inspection, the material must be as flat as possible to avoid evaluation errors. With the help of the patented ultrasonic bearing, substrates can float evenly on an air film generated by vibrations and thus be kept contact-free and flat during handling. In addition to gripping, floating support is also possible during the continuous transport of thin glass.

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How does the ultrasonic technology work?

The ultrasonic movement of the so-called Sonotrode creates a supporting gas film (air or process gas) between the Sonotrode surface and the substrate. The substrate floats on the resulting gas film at intervals of 10 - 150Îźm, depending on the application. In special cases, higher hovering heights can also be achieved. By using buoyancy forces due to vacuum, handling from above is also possible. In this way any mechanical surface contact is avoided.

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Glass gripper RobotOverhead

The physics of the ultrasonic bearing results from the flow dynamics and not from acoustic principles. The gas pressure in the gap between the workpiece and the vibrating surface increases due to the cyclic compression and decompression of the thin gas film. It is therefore necessary to realize a uniform oscillation pattern in order to generate constant floating forces over the entire Sonotrode. The vibrations are not transmitted into the substrates and do not lead to any impairment of the substrate material.

Advantages With the repulsive forces of the ultrasonic bearings, the substrate can be moved without any friction even at very high speeds. In combination with vacuum, attractive forces can be applied simultaneously, which allows handling from above. In addition, flexible materials can be “smoothed” without contact by this technique, i.e. they can be held in a uniformly centered position.

y avoiding surface contact and without dynamic turbulence in the ambient gas, no damage, micro-scratches, microcracks or contamination can damage the substrate. Handling on machined or coated surfaces is possible without contact, allowing more degrees of freedom in process and machine design. During handling, a high level of flatness of the substrate is also achieved.

The systems can be used in all atmospheric processes and in up to 20% partial vacuum processes. This requires fewer resources, such as energy or compressed air, than a standard air bearing. This has a positive effect on the energy and cost balance for the handling systems of ZS-Handling.

Another advantage is the optional temperature control of the handling system of ZS-Handling. In order to realize drying processes optimally, glasses are moved through several heating and cooling zones. Precise temperature control is necessary for an optimal process result. For example, in the first zone the temperature is regulated between 40° and 100 °, in the second between 80° and 180 °.

The ultrasonic tabletops are heated from the underside with a ceramic infrared radiator. In addition, each table is further divided into individually controlled heating zones. In the

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The force profile of ZS-Handling systems is similar to that of a conventional air bearing, but no compressed air supply is required. This means, for example, that in a clean room environment the laminar air flow – unlike with Bernoulli grippers – is not disturbed by high flow velocities, no particles can penetrate through external air or via pipes and in new production lines the costs for the compressed air supply can be saved.

The purity requirements for the production and processing of glass are very high. The handling systems from ZSHandling can be used in clean room classes up to ISO 1.

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Gripper with housing, inspection cameras and sensors

third zone the tables are cooled by a cooling water circuit under the table surface.

Exemplary requirements of a use case: The glass substrate, which is to be gripped with a gripper and deposited again, has a size of 1500 x 925 mm and a thickness of 200 μm. It is flexible and consists of four laminated layers (PET/PET/PI/PET). The flatness before gripping is approx. +/- 0.5 mm. The glass foil is to be gripped, checked with inspection cameras, and deposited at another location.

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The solution from ZS-Handling The ZS-Handling solution includes the RobotOverhead gripper including holder and electronics. It consists of three Sonotrodes with vacuum chamber, which are held together in a housing. In order to produce a uniform repulsion by ultrasound and suction by vacuum, many small holes are distributed over the Sonotrode. This also smoothen the glass foil. In total, the gripper measures 1600 x 1025 mm with lateral openings for edge stops, sensors and cameras for inspection. The height is approx. 100 mm, with fans and valves for switching the vacuum on and off approx. 250 mm.

With the uniform ultrasonic oscillations of the Sonotrode, a flatness of +/- 75 µm can be achieved over the entire substrate.

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oscillations, thin glass is held in a flat position on the evenly generated air film, so that scratches or any other contact is avoided. Furthermore, the laminar air flow in the clean room is not impaired by turbulence, thus preventing the transfer of particles. www.zs-handling.com/de

S M A R T FA C TO R Y

EMERSON’S NEW LASER WELDER ENHANCES MANUFACTURING CAPABILITIES

The Branson GL-300 is a highly flexible quasi-simultaneous plastic joining solution, designed to deliver efficient high-quality welds in a wide range of applications.

Branson™ GL-300 platform increases production capability and enables faster production start-up.

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merson has launched a new laser welder platform that provides high mix and batch manufacturers of plastic components with greater production capability, without compromising product quality or performance.

TheBranson GL-300 is a highly flexible quasi-simultaneous plastic joining solution, designed to deliver efficient highquality welds in a wide range of applications and help manufacturers to increase production efficiency.

“For batch manufacturers looking for more efficient production processes, quasi-simultaneous laser welders provide a very flexible, cost-effective joining solution,” said Priyank Kishor, global product manager for Branson's products at Emerson’s Automation Solutions Business. “The Branson GL-300 extends this flexibility by enabling the assembly of a broader range of components, helping to increase manufacturing capability and profitability.” www.emerson.com

MORE INFORMATION

Manufacturers increasingly need machines and processes that can be quickly and cost-effectively adapted to changing production demands and specifications. For low volume, high mix manufacturers especially, flexible welding solutions that allow faster production start-up, provide a critical advantage. The Branson GL platform meets this need by combining highly efficient and accurate welds with costeffective and easy-to-change tooling that enables faster set-up and adjustment for changing product specifications.

the Branson GL-300 to support applications with different materials, application sizes and production speeds.

Manufacturing capability is further enhanced by a range of unique features including a high-quality scanning system, easy-to-use HMI, large (300 mm x 300 mm) weld area, multiple weld modes, variable spot size as low as 0.5 mm and an adjustable laser power source height. These enable 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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SPECIALIZED IN PACKAGING MACHINES FOR CONFECTIONERY AND BAKED GOODS: THE NEW DRT 25C FROM LEUZE

The DRT 25C works with the conveyor belt surface as a dynamic reference for the detection of objects. This is how the sensor reliably detects all objects that do not correspond to the belt surface, even in the case of contamination and vibration of the conveyor belt.

The teach button is used to teach-in the belt surface during the initial setup of the sensor. This means no additional setup time is required when changing products or packaging materials.

The primary and secondary packaging of confectionery and baked goods can be challenging: The new DRT 25C dynamic reference diffuse sensor from Leuze solves this problem precisely in an innovative and reliable way: with a one-of-a-kind reference technology and three light spots.

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ensors must continuously and reliably detect a wide range of products and films on the conveyor belts of primary and secondary packaging machines for confectionery and baked goods (HFFS, FS, Thermoform, or VFFS). The packaging machines keep running without interruption, even if the product or packaging material changes.

Innovative reference technology for all products Leuze developed the DRT 25C dynamic reference diffuse sensor with its innovative detection method for precisely this area of application. The sensor works with three light spots and uses reference technology. The latter references the conveyor belt instead of the product and that is what makes this technology so unique. In the first step, the surface characteristics of the belt are taught in. This enables the sensor to subsequently detect all objects that do not correspond to the belt surface as “deviations”, even if the conveyor belt is dirty or vibrating. With this approach, the surface properties of the products, such as the color, gloss, or transparency do not influence the detection. The DRT 25C uses its three light spots to reliably detect the entire spectrum: small, flat, or also tall and spherical products. Even irregular shapes and contours or products with openings, e.g. cookie curls, are detected. Thanks to the wide scanning range, these are also detected as a continuous piece.

Higher throughput due to reliable detection and zero setup time when changing products The reliable detection of objects – even those with challenging shapes and surfaces – guarantees a high

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Three light spots ensure maximum reliability. The DRT 25C reliably detects the front edges of the objects, ensuring smooth processes and no machine downtime.

The wide scanning range detects all types of products, even those with difficult geometries.

From transparent to high-gloss: The reference technology enables the detection of packaging with a wide range of colors and transparency as a “deviation” from the conveyor belt surface.

Leuze’s detection expert – the DRT 25C – reliably meets the high requirements of packaging machines for confectionery and baked goods with innovative reference technology.

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machine throughput and prevents system standstills.

Even under difficult conditions such as vibrations or contamination on the conveyor belt. No realignment of the sensor is needed when products or packaging materials are changed over. This significantly reduces the setup time required and enables higher product volumes. The DRT 25C is quickly and easily set up thanks to automatic teaching by means of the teach button. With a universal mounting position for all objects. Additional functions can be conveniently integrated into the machine control via IOLink. For example, a warning message for excessive debris, use of the counter built into the sensor, or locking the teach button. www.leuze.com/drt25c

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NEW INTESIS GATEWAY MAKES COMMUNICATION BETWEEN PROFINET AND BACNET EASY

HMS Networks announces a new Intesisâ&#x201E;˘ protocol translator for communication between PROFINET PLCs on factory floors and Building Management Systems with BACnet IP/MSTP. With this, full data integration, monitoring, and control is enabled between factory floors and building facilities.

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Key objectives can be achieved with factory-tobuilding communication In factories, it is essential that environmental dimensions such as temperature, humidity, and air quality are controlled and monitored automatically to ensure optimal conditions for manufacturing and working staff. And, by ensuring efficient control of facilities such as HVAC and lighting systems, factory owners can save a lot of energy and manage emergency situations in a safe way.

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However, when system integrators plan for factory-tobuilding integration, they normally face a heterogeneous and challenging communication situation. BACnet is typically the protocol used in the Building Management System (BMS) to control the facilities inside the building, and PROFINET is one of the most used factory networks for controlling production processes.

Communication enabled with certified Intesis PROFINET - BACnet gateway Focusing on this situation, the new Intesis PROFINET - BACnet IP/MSTP protocol translator from HMS Networks is a costeffective and easy-to-install gateway solution that offers bidirectional communication between PROFINET PLCs and BACnet controllers. Able to connect up to 1200 data points, the gateway is BACnet IP/MSTP server/slave on one side and PROFINET I/O device on the other, featuring independent Ethernet ports. The gateway has been BTL certified for BACnet and carries the UL mark in order to guarantee the highest communication and quality standards.

Thanks to its strategic placement between the factory and building systems, the gateway becomes an enabler of very interesting applications such as energy metering of devices

and machines in the factory from the BACnet-based BMS system, HVAC monitoring, and control from the PROFINET PLC, as well as easy alarm definition and management.

Easy configuration and integration process using Intesis MAPS Intesis MAPS, the common configuration tool for all Intesis protocol translators, offers a very intuitive configuration process for system integrators covering both sides of the gateway. MAPS help integrators further in their projects by providing valuable EDE files for the BACnet integration, as well as GSD files and TIA portal TAG files for fast configuration of any connected PROFINET PLC controller.

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The result of HMSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; combined expertise in factory and building communications Extending the comprehensive range of existing Intesis BACnet protocol translators, the new PROFINET - BACnet version is the first product in a new line of Intesis gateways for factory to building integration that will be released step by step by HMS Networks. In these gateways, HMS combines its proven AnybusÂŽ and Intesis communication technologies for industrial and building-oriented communication respectively, trusted by customers in millions of installations worldwide. www.intesis.com

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MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC AUTOMATION RELEASES MELSERVO-J5 SERIES OF SERVO PRODUCTS

The company’s next generation of motion control products deliver high-speed, high-precision control to maximize machine performance.

M

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itsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. announced the release of its next generation MELSERVO-J5 Series of AC servo motors, amplifiers, and motion control units. The MELSERVO-J5 Series brings performance, reliability, flexibility and efficiency to a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, packaging, printing, converting, material handling and more.

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MELSERVO-J5 is a result of continuous innovation and improvement upon the MELSERVO Series of products that Mitsubishi Electric has produced since 1988. New features are included to introduce a quality, competitive product to the AC servo marketplace.

New to the MELSERVO-J5 Series is the “quick-tuning” function that allows users to quickly and reliably tune their servo mechanism in approximately 0.3 seconds. The servo amplifier sets the speed loop gain and suppresses machine resonance through the servo on command. No tuning experience is required because gain values are automatically generated, reducing machine setup time and effort. Additional functions and features include an advanced vibration suppression function, multi-axes servo amplifiers, expanded predictive maintenance capabilities powered by Mitsubishi Electric’s Maisart® AI technology, a 31.25μs communication cycle time, multi-network capability including compatibility with CC-Link IE TSN® and EtherCAT®.

In addition, MELSERVO-J5, like previous MELSERVO products, was designed with long-term migration paths in mind, making retrofits and upgrades, both now and in the future, easier and more cost-effective for users.

MELSERVO-J5’s new and improved features unlock benefits across various industries. Industry leading communication cycle time combined with a 3.5kHz speed frequency response rate ensures precise, responsive movement and short settling time. Compatibility with CC-Link IE TSN facilitates IoT infrastructure across the manufacturing enterprise, and enables time synchronization across all connected devices at one gigabyte per second (1 Gbps).

The MELSERVO-J5 Series is also able to meet any axis requirements, from a single axis to a 256 multi-axis system, due to its scalable synchronous axes—while all the motion modules are programmed in a single software environment.

“MELSERVO-J5 servo products set the standard for servo performance in the world of factory automation,” said Sunny Ainapure, senior product manager at Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. “Cutting-edge technology, performance and advanced servo features allow users to unlock unused potential in their machines and factories.”

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More information on MELSERVO-J5 can be found by following this link: https://us.mitsubishielectric.com

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MANUAL WORK MEETS MODERN AUTOMATION TO EMPOWER WORKERS WITH HANDICAPS

In spite of advancing digitalization, the following still applies: Manual workstations are indispensable, because automation is not always profitable with small batch quantities or complex processes. Such workstations are preferred at the Martinshof Werkstatt Bremen, a sheltered workshop for a mixed workforce including people with handicaps, as they are ideally suited for integrating persons with physical or cognitive handicaps into working life.

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Poka Yoke has empowered our workers,” said Miriam Berger, in charge of Production Planning, Martinshof Werkstatt Bremen. “We use automation to avoid mistakes that previously occurred in the production process.

Everyone must be able to work smoothly together.”

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The Japanese Poka Yoke principle, which aims at the systematic elimination of human errors, coupled with Mitsubishi Electric’s “Guided Operator Solutions,” ensures high quality for Martinshof’s customers, which include wellknown automakers in the region.

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With some 2200 employees, Werkstatt Bremen is one of the city’s largest employers as well as Germany’s oldest and largest workshops for people with and without handicaps.

Apart from job order and contract production in the fields of metal and woodworking, electrical assembly, filling, and packaging, Werkstatt Bremen employs 500 workers alone in the automotive business sector, and has been supplying local automakers for more than 30 years.

Handke Industrie-Technik, a long-standing supplier to Werkstatt Bremen of manual workstations, and a premium solution partner of Mitsubishi Electric, recognized the unique opportunity. Together with Mitsubishi Electric, Handke developed a Poka Yoke solution for adapted working. The prototype of the error-free workstation convinced the customer, and was installed in the production line. Since May of 2018, a total of four identical zero-error workstations are in use for automotive parts production.

“Poka Yoke has empowered our workers,” says Miriam Berger, in charge of Production Planning, Martinshof Werkstatt Bremen.

A further advantage is that we can use pictures to provide instructions. This especially helps workers who have reading or writing disabilities.

Integrating on-site technology and visualization “The main challenge of this project involved the integration of existing technology into the new error-free workstations,” said Nils Knepper, Senior Product Manager Modular PLC/ Software at Mitsubishi Electric Germany. “However, thanks to the interfacing features of our Poka Yoke controller, this was not a problem.”

The MELSEC iQ-F series PLC, installed on-site in a small control cabinet, is the intelligent, individually configurable and expandable heart of the solution that controls the picking and assembly sequences. Apart from Mitsubishi Electric’s own components, the system can also handle third-party sensors and actuators. In this case this included the digital torque wrench and a system for industrial image processing.

The connection of a barcode printer is being implemented, and thanks to existing conventional interfaces, this can be done easily by the PLC.

Wide range of components for individualization “The need to prevent errors exists everywhere during production and assembly,” remarks Andreas Kebbel, Managing Director of Handke Industrie-Technik. “What is most important is the quick and flexible adaptation to the needs of the persons working there, and to the requirements of the process.”

That is why Mitsubishi Electric and Handke offer their solution in the form of a modular system with a wide range of components and interfaces for operator guidance.

Among others, these include mechanisms to ensure the correct picking of parts, e.g. light barriers, pick-to-light push buttons (alternatively: pick-to-voice), barcode scanners, and proprietary pick-to-door devices with stroke switches.

Moreover, there are monitoring devices such as electric screwdrivers with torque & angle detection, plus vision systems as well as opportunities for robot integration.

HMIs (Human Machine Interfaces) from Mitsubishi Electric’s

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“During the design of the user interface, Mitsubishi Electric was highly flexible, and took all our requirements into account. Because many of our employees cannot read very well, we make use of smileys and other symbols,” explains Miriam Berger. “In addition to process reliability, the Poka Yoke workstations have the great advantage for us, unlike the past situation, as practically any employee can now do the job.” The supporting visualization mentioned uses a 10inch touchscreen terminal connected in the background to the Poka Yoke controller.

The hardware and software solution from Handke and Mitsubishi Electric deliver simple scalability, convenient configuration, programming and commissioning as well as comprehensive connection possibilities (including MES and ERP). And as soon as freedom from errors is achieved, and the technical potential is available, Werkstatt Bremen will investigate whether the buffer store can be dispensed with in the future, so that after assembly is completed the parts can be directly shipped “in time” to the automaker.

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Thanks to the Poka Yoke controller, existing technology, like a digital torque wrench in this case, can easily be integrated into the error-free process.

GOT2000 series are used for displaying the individual process steps, offering direct connectivity to the Poka Yoke controller, and meeting every display requirement from text through graphical symbols up to animations and augmented reality. Depending on requirements, the latest generation iQ-R or iQ-F PLCs can be used as controllers for the guided manufacturing solutions. Mitsubishi Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guided Operator Solutions can be integrated into production systems, so that workstations can be networked and resources controlled and monitored in real time.

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https://au.mitsubishielectric.com/en/index.html

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S M A R T FA C TO R Y

NEW LOW-COST, HIGH-PERFORMANCE ALTERNATIVE TO ROD ACTUATORS AND PNEUMATIC CYLINDERS

Bell-Everman has launched ServoBelt™ RA, a new high-performance, drop-in replacement actuator designed for applications that have traditionally used rod actuators, pneumatic cylinders or even linear motors. Unlike traditional rod actuators, ServoBelt RA is fully guided along the entirety of its stroke, making it more resistant to off-axis loads and more stable in on-axis moves.

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ith linear forces up to 200 N, speeds up to 4 m/s, accuracy to +/- 4μm per meter and bi-directional repeatability as low as +/- 25μm depending on deceleration profile, ServoBelt RA performance compares favorably to linear motors that cost thousands more.

ServoBelt RA has been built from the ground up for moving chassis installation in both horizontal and vertical Z-axis orientations. Its drive unit features standard or custom mounting hole patterns to make it easy to integrate ServoBelt RA into your machines. A range of standard motor offerings enables the replacement of pneumatic cylinders simply by connecting DC power and rerouting servo-valve signals to the ServoBelt RA. www.bell-everman.com

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VISION RESEARCH INTRODUCES PHANTOM T1340 FOUR-MEGAPIXEL HIGH-SPEED CAMERA

Vision Research – a leading manufacturer of digital high-speed imaging systems – introduces the Phantom T1340, a high-resolution camera that captures images up to 13 Gpx/second, doubling the capabilities of other 4 Megapixel cameras in its class.

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he 2048 x 1952 low-noise sensor, combined with a compact form factor, are ideal for demanding measurement applications such as object tracking, flow visualization, microscopy and modern imaging techniques, like Digital Image Correlation (DIC). A binned mode is included to provide higher throughput and a sensitivity boost at 1 Megapixel and below.

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Workflow features of the T1340, which are ideal for applications in outdoor range environments, include Phantom CineMag V compatibility for an ultra-fast and secure workflow. The CineMag also supports direct recording for long duration events. A 10Gb ethernet option is available for fast file downloads, enabling users to continue shooting with reduced downtime in any environment. The on-camera controls, video outputs and CineMag compatibility enable a standalone operation.

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“The Phantom T-Series is our new platform that brings higher throughput, larger RAM capacity and CineMag compatibility to a compact form factor,” says Toni Lucatorto, Product Manager. “This combination extends the possibilities for many industrial high-speed imaging applications.”

Key Specifications of the Phantom T1340 Camera • Custom 12-bit CMOS sensor • 2048 x 1952 at 3,270 frames per second (fps) • 1920 x 1080 at 6,160 fps • Maximum frame rate: 113,510 fps at reduced resolution • Native ISO: Mono 16,000D (25,000D Binned); Color 4,000D (6,400D Binned) • Available with 36, 72 or 144 GB RAM • Compact size: 5 x 5 x 8 inches www.phantomhighspeed.com

S M A R T FA C TO R Y

RED LION’S FLEXEDGE™ INTELLIGENT EDGE AUTOMATION PLATFORM INTEGRATES IT AND OT

Advanced Networking and Powerful Automation in One Operating System.

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These new capabilities open doors to new product combinations, further expanding the applications to which the FlexEdge platform can be deployed. With FlexEdge’s modular communications sleds, users can now deploy multi-cellular radio gateways for critical communications applications. And, for environments with demanding requirements, the platform offers multiple isolated serial ports, routable Ethernet ports, optional serial, USB, Wi-Fi, and cellular communications sleds, and field-installable I/O.

Powered by Crimson 3.2 software, the FlexEdge platform provides customers with maximum flexibility to easily modify controller functionality as application needs change.

From advanced networking to automation, one controller does it all. Customers can enable additional functionality through field-unlockable software upgrades that eliminate the need to purchase or add more equipment, saving both money and unnecessary downtime.

www.flexedge.net

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ed Lion’s FlexEdge Intelligent Edge Automation Platform now combines the scalability of Linux® with the power of Crimson® 3.2 software into one userfriendly operating system. This fusion enables a single FlexEdge controller to provide advanced networking, security, and automation. By integrating information technology and operational technology, FlexEdge helps customers reduce costs, improve data security, and increase productivity.

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NEW TBN/TRN-S4 SERIES WITH SIL2 CERTIFICATION

The TBN/TRN-S4 Series has been awarded SIL2 certification by TÜV, thus meeting the requirements for use in safety-related applications. TWK’s proven safety series of magnetic encoders is expanded with the TBN/TRN-S4 series, which features increased resolution in the single-turn range (model TBN) and a variety of different applications.

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he resolution of the sensor system can be up to 16-bits.

The detection of the multiturn part, i.e. the number of revolutions (max.12-bit), is done by an absolute multiturn gear (model TRN). This model series is an all-round talent. It covers the entire spectrum, from large and robust to miniature versions, which can be used in areas that do not require extremely high standards for environmental influences and must be cost-effective.

In addition to the safe position value, a safe speed signal is generated. The gate time can be varied to record the speed value. The default value is 100 ms. The gate time can be parameterized from 1 to 1000 ms depending on the requirements, thus enabling extensive use of the speed signal for e.g. slewing ring applications or time-relevant requirements.

The customer can select various mechanical variants from the extensive portfolio. These include: Clamping flange with shaft design, blind shaft for preferably Ø 12 mm, various shaft diameters (Ø6, Ø10 or Ø12 mm), optionally with flattening or feather key or Woodruff key. Customer-specific requirements can also be implemented together with the customer.

The radial and axial shaft load is ≥ 250 N. This very high value also allows the use in harsh environments. In order to meet special requirements, versions with a shock load of up to 500 g ±50 g are implemented in separate variants for extreme industrial conditions. In addition to the

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NEWS

version made of seawater-resistant aluminium (AlMgSi1), the housing can be supplied in a stainless-steel version (1.4305 or 1.4404) for special requirements such as offshore applications or requirements from the food industry.

The TBN/TRN-S4 series has protection class IP66 and can be used in a temperature range from -40 °C to +85 °C. Especially for extreme requirements, the option of encapsulating the entire housing is available to meet the requirements of IP69K applications. The electromechanical interface can be designed as a cable output or connector output (M12 sensor plug).

As a controller system, a Cortex 32-bit-controller of the latest generation forms the corresponding hardware platform.

For the most diverse applications, various scenarios are also available with regard to shield connection, DC/DC concepts for the supply voltage and the optional electrical isolation of the output signals. www.twk.de MORE INFORMATION 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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TRACEABILIT Y

RECORD WORKING DIMENSIONS FOR THE NEW XXL-BOX

“After the huge success of the L-BOX and XL-BOX, our compact marking stations, we have been asked on numerous occasions to offer a larger workspace in order to be able to mark large parts.” These are the words of Eric B. Marketing and Sales Director at SIC MARKING, world leader in industrial traceability, to justify the launch of the new XXL-BOX Laser Marking Station.

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s its name indicates, the new XXL-BOX station offers record working dimensions (up to 520 mm high) as well as great modularity thanks to its 3 standard models (800, 1200 and 1600 mm wide) and its numerous accessories. The strength of this new product also lies in its ability to adapt perfectly to different customer requirements, illustrating SIC MARKING’s extensive know-how in the realisation of tailor-made solutions:

“The XXL-BOX is ideally suited for the classic use of its large working volume, but also enables the project manager at SIC MARKING to offer tailor-made solutions for more complex large-volume marking applications. As Project Manager, Nicolas E. highlights the flexibility of this new product through a large number of accessories. “Automatic threedimensional axis, automatic loading system, loading drawer or turntable are just a few examples of the applications proposed by our technical teams to meet our customers’ needs”.

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Requested by a large number of customers, the new XXLBox Laser Marking Station has met a great success with ETIs and large companies manufacturing large parts or subassemblies such as shafts, valve or pump bodies, crankcase, exhaust components but also bodywork sub-assemblies.

It is not surprising to find it in the sectors in which SIC MARKING is already active: Automotive, Aeronautics, Industrial Vehicles, Hydraulics, Oil & Gas… 28 | Industry USA | September 2020

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NEWS Available in 3 basic sizes at a very competitive price, the XXL-BOX perfectly complements SIC MARKING’s laser workstation wide range of products, which makes it possible to meet all customer requirements in terms of cabinet size.

As a result, the international French group had the opportunity to prove all the qualities of its new product by taking up the challenge offered by a major German automotive supplier. The company wanted to mark a Datamatrix code on gearbox prototypes. The solution provided was an XXL-BOX laser marking station, with a 5-axis laser that made it possible to achieve a marking window of 900 x 500 x 500 mm. The project was the result of a technical and commercial cooperation between the headquarters and SIC MARKING GMBH (the group’s German subsidiary) and highlighted the great adaptability of this new product to customized requests and the group’s ability to monitor projects at an international level. www.sic-marking.com

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