Industry EMEA | 32 - January 2022

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DELTA’S NEW COMPACT, HIGH-PERFORMANCE ASDA-B3 SERIES

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32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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MONTH’S PRODUCT

DELTA’S NEW COMPACT, HIGH-PERFORMANCE ASDA-B3 SERIES

Sets to Boost Servo Drive Adoption.

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elta, a world-class provider of industrial automation solutions, today announced the launch of its new compact and high-efficiency servo system ASDA-B3 Series, which offers a user-friendly operation environment with precise motion control functions, a newly- added safe torque off (STO) function, high responsiveness up to 3.1kHz and high positioning precision with over 16.7 million pulses per revolution to optimise production efficiency and output value in a wide range of applications, such as machine tools, electronics, semiconductors, industrial robots, printing, packaging, textiles, warehousing, and medical. Concurrently we have also launched the new generation motor of ECM-B3 Series, offering improved power density, stability, and stiffness while reducing 40% space requirements.

Nevertheless, torque has increased 350% and the maximum speed is now 6000 rpm. With the new ASDASoft GUI, the time of commissioning and troubleshooting is shorter.

“Customers across a broad range of manufacturing and industrial automation applications are going to be really excited about our new generation of servo drives,” said Davide Bagnacani, product manager, Industrial Automation Business Group at Delta Electronics EMEA region. “The ASDA-B3 Series is a big step up in performance and we think this will make it attractive for applications, such as machine tools, electronics, semiconductors, industrial robots, printing, packaging, textiles, and warehousing. Moreover, applications that might not have used a servo drive before will see a noticeable increase in throughput. This drive is going to make the decision to use a servo motor much easier.”

A new level of performance Among the many performance highlights of the new 230VAC ECM-B3 motor from Delta is an auto tuning feature that ensures optimised operation without the need for manual adjustments.

Responsiveness has been bumped up to 3.1 kHz from the 1 kHz of the preceding model. Delta has programmed new motor control algorithms and increased the computing power of the drive to achieve this superior result.

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A 40% reduction in settling time also contributes to improved production line productivity. Load tolerances have increased, allowing for better control resolution and system stability as well as higher response bandwidth for the same load conditions.

Further contributing to efficiency are the low cogging torque, increased speed, and lower acceleration and deceleration times. As with the previous line of Delta servo drives, customers can choose from motors with varying inertia ranges to achieve the most efficient inertia ratio.

The new drive enables a number of motion functions, for instance in PR mode. Operators can use up to 99 PR paths for flexible motion command planning. The Capture feature makes it possible to capture coordinates instantly from a single set of digital inputs.

Positioning is now several orders of magnitude more precise thanks to the 24-bit encoder, which results in 16,777,216 pulses per turn and 46,603 pulses for a single degree. This absolute encoder also retains the motor’s position when the power is off.

Flexibility, compatibility, and enhanced usability The new configuration application ASDA-Soft employs wizards to guide users through a fast and easy setup procedure. Onboard diagnostics features and usability have been improved with a new and intuitive layout.

The new servo drives of ASDA-B3 Series are compatible with the existing motors of ASDA-A2 Series and ASDA-A3 Series.

Configurations are available with IP20 connectors and IP65 connectors are in planning. https://www.delta-emea.com MORE INFORMATION

State-of-the-art safety, communications, and control Safety features include built-in STO with no additional module required (B3A family), reaching a safety integrity level of 2 (SIL-2) and performance level D (PL-D). The ASDA-B3 Series can also operate using several different control modes from traditional pulse train and analog input to the more current fieldbus systems including CANopen and EtherCAT. These different control modes were achieved with three different hardware designs to ensure good segmentation and achieve cost efficiency for the respective

application. The EtherCAT command frequency has been raised to 125 µs/8kHz for greater accuracy.

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ELECTRONICS

THE MINI SERIES TAKES A TAXI

The Internet of Things makes it possible to produce individualized products automatically – in batches as small as a single product. The path of the component through the assembly process thereby takes on an entirely new meaning. In the Adaptive Machine Platform Prolynk, manufacturing machinery and assembly stations can be configured and combined with total flexibility. The parts move individually from station to station, in a mini-taxi so to speak. FAULHABER supplies the drive technology for the small AGVs.

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hen Henry Ford installed the first“moving assembly line” in 1913, he increased the production of his cars eightfold – a quantum leap in production efficiency. This allowed him not only to drastically reduce the price of his Model-T but also to increase his workers’ wages.

It’s no surprise that this success was soon copied. Even today, countless products are produced according to the assembly line principle. It is, however, less suited for small series and not at all for individualized, automatic production. But this is one of the goals of Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): individual products should be designed and equipped according to customer requirements – with the highest possible level of automation. This requires flexibility in the processes that is not very compatible with the permanently installed path of a conveyor belt.

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Components take a taxi With the Prolynk technology, the configuration of the “assembly line” can be freely adapted or reconfigured, following changing requirements. The components no longer travel on a predetermined path, but instead take a taxi in the form of a small driverless transport unit (automated guided vehicle, AGV): “The part to be processed is thereby reliably transported to all required stations,” explains Antonio Sanchez, Chief Commercial Officer of Prolynk. “The processing steps, whether performed manually or by robots, can occur completely individually. Yet, the sequence is still automated.” A platform made of standardised tableshaped modules serves as the physical basis of the system. It consists of standardised plates and can be designed freely with respect to size and shape. Simple metal plates form the base unit and serve as movement surface. A variant of the base plate is equipped with fastening indexing units. For production steps that require high precision or for which a larger application of force needs to be compensated, they

hold the vehicle and component in position. Here, the plate element also has an opening in the middle. This can be used to perform processing from below as well, as it corresponds exactly to the shape of the opening in the AGV. Arbitrary sequence of the assembly stations The Prolynk AGV is available in two sizes (325x230 and 450x350 millimeters); the maximum load is between 5 and 35 kilograms depending on the model. The component to be processed is secured for travel to the individual assembly stations via the opening in the middle. These stations can be freely attached, including manual jobs as well as tasks performed automatically by machines or robots, e.g., laser rule to function. The motion controllers of type MC 5004 P and encoders of the IE3-1024 series from FAULHABER play an important role here. They detect the rotation of the brushless motors of the BX4 series, which is used by the Prolynk electronic motherboard to do the odometry, calculate AGV position and manage motion control. The motor’s force is transferred to the drive belts of the wheels by planetary gearheads of the 32/3 design. “If a company decides on the Prolynk solution, the small AGVs become the heart of a production process. They must, thus, function completely reliably and with a very low level of maintenance, over as long a time as possible, securing a low total cost of ownership” says Antonio Sanchez, explaining the priorities for selecting the AGV components. “With the drive unit, the quality of the products had top priority for us.

maximum flexibility in designing their production processes.

They can theoretically get started with a small platform consisting of just a few plates and a single mini-AGV. The system can be freely expanded or reorganised, with high flexibility and machine adaptability. Smart functions are available and the Prolynk technology is easy to integrate into the PLC architecture. New products, new processes and technologies can also be easily integrated; the existing modules can be rearranged depending on circumstances.

“There are no limits to the system’s adaptability,” emphasises Antonio Sanchez. “The production capacity follows directly from the order situation.” https://www.faulhaber.com

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FAULHABER can guarantee us not only the required quality, but the motors also offer additional advantages that are essential for our application. There is very little space in the vehicle. Even so, a great deal of motor power is needed to move what are often heavy parts at the required speed.

With respect to the ratio between volume and torque, the BX4 series is a leader on the global market. This power density is a key factor in allowing us to offer our customers a solution that is as reliable as it is flexible.” The combination of reliability and flexibility gives users of the Prolynk solution 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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ELECTRONICS

EXXELIA REVOLUTIONARY MML™ ULTRA-HIGH ENERGY DENSITY FILM CAPACITORS SAVE BOTH SPACE AND WEIGHT WHILE LOWERING COMPONENTS COUNT

Exxelia, a leading manufacturer of ruggedized passive components and sub-systems dedicated to demanding markets, today introduced Miniature Micro-Layer™ (MML™) capacitors, a breakthrough technology that allows tremendous size and weight reduction thanks to an unrivaled energy density.

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ML™ is a revolutionary new technology that provides the highest capacitance per volume in film capacitors available on the market.

Why is it a game changer? Because an unparalleled energy density of 400 J/dm3 allows for a tremendous reduction in size and weight compared to traditional Polypropylene or Polyester dielectrics, together with an increased operating temperature up to 140 °C and transient voltage protection.

Besides, MML™ capacitors offer a large flexibility in design, easily allowing low profile configurations.

Several studies have been conducted on actual cases of controls and DC-Links functions for aircraft applications.

All have shown about 50% reduction in size and weight compared to other film technologies.

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The comparative picture with MLCC is even more flattering, as it demonstrates between 70% to 90% reduction in weight, while showing no capacitance derating with voltage applied and a low drift < 5% through the temperature range.

Applications using clusters of stacked MLCCs can now be replaced by a single MML™ unit of similar size, with all of the increased reliability that film dielectric offers.

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With such outstanding properties, Exxelia new MML™ capacitors are perfectly suitable for power supplies, DClinks, AC/DC/AC power converters, charge/discharge or power generation functions of commercial/military aircraft, satellite platforms and payloads, launchers, defibrillators, downhole tools and any applications of confined electronics.

Samples are readily available on request.

Features & Benefits • Miniaturization of the function: Up to 50% size reduction vs other film technologies; matching footprint with stacked MLCC • Lightweight: 50% lighter vs other film technologies; 80 to 90% lighter than ceramic • No capacitance derating in voltage, stable in temperature (< 5% drift through the temperature range) • Capacitance from 1μF to 1000μF • Voltages from 50V to 1000V • Operating Temperature -55 °C to +140 °C • Highly customizable https://youtu.be/oVRqS8cudc0 www.exxelia.com

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ENVIRONMENT

DELTA HONORED WITH LEADERSHIP LEVEL RATINGS

BY CDP FOR SUBSTANTIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO CLIMATE CHANGE AND WATER SECURITY ISSUES

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he CDP (formerly known as the “Carbon Disclosure Project”) released its Climate Change 2021 report, in which Delta was listed in the leadership level under “climate change” and “water security” issues among nearly 12,000 companies worldwide. The CDP assessment recognises that Delta’s business strategy is aligned with low carbon goals. Not only does Delta’s Board of Directors actively participate in its sustainability strategy, but the management team also leads the ESG Committee in promoting various climate initiatives and implementing them in the core business and daily operations. The team received top ratings for “climate change governance,” “business strategy and financial planning,” and “emission reduction initiatives.” In water security, Delta achieved a five-year water intensity reduction of 30% in 2020 and committed to a further 10% reduction in water intensity by 2025 compared to 2020.

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Delta has also assessed the water risk of its main plants and supply chains using the international water risk assessment tool and provided improved resources for high-risk areas or deployed production capacity to reduce its impact on water resources. The Company has been awarded the highest honor from CDP with an A-List leadership rating for its contributions to water security issues.

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Jesse Chou, Delta’s Chief Sustainability Officer, said Delta has long been concerned with climate change and aligns with international sustainability initiatives. After passing the Science-based Targets (SBT) in 2017, Delta has far surpassed its annual goals for three consecutive years through selfdirected energy reduction, self-generation of solar energy, and the purchase of green power or international renewable energy certificates. In 2020, Delta reduced its carbon intensity by 55%, and the proportion of global locations using renewable electricity reached 45.7%.

Based on the experience and results of SBT implementation, Delta has further joined the RE100 this year and pledged to achieve 100% renewable electricity and carbon neutrality in all global operations by 2030, echoing the global trend toward net-zero carbon emissions. Delta also attaches great importance to water security management and continues to improve water efficiency and wastewater treatment efficiency in its operations. Delta strengthens the resilience of regional water resources and reduces the impact of water pollution while assisting high-risk suppliers in making improvements.

The Delta Foundation also recently screened Delta’s marine environmental documentaries “The Birth” and “Life in the Coral Reefs” at the COP26 United Nations official negotiating area to raise public awareness of the impact of climate change on the oceans and expand corporate influence.

The plants have also implemented 80 water conservation programs and 111 waste reduction programs, saving 183.6 thousand tons of water and 7,774 tons of waste. * For water risk at major production sites and supply chains, Delta uses the water risk assessment tool developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI) to identify the baseline water stress level, measure the risk level, and make improvements (e.g., elevated foundations) in conjunction with operational conditions. Delta also selects approximately 600 suppliers from the top 80% of the annual purchase amount as drought risk assessment targets and incorporates the assessment results into Delta’s decision-making basis.

We are pleased that Delta’s efforts and achievements in addressing the risks of climate change and water security have been recognised by CDP and other significant international organizations.

To identify and manage climate change and water-related risks and opportunities, Delta introduced the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) in 2017, which discloses information such as climate governance, strategies, risk management, and indicative targets, and is updated annually.

In 2018, Delta became the world’s first TCFD supporter in the technology industry. Over the years, Delta has used scenario analyses to assess the risks and opportunities climate change brings for the Company from the perspectives of products and services, supply chain, R&D investment, and operations.

Delta was able to quantify and prepare financially and focus on high-performance products, key components for electric vehicles, green buildings, and renewable energy to achieve the development goal of low-carbon transformation.

CDP is a founding member of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), the We Mean Business Coalition, the Investor Agenda, and the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, whose annual environmental disclosure and scoring process is considered an essential standard of transparency for corporate environmental information. In 2021, more than 14,000 organizations worldwide disclosed data about environmental impact, risks, and opportunities through CDP, including more than 13,000 companies with a total market capitalization of over 64% of the world and covering more than 1,000 cities, states, and regions. A total of 272 companies received top honors for transparency and performance on climate change, forests, and water security with an A-List leadership rating. * Please refer to the 2020 Delta Electronics ESG Report MORE INFORMATION

From 2010 to 2020, Delta’s high-efficiency products helped customers worldwide save 33.5 billion kWh of electricity, equivalent to reducing 17.8 million tons of carbon emissions. In 2020, Delta’s 15 certified plants and buildings and five donated academic green buildings saved a total of 18.48 million kWh of electricity, equivalent to a reduction of 11,685 tons in carbon emissions.

At the same time, Delta provides its water conservation experience in plants and green buildings to high-risk suppliers to help them respond to climate change. Delta also continues to reduce water demand in its operations.

All plants and facilities within its management area are equipped with electronic water meters combined with the Delta Energy Online system and the DIAEnergie industrial energy management system. This allows Delta to continuously optimise equipment operation efficiency using systematic data analysis, improve production processes, and develop water management strategies to enhance water use efficiency.

https://esg.deltaww.com/en/

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

MEIJE RENEWS THE OVERHEAD CRANE OF A HYDROELECTRIC PLANT

Meije, manufacturer of overhead cranes, gantry cranes, installer of handling equipment and member of Verlinde’s EUROPONT and after-sales network, has won a tender for the renewal of a travelling crane in the hydroelectric plant at Mauzac, Dordogne. Present production of electricity at the plant enables some 15,000 households to be provided with this source of energy. The replaced overhead crane was commissioned in 1924 when the facility was built. Having become obsolescent, its use was suspended in 2019.

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ith more than 70 years of experience and 25 professionals in the workshop and in the field, Meije’s field of action is a wide stretch of the South of France for lifting and handling operations for industry, together with the maintenance of electric motors. An important unit is dedicated to the construction of overhead cranes associated with an advisory service in the design department. Meije operates with the most demanding industrial companies not least of which are those in aerospace and shipbuilding.

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Meije conducts on-site works including diagnosis, predictive maintenance, asynchronous motor and generator maintenance, laser alignment, dynamic balancing and vibration analysis of equipment. MASE certification provides a guarantee of safety, one of the company’s main operational priorities. Meije has been Verlinde’s partner and a member of the EUROPONT network for twenty years.

An industrial site one hundred years old Meije has been involved in the installation, repair and maintenance of lifting equipment for the Mauzac hydroelectric plant for 40 years.

The factory was inaugurated in 1924, and several pieces of equipment still in use date from that period. That was the case of the overhead crane, used for the maintenance of machines. In compliance with the design of the early 20th century, the overhead crane operated with a single lifting

speed and without a load limiter. Too old and obsolete, the overhead crane no longer met current safety standards. It also had design issues as it brushed against the plant wall when moving. Its use was therefore suspended in 2019. As a temporary replacement, a mobile crane or jib crane was occasionally used. The lifting process was expensive and not all-inclusive due to a lack of the power required to lift certain parts of alternators.

EUROBLOC VT2 maintenance hoist replaces the large hook for small manoeuvres.

The hydroelectric plant therefore issued an invitation for bids initially for the retrofit of the overhead crane because of the narrowness of the installation and of the potential difficulties for positioning.

The new overhead crane was installed in Mauzac in the Spring of 2021. It took Meije only 6 months to design, manufacture and commission.

A customised overhead crane Taking into account structural and design flaws, Meije responded by offering a complete replacement rather than a refurbishment, for an equivalent budget. With similar experience on another EDF site, Meije was able to resolve installation difficulties. The company’s solution was adopted.

Meije took charge of the installation. It was necessary to install the crane outside the building and make an opening in the roof. The modern and down-sized design of the new overhead crane fits perfectly into the buildings, without touching the walls.

The plant is once again fully serviceable with a practical, functional and standards-compliant overhead crane. It is again possible to organize full maintenance of the turbines. www.verlinde.com

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A custom-designed overhead crane with an MWL of 63 tonnes, a span of 14.5m and a height of 12m was built. The crane is fitted with VERLINDE EUROBLOC VT5 hoists, with two speeds for all directions, a load limiter and radio control.

Several options were added at the customer’s request: lighting of the work area by LED projectors and load readout.

An additional 3.2 tonne auxiliary hook on a VERLINDE 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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IT

SEEQ CORPORATION ACHIEVES AWS ENERGY COMPETENCY STATUS

The designation recognises Seeq’s expertise in enabling faster insights for energy customers with advanced analytics features and innovations.

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eeq Corporation, a leader in manufacturing and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) advanced analytics software, announced today that it has achieved Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS) Energy Competency status.

This designation recognises that Seeq has demonstrated deep expertise helping customers leverage AWS cloud technology to transform complex systems and accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Achieving the AWS Energy Competency differentiates Seeq as an AWS Partner with extensive knowledge and technical proficiency within this unique industry, including proven customer success developing solutions across the value chain from production operations and optimization to commodities trading, new energy solutions, and more.

To receive the designation, AWS Partners undergo a rigorous technical validation process, including a customer reference audit. The AWS Energy Competency provides energy customers the ability to more easily select skilled Partners to help accelerate their digital transformations with confidence.

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“Seeq is proud to be among the first AWS Partners to achieve the AWS Energy Competency status,” says Dr. Lisa Graham, CEO at Seeq. “Seeq and AWS are complementary solutions for the advancement of the energy industry. By choosing Seeq on AWS, energy companies can leverage the big data, machine learning, and computer science innovations they need to improve production and business outcomes.”

AWS is enabling scalable, flexible, and cost-effective solutions from startups to global enterprises. To support the seamless integration and deployment of these solutions, 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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AWS established the AWS Competency Programto help customers identify AWS Partners with deep industry experience and expertise. To receive the designation, AWS Partners undergo a rigorous technical validation process, including a customer reference audit. Seeq also achieved theAWS Industrial Software Competency in 2019.

Seeq’s advanced analytics application is a preferred solution for upstream production optimization in AWS Marketplace, enabling customers to rapidly investigate and share insights from process data stored on premise or in the cloud. Energy industry customers can also use Seeq to improve sustainability efforts, including carbon recapture, greenhouse gas detection and mitigation, and more.

In addition to AWS data services, Seeq connects to an extensive set of data storage platforms from vendors including OSIsoft, Siemens, GE, Honeywell, Inductive Automation, AVEVA, AspenTech, Yokogawa, InfluxDB, Snowflake, and others. Seeq is available worldwide through a global partner network of system integrators, which provides training and resale support for Seeq in over 40 countries, in addition to its direct sales organization in North America and Europe. https://aws.amazon.com/partners/programs/ https://aws.amazon.com/manufacturing/partner-solutions/ https://www.seeq.com

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Examples of use cases for energy customers using Seeq on AWS include one company that is deploying a realtime event detection model for analyzing well production performance across its asset base, and another that is reducing unplanned downtime and unifying data to optimise asset uptime by using Seeq to connect to Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3) and its on-premises historic data.

purchase process. This streamlined approach to technology deployment enables companies using Seeq to quickly and easily realize the benefits of advanced analytics.

Seeq on AWS can be procured in AWS Marketplace, which simplifies the procurement process and provides incentives for enterprise customers through the AWS Enterprise Discount Program. In addition, all AWS Marketplace sellers are verified as “ready-to-run” on AWS, expediting the 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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IT

AGGREKO LAUNCHES GREENER UPGRADES IN SUPPORT OF SUSTAINABLE DATA CENTRE CONSTRUCTION

Global temporary power specialist Aggreko has reaffirmed its commitment to more sustainable data centre construction with the launch of its Greener Upgrades.

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he initiative will see Aggreko invest c.£30m in more environmentally-friendly temporary solutions before the end of the year, as part of the company’s wider decarbonisation strategy.

Within the next 10 years, the business aims to cut the amount of diesel used in its fleet and reduce local air quality emissions from its equipment by 50% each, with the eventual goal of achieving carbon neutrality across all business operations by 2050.

Billy Durie, Global Sector Head for Data Centres at Aggreko, said: “With pressing climate commitments growing in the global conscience, data centre operators are leading the way in re-evaluating the environmental impact of their facilities.

However, it’s important to recognise that this is something that goes beyond the realm of day-to-day operations.

‘With the launch of Greener Upgrades, we’re trying to support contractors in their efforts to build more sustainably, by reducing both the carbon footprint and local emissions of data centre construction. Only by ensuring that the environmental impact of both construction and operation remains to a minimum can we enable the growth of truly green IT infrastructure.’

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While a number of motions towards greener practice can be observed in Europe’s data centre market, the focus has predominantly been on increasing operational efficiency through the adoption of technologies such as free cooling and waste heat recovery systems. With the launch of Greener Upgrades, Aggreko aim to support the move towards carbon neutral construction of data centres construction.

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Statistics from the Digital Economy and Society Index’s (DESI) 2020 Report indicate that Internet use in the EU continues to grow year-on-year, with 85% of Europeans surfing the Web once a week – an increase of ten percentage points since 2014. With demand showing no signs of slowing down, the construction of new data centres will be required to avoid placing strain on existing infrastructure.

Earlier research from Aggreko showed that grid access was among the top priorities for contractors during the data centre construction phase. However, with larger projects often taking weeks to establish a connection, temporary power and temperature control is required in the interim.

Billy concluded: ‘With this investment, we’re ensuring that data centre contractors are equipped with the tools and support necessary to build sustainably. This will prove a crucial development going forwards, especially when both growing demand for data and net zero targets are considered.’

To download Aggreko’s new Greener Upgrades guide visit: w ww.aggreko.com/en- gb/greener-upgrades-inconstruc tion?utm_medium=pressrelease&utm_ source=pr&utm_campaign=greenerupgrades

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The launch of Greener Upgrades follows the introduction of ultra-low emission Stage V compliant generators to the Aggreko fleet, which are compliant with the European Commission’s Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD).

The MCPD forms part of 2013’s Clean Air Policy Package, with the aim of limiting the emission of certain pollutants from Medium Combustion Plants. Aggreko have also recently pioneered the use of hydro treated vegetable oil (HVO) as a drop-in fuel, allowing operators to reduce local emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.

to witness a projection of what may be possible before experts undertake a full assessment.

In the coming months, Aggreko are also set to launch an online estimation tool which will allow data centre contractors to calculate the reductions they can make in CO2, local emissions and fuel. This tool will enable operators 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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GLOBALMATIX TELEMATICS SOLUTION FOR XTCU TELEMATICS INTERFACE – THE NEW DIMENSION FOR THE FLEET MANAGEMENT OF THE FUTURE

Shared mobility is one of the major trends of future mobility, particularly in urban regions. Large fleet operators, such as rental car and car sharing companies, also see enormous growth potential in this area.

With around 255,000 rental and car sharing vehicles in Germany, “Car to Cloud to Company” will be a critical technology when it comes to efficient and inexpensive fleet deployment. This is why GlobalmatiX AG, a subsidiary of Softing AG, Munich/Haar, has developed an innovative telematics solution, which, with the help of artificial intelligence, offers the greatest amount of available data and transfer security on the market.

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longside standards such as location information and journey approval via app, the outstanding range of services includes continuous technical diagnosis of the entire vehicle, early detection of impending defects, as well as the detection of minor damage and – with the help of artificial intelligence – the reporting thereof in a damage report including a calculation of the cost of the damage.

Thanks to individual data acquisition and reporting tailored to the needs of every particular fleet operator.

Detecting Minor Damage Up to 90% of all minor accidents are not discovered when rental cars are returned as the car bumper has sprung back into its original state and position. This is problematic as this area can be subject to quite considerable damage.

The xTCU interface detects this damage and, using the software developed by GlobalmatiX partner Spearhead AG,

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Zurich, provides an individual damage report based on the vehicle model incl. an estimate of the costs of the damage within seconds. Millions of pieces of historic and recent accident and assessor data from the Stuttgart-based expert organization DEKRA SE provide the basis for this.

Cees van Dijk, CEO of Spearhead AG, Zurich: “GlobalmatiX, with its highly sensitive telematics box, is the first company to be able to deliver the extensive volume of data we need for digital accident analysis to our cloud system in real time.”

The xTCU Gateway is a 4G/LTE/5G CAN data logger and GPS telematics interface specially developed for Car to Cloud to Company use cases. It is smaller than a smartphone and can be installed in any vehicle in just a few minutes, thus enabling the acquisition of OBD data or diagnostic data from the ECUs. The telematics box certified according to CE,

eMark and RED in the EU enables access to a wide range of vehicle data in rich quality – regardless of the vehicle brand.

With it, GlobalmatiX offers a previously unreached level of security against unauthorized access by third parties with its innovative encryption technology and proprietary 4G/ LTE/5G wireless network. In other words, GlobalmatiX xTCU can acquire and analyze virtually all data measured by the vehicle’s ECUs, supplemented by state-of-the-art GPS tracking, and transmit the information to the vehicle operator “over the air” almost in real time. With the help of artificial intelligence in the Big Data Cloud, a qualified analysis of vehicle data, events and changes to the ideal state is now possible for the first time and can be sent to the vehicle management system – in as detailed a form as the fleet operator desires.

The companies see great potential for cost savings in the future, particularly in contactless lessor-lessee management, while at the same time improving customer service. The xTCU telematics interface is the key to achieving these goals.

Successful Premiere with Enterprise/Switzerland: Millions to be Saved Enterprise in Switzerland was the first rental car company to carry out an extensive test run with GlobalmatiX; in June 2021, they concluded a long-term contract on the use of the telematics interface. After an evaluation of the results, the outcome is convincing in several areas: “Our major digital challenge is detecting and settling minor damage,” says Marco Venturini, CEO of Enterprise Switzerland. “Previous solutions based on expert opinions were simply too late, too time-consuming and too expensive. The GlobalmatiX telematics solution, in conjunction with the MSS Holding AG software customised to suit rental car management, is a great help in settling these cases of minor damage and

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The benefits for rental car and car sharing companies are: • digital recording, classification and processing of the damage, • digitalisation of the damage report (previously several days were required, now in real time), • correct assignment of the damage to the party responsible and transparent, fair settlement of recovery costs, • millions of euros saved (depending on the size of the fleet) with clear, unambiguous identification of the party responsible, • savings from assessor costs that are not necessary.

The GlobalmatiX telematics solution thus offers a reliable basis for the stationless and contactless use of rental and car sharing vehicles. The detailed recording of the current condition of a particular vehicle before it is next rented out saves the otherwise necessary inspection at a station, and thus additional personnel costs, without jeopardizing the level of quality that customers expect today. At the same time, this helps reduce the idle time of rental cars.

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NEWS

at the same time implementing vehicle diagnostics for all our brands.”

If you take a look at the statistics, you will see that a rental car has four incidences of minor damage a year on average, with repairs totaling around EUR 6,000. In comparison, the costs for the xTCU Gateway, the installation and the annual telematics costs constitute only around one tenth of the repair costs not chargeable by the company. In the case of the fleet sizes of rental and car sharing companies, this represents millions in saved costs every year.

To make these services possible, GlobalmatiX has not only engaged in a partnership with Spearhead AG, Zurich, for the diagnosis and assessment of minor damage. A further partner is MSS Holding AG, Zurich, a comprehensive mobility provider, as well as the licensees Enterprise, National and Alamo in Switzerland. This is where an extensive “Digital Connected Car” concept was developed as a management platform for vehicle fleets.

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There are currently four telematics applications in use which are of great significance for lessors and operators of passenger car and van fleets: remote vehicle diagnostics and predictive maintenance, accident detection and automatic claims handling, complete résumé file (CarCV) for vehicles and keyless door opening for rental vehicles.

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Andreas Buhl, President of MSS Holding AG: “The multibrand capability, the modular and tailor-made applications for all vehicles over the xTCU interface, the high data resolution as well as the extent of applications over only one box were decisive in our awarding the contract to GlobalmatiX. By using the GlobalmatiX telematics solution, we have established the basis for digitizing our Connected Car concept. This will enable us to simplify complex return processes in a customer-friendly way and make them more cost-effective. Creating a résumé increases the resale value of our vehicles and facilitates marketing before the vehicle is returned. Furthermore, keyless access to the vehicle allows us to put rental on the road.”

Alois Widmann, CEO GlobalmatiX: “We have developed a smart telematics box to be used for several brands in large fleets. It is not only easy and quick to install, but also records diagnostic signals at extremely high sampling rates and combines them with telematics data. From everywhere in the world, the data acquired is transferred to and analyzed in the Big Data Cloud of our partner Spearhead in real time via mobile radio. The fleet manager can act immediately on the basis of these results. This innovative telematics solution with just one box makes sure that the ongoing total costs for large fleets are significantly reduced.” https://automotive.softing.com

IT

SOFTWARE MULTIPLEXER FOR EASY CONNECTION OF ALLEN-BRADLEY AND SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC HART MODULES TO EMERSON’S AMS DEVICE MANAGER

Easy access to Allen-Bradley and Schneider Electric HART modules (Source: Softing Industrial).

Softing Industrial introduces smartLink SW-HT – a HART multiplexer software for accessing configuration and diagnostic data via Emerson’s AMS Device Manager or other HART IP-enabled plant asset management applications. Version 1.10 supports Allen-Bradley controllers and remote I/Os in addition to Schneider Electric M580 controllers and drop I/Os.

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smartLink SW-HT scans all configured HART modules for the connected HART devices and maintains a live list of the devices. This eliminates the need to scan the entire AMS Device Manager device tree when a new HART device is added. The application converts the incoming HART IP commands into the Ethernet-based communication used by the Allen-Bradley and Schneider Electric HART modules.

Optimised scheduling of the commands is performed to achieve the optimal communication performance.

To access just one HART device, the smartLink SW-HT software can be downloaded free of charge. The costs for additional licenses are scalable and depend on the number of HART devices to be connected.

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n increasing number of modern remote IOs are using Ethernet as the connection to the controller. smartLink SW-HT addresses this trend by providing an Ethernet connection to tunnel the HART commands to the remote IOs. smartLink SW-HT provides access from Emerson’s AMS Device Manager to HART field devices connected to Allen-Bradley or Schneider Electric M580 controller HART IO modules or remote I/Os. An integrated HART IP server ensures transparent access to configuration and diagnostic data. Users save time and costs as they do not need additional HART multiplexer hardware. The product comes as a Docker container and is deployed with additional virtual machines, making it easy to use under Windows.

More Information is available on the Product Page. https://industrial.softing.com/products/docker/smartlinksw-ht.html

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IT

SEEQ EXPANDS MACHINE LEARNING SUPPORT TO DEMOCRATIZE DATA SCIENCE INNOVATION

New initiative facilitates the integration of machine learning algorithms from open source, third party, and customer data science teams into Seeq applications.

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eeq Corporation, a leader in manufacturing and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) advanced analytics software, announces the expansion of its efforts to integrate machine learning algorithms into Seeq applications. This will enable organizations to operationalize their data science investments, open source and third-party machine learning algorithms for easy access by front-line employees.

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Seeq customers include companies in the oil & gas, pharmaceutical, chemical, energy, mining, food and beverage, and other process industries. Investors in Seeq, which has raised over $100M to date, include Insight Ventures, Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures, Altira Group, Chevron Technology Ventures, and Cisco Investments.

Seeq’s strategy for enabling machine learning innovation provides end user access to algorithms from a variety of sources rather than forcing users to rely on a single machine learning vendor or platform. This addresses the diversity and types of algorithms available to organizations, including: -Open sources algorithms and other public resources. For example, this week Seeq will publish two Seeq Add-ons to GitHub, including algorithms and workflows, for correlation and clustering analytics, which users can modify and improve based on their needs.

-Customer-developed algorithms in Seeq Data Lab—or machine learning operations platforms such as Microsoft Azure Machine Learning, Amazon SageMaker, Anaconda, and others—as part of data science or digital transformation initiatives.

-Third party algorithms provided by software vendors, partners, and academic institutions. AWS’s Lookout for Equipment, Microsoft Azure AutoML, BKO Services’ Pump Prediction, and Brigham Young University’s open-source offerings are examples of the emerging marketplace for industry and vertical market specific algorithms.

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The Seeq initiative also address the critical “last mile” challenge of scaling and deploying algorithms in manufacturing organization by putting data science innovation in the hands of plant employees in easy-touse applications: Seeq Workbench for advanced analytics, Organizer for publishing insights, and Seeq Data Lab for ad hoc Python scripting.

This is in addition to Seeq support for the foundational elements of success with machine learning. This includes access to all manufacturing data sources—historian, contextual, and manufacturing applications—for data cleansing and modeling, support for employee collaboration and knowledge capture, quick iteration, and enabling performance-based continuous improvement workflows.

Examples of customers using Seeq applications to access and integrate data science innovation include an oil & gas company deploying a deep-learning-based emissions prediction algorithm, a pharmaceutical company using

“Seeq provides a bridge between data science teams and their algorithms to front-line employees in hundreds of plants around the world,” says Brian Parsonnet, CTO at Seeq Corporation. “Deploying algorithms is now as simple as registering them in Seeq, and then defining which employees have access to them in their Seeq applications.”

Seeq first shipped machine learning features in 2017 in Seeq Workbench, and then in 2020 introduced Seeq Data Lab for Python scripting and access to any machine learning algorithm. This support for multiple audiences—with point and click features for process engineers, low code scripting, and a programming environment for data scientists engaged in feature engineering and data reduction efforts—delivers an end-to-end solution for organizations with all levels of analytics sophistication.

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“Data science innovation in manufacturing organizations has the potential to deliver a step change in plant sustainability, productivity, and availability metrics,” says Kevin Prouty, VP Industrials, IDC Corporation. “But to land this opportunity, companies must be able to deploy data science innovation to front line engineers with the expertise, data, and plant context to make decisions on insights provided by these new algorithms.”

an unsupervised learning algorithm to proactively detect sensor drift in sensitive batch processes, and a chemical customer using pattern learning to identify root causes of process instability and extend cycle time.

Seeq is available worldwide through a global partner network of system integrators, which provides training and resale support for Seeq in over 40 countries, in addition to its direct sales organization in North America and Europe. https://www.seeq.com 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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IT

DATA CENTRES MUST PREPARE FOR CONSTRUCTION SUPPLY CHAIN FALL-OUT

The construction industry’s well-documented supply struggles should serve as a reminder to data centre operators to ensure schedules of new facilities are adapted to avoid costly disruption, according to Aggreko.

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ecent statistics from the Construction Products Association have suggested construction output surpassed pre-pandemic levels in May. However, ongoing headlines suggest a growing skills and materials shortage, which could significantly impact infrastructure projects. This includes the Office for National Statistics reporting material costs rose by 20% between July 2020 and 2021, and the Construction Skills Network suggesting the industry requires 217,000 additional workers to meet demand by 2025.

For data centres across Europe, particularly in the continental and Nordics regions which often relies heavily on UK and Irish contractors to fulfil infrastructure projects, these events show delays should be expected and accounted for. As such, long-term planning around engaging testing and commissioning expertise, and securing necessary construction equipment, is more important than ever, according to Aggreko.

Billy Durie, Global Sector Head for Data Centres at Aggreko, said: “The upheaval the UK construction industry is currently experiencing has clear ramifications across multiple sectors, including the European data centre market. With contractors from this region often sought out on the continent for their expertise, any skills shortage could be problematic for facility providers on tight project schedules.”

“This is doubly the case considering data centre construction continues to boom, meaning this disparity between falling supply and skyrocketing demand will need to be addressed.

Long-term planning will therefore be required if contractors are to navigate this with minimal disruption.”

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Market intelligence reports into the sector are showcasing a compound annual growth rate of 4% from 2021 to 2026 in the Western Europe and Nordic data centre market. However, with the availability of specialist contractors decreasing due to COVID-based disruption, innovative strategies may be required to access vital skills, including engaging third-party expertise to test and commission facilities.

experiencing great upheaval, this level of consistency is vital and should be sought after as a priority.”

For more information on the commissioning process and how Aggreko can be of support to your build, visit: www. aggreko.com/en-gb/sectors-and-services/data-centres/ data-centre-commissioning

Billy explains: “Delivering a facility on time and to budget can be a very complex and demanding situation for data centre providers, and the current skills shortage in the market has further exacerbated a high-pressure situation.

However, rushing through key processes is not the answer, as due diligence is required to ensure data centre resilience and minimise errors that could lead to reputational damage.

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“Consequently, with scope for permanent hires in this area contracting, we would advise engaging as early as possible with global suppliers that can provide the key personnel and utilities equipment required for testing and data collection.

By doing so, these contractors can plan in advance and avoid setbacks while accessing standardised, high-quality testing even while supply chains remain affected.”

“Aggreko, for example already have multiple pan-European frameworks in place, meaning that contractors will receive consistently excellent levels of service, solutions, product quality and pricing. At a time when the market is 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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MEASUREMENT

FROM THE LAB TO THE PROVING GROUND: ROHDE & SCHWARZ AND AUDI COOPERATE ON CELLULARV2X ROAD TRAFFIC SCENARIO TESTING

Rohde & Schwarz and Audi partner to enable Cellular-V2X (C-V2X) application testing; creating road traffic scenarios in the laboratory and using the same traffic scenarios to conduct end-to-end testing on the Audi proving ground with an R&S CMW500 wideband radio communication tester.

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ellular-V2X (C-V2X) is a key technology which will increase traffic efficiency, improve road safety and enhance autonomous driving in the coming years. Of particular importance is the C-V2X PC5 interface, operating in the 5.9 GHz ITS frequency band. This enables direct, reliable, low latency communication between vehicles (V2V), vehicles and infrastructure (V2I) and vehicles and pedestrians (V2P).

To accelerate the deployment of this technology, cooperation between companies within the industry becomes increasingly important. In a joint project with Audi, Rohde & Schwarz and Vector Informatik have developed a C-V2X test solution that allows traffic scenarios involving multiple simulated vehicles and the communications between them to be tested in the laboratory in a precise and repeatable way. This enables the correct operation of C-V2X applications such as emergency brake warning in realistic and demanding traffic scenarios to be verified in laboratory.

Jointly with Audi, the laboratory solution was extended for use at the proving ground. This enabled the verification of several scenarios with one single physical vehicle and many simulated vehicles emulated by the Rohde & Schwarz test equipment.

The key benefits of this approach are the use of the same test equipment in both locations and reducing the number of vehicles required for the proving ground. This test approach allowed Audi to perform various load tests and corner case scenarios using test vehicles and simulated vehicles together at the proving ground. The excellent cooperation between the teams facilitated co-development of

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In a joint project with Audi, Rohde & Schwarz and Vector Informatik have developed a C-V2X test solution that allows traffic scenarios.

this innovative C-V2X test setup, helping to reduce time to market and saving capital expenditure.

The system comprises an R&S CMW500 radio communication tester, R&S SMBV100B vector signal generator (laboratory only), the Vector CANoe Car2x software, an R&S BBA150 amplifier and a R&S HF918 antenna with tripod and adaptor.

This system is easily capable of generating signals with up to 33dBm output power, which is required by emergency vehicles in certain markets. Synchronization of the simulated vehicles and the test vehicle at the proving ground with real GNSS sources allows verification of complex traffic scenarios in real time.

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As C-V2X continues to increase its footprint in the automotive industry, having a test system which scales into different phases of the automotive verification cycle becomes increasing important to reduce time to market and minimise capital expenditure. Rohde & Schwarz is committed to supporting their partners in the automotive industry with innovative C-V2X test solutions in the coming years. www.rohde-schwarz.com/automotive

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MEASUREMENT

ROHDE & SCHWARZ UPDATES ECONOMY VNA PORTFOLIO WITH MODELS UP TO 20 GHZ AND INDEPENDANT CW SOURCES FOR LOW FREQUENCY MODELS

Rohde & Schwarz launched four new R&S ZNL and R&S ZNLE vector network analyzers that can support up to 20 GHz of operation frequency.

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he economy VNAs now have the frequency range necessary to investigate even third harmonics for 5 GHz and 6 GHz band technologies, such as wireless LAN or mobile radio. The latest firmware release also includes a brand-new option that provides lower frequency R&S ZNL models with an internal CW signal generator.

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Four new portable benchtop vector network analyzers are now available from Rohde & Schwarz: The R&S ZNL14, R&S ZNL20, R&S ZNLE14 and R&S ZNLE18. The R&S ZNL models have two-port network analysis for a complete set of component S-parameters from 5 kHz to 14 GHz and 5 kHz to 20 GHz. The R&S ZNLE models have two-port network analysis for a complete set of S-parameters from 100 kHz to 14 GHz and 100 kHz to 18 GHz (20 GHz in overrange).

The Rohde & Schwarz instruments are intended for the education, service lab, production and automated testing markets where a balanced price/performance ratio, a small size factor and ease-of-use are top priorities. Together with the time-domain and distance-to-fault analysis options available in the lower frequency models, the four microwave models are ideal for signal and power integrity applications as well as cable and filter testing.

Most 5G FR1 applications use frequencies between 3 and 5 GHz; while wireless LAN for WiFi-6 (802.11ax) uses the 6 GHz band. Debug trials in the design stage need to include the third harmonic, or frequencies up to 18 and 20 GHz. The Rohde & Schwarz instruments in the R&S ZNL/ZNLE family help meet the increasing demand for network analysis at these microwave frequencies and have an attractive price.

The light weight and small form factor make it easy to move the R&S ZNL/ZNLE between test stations or labs. The R&S ZNL also comes with an optional battery pack for field use.

Users just push a button to switch on the instrument and start measuring with their R&S ZNL or R&S ZNLE. No external monitors, notebooks or additional software installations are needed.

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The R&S ZNL20 is one of four new microwave models of the Rohde & Schwarz economy VNAs.

The new R&S ZNL is ideal for commercial standards of 5 kHz and upwards and can also perform radiated emission measurements that include scans of up to 18 GHz in the time domain to measure voltage standing wave ratios. The R&S ZNL14 and R&S ZNLE14 cover all frequencies in the X band for commercial ground-based and airborne weather monitoring, air traffic control, military satellite transmissions, positioning and target identification.

For more information on the R&S ZNL and R&S ZNLE, visit https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/product/znl and https:// www.rohde-schwarz.com/product/znle

The R&S ZNL20 and R&S ZNLE18 also support applications measuring in the lower K band (Ku), such as satellite pointto-point communications for GNSS systems, television satellite broadcasts and backhaul links.

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Lower frequency models with independent CW source The R&S ZNL-K14 option is included in the new 1.41 firmware release, expanding the R&S ZNL3, R&S ZNL4 and R&S ZNL6 functions with an internal CW signal generator for DUT stimulation using a continuous wave signal from port 1, while the frequency spectrum is analyzed at port 2.

The R&S ZNLx‑B1 spectrum analysis option is required for this function.

The R&S ZNL and R&S ZNLE vector network analyzers are part of the R&S Essentials portfolio. The new microwave models are now available from Rohde & Schwarz and selected distribution partners.

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MECHANICS DRIVES

DIGITALISATION IN DRIVE TECHNOLOGY: CUSTOMER ADDED VALUE FROM DRIVE DATA

How intelligent drives from NORD DRIVESYSTEMS improve availability.

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redictive maintenance is the systematic continuation of condition maintenance with the aim of proactively maintaining machinery and equipment and detecting changes, reducing downtimes and increasing the efficiency of the entire plant. A status-oriented maintenance replaces the traditional time-based maintenance.

Especially for drive systems in demanding production environments where industrial gear unit installations are usually used in sensitive applications and their failure can cause severe damage, for example in intralogistics, the food industry or the heavy duty sector, condition monitoring supplements the triad of gear unit, electric motor and frequency inverter with improved safety and reliability. This is where condition monitoring for predictive maintenance comes into play: Based on intelligent algorithms and software in an IIoT environment, the networked drive units can collect their condition data in the inverter’s own PLC and pre-process it together with data of connected sensors and actuators. The result of the pre-processing or the complete data can be optionally transmitted to an edge device. There, data of all subsystems is managed and evaluated. It is then available as pre-selected and edited smart data for further use and clear visualisation.

Data analysis instead of just data reading A concrete application example is the sensorless determination of the optimum oil change time based on the oil temperature. This is based on the fact that the oil temperature is a key factor for oil ageing in gear units.

This information in combination with available gear unit parameters and specific operational parameters make it

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NORD-predictive-maintenance-solutions.jpg: Fast, efficient and comprehensive evaluation of analogue and digital data by the intelligent PLC in the NORD drive technology forms the basis for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance.

Image: NORD DRIVESYSTEMS

possible to precisely calculate the oil change time. A physical temperature sensor is not required. The pre-processing of drive data takes place in the NORD frequency inverter’s integrated PLC that is used as an evaluation unit. The customer can access the calculated data via all common interfaces.

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The right PLC software architecture for each solution The drive equipment can be optionally extended and adjusted to the respective automation task. Customers can select what tasks (drive monitoring, drive control, process control) they want to directly shift into the drive. In smaller production areas, this scalability offers the possibility to gain first experiences before reorganising the plant. There are three configuration levels available. At the first level, the drive unit PLC only performs the drive monitoring. The drive parameters are pre-processed in the PLC and communicated to the higher level control system that is responsible for drive and process control. At the medium level, the PLC integrates the drive control and also runs drive-related functions. At the higher configuration level, the inverter PLC completely replaces the higher level control system. Apart from the communication to a control unit, a local data management without Internet connection can optionally apply the data. https://www.nord.com

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MECHANICS

ROTARY POWER INVESTS £3 MILLION IN ROBOTIC MACHINING CELL AT NORTH EAST FACTORY

DMG Mori robotic machining cell at Rotary Power’s facility in South Shields

Rotary Power, part of the British Engines Group, has invested over £3 million in an automated DMG Mori machining cell which has been installed at the company’s manufacturing facility in the United Kingdom.

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he automated capability of the new cell has improved Rotary Power’s manufacturing efficiency by reducing the set up time by 87.5%. The average cycle time has also been reduced by 33% thanks to the machine’s latest cutting technology.

Measuring 19 metres by 10 metres, the customised cell installed at Rotary Power consists of one automated robot travelling between two machines via a 13 metre track.

The robot automatically loads and unloads parts, sets the machines and collects completed products. The cell is primarily used to manufacture components for Rotary Power’s range of motors and pumps.

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The cell became fully operational last month and sets Rotary Power apart by improving quality and reducing wastage.

The new machine also standardises the length of time each tool is used for by assigning a tool life span. Removing set-up variations in this way improves consistency, whilst reducing wastage on consumable items.

DMG Mori, headquartered in Japan, is one of the world’s leading CNC machine tool manufacturers. Following a merger between German company, DMG, and Japanese company, Mori Seiki in 2010, their joint cutting-edge 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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technology leads the way in the development of high-tech, automated manufacturing machinery.

Ian McGeorge, Manufacturing Manager at Rotary Power, who has been leading the project said: “The addition of the new cell represents an exciting time for the company as it has allowed us to position ourselves more competitively within the market by improving our quality and reducing costs.”

A huge effort has been made by the team at Rotary Power to prepare for the implementation of the new cell and the business looks forward to seeing the positive impact that this investment will have in the future.

Part of the British Engines Group, Rotary Power is a manufacturing company based in South Shields that specialises in the design, development and manufacture of hydraulic pumps and motors. Rotary Power has three subsidiaries in the USA, Germany and India, as well as a worldwide network of distributors and agents. https://rotarypower.com

MECHANICS

NSK DEVELOPS SELF-LUBRICATING DEEP GROOVE BALL BEARINGS FOR SUBMERSIBLE PUMPS IN CRYOGENIC APPLICATIONS

For use in submersible pumps that handle cryogenic gases such as hydrogen and LNG, NSK has developed rolling bearings that do not require external lubrication. These stainless-steel bearings with a cage made of self-lubricating fluoroplastic are seeing increasing adoption in submersible pumps from leading manufacturers.

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growing number of projects worldwide are today promoting the use of hydrogen as an energy source. These projects often use special submersible pumps that can reliably pump gaseous and liquid media in continuous or intermittent operation - at low temperatures down to around -200 °C. In such pumps, the double bearing of the pump shaft is a critical design element. Corrosion resistance is essential, and no lubricant can be used other than the media washing around the bearing. However, this tribology is unfavourable as it places tough demands on the material pairing. In addition, the bearings must maintain long service life, even at low temperatures.

A stable cage that occupies the entire inner volume of the bearing provides guidance for the rolling elements (also made of stainless steel), while the cage material, a selflubricating fluoroplastic, ensures low-friction running of

The NSK bearings are available in various sizes (shaft diameter 30 to 100 mm) and are ideal for use in both larger hydrogen pumping facilities and decentralised applications, such as hydrogen filling stations.

Of course, the bearings are also suitable for pumps handling other cryogenic gases such as nitrogen.

NSK has developed special shaft bearings with a cage made from self-lubricating fluoroplastic for submersible pumps that handle cryogenic gases and liquids

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NSK has therefore developed a series of deep groove ball bearings specifically for these exceptional operating conditions, where a number of key design features provide differentiation from conventional pump bearings. For example, the inner and outer rings are made of a stainless steel adapted to the special requirements of rolling bearings.

the bearing without external lubrication. In addition, the high-performance fluoroplastic is extremely wear-resistant and offers good low-temperature properties at speeds up to 3600 rpm. The cage is of two-piece design, with the two halves joined by stainless steel rivets. In laboratory tests, and in practice, these deep groove ball bearings achieve significantly longer service life than other bearings for this application, such as those with a cage made from hard phenolic resin.

https://www.nsk.com

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MECHANICS

IMPROVING APPLICATION SECURITY AND END-USER SAFETY WITH VISUAL INDICATION

Consumer and end-user expectations around the efficient, reliable and cost-effective securing of products and equipment have rapidly increased in recent years. Equipment manufacturers increasingly face challenges in protecting valuable, sensitive equipment against failure, human error and unauthorized access, as well as growing cyberattack threats.

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t the same time, the act of physically securing vital assets and fixtures needs to be kept cost-effective, low-maintenance, and easy to integrate and operate.

Security and safety measures that are overly complex can undermine the effort to establish strong security in the first place.

Balancing ease of operation and cost, with effective safety and security, presents a significant opportunity for innovative designers — there are simple, robust and proven devices that industrial designers can consider that often provide useful, intuitive solutions to these challenges.

The power of visual indication One of the simplest and yet most effective ways to ensure that equipment enclosures and panels are, in fact, secure is through visual indication — features engineered into devices that give the user obvious, immediately visible information about whether a door or access panel is properly, safely and completely secured.

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Leading component suppliers are now offering both mechanical and electromechanical locks and latching mechanisms that incorporate a range of visual safety and security indication functions. Providing a range of visual indicators makes it easier for design engineers to select and integrate the technology that meets all their functional requirements, supports operator efficiency and contributes to error-proofing safety and security.

In the environments where we live and work, there is a constant stream of visual information related to safety and 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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security. In our cars, if we attempt to drive without buckling up or if a passenger door or tailgate isn’t fully secured, we receive visual information alerting us to the risk through highly visible graphics or audio signals.

In warehouses, factories and construction sites, prominent signage with easy-to-read, color-coded visuals alerts people to the need for hard hats or the presence of high voltage equipment, or points to emergency alarms and exits.

Securing valuable infrastructure Throughout our built environment, there are equipment enclosures, storage units and valuable or sensitive units with access panels and doors that must be properly latched and secured on a routine basis.

These range from large light fixtures in office spaces, public lobbies and commercial settings to telecommunications network equipment and ATMs that people interact with every day. These types of enclosures are also in more securely controlled facilities, such as server cabinets in data centers or cages and enclosures for automated manufacturing systems on factory floors.

Each type of enclosure presents different risk factors if not properly secured: • Public safety: If a panel covering a fluorescent or LED light fixture isn’t sealed, or an exterior door covering equipment on a trolley or train isn’t completely closed, it can fall open or off and potentially create a hazardous situation.

• Environmental safety: Outdoor lighting fixtures and utility enclosures that aren’t completely secured after servicing could allow rain and ice to infiltrate the enclosure and damage valuable equipment.

been accessed, reducing the time the ambulance is out of service.

• Operator safety: Machine enclosures that aren’t fully secured after manufacturing systems or machine tools have been serviced are typically tied to safety interlocks, preventing restarts; with proper visual indicators showing that doors and hatches are fully closed, operators can restart machines without delay.

This design is based on a simple modification to a proven, standard design and provides an important advantage for industrial designers: visible safety can be added to existing access panel designs without having to redesign the system or change the panel preparation to accommodate different latching dimensions or requirements. This simplifies the process of adding a safety and security feature, without major cost impacts.

• Cyber safety: Systems that interact with computer networks, such as servers in data centers as well as network equipment and wireless cell sites, are targets for both vandalism and hackers seeking to steal sensitive personal and corporate data.

Controlling panel access through digital audit trail There are a range of electromechanical latching systems offering enhanced and sophisticated solutions for viewing secure status, and tracking when and how an enclosure has been accessed.

Selecting the right safety indicator solution There are a range of latching and locking systems with visible indicators that can be chosen to provide the appropriate level of safety and security for these different applications.

Selecting a latching system with integrated visual indication can enhance safety, reduce maintenance errors and also help increase operational efficiency.

For applications such as server cabinet doors in data centers or 5G cell site enclosures, there are advantages to implementing full-featured electronic access solutions (EAS) to physically protect highly valuable equipment and closely track when, who and for how long those vital systems are accessed.

Keeping panels secure with visual indication Certain applications require a more advanced form of visible indication be built into the locking and latching mechanism for enhanced security. These applications, such as high-end vending machines, lottery kiosks and ATMs, typically require more frequent access for restocking and maintenance.

Locking mechanisms on these machines benefit from having clear and easy-to-see visual indicators that let the end user know whether the machine or enclosure has been accessed, thereby identifying what compartments need to be replenished or serviced.

A compression latch designed with a spring-loaded metal cap that pops open, and cannot be closed as long as the latch is open for instance, requires the user or technician to actively make certain the latch has been secured in order to return the cap to its normal position.

There are economical compression latches that incorporate simple, color-coded features designed to be visible whenever the latch is in the open or unlatched position.

For example, a latch designed with brightly colored, highly reflective wings that pop out on either side of the latch when it is open, allow it to be clearly noticed during the day or at night. This type of latch is well-suited for lighting fixtures, storage compartments in public areas or exterior panels on mass transportation, construction or agricultural vehicles where it is important to verify whether a panel is unsecured.

The most secure access credential — which is gaining widespread use — supplies an electronic, time-based key via a mobile app on a technician’s smartphone. The electromechanical latch has a Bluetooth reader, allowing the technician to access the cabinet or enclosure using their electronic key via a secure Bluetooth connection. A digital audit trail is established to document enclosure access and is stored in the cloud.

Many electronic locks and access controllers typically incorporate red and green lights to visually indicate whether the lock is secured or unsecured; this can help remind the technician to properly secure the door or access panel after the work is done.

Working with proven suppliers Design engineers have a range of latching options that incorporate visible safety indicators available to them, with many relatively low-cost solutions that act as drop-in replacements for standard parts. It’s important for enclosure designers to determine whether this type of visible indication is required prior to completing the overall design.

This helps prevent quality control or safety engineers from identifying a need for a replacement or redesign later in the project timeline.

Design engineers can ensure they are choosing the right visible indicator for their application by consulting with experienced suppliers of locking and latching systems early on in the design process. By understanding the safety and security requirements of the enclosure, panel or storage compartment design upfront, proven suppliers can deliver solutions that leverage the value of visible safety indicators to improve the overall functionality of the final design.

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Monitoring panel access through visual indication Certain lever latches can be designed with a small, colorcoded window that indicates latch status as well. When the window is green, it indicates that the latch has not been opened since it was last reset. When the latch is opened, the indicator changes from green to red, and cannot be returned to green until the latch is securely closed using a special mechanical key. This can be very useful for ambulances, where it is standard practice to restock all of the internal storage compartments as quickly as possible after a run. Rather than having to open and check every storage compartment to see if it needs restocking, maintenance staff can quickly identify and re-stock only those that have

An electronic access system typically features three primary components: an access control or input device, an electromechanical lock and a system for monitoring the status of the access point. EAS platforms offer a range of access devices including RFID card readers, key fobs with proximity sensors or numeric keypads built into the lock into which a PIN code is entered.

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MECHANICS

THE SMART CHOICE: SELECTING HARDWARE TO EMBRACE THE SMART CITY MOVEMENT

Our cities have always been places where new technologies are rapidly adopted and deployed to enable new modes of living, working and social interaction. The rise of advanced digital devices and communications tools, growth in electric vehicle (EV) use and ecommerce home delivery — all these factors are driving the creation of the “smart city.”

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hese growing smart cities need engineered equipment and infrastructure to support the transformation.

The arrival of advanced technologies like 5G and the exponential growth predicted for applications such as smart lighting, electric vehicle charging and city bike rental schemes is inviting industrial designers to consider a new mix of design challenges.

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As this new technology is deployed, there is a need for welldesigned and secure enclosures to protect the equipment.

These enclosures must be effectively and seamlessly integrated into existing urban environments, and they must be regularly accessed by both technical personnel and the general public. Access needs to be highly secure and well managed, yet at the same time easy to use and cleanly integrated into the built environment.

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There are a range of best practices that can be followed for adding engineered access hardware to smart city equipment and infrastructure, including the role that usability, security and longevity of this equipment plays in the design process.

Selecting the right hardware can enhance this equipment, as well as the competitive value of enclosure technologies.

5G drives smart city growth One of the most significant smart city drivers is the rapid deployment of a 5G communications infrastructure. 5G provides data transfer rates many times faster than prior platforms, significant reduction of latency, high bandwidth and greater opportunities for connectivity and reliability.

5G cells are much smaller, with dimensions that make attaching them to walls and streetlamp poles — or even integrating them into the poles themselves — the most common method expected when positioning this equipment. There are even designs that will mount 5G network components on the underside of manhole covers.

With the introduction of 5G, networking equipment and other valuable infrastructures are now located closer to the end user, so the need for advanced physical security to protect this infrastructure is crucial.

Nevertheless, industrial designers need to be equally aware of ways to incorporate access systems cleanly into enclosures so that they seamless merge into our built cityscapes, through the use of hidden hinges and elegantly designed latches that complement industrial design.

Environmental hardening is also important; latches designed with compression can ensure that access panels are tightly sealed to protect against weather-related damage.

Electronic access solutions (EAS) also provide enhanced physical security for 5G enclosures. An electronic access solution is composed of three primary components: an access control or input device, an electromechanical lock and a system for monitoring the status of the access point.

EAS platforms offer security with a range of price points and design features. The most basic form is a simple RFID credential, used by many telecom service providers and contractors.

The most secure access credential — which is gaining widespread use — supplies an electronic, time-based key via a mobile app on a technician’s smartphone.

The technician actuates the electronic lock via a secure Bluetooth connection. An audit trail is established through cloud-based access controllers so that the network operator knows exactly who accessed the cell site, for how long and what work was completed.

This kind of secure, traceable access is vital for protecting and sustaining the growth of 5G systems. Electronic access control is cost-effective in the long run because it keeps this expensive equipment safe from harm and theft. It also represents one example of how engineered access technology can leverage the expansion of connectivity that is inherent to the vision for smart city design.

Smart lighting transforms the streetlight Connectivity and digital technology, combined with LEDs, are rapidly changing the common streetlight. Municipalities worldwide are replacing traditional lighting fixtures with energy-saving LED fixtures. In the process, forward-looking cities are upgrading those lighting fixtures to provide a broader range of functionality than just shedding light.

These upgraded fixtures will need upgraded access hardware to protect the more valuable equipment that powers them. However, compared to 5G telecom equipment enclosures, there will most likely be no need for regular access to upgrade or maintain smart light fixtures.

In the past, access hardware for lighting fixtures could be simple and relatively low-cost quarter-turn fasteners combined with hidden hinges, mainly for ease of access to replace worn-out bulbs. The advent of LED lighting means that fixtures may go years without needing to be opened for this purpose. However, since the equipment in smart light fixtures is more advanced than a standard lighting fixture, latches with higher security features may be necessary to protect the investment.

For example, there are new rotary latch models offered by major access hardware manufacturers that combine smaller dimensions with highly secure latching. These latches can fit easily into smart lamp fixtures, as well as access panels in the base of streetlamps. They are designed to be hidden, so not to attract attention, yet are highly secure and provide the appropriate level of compression to keep out rain, ice and snow. In addition, they can be cost-effectively upgraded to include electronic locking features, if the enduser municipality ultimately wants to enhance the security of the fixture.

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Smart LED fixtures could one day be able to find a parking space, monitor air quality, guide people on emergency evacuation routes and capture a wealth of traffic data to manage vehicle flow, reduce traffic jams and help improve the environment.

Lighting manufacturers are seeking to provide more advanced lighting poles and fixtures for these streetlights, incorporating digital controllers so they can be dimmed or brightened to save energy. The systems can also incorporate sensors and even video cameras to begin capturing a wealth

of data to augment efforts by municipalities to analyze and better manage traffic and public safety.

EVs and Parcel Lockers: new fixtures for the smart city Two of the most leading-edge new fixtures that are becoming common elements in the emerging cityscape 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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are EV charging stations and Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals for ecommerce delivery and returns.

EV charging stations will eventually become as ubiquitous as the gasoline station, with much of the same requirement: the ability for the EV driver to access the charger, connect it to their vehicle and “pay at the pump”. As well as appearing next to the traditional gas pump at gas stations, EV charging stations will find their way into parking lots, convenience stores and streetscapes.

That creates a security risk: EV charging stations contain expensive electrical equipment and have direct links to communications networks, making them targets for thieves and hackers. Since they are in unsupervised locations, EV charging station designers must carefully consider incorporating the same level of secure access hardware, including top-level electronic access solutions with audit trail capabilities, to provide the same level of protection that 5G enclosures require.

Unlike 5G enclosures, however, there is a clear trend toward designing EV charging stations to incorporate branding elements and distinctive visual designs so that EV vehicle operators can easily spot them. Electronic access solutions providers can help support this industrial design challenge with concealed locking mechanisms and hardware that help achieve marketing design goals.

The growth of intelligent parcel lockers is the result of many people — in city centers especially, but also other locations — who prefer to have their ecommerce packages left in a secure location rather than an apartment building lobby or the front steps of a town house. They also provide a convenient way to return products through the same logistics path.

This equipment requires a high level of security and audit trail tracking; however, in some cases the designs of these lockers call for very tight dimensions. Leading access hardware suppliers have been working with locker designers to create cost-effective latching systems that can incorporate electronic latching in limited spaces.

Help selecting the right access hardware The smart city is not going to be built out in an empty field — in almost all cases the technology to make a city “smarter” will need to be retrofitted into our existing cityscapes. This is one of the most critical challenges design engineers face when creating enclosure designs and selecting access hardware to secure them.

A key source of support and creative solutions for these challenges is a proven access hardware supplier with extensive experience addressing both functional and aesthetic challenges. They can often draw on existing portfolios and design concepts to help solve these critical engineering and design challenges.

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Choosing a proven supplier can be the “smart” move to ensuring that the technology infrastructure enabling the benefits of the smart city is well protected, easily accessed and intelligently woven into existing urban environments. www.southco.com

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MECHANICS

KENNAMETAL INTRODUCES FIX8™ FOR HEAVY-DUTY TURNING WITH EIGHT CUTTING EDGES PER INSERT

FIX8 tool holder styles featuring precision 3D coolant technology. Delivers coolant sufficiently and precisely to where it is needed.

FIX8 has eight cutting edges per insert, providing the lowest cost per edge. The tangential design allows it to sustain far higher loads than traditional designs.

New system delivers highest possible metal removal rates in turning operations with lowest cost per cutting edge.

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ennametal has released the FIX8™ heavy-duty turning system, delivering maximum metal removal rates in steel, stainless steel and cast iron. With eight cutting edges per insert, the FIX8 turning system increases productivity of any heavy-duty turning operation, providing the lowest cost per edge while reducing cutting forces up to 15 percent.

The tangential design of the FIX8 insert features a rigid clamping system that pulls the insert securely into the pocket seat, offering superior stability that enables the insert to withstand large cutting forces and vibrations for optimal performance. The insert is also supported by a replaceable carbide shim, protecting the pocket against deformation and damage.

“FIX8 is designed to cover a wide range of applications, including turning and facing, smooth surfaces, interrupted, and heavily interrupted cuts. From medium depth-of-cut to roughing in steels, cast iron, and challenging materials like stainless steel, FIX8 handles it all. Even extreme feed rates of up to 1.4mm (0.055”) and depths of cut up to 12mm (0.472”) are possible with FIX8,” says Matthew Fuerst, Product Manager, Kennametal.

The FIX8 tool holder features precision 3D coolant technology, supplying sufficient coolant precisely where needed. Three coolant nozzles are directed to the rake face, controlling temperature, chip evacuation, and supporting chip formation. Coolant exit holes in two different locations are directed toward the flank of the insert, controlling the heat in the cutting zone and prolonging tool life.

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FIX8 provides excellent chip control for any heavy-duty turning application while increasing tool life. The insert design reduces cutting forces and power consumption, making it ideal for any low horsepower lathe. https://www.kennametal.com

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PA C K A G I N G & L A B E L L I N G

EASILY SECURE YOUR VALUABLE GOODS WITH TRANSPOSAFE SOLUTIONS

Transposafe is a European partner for sealing and securing your valuable goods. With more than 30 years experience in supply chain security, Transposafe expands its physical & online presence to better support their customers.

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ransposafe serves the transport, retail, manufacturing and healthcare industries, among others, with products ranging from security seals, tamper-evident tape and labels to self-sealing bags and secured medical bags for biological material handling.

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To facilitate the order process for standard products, Transposafe launches an online shopoffering a wide range of security seals, tamper-evident labels, sealbags & medical bags, including temperature tracking solutions. With more than 50 types of seals, lots of products on stock & many customisation options, Transposafe can efficiently serve any customer request.

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In addition to the online shop, experts can also visit the customers to better understand & support any customer, including with fully customised & innovative solutions.

The launch of the new Webshop will further enhance Transposafe’s position as a provider of asset protection, fraud prevention and security products to the European market.

Order now online: https://shop.transposafe.co.uk/

PROCESS

MINIMAL MAINTENANCE WITH MORE THAN ONE MILLION SWITCHING CYCLES Seat valves with extended pressure and temperature. Bürkert now offers particularly durable and low-maintenance on/off and control valves for switching and controlling gases, liquids and steam in the process and food industries that are suitable for media pressures up to 25 bar and temperatures up to 230 °C.

The seat valves with increased pressure and temperature range easily control and switch media with up to 25 bar overpressure and temperatures from -40 °C to 230 °C.

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ow-maintenance on/off and control valves are essential in the food and process industry. They control the flow of gases, steam or liquids, for example in auxiliary processes such as CIP (cleaning-in-place), reverse osmosis or temperature control. Bürkert now offers a wide range of electric motor and pneumatically operated on/off and control valves specially suited for these applications, with extended pressure and temperature ranges.

Thanks to special sealing materials, the valves with stainless steel valve bodies work without any problems with media up to 25 bar gauge pressure and temperatures between -40 °C and 230 °C (Image). The rated service life at 200 °C is more than one million switching cycles. Devices and seals therefore only very rarely need to be replaced, which in turn increases system availability.

Different plug and seat sets in metallic or soft-sealing variants allow an exact adaptation to the respective operating medium. The on/off valves with media flow below the valve seat for water and other liquid media prevent pressure surges (water hammer). This reduces maintenance and replacement costs, especially when no service personnel are on site. https://www.burkert.co.uk/en

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Sealing materials and lubricants suitable for foodstuffs, drinking water, fuel gases or oxygen allow the valves to be used with other media, for example for cleaning and flushing purposes, for heat carriers or saturated steam at 20 bar and 215 °C. So they can be used to switch and control all common gases and liquids for heating and cooling purposes in the specific process as well as in traditional CIP processes.

It is also possible to use them with heat transfer oils e.g. in conjunction with alternative heating concepts.

Extensive assortment of process valves The high-pressure and high-temperature valves are available in different versions with straight-seat on/off and control valves as well as with angle seat on/off and control variants.

Depending on the version, the stainless steel bodies offer flange, weld, thread or clamp connections in DNs from DN10 to 100 or NPS 3/8” to 4”. Design details take into account the special requirements of the areas of application. Swivel plates, for example, increase seat tightness while optimised wipers extend the service life of the self-adjusting packing.

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SAFETY

NEW FIRMWARE FURTHER DIFFERENTIATES TELEDYNE GD10P IR GAS DETECTOR

The only device on the market that provides IR detection to first-class SIL 2 high demand mode and SIL 3-capable IEC 61508 ed. 2 with a proof test interval of 8760 hours.

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eledyne Gas & Flame Detection has provided its GD10P infrared gas detector with a full firmware revision and upgrade, enhancing the product’s performance in high demand mode SIL2 approved applications. This milestone, as part of the product’s continuous improvement lifecycle, builds on circa 30 years of proven field experience for GD10P in the harshest industry environments and further supports the provision of a far longer warranty than conventional infrared gas detection systems.

Functional safety New firmware within GD10P complies with the highest functional safety standards. The safety function has been assessed in conformity with the IEC 61508 ed. 2 standard according to Route 1S: Requirements for the avoidance (prevention) and requirements for the control of systematic faults, as well as Route 1H, which is based on hardware fault tolerance and safe failure fraction concepts.

High demand mode is where the frequency of demands for operation made on a safety-related system is greater than one per year.

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While most safety-based applications in the process sector require only “low demand mode” solutions, “high demand mode” safety-critical applications are becoming increasingly common. As a result, gas detectors such as the GD10P must demonstrate their suitability and competence in line with the latest SIL2 third-party certification.

Solid-state infrared source In comparison with other infrared (IR) gas detectors, the new firmware adds further to GD10P’s differentiating factors, which include a solid-state infrared source. Here, the optical chamber, featuring two independent IR silicone 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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Proven in the field Among countless real-life applications, one worth calling out is the detection of ethylene in recirculating air on board large industrial machines. Most applications of this type now require SIL2 level gas detection in high demand mode, and GD10P offers this feature without hardware redundancies.

This particular application requires high accuracy that would otherwise necessitate specific process monitoring measures beyond safety devices alone. However, the GD10P matches the requested accuracy, allowing the customer to make savings in equipment investment costs as each machine required multiple detection points.

Another common example of the GD10P’s aptitude is evident in the detection of propane at industrial welding stations. After a previously unsatisfactory experience using catalytic detectors, the GD10P is proving ideal in these dusty conditions thanks to “auto-zero” self-adjustment of the detector. Furthermore, the large optical chamber provides the opportunity to send two different warning levels that indicate the requirement for cleaning and avoid the need for “real time” servicing.

(semiconductor) sources, is sufficiently robust and stable to merit a 15-year warranty. This compares favourably with the standard 2-3-year warranty commonly available with conventional IR detectors. The GD10P also features heated optics to prevent condensation, a HART interface, fail-safe operation, extended diagnostics and low maintenance requirements thanks to features such as a scratch-proof sapphire lens/mirror (instead of traditional glass).

Whereas 2-3 measurements per second is the norm with many IR gas detectors, the GD10P can perform 50 measurements per second. More sampling means less false alarms, higher accuracy, faster response time and, in turn, lower operational costs. Further cost reductions arrive as the fit-and-forget GD10P requires no calibration. In contrast, conventional IR gas detectors require calibration twice a year.

Low cost of ownership These and many other case examples build upon a large global installed base of more than 100,000 GD10P IR gas detectors, many of which are operating in harsh conditions.

Lower cost of ownership is a further advantage as only one detector is required per system, instead of several with low demand mode SIL2 approval.

Notably, the firmware upgrade aligns Teledyne’s GD10P with the requirements of the latest third-party certification advancements, increasing confidence in the platform’s traditional feature sets. When coupled with a depth of innovation based on real world data from in-field proven use over several decades, the GD10P knows few limitations, irrespective of the application’s size, environment or location.

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Thanks to its solid-state dual sources, the GD10P, which has origins in the oil and gas industry, is ideal for use in extremely hot, cold or wet environments. Conversely, traditional alternatives suffer negative effects from factors such as vibration, flow rate and environmental influences like heat and dust, which means their plastic filter/sinter can melt or clog. Other noteworthy advantages of the GD10P in comparison with conventional gas detectors include a calculated life of 60 years (versus five years) and a T90 response = 1 second for methane (versus <8 or 9 seconds).

Further exemplifying the benefits of GD10P is its application involving the detection of ethanol when monitoring the storage of perfume essence. The aim was to avoid the loss of expensive perfume essence diluted in ethanol, perhaps due to a tank leak, and avoid the increase of ethanol concentration in a confined area. The GD10P, due to its target gas selectivity (narrow band optical filter) and very low response time, was the optimum solution. The detectors have been in service for four years.

https://www.teledynegasandflamedetection.com

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S M A R T FA C TO R Y

FROM GOOD WOOD

Fully automatic wood parts inspection.

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ou always need and see them everywhere: in metalworking, on the construction site, in almost every toolbox … the good old hand brush.

Whether classic all-purpose brushes or brushes for special applications, the German-based company Lessmann GmbH has virtually all of them in its range. The shape is varied, from straight to ergonomic. But they all have one thing in common: The wooden bodies are made exclusively from untreated red beech. Depending on the model, they also have two hanging holes at the end of the handle. Production is fully automatic and highly rational. In order to ensure its own claim to the excellent quality of the hand brush woods, Lessmann has been relying on classic image processing for many years. But now “The German Brush Company” has implemented an image processing system from the Bavarian system house Simon IBV GmbH that uses robust IDS industrial cameras and SIMAVIS® H image processing software to detect even barely perceptible tolerance deviations particularly reliably.

Application The brush woods, which are milled fully automatically at a production rate of 1500 pieces per hour, are removed from the milling machine by a timed circulating chain with quiver-shaped receptacles and pushed onto a longitudinal conveyor belt. A multi-camera system is installed on the conveyor belt, which checks the 2 to 6-row hand-brushed timbers for defects such as cracks, splintering and size.

“The testing task is particularly demanding because the untreated copper beech varies greatly in its colour and grain.

For example, cracks cannot always be clearly distinguished from dark grains,” explains Daniel Simon, authorised signatory at SIMON IBV. But the choice of wood type has good reasons: On the one hand, red beech is recommended for the production of hand brushes due to its excellent properties, such as a special degree of hardness. On the other hand, sustainability plays a major role. Lessmann can source the brush wood from the surrounding area and thus both support regional forestry and avoid transport routes.

While the timbers pass through production on a conveyor belt, a total of four IDS cameras of the type GigE uEye FA are triggered by a so-called incremental encoder. This sensor reacts to the belt position so that any change in position of the brush body is detected by the belt movement. The

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to setpoint specifications.” Even the tolerances for rough spots can be set in the target values and are subsequently evaluated. Only in the last step of the frame-by-frame evaluation do the cameras search for cracks. Finally, the overall result is formed and merged from the individual evaluations of the views. The system checks a total of 32 setpoints, 27 of which alone for compliance with precisely defined tolerance specifications.

The images captured by the IDS cameras are pre-processed and composited simultaneously with the image capture.

Thus, during the time of evaluation, the image acquisition as well as the pre-processing of the next brush can already take place. The individual images of the same situation from the four offset cameras are cropped, scaled and merged into one overall image by the software. The brush bodies are evaluated with differently weighted criteria for each camera. The weighting is done via the test sequence of the evaluation criteria. In a first step, rough geometric factors such as length, width, height, symmetry and shape deviations are evaluated.

The uEye cameras used from the FA family are particularly robust and therefore predestined for use in such a harsh environment as the brush factory. Camera housings, lens tubes and the screwable connectors meet the requirements of protection class IP65/67. They are also optimally suited for the multi-camera operation required here due to the integrated image memory, as this decouples the image capture from the image transmission and enables the buffering of images before transmission in this application.

The GV-5280FA industrial cameras with GigE Vision firmware are equipped with Sony’s IMX264 2/3” global shutter CMOS sensor, which also provides excellent image quality, high light sensitivity and an exceptionally high dynamic range.

The four CMOS cameras used deliver almost noise-free, very high-contrast 5 MP images. With exactly these features, the camera model recommended itself for use in demanding brush testing.

The holes in the brush body are checked for position and overlap, followed by step-by-step surface inspection.

“First, dark areas are segmented and evaluated according to setpoint specifications,” explains Matthias Eimer, system integrator at Simon IBV. “After that, deviating discolourations are searched for, singled out and evaluated according

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image capture is offset by 2.5 mm per camera, so each camera takes a new image every 10 mm. The captured images are discarded until the first camera detects that there is a wooden body in the field of view. From this point on, the other three cameras are activated and up to 35 pictures are taken per camera. The number of images is limited by camera 1, as it outputs as soon as no more brush body is visible.

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Illustration of shape testing: Are the outer dimensions of the brush body within the tolerance? Is the brush body asymmetrical or deformed? Do the holes have the correct diameter and position?

Surface inspection: Are the dark or coloured areas permissible? Are there any rough spots or cracks?

“The camera has the right resolution, the Sony sensor is very good and the protection class is met,” says Daniel Simon, summing up the selection criteria.

IDS cameras are easy to integrate, true to the company motto “It’s so easy”, as Daniel Simon knows from his many years of cooperation with IDS. The heart of the solution is the solution provider’s specially developed software.

Software SIMAVIS® H is an image processing software with which complete solutions can be quickly assembled. This machine vision software is based on ProVision® (former SIEMENS development) and HALCON, a comprehensive standard software for industrial image processing with integrated development environment. This allows individual adaptation to the requirements of testing the wooden brush bodies: “The check for defects was programmed by us individually by hand, we have a lot of experience in the field of wooden surfaces. The tolerance thresholds can be set by the many setpoints depending on the feature,” Daniel Simon emphasises. SIMAVIS® H offers an intuitive user interface for the operating personnel of the finished system, including manual and automatic operation with type management, setpoint menu, authorisation concept, language switching, statistics module and much more.

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Outlook “Through the control, automatic further processing is possible. With the new imaging solution, wood defects can now be detected more reliably. The proportion of defective wood bodies classified as good has fallen from around 2 per cent to less than 1 per cent,” explains Managing Director Jürgen Lessmann. The subsequent filling of the brush bodies with wire is already fully automatic, and the packaging of the finished hand brushes can be carried out in future with the 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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Dark spots are segmented and evaluated according to setpoint specifications.

help of robotics. Due to the improved control of the wooden bodies, the previously necessary manual quality control of the finished hand brush can be omitted. Before packing, which is carried out by a SCARA robot, only a brief visual inspection is necessary. This relieves the machine personnel and increases productivity.

In this exemplary application, the use of artificial intelligence also offers further potential in the future. “AI will probably further improve the inspection result, which will allow further automation of production, as manual inspection operations can be eliminated,” Jürgen Lessmann predicts. And not only for brushes made of good wood: the multi-camera testing system can be adapted for countless products and materials.

components specially designed for optical inspection systems.

“The camera has the right resolution, the Sony sensor is very good and the protection class is met,” says Daniel Simon, summing up the selection criteria.

IDS cameras are easy to integrate, true to the company motto “It’s so easy”, as Daniel Simon knows from his many years of cooperation with IDS. The heart of the solution is the solution provider’s specially developed software. https://en.ids-imaging.com

Client Lessmann GmbH is one of the leading producers of surface finishing tools in Europe. At its production sites in Oettingen in Bavaria and Solingen in North Rhine-Westphalia, Lessmann has been manufacturing surface tools in the form of technical brushes “Made in Germany” since 1948. Stateof-the-art production facilities, consistent quality controls and permanent tests ensure the high quality of the brushes.

SIMON IBV GmbH is a manufacturer of solutions in the field of industrial image processing. Furthermore, the company is the developer of its own standard software for image evaluation as well as the manufacturer of hardware

Results output.

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S M A R T FA C TO R Y

HANDLE WITH CARE

Robot-assisted system with Ensenso 3D camera for safe handling of nuclear waste.

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he decommissioning of nuclear facilities poses major challenges for operators. Whether decommissioning or safe containment, the amount of nuclear waste to be disposed of is growing at an overwhelming rate worldwide. Automation is increasingly required to handle nuclear waste, but the nuclear industry is reluctant of fully autonomous robotic control methods for safety reasons, and remote-controlled industrial robots are preferred in hazardous environments. However, such complex tasks as remote-controlled gripping or cutting of unknown objects with the help of joysticks and video surveillance cameras are difficult to control and sometimes even impossible.

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To simplify this process, the National Centre for Nuclear Robotics led by Extreme Robotics Lab at the University of Birmingham in the UK is researching automated handling options for nuclear waste. The robot assistance system developed there enables “shared” control to perform complex manipulation tasks by means of haptic feedback and vision information provided by Ensenso 3D camera.

The operator, who is always present in the loop can retain control over the robot’s automated actions, in case of system failures.

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Application Anyone who has ever tried out a fairground grab machine can confirm it: Manual control of grab arms is anything but trivial. As harmless as it is to fail when trying to grab a stuffed bunny, failed attempts can be as dramatic when handling radioactive waste. To avoid damage with serious consequences for humans and the environment, the robot must be able to detect the radioactive objects in the scene extremely accurately and act with precision.

The operator literally has it in his hands, it is up to him to identify the correct gripping positions. At the same time, he must correctly assess the inverse kinematics (backward transformation) and correctly determine the joint angles of the robot’s arm elements in order to position it correctly and avoid collisions. The assistance system developed by the British researchers simplifies and speeds up this task immensely: with a standard industrial robot equipped with a parallel jaw gripper and an Ensenso N35 3D camera.

The system autonomously scans unknown waste objects and creates a 3D model of them in the form of a point cloud.

This is extremely precise because Ensenso 3D cameras work according to the principle of spatial vision (stereo vision), which is modelled on human vision. Two cameras view the object from different positions. Although the image

Extreme Robotics Lab’s 3D vision-guided semi-autonomous robotic cutting of metallic object in radioactive environment.

needed to communicate the correct gripping or cutting position to the robot.

With the help of the software, the Enseno 3D camera takes over the perception and evaluation of the depth information for the operator, whose cognitive load is considerably reduced as a result. The assistance system combines the haptic features of the object to be gripped with a special gripping algorithm.

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content of both camera images appear identical, they show differences in the position of the objects viewed. Since the distance and viewing angle of the cameras as well as the focal length of the optics are known, the Ensenso software can determine the 3D coordination of the object point for each individual image pixel. In this case, the scene is captured using different scanning positions of the camera and combined to get a complete 3D surface from all viewing angles. Ensenso’s calibration routines help transform the individual point clouds into a global coordinate system, which improves the complete virtual image. The resulting point cloud thus contains all the spatial object information

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and dense, it is possible to generate very precise gripping positions for each object in the scene. Based on this, our ‘hypothesis ranking algorithm’ determines the next object to pick up, based on the robot’s current position,” explains Dr Naresh Marturi, Senior Research Scientist at the National Centre for Nuclear Robotics.

(The principle is similar to that of the skill game Mikado, where one stick must be taken away at a time without moving any other sticks.)

The determined path guidance enables the robot to navigate smoothly and evenly along a desired path to the target gripping position. Like a navigation system, the system supports the operator in guiding the robot arm to the safe grasp, if necessary, also past other unknown and dangerous objects. The system calculates a safe corridor for this and helps the operator not to leave the corridor through haptic feedback.

The system maps the operator’s natural hand movements exactly and reliably in real time to the corresponding movements of the robot. The operator thus always retains manual control and is able to take over in the event of component failure. He can simply turnoff AI and move back to human intelligence by turning off the “force feedback mode”. In accordance with the principle of shared control between man and machine, the system thus remains under control at all times - essential in an environment with the highest level of danger.

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Camera “For all our autonomous grasp planning, remote control and visual object tracking tasks, we use Ensenso N35 model 3D cameras with blue LEDs (465nm) mounted on the end effector of the robots along with other tools,” says Dr Naresh Marturi. Most of the systems from the Extreme Robotic Lab have so far been equipped with a single 3D camera.

“However, recently to speed-up the process of 3D model building we have upgraded our systems to use additional three scene mounted Ensenso 3D cameras along with the one on-board the robot.”

The Ensenso N series is predestined for this task. It was specially designed for use in harsh environmental conditions. Thanks to its compact design, the N series is equally suitable for the space-saving stationary or mobile use on a robot arm for the 3D detection of moving and static 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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objects. Even in difficult lighting conditions, the integrated projector projects a high-contrast texture onto the object to be imaged by means of a pattern mask with a random dot pattern, thus supplementing the structures that are not or only weakly present on its surface. The aluminium housing of the N30 models ensures optimal heat dissipation of the electronic components and thus stable light output even under extreme ambient conditions. This ensures the consistently high quality and robustness of the 3D data. Even in difficult lighting conditions, the integrated projector projects a high-contrast texture onto the object to be imaged by means of a pattern mask with a random dot pattern, thus supplementing the structures that are not or only weakly present on its surface.

Cameras of the Ensenso N camera family are easy to set up and operate via the Ensenso SDK. It offers GPU-based image processing for even faster 3D data processing and enables the output of a single 3D point cloud of all cameras used in multi-camera operation, which is required in this case, as well as the live composition of the 3D point clouds from multiple viewing directions. For the assistance system, the researchers have developed their own software in C++ to process the 3D point clouds captured by the cameras.

“Our software uses the Ensenso SDK (multi-threaded) and its calibration routines to overlay texture on the high-

Dr Naresh Marturi, Senior Research Scientist in Robotics (left), Maxime Adjigble, Robotics Research Engineer (right)

resolution point clouds and then transform these textured point clouds into a world coordinate system,” explains Dr Naresh Marturi. “Ensenso SDK is fairly easy to integrate with our C++ software. It offers a variety of straightforward functions and methods to capture and handle point clouds as well as camera images. Moreover, with CUDA support, the SDK routines enable us to register multiple high-resolution point clouds to generate high-quality scene clouds in global frame. This is very much important for us, especially to generate precise grasp hypothesis.”

Main advantages of the system • Operators no need to worry about scene depth or how to reach the object or where to grasp it. The system can figure out everything in the background and helps the operator to move exactly to the place where the robot can best grasp the object.

• With haptic feedback, operators can feel the robot in their hand even when the robot is not present in front of them.

• By combining haptics and grasp planning, operators can move the objects in a remote scene very easily and very quickly having very low cognitive load.

This saves time and money, avoids errors and increases safety.

Outlook Researchers at the Extreme Robotic Lab in Birmingham are currently developing an extension of the method to allow the use of a multi-fingered hand instead of a parallel jaw gripper. This should increase flexibility and reliability when gripping complex objects. In future, the operator will also be able to feel the forces to which the fingers of the remotecontrolled robot are exposed when gripping an object. Fully autonomous gripping methods are also being developed, in which the robot arm is controlled by an AI and guided by an automatic vision system. The team is also working on visualisation tools to improve human-robot collaboration to control remote robots via a “shared control” system.

This is a promising approach for the safety and health of all of us: the handling of hazardous objects such as nuclear waste is ultimately a matter of concern to us all. By reliably capturing the relevant object information, Ensenso 3D cameras are making an important contribution to this globally prevalent task of increasing urgency.

Client/University The Extreme Robotics Lab, University of Birmingham, UK is market leading in many of the components that are needed for the increasing efforts to roboticise nuclear operations. https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/ metallurgy-materials/robotics/our-technologies.aspx https://en.ids-imaging.com

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BAR CODE IDENTIFICATION WITH THE BEST RECOMMENDATIONS FROM AI

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be very worthwhile when it comes to identifying the bar codes on goods. Interfering factors can be identified quickly and easily both during commissioning of a system and during operation.

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No need for time-consuming searches Bar code readers are sensors used to identify goods and materials in production or logistics. They do so by detecting bar codes that meet one of a number of standards and then supplying the IDs of the bar codes to a superior system.

When using these devices in automated applications, the main objective is to achieve the highest possible reading quality: Essentially, when bar code readers detect the labels, the quality with which they perform this task varies, and this quality can be indicated as a percentage. The percentage relates to the contrast detected. If the value is below a certain threshold, the label is no longer read. One challenge faced by system operators is to find bar code readers as quickly as possible when they are no longer providing sufficient reading quality, and to determine the reasons for this – without additional data regarding the possible sources of error, this can be a time-consuming task. Particularly in large

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systems, for example in intralogistics, that have up to 1,000 bar code readers and kilometer-long transport routes, the search is like looking for a needle in haystack: If in doubt, a technician must trace the entire route of a transport material in order to identify a poorly aligned sensor or the interfering factors in its direct environment, all while under time pressure. The situation is made worse by borderline cases, such as when the bar code reader is somewhat aligned and reads successfully most of the time, but occasionally does not detect labels. This may be because the bar code reader is slightly inclined or only reads in the border area, or other factors may play a role, for example labels of insufficient quality.

Factors that influence reading quality However, generating corresponding data to find the causes of errors using the bar code reader itself is only possible under certain circumstances. It is true that the sensors monitor their own status and transfer data to the superior system via OPC UA if required. However, this self-monitoring has only very limited functionality – a sensor only considers its own view. This means that it sends information such as “I’m currently reading,” “Excellent reading,” or “Very poor

reading” – i.e. its calculated percentage reading quality. The reason for the poor reading quality cannot be identified by the individual device. There are three possible influential factors in this case: The device itself, the bar code label and interfering factors in the environment. Possible sources of error relating to the bar code reader itself include poor alignment to the labels to be detected or a technical fault.

In turn, labels can be damaged, soiled or poorly printed, which, depending on the degree of damage or printing quality, may only reduce the reading quality or may prevent identification entirely. Interfering factors in the environment include vibrations, dust, and glare caused by sunlight or emitters in the background. Humidity, for example in cold stores, can be an interfering factor if this causes fogging on the scanning window of the bar code reader.

Machine learning via recommendation algorithms To achieve this, Leuze uses recommendation algorithms, i.e.

AI-based recommendation methods. These are the same methods that are used by streaming services, for example, to evaluate user behavior and recommend corresponding films or series based on this analysis. In this user behavior analogy, the bar codes correspond to the films and the bar code readers to the users of the streaming services. The recommendation algorithm rates a label as more or less “attractive” for different bar code readers. In this way, it is possible to determine which sensor or which label with a certain percentage is “unattractrive”, i.e. borderline or noticeably problematic.

Per edge device or cloud In technical terms, an AI-based solution of this kind can be implemented via edge devices or a cloud, depending on the customer requirements and the respective system.

An edge device is a separate device that is located in the vicinity of a sensor group and gathers, analyses and passes on the data of the sensor group. Multiple edge devices can be connected to one another. Since an edge device is capable of two-way communication, not just gathering and evaluating data but also sending the analysis back to the sensors, a bar code reader can also pass on this information

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Artificial intelligence provides the context AI can help to distinguish the various causes from one another and in doing so identify the reasons for interferences or poor reading quality. Leuze is working with an automobile manufacturer to develop a solution that enhances sensors with data from the overall context. The advantage of this is that the bar code readers remain operational as usual without additional work being generated for the customer during installation. The data volumes are large: Many labels pass by many bar code readers during the process and are read at various installation locations. This is where the overall context comes from. In mathematical terms, this overall context can be described as an equation with many unknowns – countless bar code readers, labels that crop up even more frequently and the various installation locations of the readers. At every station and for every label there is

a different result in terms of reading quality percentage. AI solves this complicated equation system and answers the questions about whether a poor reading quality always occurs with a particular bar code reader, only with one label or a particular label type or always at a particular installation location.

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and report that there is a problem. The advantage of this is there is no need to make any changes to the IT architecture of the customer. Alternatively, the solution can be operated via a cloud if data from separate locations is to be merged.

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Significant potential for savings Leuze’s approach of using AI-based recommendations to identify errors offers huge advantages both during commissioning and during operation of a system. Fast commissioning saves time and money. In this case, it is useful if the causes of poor reading quality are identified immediately. During operation, this method enables predictive maintenance. This means that if a shutdown will soon be required, system operators can take suitable measures in good time and, for example, manufacture and outsource in advance so that they can continue to supply their customers. In some cases, data from multiple years can be used to facilitate this early detection. In addition, the system learns continuously. Therefore, using AI is always worthwhile when it comes to quickly and reliably identifying factors that interfere with the identification of bar codes on goods. https://www.leuze.com

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INNODISK RELEASES THE WORLD’S FIRST 10GBE LAN MODULE IN M.2 FORM FACTOR

Innodisk has announced its all-new EGPL-T101 M.2 2280 10GbE LAN module, the first 10GbE LAN designed in M.2 form factor, features flexible integration and excellent compatibility with existing network infrastructure for crucial backward compatibility

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ooking into the booming markets and scenarios ranging from surveillance to gaming, networking, and industrial uses, the growing demand for highspeed LAN solutions is promising. Additionally, interference issues are also occurring more often as the size of the PCIe form factor cannot fit in the smaller design of IPC platforms nowadays. Being the leading global provider of industrial embedded flash and memory, Innodisk is introducing the first M.2 10GbE LAN module designed to meet the demand for increased speed and reduced size, high-speed LAN solutions.

• Machine vision in industrial applications • High throughput network data transmission • High-resolution imaging for surveillance • Low-latency for gaming

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Innodisk’s EGPL-T101 is the first M.2 2280-to-single 10GbE Base-T Ethernet module which is also the smallest 10GbE expansion solution available today and ten times faster than standard Ethernet. By supporting PCI Express Gen 3x2, the EGPL-T101 module can provide sufficient bandwidth for one 10GbE LAN port suitable for server and industrial applications’ high-speed network demands.

As an Innodisk high-speed LAN solution, EGPL-T101 boasts flexible integration. Its standard RJ45 LAN port on a tiny daughterboard provides an easy solution for upgrading to a 10GbE network using existing Cat6/6A copper cables.

The EGPL-T101 also features excellent compatibility with its six network standards supported in 10/5/2.5/1Gbps and 100/10Mbps, providing excellent backward compatibility with existing network infrastructure. Lastly, the EGPL-T101 features high-performance computing (HPC) which is ten times faster than the widely used Gigabit Ethernet with low power consumption. EGPL-T101 is suitable for various highspeed scenarios, including:

Mass production of the EGPL-T101 is expected to begin in December 2021 to meet the growing demand for innovative high-speed LAN solutions. https://www.innodisk.com 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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FUZZY LOGIC AND VISIONIC: ROBOTICS FOR THE NUCLEAR INDUSTRY

PRIMUS (Platform for Robotic Inspection and Maintenance for Unstructured Settings) developed by Fuzzy Logic and Visionic for Framatome Intercontrôle is a robotic NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) system for nuclear infrastructures. This software and hardware package is designed to be used by non-roboticist NDT operators, a major differentiating factor compared to existing solutions on the robotics and NDT markets. The collaboration between Fuzzy Logic, Visionic and Framatome began when they were working on RIMA (Robotics for Inspection and Maintenance), a European Union project that aims to establish a network of digital innovation hubs and industrial associations to support the development of robotics.

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o be deployed efficiently, today’s NDT technologies require a controlled, laboratory-like environment, which is precisely what is difficult to achieve in field conditions. This same challenge is what Framatome Intercontrôle is confronted with when inspecting components in the primary circuits of nuclear power plants (CNPE), especially in the case of specific welds such as tappings at the junction points between primary and secondary piping systems.

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In order to overcome these challenges, Framatome Intercontrôle uses industrial robots in an innovative way to solve many NDT problems. Ultrasonic detection performed by a robot characterizes the internal volumetric defects of the weld to detect possible cracks. Currently, these inspections are prepared in advance on site and require a 3D scan of the weld and measurement of the environment, each weld and environment being geometrically unique. A roboticist then calculates the robot trajectory for the future inspection. At the time of inspection, if the environment is different from the initial measurements or does not correspond exactly to the archived scan, it is no longer possible to directly adapt the prepared trajectory; the measurements and trajectory calculations must be adjusted again. However, the nuclear environment is complex and subject to very restrictive safety regulations. Each intervention is therefore costly in

requires the use of a robot to achieve accurate positioning and orientation. Using software developed by Fuzzy Logic, operators can set up the robot quickly, without needing to position it with great accuracy on the pipe. The 3D sensors integrated on the robot allow the robot to be quickly and easily realigned to its real environment. Trajectories can be determined in seconds with a few mouse clicks. The combination of the complex trajectory calculated by the Fuzzy Logic software and the 3D scan of the weld structure

by Visionic generates the inspection path adapted to the real surface. The last step consists in the inspection of the weld by ultrasound.

This method has never been used for NDT before, and the results obtained are much more accurate thanks to the control of the probe positioning, with prior adjustment based on a 3D scan of the surface. Visionic supplies the robots and their optical system. Fuzzy Logic provides the enhanced agile programming environment, allowing programming to be done by non-roboticists and eliminating many of the setup steps.

Framatome Intercontrôle contributes both the knowhow and a robotic NDT weld inspection test bench for developing, testing and validating the PRIMUS solution in an operational environment.

Thanks to the PRIMUS system, Framatome Intercontrôle’s inspection time has gone from two weeks to one day.

terms of human resources, especially since the threshold for radiation exposure of personnel is 12 millisieverts per year, which increases the cost of repairs when they become necessary.

According to Mr. Yannick Caulier, Expert I, VTI level III, COFFMET level II at Framatome/Intercontrôle: “preparing the inspections is a complex, time consuming and costly task, because the environment is not easy to model. That is why we were looking for a software package that would allow us to easily redefine trajectories so that we could adapt our inspections to the conditions in each nuclear site.”

Current industrial robots and programming tools are not designed for unstructured field environments. Moreover, using and programming them requires a high level of expertise. To overcome these constraints, Fuzzy Logic and Visionic have developed the PRIMUS platform.

A successful collaboration Ryan Lober, CEO and co-founder of Fuzzy Logic: “Framatome, like many other industrial corporations, are pushing the limits of what we think we can do with industrial robots.

However, expert-level tools are a limiting factor. By offering a solution that is accessible to non-experts, we are paving the way for using robots in these applications, which were once thought impossible.”

According to Xavier Savin: “This specific application for Framatome, which solves a particular problem, can be transposed wherever material integrity inspections are carried out by ultrasound on surfaces whose geometry is not fully predictable. Our solution can be extended to robotic applications where a different trajectory definition is important. The more variability there is in the trajectories, the more meaningful the solution will be.”

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Primus, a unique software platform The PRIMUS Software and Hardware platform allows NDT service providers to respond to infrastructure inspection requests quickly and efficiently. It works simply, the first step is to model the environment as it is at the time of the inspection. Any additional elements that could potentially hinder the trajectory are then integrated into this modelling step, the simulation of the process before the on-site inspection is then complete. In the second step, a robot is placed next to the welded areas of the pipes. The inspection probe must be moved with great precision, this

In addition, PRIMUS increases the efficiency, quality and safety of non-destructive testing while decreasing operator radiation exposure. Aided by the cooperation and support of the partners in the RIMA network, the PRIMUS system was developed, deployed and tested in a record time of 14 months, bringing industrial robotics to the forefront of nuclear infrastructure inspection.

Yannick Caulier states, “the no-code, ergonomic and versatile software, usable on all PRIMUS robots, offers us greater accessibility than ever before. We can place the robot where we want it and generate its trajectory in a few clicks. This is one of the aspects that attracted us the most.”

Yannick Caulier explains that the software developed for this application can be adapted for inspections of other weld 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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types. “It is planned to develop the prototype further, with new features and fluidity in the inspection chain.”

RIMA, a bold move The collaboration between Framatome, Fuzzy Logic and Visionic was formed in the fall of 2019, via the RIMA consortium. Framatome had a requirement that was atypical in the field of robotics. It needed a robotic solution that could be used by non-experts. The challenge was to design a software platform to define the robot trajectories in order to adapt the inspections of pipe welding in a nuclear site. Visionic and Fuzzy Logic jointly responded, convinced of the unprecedented technological potential of their solution.

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RIMA subsidized the R&D costs for the Visionic and Fuzzy Logic consortium up to €300,000. “RIMA financed a technology that never existed before, in response to an atypical need. RIMA’s bold move has paid off because in 14 months, our PRIMUS solution, developed by a start-up and an innovative SME, has demonstrated the significance of its impact in a sector that is considered very demanding,” said Ryan Lober, pleased with the success.

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Xavier Savin explains, “We were aware of the commercial potential behind our technical solution. There are real opportunities for Primus on the international market.

All 56 nuclear reactors in France will have to undergo major refurbishment, to enable them to continue production after 40 years of operation. Replacing piping in a nuclear plant is costly and complex. Our solution, which characterizes the defects and whose gives reliable results, makes it possible to decide on the most appropriate maintenance steps after inspection. Our solution offers the potential for considerable economic benefits. This potential can be multiplied by the number of power plants in operation in Europe and worldwide.” https://www.flr.io/

S M A R T FA C TO R Y

RED LION LAUNCHES A NEXT GENERATION GRAPHICAL PANEL METER, PM-50

The simplicity of a panel meter meets the power of a connected future.

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ed Lion introduces the next generation of panel meters, PM-50. This graphical panel meter, PM-50, expands Red Lion’s existing award-winning panel meter portfolio. The PM-50 is available as a 3.5-inch or 4.3inch graphical touchscreen display. Using simple “swipe” technology, users can easily switch between relevant screens and receive comprehensive operational data for monitoring equipment and production. Visual alerts notify the user that immediate action is necessary, either on the unit itself or via PM-50 app, available on Google Play or Apple Store.

PM-50, with its innovative graphical display, does just that allowing for more efficient processes, improved uptime, and lower operational costs.”

The PM-50 offers built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for users to remotely access critical workflow and process data from the confines of the plant floor to create a smarter plant floor. Wired connectivity is also an option via Ethernet and Modbus.

www.redlion.net

The PM-50 is easy to install, program, and expand. The PM-50 can replace a meter with a 1/8 or 1/16 DIN panel cut out. An on-device programming wizard, mobile app, or Web browser provides an easy and intuitive setup. Additional capability is available with field-installable modules to provide outputs, communications, and AC power functionality when needed.

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Rod Smith, Senior Director, Product Management for Red Lion offered: “Today’s manufacturing environment is changing quickly and there is a greater need for data visibility, connectivity, and collection. So, when developing this next generation panel meter, the team at Red Lion challenged themselves to create a product that would help solve these challenges and allow manufacturers to take additional steps in creating a smarter factory floor. The 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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QUICK-ACTION INTEGRATION VIA IO-LINK

Easy integration, flexible expansion and transparent data and processes at all times: The new MD7 system from Leuze enables powerful automation.

New MD7 system from Leuze makes automation easier: IO-Link master, hubs and sensors enable highperformance systems to be implemented in the smart factory.

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he new MD7 system from Leuze enables powerful automation. It is easy to integrate: IO-Link hubs are a cost-effective way for users to integrate additional digital sensors into the system as required and extend the system in a flexible and economical manner. This ensures that users benefit from consistently transparent data and processes. Thanks to the synchronized system of IO-Link masters and Leuze sensors, the connected machines have a high level of standardization. All of the IO-Link modules as well as connected sensors and actuators can be quickly and easily commissioned, configured and centrally monitored via a Web browser. Future security is guaranteed with IOLink: Backward compatibility means that, even years later, sensors with older dates of manufacture can be integrated into systems with the latest specification.

IO-Link masters with multi-protocol capability The IO-Link masters work with a variety of protocols. In a single device, they support the Ethernet-based fieldbus protocols for real-time communication. Communication via Modbus TCP is also possible. This can be used to connect to simpler PLCs, operating terminals or SCADA systems, for example. The advantage: Flexibility when choosing the modules and a high level of standardization with lower complexity. This reduces the stocking costs and streamlines maintenance. A Leuze device model facilitates communication via OPC UA. This variant can be integrated directly into cloud-based systems and, with its Web-based configuration, it can also be operated as a stand-alone solution. The integrated Web server with IODD interpreter allows all the connected IO-Link devices to be configured.

The masters offer a multitude of ways to retrieve diagnostic and status information – either on the device or via a Web server.

Flexible integration of sensors IO-Link sensors integrated into the MD7 system transmit not only process data, device information, diagnostic data and event messages. Ethernet-based I/O modules combine the data and connect the machine modules to the control

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The IO-Link master can be flexibly integrated into the control and the cloud thanks to its multi-protocol capability.

The integrated Web server provides easy access to diagnostics and configuration.

Wiring is easy thanks to standard M12 Power connectors.

and superior systems. This allows modular expansion of the machine. Time-saving and practical for maintenance: If a sensor needs to be replaced, the master automatically uploads the configuration to the new device.

Wiring made easy The IO-Link modules have an M12 Power connector. This enables power connection of the modules irrespective of the used Ethernet protocol. The connectors deliver around 80 percent more power than 7/8” connectors. In daisy-chain applications – where hardware components are connected to one another in series – significantly more modules can be wired together without requiring any additional power. This reduces installation and wiring requirements and offers an advantage in cases where space in the machine is limited.

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https://www.leuze.com IO-Link components from Leuze are easy to integrate across manufacturers.

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EMERSON INTRODUCES NEW MINIATURE ROCKER ISOLATION VALVE FOR CLINICAL LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS

ASCO Series 062 Rocker Isolation Valve 16 mm interchangeable design enables optimised customization of compact fluid-handling manifolds, maximizing functionality and flexibility.

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merson today introduced the ASCO Series 062 Rocker Isolation Valve designed especially for today’s most demanding fluid control manifolds in the clinical laboratory such as hematology and immunoassay analyzers, sample preparation and pre-analytical, as well as DNA sequencing instruments. The valves designed with 16 mm compact size allows for easy integration into complex fluidhandling manifolds, resulting in a reduction in footprint, weight and power. It also offers two-way and three-way functionality, which maximizes flexibility and versatility.

ASCO rocker isolation valves control neutral and highly aggressive liquids used in nearly any type of analytical instrumentation. The easy to flush special rocker mechanism, combined with a separating diaphragm, prevents heat transfer to expensive in-vitro diagnostic reagents and eliminates the potential for sticking and clogging of the valve seat. Hermetic separation of the control mechanism prevents particulate contamination caused by the friction of moving parts, ensuring maximum purity of liquid samples.

The Series 062 valves have a smaller internal volume, reducing contamination risk, maintenance requirements and potential reagent waste. The valve also offers padmount and barb-fitting mounting options making installation easier, as well as a long lifetime of 10 million cycles that increases instrument reliability.

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“The new ASCO series 062 valves offer reliable and precise fluid control in a wide variety of analytical instrumentation and medical device applications,” said Sven Richter, vice president of analytical and medical at Emerson’s Automation Solutions business. “We understand that our original-equipment manufacturer customers are under pressure to get products to market quickly, while improving production and cost efficiencies that allow them to succeed 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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in competitive markets. That’s why we bring this new Series 062 product to our customers.”

The ASCO Series 062 rocker isolation valves are designed for use with neutral or highly aggressive liquids in clinical diagnostic and laboratory instruments. The isolating diaphragm prevents heat transfer, and the special rocker mechanism has easy-to-flush and low-volume internal cavities. With 16 mm size, both 2-way and 3-way functions, the valve are interchangeable with most of other 16 mm isolation valves in the market. Typical applications include in-vitro diagnostics, hematology, DNA sequencing and industrial liquid analyzers. https://www.emerson.com

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PET HEALTH AND WELFARE AIDED BY HI-TECH BUILDING CONTROLS

The UK’s largest pets supplies retailer is enjoying significant energy savings across its entire retail network while ensuring that ideal animal welfare conditions are maintained at all times.

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ets at Home has installed energy efficiency control systems for the air conditioning (AC) in all its 450 stores.

Each system was designed by energy management consultants Ignite Energy of Wantage, Oxon, using a standard template based on Intesis gateway from HMS Networks and installed by integration solutions provider Consyst.

AC’s from different manufacturers combined in one Pets at Home branches use air conditioning equipment from different manufacturers, such as Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Toshiba, and others. Consyst has used Intesis gateways to retrieve real-time information from the AC units and control operation, regardless of manufacturer.

Consyst Director, Lior Golani, explains: “The Intesis gateway is powered by the AC unit, allowing straightforward installation. By reading predefined information from the gateways, the integrator can easily duplicate the configuration across different units and sites, which saves a lot of time in commissioning.”

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This simplicity enabled Consyst to install each system quickly and efficiently. Indeed the whole branch network was upgraded in less than 18 months, minimise disruption to Pets at Home’s normal operations.

Ensuring animal welfare conditions Once operating, the gateway constantly transmits crucial information like operating status and error codes to a central controller. A very important factor was that each store’s 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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system includes multiple temperature sensors and controls which ensures that strict pet welfare conditions can be maintained at all times.

“Monitoring and controlling each store’s temperature has significantly reduced energy consumption and, very importantly, ensures optimal welfare conditions for the pets,” says Lior.

Pets at Home now has an estate of energy-efficient stores and Ignite and Consyst continue to work with them to develop further initiatives and to ensure that energy is managed effectively at every level.

Intesis is scaleable from the simplest domestic requirements to large projects in the commercial, retail, healthcare and education sectors. It shares a pedigree with other HMS technologies used in the control of manufacturing plants, refineries, generating stations, high securities facilities.

As well as DALI HMS makes gateways for all the major building automation protocols, including ASCII, BACnet, KNX, M-bus and Modbus. https://www.hms-networks.com

Intelligent gateways The Intesis gateways solutions from HMS enable existing devices and equipment from virtually all manufacturers to be connected no matter what protocol or network technology is used. This means all elements of even the most complex building automation project can be integrated into a single unified system.

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It can communicate using open standards or proprietary protocols and includes a range of both protocol translators and AC interfaces. The result is simple design, installation and commissioning coupled with robust and reliable operation.

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MOXA’S NEW ALL-IN-ONE INDUSTRIAL SECURE ROUTER FOR SAFEGUARDING INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS

Moxa Inc., a leader in industrial communications and networking with a focus on securing industrial networks, has introduced the new EDR-G9010 Series.

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hese industry-certified all-in-one firewall/NAT/VPN/ switch/routers act as a robust first line of defense for industrial networks in diverse applications such as smart manufacturing and critical infrastructure.

Moxa’s EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers offer 10-port GbE performance and defense-in-depth security capabilities to fulfill the needs of bandwidth-hungry applications that require field-proven reliability and multilayered security.

With more and more cybersecurity incidents occurring in operational technology (OT) systems, enhancing industrial network security becomes a key priority for business owners and chief security officers. However, in OT environments, network requirements are not just concerned with security, but also focus on keeping operations functioning smoothly.

“With the launch of the new EDR-G9010 Series, Moxa brings a tailor-made network security solution for OT environments”, says Kevin Huang, Product Manager at Moxa Networking.

“We recommend our customers to use the EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers to segment their networks as a first line of defense and prevent threats from propagating to the rest of the network. Furthermore, users can leverage its advanced OT Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) technology, firewall, NAT, and VPN features to achieve multi-layered security. Last but not least, the 10-port Gigabit performance, faster boot time, and Layer 2/Layer 3 redundancy help ensure the availability of industrial networks. The EDR-G9010 Series combines all these powerful functions into a single compact, rugged, industry-certified industrial secure router.

Overall, the EDR-G9010 series will be Moxa’s future proof secure routing platform, with additional capabilities being added over time.”

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The EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers offer: Advanced Network Protection with Network Segmentation and Advanced DPI Within one field site, the EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers can help build a security boundary by segmenting OT and IT networks and feature advanced DPI technology to give users more granular control over network traffic by filtering industrial protocols* based on the requirements 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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address translation (NAT), remote VPN communications, switching, or routing. These secure routers are also certified for IEC 61850-3/IEEE 1613, NEMA TS2, ATEX Zone 2, and Class I Division 2. The accessible and versatile all-in-one design makes these devices ideal for securing industrial applications such as in power substations, intelligent transportation systems, oil and gas, and smart manufacturing.

IEC-62443 hardened Secure routers play a pyramidal role in security architecture and need to be security hardened. Hence EDR-G9010 hardware and software has been developed with Moxa’s IEC-62443-4-1 certified process and is ready to meet the IEC62443-4-2 requirements up to Security Level 2.

EDR-G9010 Series 10-port Gigabit Industrial Secure Router Highlights • All-in-one firewall/NAT/VPN/switch/router • 8-port TX GbE and 2-port SFP GbE • Comprehensive redundancy mechanisms, including Turbo Ring and VRRP • Wide -40 to 75 °C operating temperature (-T model) • Advanced Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) for Modbus TCP/ UDP and DNP3 traffic and 104 and MMS (available in Q1, 2022).

• Certified for IEC 61850-3, NEMA TS2, ATEX Zone 2, Class I Division 2, EN 50121-4, DNV, IEC-62443-4-2 SL 2 (available in Q4 2022). of the application. Moxa will continuously extend the DPI protocol coverage. Starting with Modbus TCP/UDP and DNP3 Moxa will add specifically power market related protocols in 2022.

When remote connections across multiple sites are needed, the EDR-G9010 Series’ embedded IPsec VPN ensures safe industrial network communication channels when accessing the private network from the public Internet.

Future-proof platform for OT Intrusion Prevention The superb computing power of the EDR-G9010 platform enables it to run an Intrusion Prevention Module, which will safely block ransomware, malware, viruses and other cybersecurity threats in OT networks. This signature-based scanning technology will move traffic filtering and asset visibility in OT networks to an unprecedented level. This module is licensed on demand and will be available by mid of 2022.

With the launch of the EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers, Moxa has expanded its secure network infrastructure portfolio to cover a broader range of industrial applications and introduced more granular control over industrial networks to fulfill its ongoing commitment to protect the connectivity of industrial environments.

For more information about the EDR-G9010 Series, please visit the product page or watch the video. https://www.moxa.com/en/products/industrial-networkinfrastructure/secure-routers/secure-routers/edr-g9010series https://youtu.be/X0u2fRswgnk For Moxa’s industrial network security solution, please visit www.moxa.com/Security MORE INFORMATION

Better Performance with High Bandwidth and Faster Boot Times With the number of connected devices constantly growing, the EDR-G9010 Series is capable of achieving high throughput while providing robust security, perfect for bandwidth-hungry applications. Meanwhile, the faster boot time helps reduce system downtime during regular maintenance or in the event of an emergency recovery situation.

To enhance network security visibility, the EDR-G9010 Series is also compatible with Moxa’s MXview network management software. With MXview, users can e.g., visualize the achieved security level of IEC-62443 ready Moxa devices, perform regular configurations backups, and have an at-aglance overview of the network’s performance.

More Versatility The EDR-G9010 Series caters to the needs of different networks, whether it is the need for a firewall, network 32 | Industry EMEA | January 2022

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