NewSImpresa Magazine International - May 2014

Anno 4 - Maggio 2014 – Supplemento a www.newsimpresa.it - Diffusione Gratuita

S mpresa

New

magazine

international

• SPS Special corner

1

M I C O M U N I C A Z I O N E

Soluzioni per l’automazione industriale

M I X

Isole di valvole

DESIGN COMPATTO ELEVATA FLESSIBILITÀ VERSIONI PUNTO-PUNTO, MULTIPOLARE E SERIALE PROTOCOLLI DI COMUNICAZIONE

2

Camozzi Air that moves the world

Società del Gruppo Camozzi

www.camozzi.com

newsimpresa internation al

W

ith over 60,000 readers, NewSImpresa has become a benchmark publication in Italy. Its success has been the result of a unique multi-modal presence, a continuous search for high-quality content (the real benefits of products and solutions, company strategies, market trends, and so on), and a reduction in advertising to the bare minimum.

The publication’s development plan had always anticipated a route of internationalisation within the right timeframe and in accordance with directed planning. SPS offers NewSImpresa an opportunity to extend its readership beyond the borders of Italy.

The showcase is aimed at both international visitors as well as Italian companies who wish to operate at an international level and promote their products globally. The NewSImpresa International content will be available via the portal and newsletter, for all those who request it. Distribution will be primarily in digital format - it couldn’t be otherwise - to guarantee supply and widespread circulation in the various territories. Naturally, in the case of a particularly important or strategic event, the magazine will also be published in traditional paper format.

With this in mind, NewsImpresa International will mainly work under the logic of supporting initiatives and publishing news and articles aimed initially at specific markets: Russia, the Baltic States (Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia), Finland, Poland, Switzerland, Tunisia, Egypt, Malta, Jordan, Israel and the Republic of South Africa.

A strategy that tends to favour the development of products and solutions to support technological and commercial growth in key sectors like industrial automation, electronics, mechanics and so on.

But that’s not all. In fact, we also introduce SportelloImpresa, an initiative that offers a customized answer to the requirements of both italian companies wishing to invest on foreign markets and foreign companies wishing to invest in Italy. From Partner certification, to search of funds and financial supports by competency macro-areas, SportelloImpresa is the missing link when a company doesn’t want to limit itself to communicate, but wants to profitably operate on new markets.

Once again, we need your help: read us, follow us and write to us!

P.S. Enjoy your visit to SPS!

Massimo Fucci 3 3

SPS Special corner

By Elisa Maranzana

Automation trade fair returns to Parma Parma, Italy will welcome the fourth SPS IPC Drives Italia trade fair from 20th to 22nd May. The fair has become a key event in the industrial automation calendar, establishing itself as a major forum for discussion and information and as a stage for the latest in automation solutions and products.

W

ith a fresh formula, second hall and an ever-expanding list of exhibitors, the fourth SPS IPC Drives Italia (www.spsitalia.it) will return to the Parma Exhibition Centre in May. Over the years, the event has, quite rightly, become a key point of reference for the industrial automation sector. The fair’s success can be attributed, in part, to its German counterpart and predecessor, as pointed out by Donald Wich, Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt Italia (www.messefrankfurt.it), the event organiser. “Our exhibitors,” explains Wich, “have embraced a concept that has been tried and tested in Nuremberg and now reworked for the Italian market, one essentially based on a clear vertical focus on automation. In addition to this, visitors to the event represent a complete cross-section of the sector’s target groups.”

However, some of the credit for the event’s success must also

4

go to a rediscovery in Italy of the manufacturing industry, seen as the driving force for exports, and thus global trade, which in turn is the engine for growth. This focus on manufacturing can only bring positives for the automation sector. That SPS Italia has achieved so much in so few years is proof of this.

A success that seems to agree with the view of Messe Frankfurt, which has long identified huge potential in the Italian industrial automation market. “For several years now,” Wich tells us, “we’ve run out a series of promotional fringe activities at the fair, such as conferences, seminars, collaborations with research institutes and universities, and so on, with the aim of discovering the main issues underlying the industrial automation sector (energy conservation, efficiency, etc.). We’re creating a system that goes beyond the scope of the fair in order to engage and promote the sector as a whole.”

Taking place from 20th to 22nd May, this will be the fourth SPS IPC Drives Italia. The fair boasts some impressive figures: the last fair was host to over 18,000 visitors and 518 exhibitors - a clear

indication of the value that this exhibition brings. But, the results achieved by SPS should not just be evaluated in quantitative terms, but (and especially) in qualitative terms as well.

“From the very first exhibition,” continues Wich, “we have involved the sector’s key players, and today they continue to provide us with their partnership and support. Each new development idea or project is discussed and implemented in collaboration with our advisory board, which is made up of the sector’s leading companies, the objective being to create a system that ensures the exhibition reflects real market needs.”

With a premise like this, it seems the fair has all the ingredients for success. This year, organisers have even decided to refresh the layout of the event, adding a second hall. “To improve visitor experience,” explains Francesca Selva, Vice President Marketing and Events for Messe Frankfurt Italia, “the two halls will be linked by an open bar/lounge area to facilitate movement from one area to another. There will also be more rest areas and refreshment facilities than in previous years.”

Ripe with opportunities The presence of all the major suppliers of automation systems and components means SPS IPC Drives Italia is an exhibition of solutions and not just products.

A forum for discussion and information, the event offers visitors special exhibition areas dedicated to universities, research cen-

tres, start-ups and system integrators: areas of interest to machinery manufacturers as well as end-users. The ‘System Integrator on Demand’ area has been created with the aim of making available to visitors new application ideas and real-life responses to the production needs of the major industrial sectors, from packaging to automotive, ceramics to metal processing, and food to timber.

‘Automation 4.0: Innovation and Competitiveness for Italian Industry’ will form the keynote event of Day 1 of the fair, giving visitors the opportunity to analyse the evolution of the Italian automation market, specifically manufacturing, in more detail. Again, the event is made possible by the presence of all the sector’s major players. This year’s fair will also see the launch of the ‘Doppio Fil Rouge’ initiative. End users from the Food&Beverage and Pharma&Beauty industries will have the opportunity to meet and talk with industrial automation professionals at two roundtable events on 21st and 22nd May respectively. The Food&Beverage event will be organised in collaboration with Cibus Tec-Food Pack and will see the return of representatives from companies who attended last year’s event while the Pharma&Beauty event will see the participation of some of the sector’s leading names including Erbolario and Novartis. All that remains is to make an appointment to come and see us at the fair, where NewSImpresa will also be in attendance, in Hall 3 Stand A 033.

5

SPS Special corner

Smart Factory:

a reality for Beckhoff The challenges that the manufacturing world is facing today are increasingly complex, making it essential to respond to market requests for customisation and improvements in efficiency and reliability. This is the strategy adopted by Beckhoff in defining and developing their range of automation and control solution products and technologies.

H

ow can you make a factory and its processes not only fully integrated but smart, in line with the vision of the Industry 4.0 concept? This is a question often posed

by OEMs and end users. In response, the German company Beckhoff (www.beckhoff.it) has developed a range of open automation systems based on PC Control technology.

Beckhoff plans to demonstrate how all the basic technologies, functions and services for making Industry 4.0 a reality already exist, placing emphasis on how boundaries between field and management levels, and factory automation and IT infrastructures are becoming increasingly blurred through more integrat-

6

ed and flexible use of standard communication protocols and hardware.

“Smart” automation is the only response to meeting these requirements and, thanks to the new systems and solutions developed by the company, the factory of the future will be even more flexible and integrated than it already is.

“The innovations we will be unveiling all adhere to the Smart Factory concept,” explains Paolo Costi, Area Sales Manager for Beckhoff. “We are particularly excited to be unveiling the new CP32xx Panel PCs, designed for heavy-duty applications.

While extremely robust and secure, they are also more efficient in terms of computing power, graphics and communication, thanks to the new multi-core CPUs with the latest-generation Intel Core i3, i5 and i7 processors.”

Beckhoff Automation We have also made some important developments in the TwinCAT 3 software platform. The development environment, which is proposed as a universal solution for the development of PC-based control systems, has been expanded with new engineering modules and functionalities for smarter, more Paolo Costi efficient application development. TwinCAT 3 is fully integrated into Visual Studio, offering all the obvious benefits of the freedom of choice of programming language and ability to operate in a modular development environment. Not only that, the new PLC HMI Web module has now been integrated into the TwinCAT 3 platform, making it possible to develop web-based visualisation applications.

“Even the drivers have new features,” continues Paolo Costi, “such as the new AM811x e AM801x servo motors, with 15-bit resolution absolute encoders and One Cable technology for use in confined spaces. They are available in three different lengths, with a scalable output of 50 to 250 W and backlash-free permanent magnetic holding brake.” If used with the EL72xx series

EtherCAT terminals - another innovation that we will be unveiling - the new servo motors offer an extremely competitive universal solution in terms of both cost and performance. The EL7211 terminal has been designed to encourage the creation of small, high-performance drive systems of up to 4 A - 50 Vcc. In short, the technologies and control systems developed by Beckhoff represent the ideal toolbox – but one in constant development – for implementing solutions in line with the key concepts of Industry 4.0: complete interconnection between levels, standard and reliable communication, openness to the world wide web, process intelligence, efficiency and ergonomics.

One of the basic requirements for the creation of the Smart Factory is the achievement of perfect horizontal and vertical integration, i.e. integration between the various devices installed in the field (horizontal) and between the devices in the field and the upper level IT infrastructure (vertical). Research and development at Beckhoff is constantly moving towards this goal, and the range of products set to be unveiled at SPS IPC Drives Italia 2014 is no exception.

As history shows, Beckhoff has always been a forerunner of the technologies, products and solutions forging new paths in the field of automation and control. These latest solutions will form yet another milestone on the route to the genuine Smart Factory.

7

SPS Special corner

INDUSTRY 4.0:

THE INTEGRATED SMART FACTORY For Beckhoff, PC-based control is the cornerstone of the Smart Factory, the architecture through which the IT and automation industries come together to make the factory of the future smarter and more flexible.

C

omplete communication and intelligence - according to Beckhoff (www.beckhoff.it), these are the key points of Industry 4.0, the project aimed at making the factory of the future smarter, or rather the manufacturing process more flexible, efficient and sustainable. A fundamental component of this approach is control technology, which has already achieved significant developments in both

8

horizontal and vertical integration thanks to a growing convergence between the Information Technology and automation industries.

It’s easy to see how, from the perspective of the Industry 4.0 concept, it is impossible to separate the smart factory from the use of standard communication protocols and hardware, which enable users to achieve the best performance in terms of integration and operation. PC-based control is one of the technologies, if not the cornerstone technology, around which we can build the smart factory.

Beckhoff Automation

The Beckhoff strategy, which is based on a standard PC platform, the use of communication protocols such as ADS (Automation Device Specification) and EtherCAT, and the services offered by the OPC UA (OPC Unified Architecture) specifications, means it is able to provide everything users need to implement control solutions that are capable not only of responding operatively to specific needs of the various applications, but also capable of integrating fully into the architecture of the factory, horizontally with the other control systems (including existing ones), and vertically with the upper levels of production planning and control (MES, ERP, distributed architectures etc.).

Process intelligence means, first and foremost, reliable communication, from sensor to cloud. In addition, it means an ability to interface systems with M2M modules capable of best exploiting IoT (Internet of Things) technology. In such a system, the various components of a process, such as a pick-and-place system based on Beckhoff XTS (eXtended Transport System) technology, as well as the control systems, become internet users, communicating openly – but securely – with one another, using cloud services via the Internet.

In the system architecture of the Smart Factory the “cloud” is where information on process status, energy consumption or, as mentioned, above, the status of an XTS pick-and-place station is stored. In short, it is where all this data is stored, analysed and then made available to the operator via increasingly sophisticated human–machine interface tools.

At the operator’s disposal are web-based tools, even the option to use the latest Google Glass technology, to interact with the system. Also, thanks to classic data acquisition, historicisation and condition monitoring tools there is the option to intervene with remote maintenance and advanced telediagnostic operations.

The availability of modules and tools for energy monitoring and management allows for more sustainable and – why not? –

smarter production solutions, thanks to the support of RFID as an enabling technology for intelligent tracking and identification solutions which are also able to communicate directly with their controllers via M2M interfaces that “talk” in IoT via the OPC UA interface.

This translates into a handling system or pick-and-place system based on XTS technology becoming a fully integrated component of the Smart Factory, capable of responding flexibly and effectively to any variation that might originate at the planning and control levels, even managing production lots composed of a single unit each. Impossible?

Remember that XTS (eXtended Transport System) is a modular mechatronics drive system. Its development has been designed specifically around the smart factory concept that makes PC-based control and standard communication (EtherCAT) the enabling technologies. The great feature of XTS is its ability to pilot “n” carriages independently of one another, each with its own acceleration/deceleration ramps and independent speeds of up to 4 m/s. This allows the XTS to perform a wide range of tasks simultaneously, and therefore manage, as mentioned previously, unit batches.

A fundamental component of the Beckhoff-based systems is also seen in TwinCAT3 - the software platform developed specifically to meet engineering and development needs. This too makes use of the capabilities of standard PC architecture in combination with communication and openness functionalities offered by the IT sector. In addition to the new TwinCAT Kinematic Transformation, which makes it possible to develop and simulate robot-based applications, TwinCAT has been expanded even further in the form of the TwinCAT PLC HMI Web visualisation system. Equipped with new features, it allows developers and users to capitalise on the features of the web-based approach to become faster, more efficient, and more flexible.

9

SPS Special corner W

The Innovative Family: know-how, innovation, reliability, security

A new logo and a new motto: “Innovative family” - continue to be innovative. This is the vision driving Wenglor Sensoric. At SPS 2014 the company will be unveiling a host of innovative solutions, the fruit of the synergy between the three companies that make up the new company know-how.

W

englor Sensoric (www.wenglor.com): a key player in the automation market, who has been developing, manufacturing and marketing highly innovative products for contactless object detection for 30 years. Thanks to a healthy portfolio, the company has become one of the world’s most important suppliers of industrial systems and sensors, expanding its market to more than 45 countries worldwide.

“Celebrating the company’s 30 years as an industry pioneer will help us to understand our identity; it will make us aware of what it means to be an innovative company and help us to look back on what we have achieved with great pride,” explains Elio Bolsi, General Manager of Wenglor Sensoric. “We have more than 730 employees in 23 countries around the world, four production sites and four R&D centres. Our know-how is the product of the three different companies: Wenglor Sensoric GmbH, Wenglor Fluid GmbH and MEL Mikroelektronik GmbH. This set-up will enable us to develop products not only for the optical sensor market, but for the vision system and industrial communication markets too.”

Wenglor Sensoric will be unveiling a range of innovative solutions at the Parma Exhibition Centre, including the new weQube smart camera. The innovative product features a powerful, multi-functional platform for accommodating a range of features. In addition, the modular software concept delivers maximum flexibility for image processing and 1D/2D barcode scanning. Optimal ease of use, excellent image quality, MutliCore technology and flexible multi-communication - just some of the features that make the weQube smart camera stand out from the crowd. Unique solutions such as the Teach+ function and the Micro SD card ensures the product meets the needs of both OEMs and end users in terms of installation and customer assistance, including reduced start-up and down times. 2D/3D lasers and high-frequency scanning and precision lasers enable applications which until now were almost unthinkable, and the

10

Wenglor Sensoric with considerable experience in the measurement electronics sector.

Not forgetting the importance of updating its portfolio of safety systems, the Wenglor safety range now includes such innovate solutions as the blind-spot-free barriers, aimed at offering maximum machine and system protection with minimum bulk, in contrast to traditional barrier systems. To provide customers with a 360° safety and security solution, Wenglor also supplies emergency stop switches, safety relays, RFID safety switches, safety restraint mechanisms and JOG consent switches.

“In modern industry,” says Elio Bolsi, “flow measurements are essential for process control. Wenglor Fluid offers flow sensor solutions with multiple benefits including: on-board display on all sensors - IP69K stainless steel version and standard version -, an immediate human/machine interface with almost-instant process response times and analysis precision for improved system performance, IP69K stainless steel housings with on-board display, Teach-in adjustment, 0-10V or 4-20m analogue outputs, digital outputs and accessory components.”

Elio Bolsi

full range of fixed and portable 1D/2D barcode scanners will promote Wenglor to the premier league of industrial automation solutions. In addition, the company has expanded its portfolio with a specialist range of products for 2D and 3D object detection. The range is manufactured by MEL Mikroelektronik GmbH, a recognised and highly successful supplier of high-tech products

In the industrial communications sector, the company is considered the world’s leading manufacturer of optical sensors with on-board PROFINET and EtherCAT protocols. EtherCAT ensures machines and systems run at maximum efficiency, both in terms of speed and diagnostics.

In strengthening its portfolio, Wenglor aims to provide its customers with a comprehensive range of innovative, high-quality solutions invested with the company’s considerable know-how, always with an eye on safety and performance.

11

SPS Special corner HM

HMS Industrial Networks: connect quickly and efficiently Connect devices to any network, reduce time-to-market, and optimise development costs: these are the objectives of HMS, a leading provider of remote management and network connectivity technology for industrial devices and who, at SPS 2014, will be unveiling a new suite of interconnectivity solutions.

T

here are many issues that manufacturers of automations systems and devices face daily in order to provide products offering greater efficiency and increased multi-connectivity. HMS Industrial Networks (www.anybus.it) - through its Anybus, IXXAT and Netbiter product lines - offers a response to these needs, developing and delivering solutions to connect automation systems and devices with the major industrial networks.

Among the latest innovations introduced by HMS Industrial Networks is the new Netbiter EasyConnect EC350. It is the first in a new generation of EasyConnect gateway devices - part of the

12

Netbiter family of products - facilitating remote management and control of industrial devices. The EC350 connects to industrial devices via Modbus (serial network or Ethernet), SNMP, EtherNet/ IP or I/O, and sends data to the central, cloud-based Netbiter Argos server via Ethernet or the cellular data network.

“While previous versions of the Netbiter EasyConnect gateways were able to communicate via GSM/GPRS,” explains Paolo Sartori, Director of the Italian subsidiary and Sales & Marketing Director of HMS Industrial Networks, “the new Netbiter EC350 is also able to communicate over 3G networks, offering increased performance compared to the GPRS network as well as greater geographical coverage. The Netbiter EC350 also supports

HMS Industrial Networks

tion on a chip which is then integrated directly into their PCB - ideal for small, high-volume devices.

HMS will also present a range of new solutions from IXXAT, a subsidiary of the HMS group. “IXXAT Econ 100 is a modern, embedded Master Controller for EtherCAT, CANopen and Powerlink networks,” explains Paolo Sartori. “Econ 100 is a universal platform ‘Remote Access’ functionality which allows users to establish a based on a powerful SoC with 2 x ARM Cortex A9 + FPGA and secure connection with a device remotely and configure and Linux operating system, with four Ethernet ports, two CAN ports operate it from any location.” and two USB ports as standard. Whether it is used ‘out of the box’ The innovations continue with HMS Industrial Networks’ new range or adapted to specific customer requirements, IXXAT Econ 100 is of Anybus CompactCom 40-series embedded modules, offering the perfect choice for a whole range of industrial applications in a complete solution for drive network connectivity (motion profiterms of performance, flexibility and cost.” With IXXAT Safe, HMS les). The Anybus CompactCom product consists of ready-made offers a broad portfolio of solutions for safe communication, via communication interface solutions for fieldbus and Industrial protocol stacks and safe I/O modules, which is integrated Ethernet networks, affording users complete freedom directly into a user’s device. A key feature of IXXAT Safe of format and performance. Anybus CompactCom is the new IXXAT Safe T100 module - a complete solumakes automation devices ‘network neutral’, which tion for quick and easy integration of safety I/Os via means users are able to utilise client solutions in new a secure communication protocol. markets or sectors without making changes to their Today, many of the world’s leading manufacturers own devices. In turn, this significantly reduces the of automation devices use Anybus and IXXAT nettime-to-market for new networks, which can result work connectivity solutions. HMS employs some of in substantial savings. the world’s leading experts on industrial networks to “Users are able to choose the performance level ensure its connectivity solutions stay up to date with that suits them: the 30- or 40-series,” adds Sartori. “The Paolo Sartori the latest network standards and certifications.

CompactCom 30-series, based on the Anybus NP30 network processor, is perfect if users require a connectivity solution for general applications (like pumps, elevators, conveyor belts, etc.). The CompactCom 40-series, based on the Anybus NP40 network processor, is ideal if the aim is to produce high-performance automation devices for real-time applications. The Anybus NP30 and NP40 network processors make up the core of the Anybus connectivity solutions. They complement the existing microprocessor, offloading it from communication tasks.”

CompactCom also offers different levels of integration, adaptable to individual user requirements: MODULE is a complete and interchangeable communication module; BRICK provides the same multi-network functionality as the module, but is ideal for users with limited space or those who want to add network connectors to the device; finally, CHIP offers users a complete network connectivity solu-

13

SPS Special corner C

Solenoid valves and valve islands: innovation and reliability at the fore The solenoid and valve island market is continually evolving. Camozzi, the undeniable leader in Italy is a company that continues to evolve and innovate, paying special attention to the needs of the market and the long-term reliability of its products.

14

Camozzi

F

or its 2014 offering, Camozzi (www.camozzi.com) has employed targeted strategies to create a strong synergy between its business expertise and the complex demands of the market. Expert product managers and business development managers with industryspecific knowledge are key to Camozzi’s ability to develop products and solutions that meet customer quality and performance needs.

Camozzi offers a wide range of customisable products capable of meeting the needs of the market. The company’s offering includes products operating on Profibus technology. This includes Series Y valve islands, an extremely versatile solution, Series H compact and reliable valve islands and the CX2 serial node, compatible with several valve islands.

“Our mission is study and build solutions that deliver added value to our customers – explains Juri Migliorati, electronics product manager for Camozzi - Our expert technicians and experienced partners team up to delivery high quality products and solutions to our customers every year.”

The Series H valve island – available in Multipolar, Serial and Individual versions – can be configured for use in numerous applications. Electronic technology means that it can be interfaced with Profibus-Dp, CANOpen and DeviceNet protocols, handling up to 64 outputs (coils and electric signals) and 64 inputs.

The body of the Series Y valve island can act either as a subbase or as a container for the valves. This reduces the number of components and pneumatic and electrical connection

Juri Migliorati

points and provides more efficient management of systems and applications.

Series F valve islands deliver high levels of reliability and performance, combining technology with streamlined installation and maintenance. Tube cartridge fittings are interchangeable and provide greater flexibility. The valves are built from technopolymer to minimise weight. Available with up to 24 coils and 24 valve positions. Camozzi is also dedicated to miniature solenoid valves. One example is the Series K8 of directly operated minisolenoid valves. They are used to control and command actuators or small devices and are particularly useful for applications in the life sciences industry, where high-performing compact solutions are required. Their low absorption and reduced weight make them the ideal solution for portable instruments.

“One of Camozzi’s main objectives – explains Migliorati – is to contribute to sustainable progress in all the industries the company operates, by providing innovative solutions and establishing long-term relationships based on mutual trust. In each of the activities we are already involved in or we are going to enter into, we want our customers and partners to choose us for the innovative spirit, efficiency and social responsibility we put into our way of doing business.”

Camozzi is an Italian company with an international reach providing customers with reliable components that comply with the regulations and standards of different countries, as well as to fast and efficient service. This is the profile of Camozzi, a leading company in the production of pneumatic components for the automation industry.

15

SPS Special corner E

A complete range of instruments for every industry To become market leader in measurement instruments and automation solutions for the process industry, a company needs to place advanced technology, quality and customer focus at the top of its priorities.

Endress+Hauser does precisely this and will be presenting its new suite of products at SPS 2014.

O

ne of the leading suppliers of instruments, solutions and services for industrial automation is Endress+Hauser (www.it.endress.com). This German company has a strong global presence and offers a wide range of products for process measurement, including devices, sensors, meters, systems and services for level, pressure, capacity, and temperature measurement, for fluid analysis and data recording. A wide range of industries benefit from Endress+Hauser’s services, namely chemical and pharmaceutical, food and drink, water treatment and conditioning, energy, paper, petrochemical, off-shore and many more.

“At SPS 2014, we intend to promote the message of product coherence and completeness – says Roberto Gusulfino, Marketing Director of Endress+Hauser – The solutions we are proposing are designed to deal with measurement, control and automation

16

tasks for production and logistics in the process industry. The aim is to monitor and control processes reliably, while ensuring costeffectiveness, safety and environmental protection.”

The products presented at the event will include the new Prowirl 200 vortex liquid, gas and steam flowmeter for use in process and utility applications. Available in diameters from DN 15/1/2” to DN 300/12“, including the compact version. Prowirl 200 can even detect steam quality.

Another highlight is the new Promag 200, an electromagnetic flowmeter powered by two-wire technology. Available in diameters from DN 2/1/12” to DN 200/10“ including a compact version.

It has certification for hazardous locations (ATEX, FM, CSA); PED; SIL2 in accordance with IEC61508 (pending) and hygiene EHEDG and 3A. Minimum conductivity is 20 μS/cm. The meter ensures reduced energy consumption and is suitable for 2-wire transmitter loop-powered applications.

“Promag 100 is a compact electromagnetic flow meter available with diameters from DN 2/1/12” to DN 600/24” with standard

Endress + Hauser

20/70 m, temperature from -196 to +450 °C and certification for explosive atmospheres (ATEX, FM, CSA, ..) SIL2 , SIL3, NACE, WHG, etc. “It is the only open-space radar on the market to be developed according to IEC61508, for the highest level of safety, with suitability up to SIL3 in homogeneous redundancy – says Gusufino - ‘Multi Echo Tracking’ dynamic algorithms means every single echo can be identified and tracked separately and dynamically, with a precision range of +/- 2 mm”.

Endress+Hauser is also introducing its new electronic differential pressure transmitters. The Deltabar FMD71 has ceramic Ceraphire cell and the Deltabar FMD72 has a metal cell. These instruments operate in a range from 100 mbar to 40 bar and -40 to +150°C and

electrodes in 1.4435/316L stainless steel, Alloy C-22, platinum, tantalum and titanium. It has IP66/67 protection (IP69K optional) – explains Roberto Gusulfino - and certification for hazardous locations (ATEX, FM, CSA); PED; hygiene ASME BPE, EHEDG and 3A; ACS; NSF. Minimum conductivity is 5 μS/cm. Its main benefits include web server configuration, easy integration with any control system, up to 0.2% v.i. precision and a wide choice of output signals.”

Another highlight is the Promass 100, Coriolis compact flowmeter available in diameters from DN 1/1/24” to DN 350/14”. It has IP66/67 protection (IP69K optional) and certification for hazardous locations (ATEX, FM, CSA); PED and hygiene (EHEDG and 3A). It can be configured by web server and integrated into any control system. it has up to 0.1 % v.i. precision and special PremiumCal calibration of up to 0.05% v.i. t-mass T 150 is a thermal dispersion flowmeter, suitable for pipes with diameter from DN 40/1 1/2” to DN 1000/40” with IP66/67 protection and stainless steel, Alloy C-22 wetted materials. It has certification for hazardous locations (ATEX, IECEx, cCSAus); CRN and hygiene (EHEDG and 3A). The meter provides SIP safety up to 130 °C (266 °F), 0.8 or 0.4μm roughness for wetted parts and no moving parts. Precision is ± 5% v.f.s. and 4 … 20 mA output signals available with Hart+ protocol and programmable digital output.

For level meters for liquids and solids, the company is presenting the new Micropilot FMR5X radars with level ranging from 0...

have explosive atmosphere certification (ATEX, FM, CSA, etc.).

The eliminate traditional mechanical problems, providing greater process availability and reliability. They also ensure reduced installation and maintenance time, availability and spare parts.

Lastly are the new resistance thermometers for hygiene and health applications: iTHERM TM401 / iTHERM TM411 with operating range from -200 to +600°C and up to 40 bar. They have up to IP69K protection and certification for hygiene 3A, FDA, EHEDG, explosive atmospheres (ATEX, FM, CSA, etc.), SIL2, etc.They also have hygienic attachments, suitable contact materials and certified surface finishes. “iTHERM QuickSens and StrongSens are the quickest and strongest inserts in the world – goes on Gusulfino – iTHERM QuickNeck is the new separatable neck with quick release for tool-free recalibrations. iTHERM TA30R is the new stainless steel terminal head with protection class IP69K and optimal accessibility of the terminals”.

Roberto Gusulfino

17

SPS Special corner

Advanced Technologies: research and innovation for artificial vision systems Expertise, products and experience are the essential ingredients needed for companies operating on the industrial vision and scientific imaging market. Only this way is it possible to reduce costs, decreasing the time for developing and integrating technology into a complete system. Advanced Technologies supplies precisely this kind of solution to effectively reduce time to market.

T

he market for industrial vision solutions is particularly effervescent in Italy, home to companies offering services with outstanding design and quality capabilities. One such company is Advanced Technologies (www.adv-tech.it), who, since 1998 have specialised in distributing innovative and reliable technologies to the industrial vision market.

To date, 1,700 companies in numerous industrial fields – including the robotics, automation, medical imaging, security and sports industries – have chosen to place their trust in the supplier. And

18

as firm believers of applied research, Advanced Technologies has also created a special Research and Development division, in addition to its distribution segment, strongly supporting its product portfolio.

“Our vision – explains Davide Nardelli, Sales & Managing Director of Advanced Technologies – is based on the idea that the complexity of industrial processes is often determined, not only by the applications and issues that need to be solved, but also by the level of performance required. This means that our support is about supplying more effective solutions, providing several benefits to companies, but ultimately with the aim of minimising

Advanced Technologies Davide Nardelli

costs and time to market”.

Another aspect is the growing need of companies to manage and enhance their know-how, leading Advanced Technologies to spread the word about artificial vision.

“So, at the end of July 2012 – adds Nardelli -– the At Vision Lab-Foundation for scientific research came into existence. The project aims to inspire the market into investing in the artificial vision and scientific imaging industries. The primary focus of AT Vision Lab is training. More specifically, its activities include basic scientific and technological research, industrial research and experimental development, with dissemination of the results through teaching, publications and technology transfer through classroom courses, e-learning and collaborations with Universities.

The range of products that can be seen at the Advanced Technologies stand at SPS (PAV 3 – STAND F046) includes: Basler ACE cameras which provide outstanding quality images, have GigE, Camera Link or USB 3.0 interfaces and a good price-quality profile; Matrox industrial computers, including the new 4Sight GPm, which incorporates the latest generation Intel Core processors and has what it takes to cost-effectively handle multi-camera inspections; Neousys industrial computers, including the new and extremely reliable Nuvo 3000, capable of withstanding operating temperatures ranging from -25 °C to 70 °C and offering a patented PCI Express expansion slot. Both Matrox and Neousys provide robustness and durability even in extreme working environments.

“Our key product at this edition of SPS – continues Davide Nardelli - is the newly released Matrox Design Assistant 4.0 imaging tool, whose flowchart graphic interface enables vision applications to be designed in just a few clicks. Matrox Design Assistant 4.0 is an integrated design environment (IDE) which allows operators to easily create flow diagrams and user interfaces for applications, formulating industrial vision designs in record timing, without the need for conventional programming languages.”

As this is a flowchart-based environment, the main advantage of this solution is that it is simple to use. No specific knowledge of traditional programming languages is required, so flowcharts and user interfaces are easy to create. All this translates into considerable reductions in development time for industrial vision projects. Matrox Design Assistant 4.0 is available for the Matrox Iris GT smart camera and computers with GigE Vision or USB3 Vision.

To present the possibilities offered by this new version of Matrox Design Assistant, during the SPS event, visitors will be able to take part in seminars held from Tuesday 20 May to Thursday 22 May from 10 am to 1 pm in the Sala Fragola meeting room in Exhibition Hall 2. Advanced Technologies will also be conducting the Matrox Design Assistant 4.0 Italian Tour of workshops in June, giving participants the opportunity not only to learn but also to operate directly within the development environment, by installing a demo version of the Matrox tool on their own computers.

The June tour will be stopping off at 9 Italian cities: Turin (16), Brescia (17), Milan (18), Florence (19), Rome (20), Vicenza (24), Modena (25), Ancona (26) and Bari (27).

19

SPS Special corner M

MISUMI: efficiency, quality and cost savings for industrial automation High-quality products, low prices and fast delivery times are critical when it comes to increasing productivity and creating competitive benefits for customers. Guided by these principles, MISUMI has set out its portfolio of products for industrial automation and special machine construction.

LX Series

A

utomotive, electrical and electronics, semiconductors, medical technology and packaging are the industries benefiting from products manufactured by the MISUMI Group, Inc. (www.misumi-europe.com). The Japanese company has many years of experience supplying mechanical components for special machines and industrial automation For the fourth edition of the SPS Italia, MISUMI has decided to expand its stand, reflecting the fact that the company is growing

20

exponentially, gaining a solid foothold on the Italian market.

The boom in customer satisfaction means that MISUMI has made considerable inroads on the industrial automation market and is extending its reach thanks to the customer word-of-mouth. A reference that comes from experience in the field who daily have to get quality and efficient services, and to tight deadlines, while maintaining low costs. “MISUMI’s strength is the wide range of configurable components which can be downloaded in various formats: 2D, 3D, vector, pdf or image files. Our WOS (Web Ordering System) platform - says Stefano Casazza , director of the Italian branch of Misumi

Misumi Stefano Casazza

- makes it possible for customers to request real-time quotes and know the delivery times for certain products. The platform also enables frequent customers to create an archive of quotes and orders, which speeds up and simplifies the ordering process.”

For SPS 2014, in addition to packaging and assembly products, the company is presenting Pick&Place, a machine built completely from MISUMI components, but designed and assembled by Phizero, in partnership with other companies in the pool “Fare Automation” (Making Automation) pool. This pick & place system is an example of a finished product that is simple, but extremely innovative - continues the company’s director - Inside the machine there is not one mechanical or structural element that has not been made with ​​ MISUMI components.” With this product the company hopes to attract the attention of visitors fascinated by the dynamics of about twenty cubes that form MISUMI’s Italian mascot: a robot.

Behind the machine is placed on a monitor showing a video which explains the various stages of 3D design in detail. It shows the assembly and construction of the machine itself. Unfortuna-

tely, the video does not reflect the actual time between the various phases of the process, from design to quotation, ordering to delivery of the various components (all custom configured).

Well aware of the importance of reducing times, the company guarantees performance in record time.

In this difficult economic time, MISUMI is committed to finding solutions which are viable in terms of quality, but are also costeffective. The company’s strategy focuses on TCS (Total Cost Saving). This savings formula involves the entire supply chain enabling MISUMI to offer customers a time saving of 40%, which also translates in cost savings.

“New for SPS 2014 will also be a reading corner - concludes Casazza - where potential customers can sit down and browse through our MISUMI catalogue and choose from the wide range of products, which include standard, commercial and custom components”.

Product quality, reliability, efficiency and speed in delivery and precise and on-point answers to all needs make MISUMI the best “custom” partner on the industrial automation market.

LX Series

21

SPS Special corner I

Image S: innovation in industrial vision technology

The 3D Ensenso N10/N20 camera, HALCON 11 software, Gocator 3300 sensors and BOA vision system: industrial imaging solutions set to be showcased by the team of trained Image S technicians at SPS Italia 2014.

“Speaking the language of the customer”: demonstrating speed, simplicity and efficiency - this is the strategy that has seen the Italian company assume an ever more important role in the image processing market.

I

mage S (www.imagessrl.com), a market leader in Italy in the supply of industrial vision products, will be in attendance at the Parma Exhibition Centre from 20th to 22nd May. The company focuses on the pragmatism of solutions. At the stand, which will cover more than 100 square metres, visitors will be able to attend a variety of practical demonstrations illustrating the innovative features of some of the products offered by the company; three demonstrations will feature robotics (Denso, ABB and Kawasaki), highlighting the potential of vision solutions in automation and robotic applications.

One of the main innovations on display will be the innovative and compact Ensenso N20 3D stereo camera by IDS Imaging, which operates on the principle of “stereovision with pre-set pattern projection”. The camera is equipped with two CMOS image sensors with global shutter function and a pattern projector. A major advantage of the pattern is that it can operate in multicamera applications and is ideal for capturing unstructured surfaces. The simultaneous use of multiple cameras allows users to capture a scene from several different points of view concurrently, thus eliminating non-recognition of parts and widening the field of view, all to the advantage of the level of accuracy.

In comparison to previous models, the N20 camera is equipped with a GE interface; it is also faster and has a higher resolution.

“HALCON 11,” explains Marco Diani, President and Co-founder of Image S, “is the latest release of MVTec’s HALCON software, which, thanks to the full range of 3D vision tools, facilitates the creation of 3D measurement applications.” Sample-based identification, handwriting recognition, 3D surface comparison and 3D object processing are only some of the innovative features made possible by the latest version of HALCON. In addition to these features there is improved photometric stereo (including for multiple-camera acquisitions), reading of AZTEC and Micro QR codes, automatic feature selection for classification, and faster algorithms made possible by extended GPU support which is managed automatically without user intervention.

Sensors are also playing an important role in the artificial vision market. Among the products being showcased by Image S is Gocator 3300 by LMI Technologies - the first family of smart 3D

22

Image S

sensors to combine 3D point cloud acquisition and measurement tools in a single industrial package. Easy to set up, quick to integrate, and highly reliable, Gocator sensors perform highresolution, non-contact, three-dimensional measurements at speeds of up to 5Hz. Gocator 3300 is ideal for measuring different components and features such as holes, slots, pins, distances and alignments. It also offers great ease of use, the integrated web server allowing for simple and intuitive configuration via web browser.

At the stand, visitors can also witness in action the all-in-one BOA200 vision system by Teledyne Dalsa. It is one of the first smart cameras able to integrate multiple image processing engines, allowing users to optimise algorithms via a dedicated DSP, manage applications via an independent CPU, and coordinate a network of sensors using FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). “The latest version,” explains Marco Diani, “is four times faster than the standard BOA model and guarantees users maximum flexibility thanks to the robust and easy-to-install housing, reduced implementation costs, and embedded devices for data exchange with other components in the production line.”

BOA is also the first smart camera with software that can be easily configured via a standard browser. This means no software to install and no version management issues.

Marco Diani

23

SPS Special corner

SPS: breakfast with SICK. Informal and informed Independence, innovation and leadership are the guiding principles of Sick S.p.A. The company operates in the fields of factory automation, logistics and processes, providing industrial solutions for reliable and efficient process control.

S

ICK S.p.A. (www.sick.it) is the Italian branch of SICK AG, one of the leading companies worldwide for the production of sensors for industrial applications. For the fourth edition of SPS IPC Drives Italia, Sick S.p.A. will once again be among the exhibitors (HALL 3 – Stand C002) presenting new solutions dedicated to the world of industrial automation, processes and

logistics.

“We’re returning to SPS with great expectations – says Giovanni Gatto, Managing Director of Sick S.p.A. - SPS Italia is continuing to grow and over these four years, more and more visitors have been interested in our solutions. Which is why we have a larger

24

stand to present some of our key products, including sensors for detecting adjacent objects in Deltapac process flows. We will also be showing the Bukscan LMS511 laser volume flowmeter and the RFU630, the compact UHF RFID read and write device with integrated antenna, as well as numerous other preview highlights”.

The portfolio of products aimed at the Industrial Automation industry has expanded. The CQ4 capacitive proximity sensor for detecting metal and non-metallic objects in the packaging, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, food&beverage and electronic components industries. The DBS60 incremental encoder measures rotation speed and retro-activates induction motors. Lastly, the

Sick

DeTec2 security barrier has no blind spots, automatic operating distance regulation, is ready to use without configuration (sensor only operates in protection mode) and immediately interprets diagnostic codes.

Motion control innovations include the new AHS/ AHM36 encoder, a revolution in 36mm programmable absolute encoders. It is also used in industrial and special vehicles, packaging, logistics, building automation, and in the medical industry. Available in single-turn (AHS36) or multi-turn (AHM36) versions, with solid shaft or hollow shaft for maximum mounting flexibility. Both the connector and the output cable can be rotated for easy installation, even when there is little space available. These encoders can work in a wide temperature range and comply with protection classes IP66 and IP67.

detection capabilities, even on black surfaces, make it the ideal solution for spacing and monitoring suspended monorail shuttles, preventing collisions and detecting oversized or hanging loads in handling systems. Lector 650 is a compact and extremely reliable 1D and 2Dbarcode reader reading codes at a rate of up to 6m/s with read distances ranging from 40 to 1500mm.

Giovanni Gatto

For process automation, the TRANSIC100LP analyzer measures oxygen concentrations in humid or aggressive process gases thanks to tunable diode laser technology. Two products will be presented for logistics automation: TiM350 and Lector 650.

TiM350 is the latest compact laser scanner dedicated to the world of intralogistics, particularly for outdoor applications. The teach-in self-learning function, wide scanning angle and high

The SICK stand will also have several application tables showing the already mentioned Lector 650 and the G10 Q- Lock, the photoelectric sensor with a sensor range of up to 40m, retro-reflective sensor, high-immunity to ambient light and installation in just 10 seconds. Also on show will be the W2s-2, the first remote mini photoelectric sensor with autocollimation and PinPoint LED 2.0 technology capable of seeing the darkest of dark, but transparent objects.

“To respond to SPS visitors’ questions and curiosity – concludes Gatto – SICK is launching a new initiative: Breakfast with SICK. Visitors can register on the website (www. sick.it) to book breakfast with SICK technicians to get a rundown of all the solutions on display. Breakfast slots can be booked free of charge between 9.30 and 11.30 am.”

25

Speciale SPS Special SPScorner

By Elisa Maranzana

Automac:

where mechatronics enters the future Innovation, internationalisation, human resources and complete synergy with the customer are the prime elements on Automac has based its business mission. The Bergamo-based company leads the automotive industry in brake systems for cars and motorcycles.

I

ndustrial automation has changed immensely over the last few decades. Gone are the days of slow development, with the numerous advances made in technological progress driving innovation.

The biggest change over the last twenty years has been the introduction of mechatronics. The aim of this fusion of mechanics, electronics and information technology is to automate production systems and facilitate human labour. Mechatronics has enabled machinery manufacturers to build plants and solutions which are not only more flexible, but are also able to keep up with market needs.

For the last twenty years, Bergamo company Automac (www.automacsrl.it), has had a solid foothold in this area, provi-

26

ding solutions for automated assembly. “When we began producing assembly machines – tells us Franco Perico, co-founder of Automac and deputy chairman of the Italian Mechatronic Automation Association (AidAM, www.aidam.it) – we were asked to build plants that could assembly a single product at great speeds. Now, our customers ask us to build machines that are increasingly flexible and capable of processing a series of other variables along with the product itself. Mechatronics has been of enormous assistance in this area, enabling us to build more flexible machines that are easy to reprogram.

Automac has used its ability to meet the demands of the market to carve out its long-standing name as a manufacturer of high

Automac Sick

quality systems. The company began in the furniture accessories industry and later diversified into the automotive industry, followed by the aluminium fixtures industry.

“What enabled us to emerge in the industrial automation industry – explains Perico – was our ability to specialise in a number of areas, where we could offer greater added valued than our competitors. This evolution has mostly taken place in the automotive industry and especially in car and motor cycle brake systems, where we have been able to differentiate our production.

Following successful partnerships with companies such as the well-known manufacturer of brake systems, Brembo, Automac well and truly began to emerge as a market leader. Thus, armed with experience and know-how, the company was also able to move into other completely different markets.

testing. This is the only way to achieve complete synergy throughout the production process: initial analysis, proposal, design, production, installation, testing, training and assistance.”

More and more we hear that innovation and networking are what it takes to stay competitive, especially at international level. Collaborating with other companies in the automation industry is part of Automac’s DNA. Indeed, it has joined forces with Cosberg Spa and Cosvic Srl, two other important industrial companies, to create a kind of ecosystem consisting of their combined experience, know-how and production capacity to provide innovative and competitive solutions to various market needs.

“Our ability to network – says Perico – is another key element for international success. What counts in today’s global market is having the courage to Franco Perico take risks and combine know-how with expertise and Automac’s success is mostly down to the company’s focus on strengths”. creating a full partnership with its customers. This synergy is cultivated right from the outset, from the start of the product design To conclude, the chairman of AidAM suggests a strategy he and development phase. believes all companies should adopt. First of all, “innovate”, “We always advise our customers – continues the company’s meaning product analysis, new technology, staying up to date co-founder – to involve us right from the concept stage of each and getting ideas and input from “beyond your own walls”. Seproduct. This is because, companies often find themselves condly, broadening prospects for internationalisation, because designing products which, although functionally perfect, are there are some very interesting foreign markets (e.g. Serbia, difficult to assemble and thus more expensive to automate duTurkey, Morocco, United States) investing a lot in automation. ring production. Our main interest is our customers’ satisfaction.

And lastly, investing in people, because they are the greatest So we believe their ideas should be carefully analysed to see asset for every company and make a world of difference to the what their needs really are, before moving on to installation and outlook for both today and tomorrow.

27