Worldwide Engineering Magazine - May Issue by Ryan Leon Media

May Issue The MG Cyberster first official pictures released

IDS Imaging - cap closed!

Leuze - Conveyor sensor system ready to go

Pages 34-35

Pages 36-37

Pages 47

worldwide-engineering.com

Contents 04

Atlas Copco launches G2-7 screw compressor

Full data capabilities equals maximum benefit...both sides of the sale

Microbubble & Nanobubble technologies trial unit

New Ferrari limited edition V12 the countdown has begun

IDS Imaging cap closed

New Flir T865 joins T-Series family

Conveyor sensor system ready to go

Fuzzy logic robots from cad to control with one software

Worldwide Engineering Magazine Providing timely industry news, exclusive features on advancing technology, equipment, materials, show previews, content marketing services for our valued clients and much more! Adam Ling Advertising Enquiries: adam@worldwide-engineering.com Marc Hebden Sales Coordinator: marc@worldwide-engineering.com Jonathan Adams Editorial Assistant: jonathan@worldwide-engineering.com

Atlas Copco launches G2-7 screw compressor range for workshops and small businesses Atlas Copco’s latest G2-7 models are now the smallest, oil-injected rotary screw compressors in the company’s professional portfolio. Designed to replace the current GX2-7 range, boost productivity and lower operational costs, they are an unrivalled low-cost solution for small companies, workshops and operations with an infrequent air demand that are looking to expand their compressed air applications Typical application industries as diverse as woodworking, small-sized manufacturing, CNC operations, car wash bays, spray painting, clothing presses, automotive repair shops – all rely on a source of compressed air as an essential utility to aid their activities. That is why the all-new G2-7 beltdriven, fixed-speed compressor family has been designed from the outset to provide quiet, efficient,

powerful, and reliable performance within its five-model range. The 2.2, 3, 4, 5 and 7.5kW machines, each powered by an IE3 motor, are available at working pressures of 8 and 10 bar(e) with an output capacity range of 6.1 – 16.4 l/s (22.0 – 59.0 m3/hr). Rotary screw air compressors deliver more air per kW of power compared to reciprocating compressors of the same size. That is why the performance of the G2-7 smaller rotary machine, compared to its piston equivalent with the same output, can make a significant contribution to energy savings and therefore lower cost of ownership. In addition to overall energy efficiency, the G2-7 compressors offer multiple benefits compared to other compressor technologies. These features include low noise

output, lightweight and small footprint for point-of-use, plug and play installation. As well as simplified maintenance procedures and zero loss of capacity, the new compressors also offer 100% reliable, continuous operation 24/7 at temperatures of up to 46 degrees C, without the need for frequent cool-down periods required for a piston compressor. Furthermore, an extremely low oilcarryover of less than 5 ppm into the delivered air protects tools and end-product quality. While keeping operational costs at a minimum, thanks to its IE3 premium-efficiency motor, the G2-7 compressor’s belt-driven, state-ofthe-art, low-vibration screw element greatly reduces vibrations, resulting in near-silent operation. Noise levels are minimised to as low as 61

dB(A) allowing installation close to the point of use with no additional sound insulation requirement or the need for separate compressor room siting.

and a tropical thermostat. In addition, optional equipment can include an electronic water drain (EWD), a timer drain, and an anticondensation kit.

Monitoring and control is made easy with the compressor’s Elektronikon® Base unit that provides easy, intuitive control. Its icon-based display provides pressure settings, outlet temperature readings, running hours/ hours working at load. The controller also features service warnings and visual alerts to help safeguard performance and reliability.

Full feature versions of the compressors are available with a fully integrated refrigerant dryer to ensure the supply of dry, quality air without taking up extra production space.

Thanks to its overall outstanding energy efficiency, the G2-7 does not just reduce operating costs but also minimises the users’ carbon footprint, contributing to a greener workplace environment. Available either as floor-mounted or tank-mounted models with different sizes of air receiver available, the new G2-7 range can be tailored to customer-specific requirements with a range of options. These include food-grade oil, RSXD oil, a DD filter, aftercooler,

Overall, the new generation of Atlas Copco G2-7 workplace units offers high-end features and performance at down to earth, low initial investment capital and TCO running costs. Innovative solutions that tick all the boxes that matter most to smaller enterprises: guaranteed reliability, economic performance, and ready availability of the unit of choice. For more information please contact: Joanna Canton Long, Marketing Communications Manager, Atlas Copco Compressors +44 (0)1442 222240 or joanna.canton.longuk.atlascopco.com

Delta launches M125HV gen2 solar PV string inverter for large ground-mounted solar power plants 140 kVA, three-phase string inverter offers 99.1 percent peak efficiency and is now quieter. Delta, a global leader in power and thermal management solutions, today announced the launch of its solar string inverter M125HV series Generation 2, an updated version of its its popular 140 kVA inverterfor large ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. The M125HV Gen2 offers the same maximum output of its predecessor but now operates at a quieter 71.5 dB(A) level while still offering peak efficiency of 99.1 percent.

Amphenol connectors, for instance as part of utility-scale ground-mounted installations. The peak efficiency of 99.1 percent ensures high yields. By accepting high input voltages, the latest Delta inverter can reduce the amount of current cables must transport, which allows installers to use smaller gauge wire and minimize energy loss. “The M125HV Gen2 includes everything that made the Gen1 so popular with customers but is even quieter now,” said Andreas Hoischen, Senior Director, Business Unit Photovoltaic Inverters for Delta EMEA.

Strong performance, lower noise The M125HV Gen2 accommodates input voltages ranging between 860 and 1500 volts DC with a maximum sporadic voltage of 1600 volts. Up to 20 strings can be attached via

protection devices on the input and output sides. By avoiding the use of electrolytic capacitors, a longer service life may be possible. The M125HV Gen2 at a glance • 99.1 percent peak efficiency • As many as 20 strings via Amphenol connectors • Remote control and monitoring via Fieldbus • Type-2 surge protection preinstalled on the input and output sides • Aluminum housing with IP65 protection • Protection class II terminal box and robust screw terminals on AC side • All-in-one-design with two mechanical DC disconnectors • No electrolytic capacitors • Pro-EL (Electroluminescence) feature • Data point collection for string monitoring and I-V curve creation • Reactive power supplied 24/7

Rugged, safe, durable

• Anti-PID technology

Intelligent cooling combines natural convection with quieter active ventilation. The M125HV Gen2 is IP65rated and uses Type-2 surge

• Sunspec-compatible The updated M125HV Gen2 inverter is available from Delta in Q1/2021 in selected European countries.

Seeq announces $50 million series C funding round led by insight partners Insight Partners joins Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures, Altira Group, Chevron Technology Ventures, Cisco Investments and Second Avenue Partners to fund Seeq product and market expansion Seeq Corporation, a leader in manufacturing and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) advanced analytics software, announced today it has closed a $50 million Series C funding round, led by global venture capital and private equity firm Insight Partners. The round includes participation from existing investors Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures, Altira Group, Chevron Technology Ventures, Cisco Investments and Second Avenue Partners. This round brings Seeq’s total funding since inception to approximately $115 million. Seeq enables engineers and scientists in process manufacturing organizations to rapidly analyze, predict, collaborate, and share insights to improve production and business outcomes. Seeq customers include companies in the oil and gas, pharmaceutical, chemical, energy, mining, food and beverage, and other process industries. This funding will accelerate Seeq’s expansion of development, sales, and marketing resources, and help increase the company’s presence in international markets.

“We are pleased to close our Series C funding efforts with the support of Insight Partners to scale our business and enable manufacturing organizations to make data-driven decisions,” said Steve Sliwa, CEO and Co-Founder of Seeq. “By leveraging big data, machine learning, and computer science innovations, Seeq is enabling a new generation of software-led insights.” “Seeq has established themselves as the leader in process manufacturing and IIoT analytics, and we believe they will continue to transform the way companies find and share insights and make faster decisions,” says Matt Koran, Vice President at Insight Partners. “The company has achieved incredible growth to date, and we are excited to partner with them to help execute their vision for a new generation of machinelearning enabled analytics.” Seeq’s comprehensive set of applications for analyzing and sharing insights on process manufacturing data includes Workbench for easy to use advanced analytics, Organizer for publishing reports and dashboards, Data Lab for accessing Python libraries, and Cortex for IT governance, data connectivity, and calculation features. Seeq was

recognized in 2020 by Inc. Magazine as #261 on their 2020 list of the Fastest Growing Companies, #76 on Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500TM, and chosen as a Red Herring Top 100 North American winner. Seeq’s rapid growth is being fueled in part by its partnerships and commitment to cloud-based computing. Seeq is available in the AWS Marketplace and is an AWS Industrial Competency Partner. On Azure, Seeq has been available in the Azure Marketplace since 2019 and was recently recognized as a 2020 Microsoft Energy Partner of the Year Finalist. In addition to cloud partnerships, Seeq connects to an extensive set of automation vendor data storage platforms for on premise engagements including OSIsoft, Siemens, GE, Honeywell, Emerson Automation Solutions, Inductive Automation, AVEVA, AspenTech, Yokogawa, and others. Seeq is available worldwide through a global partner network of system integrators, which provides training and resale support for Seeq in over 25 countries, in addition to its direct sales organization in North America and Europe. To learn more about Seeq visit seeq.com

Siemens helps Cruachan Hydroelectric Power Station remove F-gas switchgear and replace with clean air technology First UK hydro power station to implement environmentally friendly vacuum switchgear. Siemens has installed four maintenance and F-Gas free generator circuit breakers at Drax Group’s subterranean pumped hydro storage power station in the Scottish Highlands. Siemens has completed a major project with Drax Group to upgrade the infrastructure in the iconic Cruachan pumped hydro storage Power Station with greener technology. Replacing equipment that was over 30 years old, the project included the UK’s first installation of four modern Siemens generator circuit breakers that do not depend on the sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas commonly used in switchgear. Cruachan underground pumped hydro storage plant, also known as the Hollow Mountain, supplies up

to 440 megawatts of flexible, ondemand electricity to the National Grid from four reversible turbines and has played a critical role in stabilising the UK’s electricity system throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

has a mean time to failure of 77,000 years and can run through 10,000 operating cycles before a service is required – for Cruachan, that equates to ten years of maintenance-free operation.

SF6 gas has traditionally been used in circuit breakers due to its good insulation capabilities but is classed as a greenhouse gas. Siemens’ innovative non-SF6 generator breakers use vacuum technology instead, making them safer and more environmentally friendly. There is no risk of gas leakages and no need for costly maintenance carried out by specialist engineers. Built from materials that are completely recyclable and hermetically sealed, the vacuum circuit breakers also have fewer moving parts, reducing wear and significantly boosting reliability. Each vacuum interrupter

Cruachan Power Station provides fast, reliable power to the National Grid, as well as the flexibility to absorb excess power - meaning it can start generating or pumping electricity within less than a minute, as well as providing system support services to maintain secure supplies of electricity and support more renewables like wind and solar to come onto the grid. Using a generator circuit breaker simplifies Cruachan’s operational procedures, synchronizing the load and avoiding extensive damage inside the transformer. “With Cruachan playing a vital role in supporting the growth of wind

power in Scotland and enabling further decarbonisation of the grid, it is only right that the infrastructure inside the power station is also environmentally friendly,” explains Ian Kinnaird, Drax’s Head of Hydro. “Working closely with Siemens, we retrofitted a first-of-its-kind solution that uses innovative vacuum circuit breaker switching instead of SF6 gas. Not only has this removed any potential environmental impact and health and safety concerns caused by the previous, outdated switchgear - the new generator breakers are practically maintenance free, reducing costs. It’s a really neat solution.” Ross Fraser, technical manager, Power & Utilities, Siemens adds: “Cruachan Power Station is contracted to provide reliable, clean electricity to the grid, so it is paramount that the technology installed is dependable, safe and sustainable. Siemens vacuum circuit

breakers are built on more than 40 years of engineering experience and have proven their reliability in installations all over the world, so we are delighted that Drax chose this solution for the UK’s first implementation inside a hydro power station. The project was certainly unique as we were working 1km underground at the heart of Ben Cruachan mountain, but by working very closely with the Drax team, we achieved a quick turnaround and had the first unit fitted in under 12 months during planned maintenance downtime.” The generator circuit breakers were installed after being transported through a narrow, one-kilometre long tunnel that leads deep into Ben Cruachan mountain. The work had to take place over the course of two years during planned maintenance downtime to reduce disruption to this critical national infrastructure.

Nidec Leroy-Somer announces the launch of the LSAH 42.3 to extend its range of industrial alternators The LSAH 42.3 is being released to complement the LSAH 44.3 released last year. It uses the same heat recovery system, andfeatures leading electrical and thermal efficiency values. The LSAH 42.3 has been designed to be packaged into small natural gas generator sets built for combined production of heat and electricity. The main application of these gensets are residential and public buildings central heating. The LSAH 42.3 delivers a rated power between 10 and 33 kVA at 50 Hz in continuous service (from 12.5 to 41 kVA at 60 Hz). The alternator is fitted as standard with an AREP excitation system and a D350 regulator. Paralleling with the public network for the resale of electricity production surplus is also possible with a D550 AVR. Thanks to its cooling and heat recovery system, the LSAH 42.3 offers premium performance, especially in situations of intensive use: - The electrical efficiency reaches 94% and generally remains above 90%. These unprecedented values help increase the global energetic performance of the cogeneration system. - Thanks to the optimized cooling system, the lifespan of the machine is increased and allows continuous operation of the system without any risk of failure due to hotspots. - Water cooling also allows the use of the LSAH 42.3 in non-ventilated – and silent – generator sets, making their integration in buildings much easier with and without noise pollution for the neighborhood. 10

The general characteristics of alternators in the new LSAH range also make them suitable for other applications where high efficiency, water cooling, low vibrations, low noise or continuous operation at high temperature are needed. These requirements are typically found in traction, hoisting or marine applications. About Leroy-Somer Electric Power Generation Leroy-Somer Electric Power Generation Europe and Asia Pacific (EPGE), a business unit of the Nidec Group, is a leader in industrial alternators with power ranging from 10kW to 25MW, focusing on Europe, Asia and Africa markets. With its two leading brand, LeroySomer and Kato Engineering, EPGE works with generator set manufacturers and electric power producers in these areas to help the industry provide reliable and efficient power solutions. EPGE has over 2,000 employees, 7 production

sites worldwide and a global service network. For more, visit www.leroy-somer.com/epg About Nidec Nidec, the parent company of Nidec Leroy-Somer Holding, was established in Kyoto, Japan in 1973 by its Chairman and CEO Shigenobu Nagamori. In 1979, Nidec became the first company in the world to successfully commercialize a direct drive spindle motor for HDDs based on a brushless DC motor. Since then, the company has grown into a worldleading comprehensive motor manufacturer encompassing more than 300 subsidiaries employing over 100,000 people throughout the world and with annual sales exceeding €11B. Nidec\’s motors, drives, generators and related products are found in a diverse range of applications including computers, smartphones, home appliances, automobiles, manufacturing plants, robots and more. For more, visit www.nidec.com

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Full data capabilities = maximum benefits… both sides of the sale Cama Group’s director Mark Brooker looks at modern machine design in the light of Industry 4.0 and how it benefits both OEMs and end users in equal measure Digitalisation at device, machine, plant and enterprise level is completely rewriting the rule books in terms of how companies can function and operate in the era of Industry 4.0.

and outputs more useful and more accurate for those next in line – from the initial marketing of a product all the way through to its ongoing remote maintenance. The core message is about creating value!

not just small elements. It’s all in the way we make them work together for mutual benefit.”

Today, the most powerful resource in any engineer’s toolbox is operational data. How companies then exploit this data may subsequently define their standing within an industry as well as drawing the line upon which success and failure are based

For a class leading machine builder, such as Cama, aspects of Industry 4.0 provide an immense array of opportunities to not only create internal value, but also external value, which has a direct impact on its customers’ operations and bottom lines.

- Digital Twin & simulation, virtual commissioning

Data-based smart operations are defining a new paradigm in just about every industry. But to many, Industry 4.0, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and digital transformation are just buzz words. To really understand their potential, you have to appreciate the impact that data and connectivity have, and witness some of the incredible results of their effective deployment – in both reallife and virtual applications. In today’s modern landscape, smart factories rely on four core capabilities - Digitisation of processes and methods - Smart components - Enhanced communications (Industrial Internet of things) - Real time interactions between Cyber-physical systems and humans In combination, these will ultimately boost return on investment, through top line growth, a reduction in bottom line impact and overall risk mitigation. This is achieved by giving all stakeholders access to the information they need, when they need it in a form suited to their role, in order to help make their roles

From a purely business perspective, Cama’s customers are looking for: - Higher throughput - Faster time to market - Shorter and less frequent downtime, and - Quicker changeovers between batches/products But to achieve all of these, machine builders have to balance the capabilities of realtime digital systems with the physical demands placed on the mechanics within machines. Only with an intimate knowledge of application engineering and a real understanding of its own technology, can a machine builder hope to build the perfect synergy between the two. This is where Cama excels. Mark Brooker Director at Cama, explains: “We have to sell the concept that Industry 4.0 capabilities offer a way to create value at different phases of a project and in different ways, but it is not a thing that you can sell alone. At Cama, it is a holistic approach that adds value to machines and projects for both us and our customers, and it has to encapsulate the whole project,

Cama splits its Industry 4.0 capabilities into four primary pillars:

- Digital Twin & augmented reality - Smart devices, connected machines and system integration - Edge computing, data analysis and connectivity “These four pillars certainly give us the value that we at Cama require from digitalisation,but since these apply 99% to customer projects too, the added value is also there for the customer to exploit.” Looking at the pillars individually, the goals for Digital Twin & simulation, virtual commissioning include: - Advanced tools for marketing and sales - Estimate and demonstrate performance of complex systems - Minimise projects risks through preliminary feasibility studies, and - Reduced development time for SW programming and commissioning These are achieved using a number of approaches. Digital Twin technology allows engineers to see machines in action before any fabrication has commenced. They can predict issues, improve flows and iron out any bottlenecks before final design is signed off. The digital twin and process simulations can also be shared with marketing and, of course, with the customer and then exploited for virtual commissioning and FAT procedures.

Expanding on this, the augmented reality capabilities of digital twins (the second pillar), give operators the ability to overlay machine schematics and animations, along with instructions and information essential for training, improving operations, undertaking tooling changeovers and performing guided maintenance activities, with the core goal of reducing downtime to an absolute minimum The next pillar, smart devices, connected machines and system integration, provide the real operational value for the customer. The goals of this include: - High-level line performance monitoring - Production data collection - Recipe and orders management - Product traceability By offering full connectivity from field level, through control, supervision and management levels, all the way up to the enterprise, seamless data flow allows companies to make instantaneous line-side decision and modifications, based on realtime operational data. Connectivity at device level is essential for this to happen. These components are closest to the action and although small, can often have – and make – the biggest impact.

Smart devices also deliver the capability to embrace the capabilities of edge computing – the fourth and final pillar. “We are working on edge computing to create an additional layer between the machine (control) layer and the factory (supervisory layer),” explains Brooker “This allows customers to aggregate output from the field level and turn it into data that delivers more significant information to the higher levels. This segregation of information can be exploited for both security and intellectual property purposes as well as being used to collect historical information for analytics and trend reporting, where the data can be collected in historian packages for shift and day-based analyses, to spot trends and anomalies.” In all cases – and supporting all four pillars – data is the core component! Without operational data and seamless data paths, industry 4.0 and the IIoT would simply not exist. By completely digitalising all of its machines, operations, and processes, Cama not only makes its own procedures far more streamlined, efficient and cost effective, but the same technology allows it to pass these benefits and additional digital capabilities on to its customers. It really is the prodigal win/win situation.

Smart devices can help to: - Reduce machine stops for undetected anomalies - Reduce downtime for batch changeovers using RFID and tracking technology - Reduce human factor and serious consequences - Quickly identify machine failures or environment changes - Avoid setup or adjustment errors, and - Simplify change of damaged or defective devices The associated fieldbuses upon which they run are also vital, which is why popular standards such as I/O link, EtherNet/IP and PROFINET are used.

No matter if your gasket needs are a one off, or on-going – we can help. Since 1989 Direct Gaskets Limited have been established in Hull, manufacturing gaskets with an unrivalled turnaround time and unbeatable service – earning them a loyal customer base. Supplying to the pharmaceutical, petrochemical, chemical, marine & shipping, food and leisure industries – to name a few – Direct Gaskets supply countrywide to all industries and are skilled at assessing customers’ needs and working alongside them to come to a sealing solution. Boasting a wide range of materials such as: Non-Asbestos Fibres, PTFE, Cork, Plastic Shim, Oil Paper, SemiMetallic Graphite, Felt and Rubbers including Nitrile, Neoprene, EPDM, Silicone and Viton – Direct Gaskets are fully equipped to manufacture to most gasket needs. They also stock over half a million ‘O’ Rings,

standard and imperial in 70 Shore Nitrile, Graphite Spirals in standard Carbon outer/Stainless inner and Graphite filled construction and 5 standard styles of Gland Packing – available off the shelf. Other materials are available on request. Being in business over 30 years, they have a catalogue of suppliers who help ensure they can provide quality service and unbeatable turnaround times by keeping them stocked up of everything they need as well as being able to manufacture in materials such as Copper – that Direct Gaskets do not offer on site. All members of staff are extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the material they stock, easily being able to tell customers the limitations of the materials and suitability for individual applications.

On site they have a CNC knife machine which can create bespoke gaskets to order – no matter the quantity. They also have standard flange gasket tooling such as, ASA 150, PN16 and BS Table ‘E’ from ½” up to 42” series A & B in full face and IBC construction. Direct Gaskets hold an ISO 9001 : 2015 accreditation and is also a proud member of Team Humber Marine Alliance and the UK Gasket and Sealing Association. In 2017 they were awarded with a platinum customer survey award and have 3 consecutive awards in 2018, 2019 & 2020 for ‘Best Gasket Supplier and Manufacturer’. For more information on Direct Gaskets Limited please visit: www.direct-gaskets.co.uk

Innovative UK grants AMT £87,000 for the development of next generation consumable for post-processing thermoplastic elastomers Additive Manufacturing Technologies Ltd. (AMT), a global leader in safe and sustainable automated chemical vapor smoothing (post-processing) systems for additively manufactured parts, receives a £87,000 grant from Innovate UK to expand its portfolio of green technology for post-processing 3D printed parts. Innovate UK’s Sustainable Innovation competition was created to help all sectors of the UK recover, grow, and create new opportunities from the aftermath of the global health pandemic. AMT was awarded £87,000 to fast track its research and development program to introduce a new generation of green, bio-renewable chemistries designed specifically for post-processing elastomer materials – commonly used for 3D printed PPE and other Covid-19 related respiratory items. This next generation consumable is dedicated for TPU, and other elastomer materials, and will be used in AMT’s patented PostPro Chemical Vapor Smoothing process in addition to AMT’s current organic consumable offering. AMT’s patented PostPro Chemical Vapor Smoothing technology allows manufacturers to seamlessly surface finish thermoplastic 3D printed parts for performance enhanced end-use products.

Benefits of PostPro chemical vapor smoothing process include creating sealed surfaces for highly regulated applications, such as medical, improved mechanicalproperties for high-performance applications, and improved aesthetics for consumer parts. PostPro technology is compatible with all industryleading 3D printing technologies and over 100 thermoplastic materials. “Developing sustainable solutions that further the industrialization of additive manufacturing is our primary focus at AMT, and we’ve already proven that with our PostPro Chemical Vapor Smoothing technology. By utilizing the Innovate UK Sustainability funding to develop this new consumable for elastomers, we’re furthering the capabilities of our technology in an even more sustainable way for our customers.” Said Dr. Konstantin Rybalcenko, Global Head of R&D at AMT. “We look forward to working with OEM industrial partners to implement this next generation consumable into 3D printing factories across the globe.” AMT is currently using the next generation consumable for prototyping. The final product will be globally available in Q2 2021 for companies to innovate and potentially export. For more information visit: www.amtechnologies.com

Rotary Power develops motor for All-terrain vehicle in British triumph Rotary Power has collaborated with Agile Vehicle Technologies to develop a motor for the first of its kind, allterrain vehicle

took a lead on the detailed design work for the motors, which was particularly impressive since this was her first major engineering project. She has been fantastic, she’s really thrown herself into the challenge and it’s been brilliant to watch her develop as an engineer.

Five years ago, Agile spotted a gap in the market for an industrialgrade, hydrostatic vehicle that could operate on any terrain whilst maintaining manoeuvrability, speed, robustness, value for money and a heavy load capacity. Previous multi-terrain vehicles have been notoriously expensive and have issues with durability. Other vehicles, such as tractors, have a tendency to struggle on more challenging terrains due to their mechanised drive system.

“The willingness of Rotary Power to engage with a start-up like us on the technical challenge we presented has been really refreshing. This made a huge difference as made it easier for us to gain funding for our ideas. Their introduction to other manufacturers such as Related Fluid Power, enabled us to access expertise that would have otherwise been difficult to come by. What we’ve achieved collectively is really exciting and it’s been great to bring together innovative engineering companies to develop a ground-breaking product.”

Keen to work with British suppliers, Agile contacted North East based hydraulic motor manufacturer, Rotary Power. The challenge was to develop a hydraulic motor that could power each wheel independently, whilst driving additional wheels using an internal chain drive system. This would provide the vehicle with a compact, powerful drive system with an ultralow centre of gravity. The solution, a bespoke motor with a unique through shaft that allows the motors to be attached to the vehicle’s chain drive system, as well as the wheel hub. The motor’s twospeed feature allows the vehicle to reach speeds of 40 km/h, whilst providing 4000Nm of torque and an impressive 96% efficiency level. Stuart Sowray, Chief Designer at Agile, said: “As a start-up, we were working to a really tight budget so it was important to get the design right first time. Laura, one of the Design Engineers at Rotary Power,

The resulting eight wheeled vehicle provides an unparalleled solution that combines a fully sealed watertight body with a 1.8 metre wide, three-way tippable load bed and two tonne capacity. The vehicle’s ultra-low ground pressure means it can function on any terrain without causing damage. The underlying hydraulic base can be reconfigured for a variety of applications including firefighting, agriculture, recreation, sport and forestry. Laura Parnaby, Design Engineer at Rotary Power, said: “It has been a great learning experience collaborating with the customer on this project. I have had the opportunity to visit them at several locations to carryout data acquisition and witness the vehicle successfully operating in extremely challenging conditions. Seeing our motors performing in the field was so rewarding and gathering ‘real life’ application data was invaluable.

Since being manufactured in the UK, the machine has been tested in a number of environments including a fruit farm in West Kalimantan on the island of Borneo. The vehicle is particularly useful for this application as it can manoeuvre through water logged ground during the rainy season, whilst creating minimal damage to the plants’ ground roots. Other vehicles are unable to access the fruits during the rainy season and so many are left to rot and go to waste. Neil Brunt, Director of Global Operations at Agile, explained further: “The rainy season currently forces farmers to waste a high percentage of their crop because they can’t access it. Our vehicle solves this problem by allowing farmers to access existing plants all year round, maximising the harvest gained and minimising wastage. This increases both the profitability and sustainability of the farming industry in West Kalimantan.” Agile are working on further reconfigurations of the vehicle using the hydraulic drive system developed by Rotary Power. Involving robotics, sensors and autonomous features will allow the vehicle to operate in the most uninhabitable environments. The flexibility of the initial design concept means that the vehicle can be adapted for almost any application. Neil Brunt summarised: “There’s not a vehicle anywhere in the world that’s got the same performance in such a compact design. There’s nothing like it and that’s down to the collaboration of Rotary Power, ourselves and other associated partners such as Related Fluid Power who, together, have achieved something that no one has ever done before. It’s a real British triumph.” www.rotarypower.com

How to secure reliable volume manufacture There are many stages in the product development process for micro parts and components, but ultimately OEMs require parts to be produced at volume and repeatably. This article will focus on what influences the ability of micro molders to mass manufacture successfully. Let’s start with a fact. Not all micro molders are the same. Indeed, not all companies that promote themselves as micro molders are in fact micro molders. You see, when it comes to size, there is a scale, and this scale can be described in different ways to promote competencies. Some suppliers describe themselves as precision molders, others proport to achieve nebulous levels of accuracy (nebulous because

accuracy and indeed claims of precision without some degree of qualification are effectively meaningless). Precision for company “A” maybe be anything but precision for company “B”, so the phrase has a degree of opacity that is unhelpful. Precision molding services therefore cover a huge spectrum of part sizes and feature sizes on parts. When looking at the larger part size and lower tolerance side of the market, vertical integration and the ways that customers and supplier “partner” and interact is less critical to success. If parts are produced close to specification, are delivered close enough to time, and on cost, job done. Scrutiny on who in the supply chain is producing what and when is less relevant than is the case when moving into the area of micro molding.

Micro molding typically requires the achievement of truly exacting and sometimes almost impossibly tight tolerances, and in many instances the demand is for tiny parts sometimes the size of a grain of salt, or slightly larger parts with sub-micron feature sizes. When micron tolerances matter, suddenly the customer and micro molding provider must enter into a different and closer partnership in product development, and it becomes hugely important that the micro molder owns, manages, develops, and innovates in every aspect of the supply chain. True micro molders can achieve micron tolerances on parts that are typically less than a gram in weight and can be as light as less than 0.001 grams. For manufacturers unused to such levels of accuracy,

and more attuned to the injection molding process on a macro scale, the thought of mass manufacturing parts with such dimensions and tolerances may seem all but impossible, but micro molders do this daily, and often require zero failure rates for parts and components used in safety critical applications. Attention to detail and attention to process is everything, as not only do micro molders need to make tiny parts with tiny features repeatably and attaining micron tolerances, but they need to do this in a cost-effective and timely fashion. So saying, what needs to be avoided at all costs is having to go back to the drawing board with designs, having to review and change manufacturing processes, and having to re-cut already

extremely expensive and timeconsuming to make micro tools. The headline over every activity is “get it right the first time.” Vertical integration enhances the quality, compliance, and conformance to design intent. Micro molders need to understand the CTQs (Critical to Quality characteristics) to manufacture parts successfully, and these characteristics are important to the functionality of the product in terms of the end-user experience and embrace molding, assembly, and packaging. Good lean principles can be used to exemplify this importance. Valuestream thinking — from concept to order fulfilment — drives customer value. Vertical integration supports

a shorter value stream reducing silos and sub-optimized processes. Basically, the longer the value stream, the more disconnected the value stream, and the more variables can be introduced causing customer issues. Key issues for volume manufacture As a micro molder, Accumold is uniquely positioned due to the physical size of its premises to gear up to long-term volume manufacture for its customers. It also boasts 6 class 8 clean rooms (29,000 square feet in total), and 3 class 7 cleanrooms (10,000 square feet in total). However, there needs to be a continuous focus on improvement, and here the company’s highly skilled tenured workforce comes into its own. Variability is the enemy of highvolume manufacturing, and so

the focus needs to be maintained on implementing process controls that drive repeatability all the way from cutting micro tool steel to measurement and validation methods. In essence, customers want the highest quality products at the lowest possible cost. Product quality requirements are driven by Voice of the Customer (VOC), which enables good micro molders to identify critical product characteristics which need to be verified during production. Cost is more than just the price charged to mold a part. It also includes the time it takes to get a product to market, whether defects make it to market, and also the levels of consistency of supply. So micro molders should strive to supply the highest quality products, through validated processes, with short timelines to market. Realistically, this can only really be accomplished through vertically integrated processes and utilizing process validation. So saying, when short-listing potential micro molding suppliers, from a production perspective there are some key questions that need to be asked to ensure that the micro molder is equipped to achieve often exacting objectives. First, do you design, build, and maintain your molds? Second, what measurement capabilities do you have on site? Third, what are your methods of validation (DOE, IQ, , OQ and PQ)? Finally, what resins do you have experience with in production? The successful manufacture or

micro molded products is almost entirely down to the VOC. But it is important to realise that the end user isn’t only the customer, there are customers throughout the entire value stream. The shorter and more centrally located the value stream the quicker concerns can be raised and resolved. Assembly When dealing with miniaturized plastic parts and components the assembly part of the product development process must be discussed and considered early in the design cycle, demanding a collaborative and pragmatic relationship between OEM and micro molder. When dealing with micro scale parts and components, the cost of manual assembly is prohibitive and often requires levels of preciseness when dealing with sub-micron tolerances that are impossible to achieve. Automated assembly is therefore a must in most micro molding scenarios, requiring that OEMs select a micro molding partner that is able to understand the methodology of micro assembly and achieve the extreme positional accuracy required. The demand is for a laser-like focus on design for micro manufacturing (DfMM), which crucially influences the success of every part of the overall product development process, including assembly. The importance of considering assembly at the design stage of a micro molding product development process is huge, and is an important factor for any project. Micro molding just adds more variables that need to be controlled

than a standard sized product for which there are many different manufacturing solution partners in the marketplace. Micro molded parts can be difficult to feed, inspect, and manipulate without causing damage. Capturing a micro molded part as it come out of the mold is often very difficult, as is orienting a micro part after molding. Capturing a part at mold ejection and immediately assembling is often the only route to efficient assembly with low waste. Such considerations should all be bottomed-out at the design stage to keep costs under control so a customer can maintain margins and provide a product to the marketplace at an acceptable price. Summary Before embarking on a micro molding project, customers should focus on the mold design, mold build, and quality measuringcapabilities of the vendor they are engaging to mold their parts. If molders lack the ability to design, build, and measure high quality molds to extremely tight tolerances they will struggle to produce consistently high-quality parts to tight tolerances. Producing products to specifications that only allow microns of variations to a specification is much more challenging than producing a product with significantly larger variation allowances. A poorly designed and built tool can eat up your entire variation before you even mold a part, essentially killing the project.

Packaging automation set to aid food manufacture growth in the wake of Covid-19 Automation is set to play an increasingly larger role in safeguarding the future of the UK’s food manufacturing industry, and the Chancellor’s recent superdeduction tax allowance on plant and machinery announcement is set to give the sector the boost it needs. While most UK food manufacturers understood the efficiencies gained from automation, adoption was at a far slower pace than other countries. However, Covid-19 has emphasised the need to update manual manufacturing practices that will prevent many from recovering quickly once social distancing measures are lifted. According to a recent post by the International Federation of Robots (IFR) in comparison to several countries across the world, the UK was the only country, over a 10-year period, to report a 9% decrease in productivity per person. While coronavirus has undoubtedly put a strain on global productivity, UK manufacturers faced significant issues because of workers being unable to work in production lines where they normally stand less than 50 cm apart on 12-hour shifts. There is an established link between automation and increased productivity, so now is the time for UK manufacturers to look at long term growth and invest in automation to support labour intensive activities. So, why have UK food manufacturers always been so reluctant to take the automation plunge? Here, Andrew Yates, Managing Director of Endoline Automation, discusses the reasons why the UK lagged behind its global counterparts, how automated endof-line packaging systems today 22

meets manufacturer demands, and how machinery can be integrated into processing and packing lines quickly to ramp up output. Demonstrating flexibility For some food manufacturers, a wariness to change well established manual processes, and an aversion to the risks that new technologies can bring, have created major roadblocks, preventing them from reaping the many benefits automated systems can yield. Within food manufacturing, the variability of materials has played a major factor, particularly as many believe that uniformity plays a vital role in ensuring automation runs efficiently. To meet retail demand, manufacturers are producing an abundance of brand varieties in all shapes and sizes which can cause greater complexities, due to the variation in size, shape, quality, and weight of the product. “Retailers are constantly vying for consumer attention, creating greater choices which are continually changing. Historically, this hasn’t always lent itself well to automation and manufacturers need assurances that the investment they make in endof-line packaging automation is future-proof.” Fully automated end-of-line systems today can manage an unprecedented range of case styles and sizes and have been re-engineered to handle a wide variety of case materials to suit retail specifications, from poorly scored, lightweight cases, to heavy, twin wall cases. Random systems, with integrated bar code reading technology can seal random sized cases at high speed – and be reconfigured remotely to manage new sizes and orientations as and when required.

Health & Safety Getting health and safety right has never been more paramount. Food manufactures need to adhere to stringent measures and are being set greater guidance on the use of machinery through the Food Standard Agency’s regulatory model, facing stiffer sentences if they are non-compliant. Tougher governance around health and safety shouldn’t be a deterrent to automation, however it is vital that manufacturers do not take a CE certified machine at face value. “There are a number of other factors which need to be considered. Manufacturers need to understand the area the machine will be located in and assess the environment for any safety concerns such as access.” End-of-line equipment in particular presented significant hazards. Not only do they operate automatically and, in some cases, at very high speed, but the openings, to allow the cases to be transported through the system, are often large enough to be a potential for unauthorised access. Over the years quality, end-of-line systems have been ergonomically designed offering safer operator access and the integration of Safety Light curtains not only safeguards the machine, but eliminates the need for additional safety guarding so reducing the overall footprint. Systems can also be constructed from IP65 washdown rated stainless steel. Eliminating unnecessary downtime Food manufacturing sites that are highly automated operate with fewer workers, resulting in a larger opportunity for uninterrupted processing. Manufacturers are currently seeking to mitigate the

risk of sending people home in virus-susceptible areas within their facilities, and automation is a big part of this solution. The risk of downtime, as a result of machinery failure, servicing or reprogramming has always been a bottleneck in the adoption of automation. However, automation specialists have been driving the intelligence of end-of-line systems forward for some time, and there is now a greater emphasis on linking these systems together and integrating them into a customers’ own specific data network. Consequently, food manufacturers can capture, process, and analyse big data from the factory floor remotely, and improve productivity, avoid downtime through predictive maintenance, upload new case recipes, and optimise energy use. “Our systems built today feature an integrated, Industry 4.0 compatible HMI interface enabling engineers to easily re-programme the machine to allow for new configurations of case sizes remotely via a computer, tablet or even a mobile.”

Super-deduction tax From April until March 31st 2023, manufacturers can qualify for a 130% capital allowance deduction. This tax break will provide 25p off company tax bills for every £1 spent on qualifying plant and machinery. This measure – which is expected to boost UK investment by £20 billion a year – includes a superdeduction of 130% on most new plant and machinery investments, which would have ordinarily qualified for 18% relief, and a first year allowance of 50% on most new plant and machinery investments which would have ordinarily qualified for 6% relief. Automation has always been an enabler to streamline and enhance efficiency and manufacturers should now be able to clearly identify which areas would benefit and take advantage of the 130% tax break. This will also make the UK more competitive on the global production field.

In addition, these SMART systems can be also used to monitor the machinery and send alerts on any preventive maintenance issues and spares shortages. “End-of-line systems are very self-sufficient.” Beyond Covid-19 Automation has always been an enabler to streamline and enhance efficiency and, as a result of the pressure created by the crisis on manual process, manufacturers should now be able to clearly identify which areas would benefit from automation. Covid-19 has undoubtedly heightened the need for the UK to integrate automation into their packing lines. By taking the steps to automate, manufacturers will be prepared for any future crisis or shutdown, while ensuring that their output levels and efficiencies remain high. 23

Microbubble and Nanobubble Technologies Trial Unit Aeration&Mixing is the sole UKbased distributor of the Nikuni KTM range of Japanese made gasmixing microbubble generating pumps. The controlled application of microbubbles and nano bubbles produced by the Nikuni KTM pumps can enhance processes across many disciplines; examples include waste water treatment, DAF plant separation, industrial gas-to-liquid transfer, gasmixing, gas injection including ozone, evaporation, cleaning-in-process systems, aqua culture, food and chemical manufacture. Global scientific interest in microbubbles and their applications has a long and varied history often ably assisted by advances in measurement techniques. As a great deal of early research was conducted in Japan, microbubbles, now more often known as ‘fine bubbles’ are defined as having diameters from 1um to 50um according to the Japanese Fine Bubble Association (FBIA). Whilst the existence of even smaller tiny bubbles of gasses at the nano level has been supported by many experimental processes, differences of opinion surrounding the interpretation and accuracy of the measurement systems used

has limited the wider understanding and practical application of these extraordinary small spheres of gasses. Recent experiments using dark field measurement techniques have confirmed that nano bubbles, or as they are increasingly now known ‘ultra-fine bubbles’ actually exist. This research has enabled a greater understanding of the formation and collapse processes and provided pointers as to how they can be used in commercial applications. Trial Unit - Aeration&Mixing’s range of Nikuni KTM fine bubble generating pumps covers outputs from 1m3/h to 50m3/h. In conjunction with Nikuni Co. Aeration & Mixing supplies a UK/ EU compliant practical single phase 230VAC powered trial unit. Available with wetted parts in either SS304 or SS316, and fitted with a dedicated air or gas flowmeter, it enables practical experiments and proof of concept activity at pre-commercial scales in the laboratory, plant or field. As the A&M-Nikuni Trial Unit output of fine bubbles diameters within a fluid stream is in the order of 25um, it provides an excellent platform for structured research and development. Recent research has further clarified the mechanisms involved in fine bubble collapse, gas-to-liquid transfer

and the creation of ultra-fine bubbles. Previously the ultra-fine bubble had been thought to perhaps be a result of fine bubble shearing or fracturing, whereas research has now indicated the ultra-fine bubble is formed as a result of fine bubble shrinkage. The result is very large number of ultrafine bubbles at diameters from 100 to 250nm, perhaps better illustrated as circa 200 million per ml/cubic cm. The scope for innovative applications making use of these extremely small spheres is extraordinarily wide, particularly considering the range of gasses that can be injected by the Nikuni KTM pumps is extensive. That the ultra-fine bubble, despite exhibiting neutral buoyancy, collapses when exposed to atmosphere, makes it a very effective means and tool for multiple commercial processes across many markets. Aeration&Mixing has extensive experience of fine and ultra-fine bubble applications and welcomes enquiries from interested parties in any sector. Aeration&Mixing Ltd - Sheffield UK T: +44 (0) 1302 439842 Web: www.aerationmixing.co.uk Email: enquiries@aerationmixing.co.uk

NSK, the driving force behind NWG The NSK plant in Munderkingen, Germany, specialises in manufacturing the company’s full range of double row ball bearings, around 30% of which carry the NWG (Neuweg) branding. Double row ball bearings find their way into all kinds of industrial applications, everything from motorcycles and vacuum pumps, through to surgical power tools and film-making equipment. Manufacturers across Europe seeking value-added bearing solutions have long relied upon the Neuweg brand for performance and quality as it has been part of the NSK group since 1990. As a result, users of NWG-marked bearings not only benefit from products manufactured according to NSK standards, but can tap into the innovation and customisation capabilities of a global bearing specialist with more than a century of knowledge and expertise. Double row ball bearings produced at the facility include self-aligning, angular contact and deep groove types. However, beyond the standard range, a specialty of the plant is its ability to manufacture variant designs in short lead times.

Customisation options In terms of the outer ring, customers are able to request a specific diameter and width, as well as requirements for a groove or threaded bore. It is also possible to select special profiles, such as spherical, Gothic arch, V and groove, while specific diameters, cones, teeth, grooves and threads are among the customisation options for the inner ring bore. In addition, various special seal options are available, like multilipped, labyrinth and three- part, along with several coating choices. A new option here is DLC (Diamondlike Carbon) coating, an ultra-thin layer (1-3 μm) that provides superior wear resistance thanks to its high hardness (70 HRc).

Among the major competence areas at the Germany-based NSK plant is the agriculture industry, which has special requirements for protection against dust, dirt and shock loads. NSK has developed solutions that can cope with these harsh conditions, which include not just bearings, but fully built units like Agri Disc Hubs. These ready-to-install bearing units offer high efficiency and a robust sealing system, ensuring their success in machinery such as compact disc harrows. Retaining the agriculture theme, NSK has developed many special bearings over the years for this demanding sector. A case in point was a special NWG series double row ball bearing (with integrated flange) required by a major

agricultural machinery OEM for a high- capacity pneumatic seed drill. Alongside design innovation, high performance and reliability were among the principal factors governing selection. Pumps and compressors provide another focus market. For these products, the Neuweg plant develops and manufactures double row angular contact ball bearings both in standard and special format, as well as QJ bearings (four-point contact bearings) in a broad range of variants. To offer a further example, a leading woodworking machine OEM is taking advantage of a special double row angular contact ball bearing for a range of sliding table saws. The bearing features a V groove on the outer ring, along with customised dimensions and axial clearance. Additional products manufactured at Munderkingen include support rollers and pulleys, which serve high-temperature furnaces in the steel industry, for example.

Supply chain security A key benefit for European customers of the solutions produced in Munderkingen is rapid delivery. Located in the south of Germany, the plant has excellent access to Europe’s wider transportation network, reducing any risk of supply chain disruption. The manufacturing expertise of NSK has had a huge influence on the Neuweg brand. Thanks to the introduction of modern manufacturing strategies and processes, the Munderkingen plant can offer high levels of flexibility. It is possible to produce a vast range of products, even in small-tomedium batch sizes (from 1000off), providing yet another benefit for customers seeking bespoke solutions. Using NSK’s expertise in engineering and innovation, special designs can progress from concept to production in just 2-5 months. NSK can cite many, many examples of customised bearing solutions that have been developed and manufactured at Munderkingen. For instance, these products

include: a fully integrated flange bearing for an elevator gearbox and a double four-point contact ball bearing with split inner ring for a mobile crane. Further examples of bespoke double row angular contact ball bearings include ones with a 35° contact angle and split inner ring for air conditioner compressors used on commercial vehicles, others offering a 25° contact angle and extended inner ring for surgical power tools, ones featuring a fully integrated flange and special sealing for a vacuum pump, and yet more with a low-friction TM seal and hightemperature plastic cage for a motorcycle gearbox. The plant has even produced support rollers for so-called ‘sky cams’ that suspend over the playing surface at major sporting events. It is important for the market to understand that it is possible to propose and manufacture high added-value bearings within the NSK group, helping customers to save money through the provision of solutions that take full lifetime costs into account.

New Ferrari limited-edition V12: the countdown has begun - The first official photographs of the special version of the 812 Superfast were made available today - The model’s name and further technical information will be revealed on May 5 during a livestreamed event on Ferrari’s social media channels - The ultimate expression of Ferrari DNA: exclusivity, a racing soul and the pinnacle of automotive innovation - Naturally-aspirated V12 unleashes 830 cv at 9,500 rpm for a sensation of endless power and performance The first official images of Ferrari’s latest limited-edition special series have been published in the buildup to its world première, which will be broadcast live on the Maranello marque’s social media channels on May 5 at 14:30 CEST.

The new model is the ultimate expression of Ferrari’s concept of an extreme front-engined berlinetta, honing the characteristics of the critically-acclaimed 812 Superfast to a level never seen before. The result is a car that encapsulates and epitomises the company’s 70-plus years of experience on the world’s circuits, drawing on its thoroughbred sports car DNA to deliver a perfect marriage of performance, form, and function. Aimed at Ferrari’s most passionate collectors and connoisseurs, it features numerous uncompromising engineering solutions to guarantee peerless driving pleasure. As is the case with all Ferrari’s cars, the most striking feature lies at its very heart: in this instance the latest evolution of Maranello’s legendary 65° V12 engine, which reaches the

highest output of any Ferrari roadcar engine – 830 cv – and revs to 9,500 rpm, again the highest of any Ferrari ICE. The use of state-of-theart materials, the redesign of many of the engine’s key components, a new valve timing mechanism and a new exhaust system are just some of the technical solutions that allow the most noble of Ferrari engines to deliver performance levels that are unprecedented in the V12 segment. The pure yet brutal power unleashed by the powertrain is paired with class-leading vehicle dynamics controls to ensure that the performance can be fully exploited and to guarantee maximum fun behind the wheel. Most distinctive of these solutions is the adoption of independent steering on all four wheels. This extends the feeling of agility and precision when cornering 27

as well as providing unparalleled responsiveness to steering inputs. Another noteworthy engineering achievement is the development work undertaken to reduce the car’s overall weight compared to the 812 Superfast. This was achieved in particular by extensive use of carbon fibre, both on the exterior and in the cockpit. Lastly, the new model premieres version 7.0 of the renowned Side Slip Control vehicle dynamics system. One of the most striking aspects of this new model is how in-depth aerodynamic research has altered the car’s lines. Working in close synergy with the Ferrari Styling Centre, the aerodynamicists have adopted solutions that are extreme in form featuring profiles that are unprecedented for a road-legal car. The aerodynamic redesign of the whole car was aimed at maximising downforce levels: from the new front air intakes, rear diffuser and exhaust configuration to the patented design of the rear screen – which now hosts vortex generators – every modification is a faithful expression of Ferrari’s core belief that form must always follow function. From a design point of view, this new special series has a strong personality all of its own that differentiates it significantly from the 812 Superfast on which it is based: this was achieved by choosing styling themes that further enhance the architectural design and dynamism of the 812 Superfast, pushing its sporty vocation to new extremes.

One example of this is the decision to replace the glass rear screen with a single-piece aluminium structure. The vortex generators it sports improve the car’s aerodynamic efficiency, but the. design solution chosen, which is fully integrated with the roof, simultaneously creates a backbone effect that underscores the car’s sculptural forms Together with the carbon-fibre blade that traverses the bonnet, this motif changes the overall perception of the car’s volumes: the bonnet seems shorter, emphasising the width of the car, and the tail now has a more powerful, fastback look, thus making it appear more compact and competitionlike despite it sharing the 812 Superfast’s silhouette, proportions and formal balance. Even the rear spoiler now looks more imposing: it is higher but the specific design treatment used also makes the tail look very wide, almost horizontal. The interior architecture very much reflects that of the 812 Superfast, retaining the main dash and door panel interfaces and volumes, including the signature diapason motif. Along with other elements of the interior, the door panel has been redesigned to reduce weight and, combined with the introduction of the H-gate theme on the tunnel, this lends the cockpit a sportier, more modern edge that reflects the car’s racing spirit. Images of the new model are available on www.media.ferrari.com

Sherpa Mobile Robotics deploys a fleet of robots for line-side automation at FPT Industrial News from Sherpa Mobile Robotics, who have announced their first installation with fleet management. For a several weeks now, six SHERPA-B AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) have been co-working in total safety in the midst of humans, AGVs, forklifts and other industrial machines at FPT Industrial. The FPT Industrial plant in BourbonLancy, in the Saône-et-Loire region, assembles 35,000 high-powered gas and diesel engines per year, destined for agricultural machinery, buses and trucks. These parts are large and heavy, and with the specific tools needed for their assembly, the pallets were taking up too much space in the assembly line. Parts flow management and operator movements were not optimized. “We wanted to improve the logistics flow and the working conditions of our operators,” explains Ms. Faivre, Logistics Product Manager at FPT. To achieve its objectives, FPT called on Sherpa Mobile Robotics and its mobile and collaborative robots. Unlike AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), these AMRs do not rely on dedicated paths. They are programmable to be able to adapt to their environment with its constraints and constant evolution. SMR proposed a complete reorganization of the assembly

line with the support of a fleet of six robots managed by its Fleet Management System software. Objective: one piece flow The assembly was reorganized into two parallel lines separated by a central aisle. One line is dedicated to the preparation of the subassemblies and the other to the assembly of the 150 engines to be produced each day, working in two shifts. The six robots are deployed in twos, two each for the three assembly stations for motor supports, motor flywheels and basins. At the robot’s departure point, one person prepares the parts. When the robot arrives at the assembly line, another person is there to receive the parts. The robots have three programmed missions for each of the assembly stations. Each robot brings a prepared and assembled sub-assembly from the preparation area to the assembly area and then returns.

Central to this organization is line side management that is both automated and mobile. The operators stay in their work area. The Sherpa robots come to them, carrying the parts and specific tools. The parts are prepared elsewhere, in the preparation line, where they are unpacked and laid out ready for assembly, along with the necessary tools. “The robot arrives at the right time with the right part,” explains Damien Winling, Technical Director at SMR. Using this fleet makes assembly tasks less arduous and reduces the risks associated with transporting loads. Because the flow is managed more smoothly, this increases productivity. The robots are used 20 hours a day. In total, 450 robot missions are carried out daily. “ “By increasing our productivity and getting closer to one piece flow, these robots are fully in line with our 4.0 strategy,” says Faivre.

Flexible paths thanks to AMR technology The advantage of Sherpa robots is that they can move about in the midst of operators, trucks and AGVs. The AMRs do not use laser guidance or ground markers but rely on their intelligence and ability to create maps of the space and predefined routes, unlike AGVs which do not deviate from their routes. They offer maximum safety with regard to people, obstacles, and transported material. Each robot is equipped with a Lidar (360° laser navigation sensor), a robust and reliable localization system and safety sensors to detect obstacles on the ground. The sensitive edges stop the robot if it touches an obstacle. Their safety electronics provide the means of verifying that the various instructions given to the external elements (motors, sensors, etc.) are correct. “Because of their ease of use, these robots were readily accepted by the operators,” says Ms. Forat, WCM logistics coordinator at FPT. “Their intuitive interface and controls are made easier by the Follow Me mode, where the robot moves in interaction with the operator” adds Mr. Figueira, Logistics Method Technician. An advanced fleet management assistant Sherpa Mobile Robotics has developed its own Fleet Management System (FMS). The software offers a mapped view of the work area showing the robots’ movements, with mission 31

indicators(time, movement, charge, etc.) for each robot along with their battery status. A Shercom module indicates the traffic in the area of the robots. The FMS communicates with each robot which has previously defined mission. The operator on the preparation side dispatches the robot when it is loaded and ready. The FMS is notified when the operator indicates the end of the mission on the robot screen (HMI). The FMS manages the sequence of the robots and can put them on hold in a dedicated area. The same principle applies to the assembly side: the FMS is informed when an assembly is completed, it returns the robot to the preparation

area and inserts it into the next sequence. Managing the fleet of Sherpa robots meant that they had be able to operate in the midst of an existing flow of AGV robots. For this purpose, SMR developed a barrier system with virtual doors which open or close depending on the AGV traffic. When the AGV has passed, and with the help of reliable communications, it opens the door again to the SHERPA robots which continue their mission. Customers can always change the configuration of the robots themselves or change their missions. The FMS functions in alternation with Follow Me mode: when the robot is in the assembly

area, it switches to Follow Me mode and follows the operator’s movements thanks to the on-board sensors. The fleet manager is a hardware independent system, which works with all the robots in the SHERPA range. The robots and the FMS are plug and play modules, they do not require any modification to the client’s infrastructure or IT. “Integrating these six robots has allowed us to acquire substantial experience of fleet management in an existing environment. We will be able to deploy these new skills at other customers looking for this type of technology” concludes Damien Winling, Project Manager at SMR. www.sherpa-mr.com

The MG Cyberster – First official pictures released - First official photographs of MG Cyberster concept revealed - Two-seater to be unveiled at Shanghai Auto Show later this month - Stunning convertible shape recalls classic MG roadsters - Electric powertrain promises 800km range - Intelligent electrical architecture features gaming cockpit and 5G Just days after revealing design renderings, MG has released the first official photographs of its Cyberster concept car, which will be making its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show later this month. The Cyberster - developed by the team at the MG Advanced Design Centre in London – is a two-door, twoseater sports car recalling the brand’s tradition, drawing a number of styling cues from the classic MGB Roadster while also ushering in new high-tech features, including an interactive gaming cockpit and 5G connectivity.

The Cyberster’s intelligent allelectric architecture will enable an approximate EV range of 800km (500 miles) and deliver a 0-100km/h time (0-62mph) of less than three seconds, while the body is designed to enhance aerodynamic performance, the classically shaped MG grille also serving as an air duct to ensure airflow over the car’s chassis. It features classic round MG headlights, coupled with a slim grille design, along with interactive ‘Magic Eye’ headlights that open when switched on. Other striking details of the MG Cyberster are the ‘laser belt’ LED strip down the side of the car and the outline of the door, which follows the direction of the LED strip. Its powerful sports car profile has a distinct two-stage shoulder line, with a flattened ‘kamm tail’ rear, accentuated by unusual ‘hacker blade’ alloy wheels. The tail lamps

are of LED construction and are integrated flat into the rear of the car, projecting a digital image that echoes MG’s British heritage. The “digital fibre” interior design theme adopts a driver-centric layout, with a separated cockpit for driver and passenger and a large-sized LED instrument cluster with a second central screen. The screen ahead of the driver presents all of the key vehicle information in a modern nut minimalist style, while the central display houses its more interactive features. MG’s ‘Zero Gravity’ seats have floating head restraints, while the door panels and red leather handles reflect the ‘laser belt’ that runs down the car’s exterior. Carl Gotham, Director of SAIC Design Advanced London, said: “The Cyberster is a bold statement that looks strongly into MG’s future, touching on our heritage but more importantly building on our technology and advanced design. “Cyberster is a hugely exciting concept for us.” More information on the Cyberster will be revealed when the model is shown at the Shanghai Motor Show (April 21-28, 2021). MG currently offers three plug-in models in the UK – the established MG ZS EV, the game-changing All New MG5 EV and MG HS Plug-in, all backed up by MG’s incredible 7 year warranty and fastdeveloping dealer network. Its UK Advanced Design HQ employs over 40 designers. To find your local dealer, or to discover the high-tech, valuefor-money range of cars on offer, please visit MG.CO.UK.

Cap closed!

Camera-based cap control with artificial intelligence Strong price pressure combined with high quality requirements the beverage and bottle industry faces the classic dilemma of many industries. This is also the case in the quality control department of a French manufacturer of plastic caps. Reliably detecting cracks and micro-cracks on plastic caps in 40 different colours and shades running at high speed on a production line is a real challenge. APREX Solutions from Nancy, France has successfully achieved this goal with the help of image processing technology and artificial intelligence. The basic images are provided by a USB 3 industrial camera from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH.

SOLOCAP is a subsidiary of La Maison Mélan Moutet, “flavour conditioner since 1880” and manufactures all types of plastic caps for the food sector at its industrial site in Contrexéville. Among them, a top-class screw cap suitable for any glass or PET bottle. Thanks to a clampable lamella ring arranged around the bottle collar, it enables simple, fast, absolutely tight and secure seal. However, the slats must be reliably and extremely carefully checked for cracks, tears and twists during production. This is the only way to guarantee absolute tightness. The previous inspection system could not meet these high requirements. APREX Solutions realised the new solution with artificial intelligence individually

on the basis of in-house software algorithms. The necessary specifications were developed in advance in cooperation with the customer. This also included several inspection stages, one of which, for example, was the reject control to avoid false reports. The introduction took place in two phases: First, the specific “SOLOCAP application” was trained with the help of the intelligent APREX Track AI solution. The software includes various object detector, classifier and standard methods that operate at different levels. Networked accordingly, they ultimately deliver the desired result tailored to the customer. Four control levels with several test points guarantee a reliability rate of over 99.99%.

In the second step, this application was implemented in the production line right after the first assembly run with APREX Track C&M. The latter was specially developed for the diverse image processing requirements in the industrial sector. This includes, among other things, the control and safeguarding of a production line up to the measurement, identification and classification of defects in the production environment. The software suite delivers the desired results quickly and efficiently, without time-consuming development processes. After a short training of the AI methods, the complete system is ready for use at the customer. In the case of SOLOCAP, it combines an IDS UI-3280CP-CHQ industrial camera,

powerful ring illumination and a programmable logic controller (PLC) to provide comprehensive control over all inspection processes. At the same time, it records all workflows in real time and ensures complete traceability. Only one camera is needed for this. However, APREX TRACK C&M could handle up to 5 cameras. “The difficulty of this project consisted mainly in the very subtle expression of the defects we were looking for and in the multitude of colours. With our software suite, it was possible to quickly set up an image processing application. Despite the complexity,” explains Romain Baude - founder APREX Solutions. The image from the camera provides the basis for the evaluations. It captures every single

cap directly in the production line at high speed and makes the smallest details visible to the software. One crucial component: the camera The UI-3280CP-C-HQ industrial camera integrated into the system with the 5 MP IMX264 CMOS sensor from Sony sets new standards in terms of light sensitivity, dynamic range and colour reproduction. The USB 3 industrial camera provides excellent image quality with extraordinarily low-noise performance - at frame rates up to 36 fps. CP stands for “Compact Power”. This is because the tiny powerhouse for industrial applications of all kinds is fast, reliable and enables a high data rate of 420 MByte/s with low CPU load. Users can choose from a large number of modern CMOS sensors from manufacturers such as Sony, CMOSIS, e2v and ON Semiconductor with a wide range of resolutions. Its innovative, patented housing design with dimensions of only 29 x 29 x 29 millimetres makes it suitable for tasks in the fields of automation, automotive, medical technology and life sciences, agriculture, logistics as well as traffic and transport, among others. Screwable cables ensure a reliable electrical connection. Thanks to the IDS-characteristic plug & play principle, the cameras are automatically recognised by the system and are immediately ready for use, as Romain Baude confirms: “The excellent colour reproduction of

the UI-3280CP-C-HQ and its high resolution of 5 MP were decisive factors for us in choosing the camera. At the same time, the model enabled a quick, uncomplicated integration into our system.” Outlook Anthony Vastel - Head of Technology and Industry at SOLOCAP - sees a lot of potential in the new inspection system: “APREX’s AI-based approach has opened new doors for our 100% vision-based quality control. Our requirements for product safety, but also for reject control, especially in the case of false reports, were quickly met. We are convinced that we can go one step further by continuing to increase the efficiency of the system at SOLOCAP and transferring it to other production lines.” AI offers quality assurance, but also all other industries in which image processing technology is used, new, undreamed-of fields of application. It makes it possible to solve tasks in which classic, rule-based image processing reaches its limits. Thus, high- quality results can be achieved with comparatively little effort - quickly, creatively and efficiently. APREX Solutions and IDS have recognised this and offer solutions with intelligent products that make it easier for customers to enter this new world. Image processing and AI - a real dream team on course for growth...

Hygiene hacks to keep food safety intact From Mrs Hinch’s army of global advocates to thousands of inventive TikTokkers sharing their lockdown ‘tidy tips’, the pandemic has heightened awareness on hygiene compliance and personal responsibility. Contaminant detection specialist Fortress Technology shares simple ways that food factories can instil a healthy sanitation culture and the role that equipment innovation and leadership support plays. Adhering to best hygiene practices is the one thing that food plants cannot cut corners on. Despite limited time and resources, the pandemic has reinforced the importance of food producers conveying confidence and having robust and proactive HACCP and hygiene protocols in place. Jodie observes: “In many hospitality sectors, the journey has been focused on where possible removing human touchpoints. Yet, cleaning of machinery is not a contactless task. Instead, Fortress has focused on developing smarter designs to enhance hygiene and safety measures.”

This includes eliminating the use of tools on the company’s newest range of food inspection metal detectors and combi systems and introducing an unclippable conveyor to facilitate deeper and faster cleaning by trained operatives. Jodie shares her top 10 efficient housekeeping hacks to help food manufacturers maintain a rigorous cleaning regime: 1. Independent audits: There are multiple steps a food manufactu can take to help control the introduction of foreign material into food products. Routine risk assessments and audits help.

However, external eyes provide a different perspective. Many of these internationally recognised audits, including those offered by AIB International, follow set standards and provide a complete 360 degree review. Since COVID-19, there are also a number that can be performed virtually and still offer recognised certifications. 2. Equipment cleaning: Protocols should be formalised and included in staff training. Every cleaning process needs to be verified and documented. As part of a validation process, regular tests, including swabs of Critical Control Points, should be scheduled to ensure these areas are hygienic and allergen-free. 3. New designs: For in-process contaminant inspection equipment, look for smooth, crevice-free contact surfaces on conveyor, pipeline and gravity systems. This is partly to ensure that no traces of product, allergens or bacteria are left, but also to reduce the risk of cleaning agents not being fully rinsed away. 4. Digital tools: Many of today’s inspection equipment offer fast remote and secure access. These features, including those present on our new Raptor Metal Detector & Checkweigher Combi system, can be used to minimise physical interactions with machinery and access reports and critical OEE data. Some also facilitate contactless programming to boost efficiency and reduce machine downtime. 5. Neat and tidy: No visible power cables helps to maintain an orderly operation and encourage

professional housekeeping standards. Fortress also minimises the use of fasters, resulting in fewer places where product residue, water ingress and bacteria can build up and potentially get embedded in pipes, nooks and crannies. Thread-less feet also help manufacturers to maintain hygiene standards in wet and dry production environments. 6. Virus transmission: Some evidence suggests that coronavirus could possibly be transmitted viasurfaces recently contaminated with viruses. Additionally, even where heat processing is involved, allergens can still survive high temperatures. Making a vigorous enforcement of good hygiene, sanitation, and GMPs vital in all food production areas.

7. IP rated: When selecting a system, care should be taken to identify equipment with an ingress protection (IP) rating appropriate to the washdown regime being applied. All casings should be robust enough to withstand the water pressure being applied. 8. Easy clean: Product residues, including allergens, can be especially troublesome in gravity metal detection systems for powders and particulates, as well as pipeline systems processing liquids, semi-liquids and slurries. Special attention should be paid to the reject unit. Ideally, this will be detachable (easily detached, but quickly and securely reattached, too) to clean working parts before slotting back into place.

9. Lift out conveyor: Fortress recently unveiled introduced its new tight fitting conveyor concept. In just seconds, the conveyor belt is removed, along with its individual components, such as rollers and bearings. Improving line efficiencies, the belt tension and alignment are instantly restored when clipped back into place after maintenance and cleaning. 10. No tools needed: Another Fortress time saver, this ‘no tool’ maintenance innovation puts a stop to operatives fiddling with screws, nuts, bolts etc., and having to locate the right tool to perform the job. It also eliminates the risk of losing a part or a screw and accidently contaminating food.

New FLIR T865 joins T-Series family with improved accuracy for condition monitoring and science applications FLIR Systems today announced the latest T-Series high-performance thermal camera, the FLIR T865. Built for electrical condition and mechanical equipment inspection, and for use in research and development applications, the T865 provides ±1 °C (±1.6 °F) or ±1% temperature measurement accuracy, a wider temperature range between –40 °C to 120 °C (-40 °F to 248 °F), and more on-camera tools for improved analysis. A free 3-month subscription to FLIR Thermal Studio Pro and FLIR Route Creator, and a 1-month subscription to FLIR Research Studio is included with purchase. With ±1 °C (±1.6 °F) or ±1% temperature measurement accuracy, professionals can more confidently inspect and assess equipment health regardless of the time between inspections or changes in environment conditions. By reducing measurement variation, companies can reliably prevent equipment breakdowns and outages in utility substations,

power generation and distribution, data centers, manufacturing plants, or facility electrical and mechanical systems. For those in research and development, the improved accuracy provides the temperature measurement detail required to eliminate any guesswork in research, science, and design that uses the visualization of heat. The T865 offers professionals versality with portable and handheld fixed mount options for inside and outside work in harsh conditions, and multiple lens options to inspect objects both near and far. The available 6° telephoto lens provides the required magnification for those routinely inspecting the condition of small targets at a distance, such as overhead power lines. For inspections through an IR window, the available 42° wide angle lens and on-camera transmission adjustment ensures safe and accurate measurement of targets within enclosures. For those needing

even more detail of small componentry, the available macro lens, along with the new macromode, provides 2x magnification compared to the standard lens. Further, the 640 x 480 detector resolution, offering 307,200 pixels or the UltraMaxTM 1280 x 960 resolution, offering up to 1,228,800 pixels in FLIR Thermal Studio Standard and Thermal Studio Pro, allows professionals to see images clearly. FLIR Tools on the T865 for Easier Inspections and Analysis To make it easier to inspect multiple points with the T865 on the job such as those in power substations, the FLIR Route Creator plug-in installed on camera and Inspection Mode guides the inspector to important targets, planned before the inspection even takes place, and documents qualitative and quantitative thermal data. This helps inspectors spend less time in the field and face less hassle when creating survey reports. FLIR Thermal Studio Pro also enables professionals to more quickly process thermal images and create compelling reports for customers. For research and development applications, when the T865 is connected to a preferred operating system with FLIR Research Studio installed on camera, an intuitive interface provides the ability to record and evaluate thermal data from multiple cameras and recorded sources simultaneously. The data can then be saved and shared in workspaces to more easily collaborate with colleagues, saving time and reducing the potential for misinterpreted data due to missing information. For more information on the T865, please visit www.flir.com/t865

First automotive-qualified, single-chip solution for large, ultrawide touch displays Supporting LCD and OLED displays, Microchip’s latest maXTouch® touchscreen controller reduces integration complexity and cost for ultrawide touch displays up to 45 inches To better meet the need for safe, intuitive and easy-to-use user interfaces within automotive vehicles, designers are continuing to consolidate the vehicle’s cluster, center stack and co-driver displays into very wide screens. Streamlining and simplifying system development for these ultrawide screens often seen in electric vehicles (EVs), advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and premium vehicles, Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced its maXTouch® MXT2912TD-UW touchscreen controller. This is the industry’s first automotive-qualified, single-chip solution that addresses display sizes up to 45 inches with a very wide aspect ratio, supporting liquid-crystal display (LCD) and organic light emitting diode (OLED) display technologies. The MXT2912TD-UW reduces the need for multiple touch controllers within a vehicle’s human machine interface (HMI) display. This singlechip touch controller provides

the highest report rate for wide displays and is independent of the display resolution, helping achieve the same user experience that has become accustomed with the smart phone. Also supported by the exceptional maXTouch family’s intrinsic Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), the MXT2912TD-UW enables detection and tracking of multi-finger thick gloves through a wide variety of overlay materials and thicknesses, even in the presence of moisture. Driven by the ISO 26262 specification for functional safety in road vehicles, the MXT2912TD-UW contains a variety of safety related features, simplifying the display module system’s path to functional safety certification. These include periodic self-test, touch sensor test, internal flash and RAM tests, full signal data path integrity checks and additional microprocessor (MPU) core testing. The embedded firmware is developed to Automotive SPICE® processes. “The automotive industry is driving new innovations in interior design,

including the integration of sleek human machine interface concepts. Microchip enables these revolutionary designs with our new touch controller, supporting wide aspect ratio touch sensors with our unique and patented technology,” said Fanie Duvenhage, vice president of Microchip’s human machine interface business unit. “Our single-chip solution offers display makers and automotive Tier 1 suppliers simple and known touch solutions for modern vehicle HMI systems, reducing cost, risk and time to market.” To support its touchscreen controllers, Microchip also offers complementary devices such as low-dropout regulators (LDOs), 8-16-and-32-bit microcontrollers (MCUs), controller area network (CAN) and CAN physical layer (PHY) controllers and more. Development Tools Software support includes Microchip’s maXTouch Studio development tool and maXTouch Analyzer inspection tool for production line testing. Additionally, Microchip’s application and support centers provide customer support for ultrawide designs around the world, including system and sensor simulation/ development, integration as well as system tuning. Development hardware and technical support are provided on request. Pricing and Availability The MXT2912TD-UW is available in volume production. For additional information, contact a Microchip sales representative, authorized worldwide distributor or visit Microchip’s website. To purchase products mentioned here, click to order now or contact a Microchip authorized distributor.

Moxa demonstrates its commitment to securing industrial networks Moxa Inc., a leader in industrial communications and networking, with a focus on securing industrial networks, is delighted to announce it has obtained the IEC 62443-4-1 certification pertaining to cybersecurity standards. The certification testing and audit was performed by LCIE Bureau Veritas and issued by the IECEE certification body. Moxa has always been involved in the cybersecurity industry and was one of the first companies globally to become IEC 62443-4-1 certified by the world-leading conformity assessment and certification services provider. The IEC 62443 standard Part 4-1 defines a secure development lifecycle for the purpose of developing and maintaining secure products used in industrial automation and control systems. The IEC 62443-4-1 certificate confirms that Moxa has implemented a secure by design methodology from the first day of the product development process, which includes complete security lifecycle management and patch management. This certificate also demonstrates Moxa’s capability to identify and respond to vulnerabilities and work with customers to mitigate their risks. According to IDC’s latest worldwide IT and OT Convergence survey in 2020, the key motivations for IT/OT convergence are enhancing operational safety and performance, reducing costs, and improving quality. Another important observation from the report is that globally, 48.8% of IT and OT management owners consider security to be the top barrier to IT/OT convergence. This point highlights the importance OT enterprises place on security when embracing 44

Industry 4.0 or the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in order to significantly enhance operational efficiency and productivity. “In response to our customer’s concerns, Moxa has been actively looking into the security requirements of IEC 62443 standards dating back to when they were still under development in 2016,” said Samuel Chiu, General Manager of Moxa Networking Co. Ltd. “By adhering to the strict verification process of IEC 62443 standards, Moxa not only provides industrial-grade solutions, but also ensures that security is part of the DNA of its reliable networking solutions throughout the product development process. We provide our customers with the assurance that they can connect their valuable assets with Moxa’s solutions and be confident that they can keep their operations running smoothly.” Moxa has also been following the evolving cybersecurity best practices in order to ensure our solutions work harmoniously with the latest technological innovations of edge devices while mitigating the latest cyberthreats. One of the best practices is shared in Enhancing ICS Cybersecurity in the Software Development Lifecycle. This article, which features on the ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance blog, was contributed to by SZ Lin, Assistant Project Manager at the Technology and Research Corporate Division of Moxa. Lin

was the first person in Taiwan to be awarded the ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Expert Certificate. In addition to Lin, Felipe Sabino Costa, whose current roles include ISA cybersecurity instructor and Moxa LATAM Industrial Cybersecurity Expert, also pointed out some key criteria in his article Can a Solution Provider Handle Industrial Cybersecurity? 8 Questions to Ask. His article can also be found on the ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance blog, and has helped guide business owners to develop mission-critical solutions that include cybersecurity by design. Before obtaining the IEC 624434-1 certificate in May 2020, Moxa has been following the development of the standard for five years and has designed our products in accordance with its guidelines. In addition, Moxa has spent considerable resources on educating the market about not only the importance of the standard, but how we embed its principles throughout all stages of our hardware and software development. Only when cybersecurity awareness is increased can industrial network security be enhanced by joint forces. Bearing this in mind, Moxa will continue investing in cybersecurity and work closely with our customers to ensure that “secure by design” solutions can be implemented successfully. www.moxa.com

ViewSonic introduces the new pre-assembled solution kit with movable flight case for all-in-one direct view LED display Delivering premium value with higher efficiency, mobility, and flexibility ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solutions, is introducing a new pre-assembled solution kit with a movable flight case for its well-received All-in-One Direct View LED Display (108” and 135”), a comprehensive solution that delivers premium value with higher efficiency, mobility, and flexibility. It can be moved easily and set up in less than 10 minutes, offering users short-term rental options and more diverse application scenarios at galleries, commercial events, exhibitions, and other sites. “As an innovative and leading company in the industry, ViewSonic is constantly dedicated to providing cutting-edge LED technology and applications with a customerorientated mindset and delivering great value for customers,” said Dean Tsai, Head of LED Display & Projector BU at ViewSonic. “In 2020, ViewSonic launched a new product line, All-in-One Direct View LED Display, which offered an integrated solution new to the industry and received positive feedback.

To get more people to benefit from this innovative product, we are now introducing a new pre-assembled solution kit for the All-in-One Direct View LED Display, making it easier to move and set up, fulfilling more types of demand, and meeting diverse application scenarios.” Press Release supply, and control systems into one device, elevating the seamless viewing experience to the next level yet offering easy installation, operation, and maintenance. Its elegant and minimalistic design, with 35 mm ultra-slim ID and frameless edges of only 10 mm, comes in a wide range of large screen sizes - 108”, 135”, 163”, and 216”. Easily Adapts to Various Scenarios The newly introduced preassembled solution kit with a movable flight case is available in 108” and 135”. The movable flight case packaging design allows it to be transported easily and securely from one venue to another. It is therefore a perfect solution for museums and art galleries that require the highest visual quality and flexibility to showcase artwork. It can also be used in the rental

business for short-term commercial exhibitions and events to achieve fast installation and easy mobility. Additionally, it is suitable for workspaces as it naturally merges with surrounding environments such as lobbies, auditoriums, boardrooms, and conference rooms. Always Ready for Instant Use The entire solution kit – with LED modules, cabinets, system control box, and floor stand all preassembled – fits into a movable flight case. After being taken out of the flight case, the display can be moved and positioned freely with the stand’s 360° silent wheels and stabilised with push-button locking. The built-in, motorised floor stand allows height adjustment at a maximum range of 60 cm and up to 4 sets of height preference that can be saved for convenient recurring use. To find out more about the new Pre-Assembled Solution Kit with Movable Flight Case, please visit: ViewSonic All-in-One Direct View LED Display Solution Kit Introduction Video.

Kennametal introduces the FBX Drill for faster aerospace machining New modular drill delivers maximum metal removal rates for structural components Kennametal has introduced the FBX drill for flat-bottom drilling of structural aerospace parts. The patented FBX drill delivers superior stability and up to 200 percent higher metal removal rates when machining high temperature alloys, stainless steel, and other materials. The new modular drill is the critical first step in a three-part tooling concept—including the HARVITM Ultra 8X and the HARVITM end mill series—specifically designed by Kennametal to decrease cycle time for these types of applications. Quickly removing large amounts of material remains a challenge for these types of components. Traditionally, the first process step is to enter the material by using ramping techniques. This is a timeconsuming process and low metal removal rates are the norm. “The FBX drill dramatically speeds up the machining process by

combining the advantages of a flat bottom drill and a z-axis plunge mill. The flat bottom design eliminates radial forces while four effective cutting edges provide increased feed and speed rates, leading to up to 200 percent higher metal removal rates than traditional ramping techniques and freeing up capacity for aerospace manufacturers,” says Georg Roth, Product Manager, Kennametal.

help eliminate heat buildup, the drill point is characterized by a center insert with two effective cutting edges and chip splitters for maximum feed capabilities. The drill bodies are available in diameters 60, 75, and 90mm, and come in a long and short version (150mm and 95mm). This modular drill connects to Kennametal’s bolt taper flange (BTF) mount adapters, available in various spindle connection styles.

Once the drill has shaped the basic structure of the component, roughing and finishing with indexable and solid end mills are the next process steps.

Versatility and Performance in One Tool The FBX is ideally suited for drilling into solid, chain hole drilling and plunging in a variety of materials such as high temperature alloys, stainless steel, and steels and cast irons. It is equally as versatile and high performing in similar applications for the general engineering and power generation markets.

Unique Design Features Four effective cutting edges provide stability in challenging applications like chain hole drilling, while large chip flutes ensure a hassle-free chip evacuation. Supported by a series of exchangeable coolant nozzles to

For more information visit: www.kennametal.com

Conveyor sensor system ready to go Leuze is launching an innovative mounting bracket for their 25C sensors that saves conveyor system manufacturers both time and money Designed for reliable pallet detection, the sensor and bracket are supplied as a pre-assembled set to enable the conveyor system manufacturer to pre-mount to the conveyor in the factory, which is traditionally done on- site during the installation and commissioning phase of the system. A perfect fit inside the conveyor The innovative new mounting

brackets are designed specifically to fit the 25C series sensors. This means that the conveyor system manufacturer can install the sensor and bracket set inside the conveyor thus protecting it from potential damage. The integrated sloping front screen of the bracket deflects any dirt or debris that may fall onto it ensuring that the all-in-one solution requires less cleaning and maintenance than systems that rely on standard retro-reflective photoelectric sensors. In addition, the special ambient light configuration of the 25C

insensitive to high-frequency LED illumination used that is often found in production and logistics buildings and can cause unreliable operation of other types of diffuse sensors. Pallets are notoriously difficult to detect with diffuse optical sensors due to the differences in colour and surface. However, thanks to the detection performance and outstanding function reserve of the 25C sensors from Leuze these issues are easily overcome and reliable detection of different pallet types is ensured. See more via: www.leuze.com

Strainsert’s new wireless load sensors and load cell telemetry systems enable long distance, cable - free measurement Two new high-performance load sensor products from Strainsert Inc., based on license-free, 2.4GHz telemetry with a working range up to 800 metres, will facilitate straightforward and cost-effective installation for single- or multisensor use over long distances, problematic installations and otherwise challenging load measurement tasks. Especially compelling as an alternative for system set-ups where long and noise-prone cable runs in traditional wired systems prove complex and expensive, the new wireless load sensors and load cell telemetry systems are available in the UK from Ixthus Instrumentation, Strainsert’s exclusive UK distribution partner. The new products include wireless load pins with integrated wireless transmitters, configured as standard or custom designed clevis pins or shackle bolts for single or multiple sensor systems. Complementary to these wirelessintegrated sensors, the newly available T24 series wireless load cell telemetry system comprises modular transmitters, base stations and accessories with the adaptability for conversion of existing wired Strainsert sensors with strain, current or voltage output - or for the development of completely new wireless system designs. With IP67 rated enclosures and built for the harshest conditions for weighing and load monitoring tasks in aerospace, industrial, construction, mobile machinery and more, the range is supported with comprehensive software tools for straightforward configuration and monitoring. Strainsert’s T24 wireless transmitter modules are available in two module sizes with a choice of batteries – a compact AA cell version or for longer battery life 48

a larger sized D cell module. The electrical and range performance specifications for both modules are similar. The 4-wire bridge measurement and 4.5 to 5.25 VDC excitation characteristics suit Strainsert sensor requirements. The modular system offers a choice of four USB powered base stations that are used for interfacing with PCs or PLCs through a choice of USB, RS232 or RS485 ports for configuration and control. They work in concert with the T24 transmitter modules, facilitating the data capture through the T24 software toolkit which is included with the wireless systems. Further system accessories include Modbus Gateway and ASCII serial interfaces, analogue and relay output modules and wireless range extenders for up to 1600 metres. Also included are wireless handheld receivers and LED display modules.

The Strainsert wireless load pin has all the specification characteristics and interfacing possibilities offered by the T24 telemetry systems with the potential advantage found in its integrated load sensor component and transmitter design that can further aid installation planning and commissioning. Ixthus represents global sensor technology leaders like Strainsert Inc. for force, torque and vibration measurement. Its knowledgeable technical staff are on hand to assist with measurement solutions, providing a complete sales and support service at component level or for complete instrumentation systems. For further information please call +44 (0) 1327 353437, email info@ixthus. co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk.

From cad to control with one software - Drag and drop CAD parts into the 3D digital twin, automatically generate complex trajectories and deploy to the production robot in one click - all with one universal software platform. - From offline simulation to realtime control, Fuzzy StudioTM removes the gap between simulation and reality to reduce downtime and streamline the robotics workflow. - Designed from the ground up to drastically reduce the need of robotics expertise thanks to no-code realtime digital twin technology. - With two clicks, swap between any make and model of robot to find the right one for the application - no need to switch softwares and redo time-intensive design work. - Handles even the most complex robotic applications and accessible to any size of company.

- Intuitive and simple like a video game. - One standard interface for all brands of robots. - Industrial grade precision and performance for real time control of the robot.

Create a full process without code

Fuzzy StudioTM covers all of the steps in the integration of a robotic workcell: from pre-project, design, and commissioning to real-time production control, inline reprogramming and maintenance.

Swap any robot and keep working

Designed to accelerate robotic uptake and usage for all stakeholders, from major manufacturers to small and medium-sized businesses, to systems integrators and even robot OEMs. Select robots from an extensive library Browse through a comprehensive collection of robot models from the supported brands and filter by specification. Import cad and 3d files easily

The problem until today Both industrial and collaborative robotics are too costly for truly flexible production due to the complexity of software and integration.

Quickly construct a robotic system with high fidelity and interactive CAD and 3D objects. Formats supported: 40+ formats including industrial CAD STEP and IGES.

Today, only a few handling applications, such as pick-andplace, have been made truly accessible to non- experts and thus cost-effective for flexible production. The vast majority of robotic and cobotic applications, however, require complex and heterogeneous software tools and brand experts.

Find the right end-of-arm tooling

Solution: one intuitive platform for all steps Fuzzy StudioTM is an easy-touse and universal software platform which reduces robotics programming costs by 10! With Fuzzy StudioTM any factory can automate with robotics quickly, simply and cost-effectively even for complex applications in processing, dispensing andwelding.

collisions, save time, enhance performance, and reinforce safety. Turn hours of meticulous labor into a few easy clicks.

Select from multiple tooling options from top manufacturers or import custom designed tools. All supported tools are plug and play compatible. Visually create and modify trajectories No more confusing lines of code or coordinate systems. Visually construct tool trajectories. Modify trajectories in real-time, see the changes in 3D, and execute them directly on the real robot. Drag and drop automatic trajectory generation Drag and drop 3D CAD objects into the design and proprietary algorithms automatically generate tool trajectories, which avoid

Orchestrate trajectories, tools, sensors, and synchronize I/O. No code to write.

Thanks to proprietary algorithms, users can easily swap any robot with two clicks in their design to find the right one for the job. All trajectories and processes are automatically re-computed and incompatibilities can be fixed easily. Deploy with one click Thanks to deterministic realtime control algorithms: “what you see in simulation is what you get in reality”. Deploy an entire application with one click to the production robot and bridge the gap between simulation and reality. Monitor and adjust processes directly and in real-time. About Fuzzy Logic Robotics Born out of the top robotics research institutes in France, Fuzzy Logic Robotics was founded by a Franco- American team of robotics experts who saw a new way to control and program the next generation of robotic applications. Thanks to an early client in the audiovisual industry, the founders cracked a radically new paradigm for untrained users to interact with, control and program industrial robots for complex applications for any robot. Their backgrounds enabled them to transpose this innovation to industry. Fuzzy Logic Robotics provides a pure software solution, to go from CAD to real-time control of robots, making a clear difference in demanding applications such as Grinding, Painting, Welding, and Gluing. www.flr.io 49