Worldwide Engineering Magazine - May Issue

Loan machines for vital NHS work Page 11

Protecting IoT Devices Page 23

UK increase drone deliveries Page 35

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Content

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14

Parry Switches

Financial Support Needed

Production to meet urgent need for healthcare equipment

Job losses loom amid Corona virus crisis

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23

Augmented Reality

Protecting IoT Devices

Plays vital role in UK’s ventilator production push

Sectigo and Infineon Partner

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30

Loan machines for

Cognex In-Sight D900

XYZ Machines Tools delivers on its promise

First Industrial Smart Camera Powered by Deep Learning

vital NHS work

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35

Small Enclosures with RiCs

UK increase drone deliveries

The Rittal Configuration System

UK to lead the rest of Europe in commercial drone deliveries

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that can’t be produced via traditional bending.

“We’re setting our sights on growing turnover to £17m, which will represent a good performance with the current global uncertainty,” continued Peter, who is joined in the management team by Tim and Mike Cotterill, the great-great grandchildren of the founder.

Investment drive for Lister as it targets growth through the power of MAN One of the UK’s longest established providers of engineering services and supplies is targeting further growth after it pressed the button on a £300,000 investment drive. James Lister and Sons, which after 146 years is still in family ownership, is in the process of installing a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system across its seven sites and has just taken delivery of a new CNC bending machine to support a 20% rise in its tube manipulation division. The company has also agreed to become the 10th member of the Manufacturing Assembly Network (MAN), a unique collective of subcontract manufacturers and an engineering design agency that works together to win orders and share best practice. Bosses at the firm believe strength in numbers and championing UK industry will help it overcome the current Covid-19 uncertainty and provide the foundations for future expansion following Brexit.

“We are very proud of our British heritage and this was a key driver in us targeting involvement in the MAN Group and we see membership potentially opening up £1m of new opportunities in the first twelve months,” explained Peter Davies, Chief Executive at Lister.

“A lot of members already use us for their engineering supplies and, now we are part of the

collective, we will look at ways where our expertise in fluid power and tube manipulation can add real value to MAN. There’s a number of joint projects we’ve already got our eye on.”

He continued: “I’m also keen to learn from the experiences and knowledge of nine other Managing Directors in how we can make our business even better, whether that is sharing apprentices, entering new markets or looking at imaginative ways where we can save money on energy.”

Lister employs nearly 150 people across its HQ in Smethwick and six other sites in the West Midlands and South Wales and is best known for its fluid power business and engineering consumables division. This includes supplying hand tools, cutting tools and lubricants, workwear, hygiene products, hydraulic/pneumatic components and assemblies and delivering specialist capabilities like laser etching, 3D printing and the manufacture of high-pressure valves and touring car air jacks. The biggest growth area in 2020 promises to be its tube manipulation business, with the company able to bend tube in sizes ranging from 4mm up to 75mm and in metals such as steel, copper and aluminium. Recent investment in a new Unison Breeze machine also gives it ‘left and right hand’ capacity to make components

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“Investing in making us more efficient and diversifying our manufacturing operations, combined with membership of MAN, will deliver the growth and hopefully lay the foundation for more ambitious expansion plans once we have some global stability.”

Adam Cunningham, Chairman of the Manufacturing Assembly Network, concluded: “Lister is a great addition to the group and we are all excited to be able to offer industry-leading tube manipulation.

“Peter and his team are also passionate about developing the engineers of the future and promoting UK manufacturing, two things at the heart of the MAN philosophy.”

MAN, which enjoys more than £150m sales and employs over 1600 people, can offer every engineering discipline imaginable, including automation and control systems, forging, plastic injection moulding, PCB development, precision machining, highvolume pressing, tube manipulation and welded assemblies. Its membership also includes Alucast, Barkley Plastics, Brandauer, C-MAC SMT, Grove Design, Kimbermills International, Muller Holdings, Ricor and PP Control & Automation. For further information, please visit www.man-group.co.uk or www.lister.co.uk

Never miss an issue - Subscribe for FREE Joe Woodford joins Pickering Interfaces as International Sales and Partner Manager United Kingdom. He began his career as a design engineer and holds a BSc in Scientific Instruments from University West of England.

Pickering Interfaces, the leading supplier of modular signal switching and simulation solutions for use in electronic test and verification, has announced the appointment of Joe Woodford as International Sales and Partner Manager.

Mr. Woodford brings over 27 years of experience in the Test & Measurement (T&M) industry to this new role at Pickering.

He previously held senior sales roles at National Instruments, most recently with Channel Partner account responsibilities within EMEIA. During his career with National Instruments, he managed field sales and engineering teams, served as Chairman of PACMAN at CERN, and was an Industry Advisory Board member at Cardiff and Portsmouth Universities in the

Comments Keith Moore, CEO Pickering Interfaces: “Joe is an outstanding addition to our senior management team and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the T&M industry. We are more than excited to have him a part of Pickering.”

Woodford adds: “Pickering is recognized as a key provider in the T&M market, offering innovative, good quality and exceptionally reliable products to a broad customer base. The company has a reputation for delivering excellent levels of customer satisfaction, and I am delighted to have joined the team. I very much look forward to working with Pickering’s international sales offices and developing the company’s partner program.”

About Pickering Interfaces Pickering Interfaces designs and manufactures modular signal switching and simulation

for use in electronic test and verification. We offer the largest range of switching and simulation products in the industry for PXI, LXI, and PCI applications. To support these products, we also provide cable and connector solutions, diagnostic test tools, along with our application software and software drivers created by our in-house software team.

Pickering’s products are specified in test systems installed throughout the world and have a reputation for providing excellent reliability and value. Pickering Interfaces operates globally with direct operations in the US, UK, Germany, Sweden, France, Czech Republic and China, together with additional representation in countries throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. We currently serve all electronics industries including, automotive, aerospace & defense, energy, industrial, communications, medical and semiconductor.

For more information on signal switching and simulation products or sales contacts please visit www.pickeringtest.com

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Parry switches production to meet urgent need for healthcare equipment A Derby catering equipment specialist has adapted all of its manufacturing operations to produce vital healthcare equipment to support the fight against COVID-19. Parry, which employs 65 people at its factory on Town End Road in Draycott, has responded to the national call to support key workers by increasing its output of stainless steel mobile wash basins, glove/ mask dispensing units and knee operated sinks. The decision was taken after discussions with its workforce and staff have been working over the Easter period to produce orders for NHS Nightingale in Manchester, care homes, prisons and supermarkets. All of this production is being carried out in accordance with Government regulations on social distancing and the firm has also introduced a supply of PPE, staggered lunch breaks and more wash stations to ensure its staff remain safe.

Mark Banton, Managing Director at Parry, commented: “As a lean and agile manufacturer, we were able to immediately switch our production from catering products to essential healthcare equipment, including vital wash

basins that could be installed quickly in supermarkets, temporary hospitals or transport interchanges.

“One of our key strengths is our ability to customise designs to suit specific applications and our design engineers are currently talking to a number of clients about modifying products to help prevent the possibility of contamination.”

He continued: “We have value engineered our products so that they can be manufactured quickly and often despatched within a few working days. The work we have done in designing, manufacturing and delivering 14 drug dispensing tables for NHS Nightingale Manchester is a prime example.”

Parry, which has more than 40 years’ experience in supplying the commercial catering sector, had been developing its healthcare products over the past twelve months and has quickly expanded its range to meet the demands of the COVID-19 crisis. Orders for its mobile handwashing station,

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a freestanding unit ideal for an immediate hygienic setup for washing, have been unprecedented thanks to its ability to be moved and used in numerous locations. All that is required is a permanent connection to a 13 amp plug to heat the water in the internal tank, with drain water contained in the body of the unit. Aesthetically designed and manufactured from high quality stainless steel, it is already found in many situations, from Harley Street Doctors and veterinary receptions to temporary hospitals and supermarkets.

Mark concluded: “To be able to respond to the current situation whilst keeping the safety and welfare of our staff a priority is very important. It is an overused phrase, but our employees are genuinely our greatest asset and I am very grateful for their continued support in allowing Parry to play a small role in helping to save lives.”

For more information, please visit www.parry.co.uk or follow us on twitter @parrycatering

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Augmented Reality plays vital role in UK’s ventilator production push

Smith and Penlon into a number of new facilities, something we have achieved through the power of Augmented Reality.”

He continued: “The build takes over 24 hours and we’ve captured all of the different stages through our Vuforia Expert Capture (VEC) software and a worker wearing Microsoft HoloLens glasses.

Due to the confidential nature of the VentilatorChallengeUK project, the attached images show augmented reality in action, but are not showing actual footage of the ventilator build.

One of the world’s leading providers of industrial innovation technology is supporting the UK’s call for more ventilators through the power of Augmented Reality (AR).

PTC has been announced as one of the partners in the VentilatorChallengeUK consortium led by High Value Manufacturing Catapult CEO Dick Elsy and a host of the UK’s leading engineering businesses, including Ford Motor Company, GKN Aerospace, McLaren, Airbus, Meggitt and Siemens UK. Experts have been working with existing ventilator manufacturers Smiths Group and Penlon to document crucial assembly processes involved in the development and build of Rapidly Manufactured Ventilator Systems (RMVS).

The consortium has used PTC’s Vuforia® Expert Capture AR technology and Microsoft’s HoloLens to capture the crucial assembly steps and processes involved in building Rapidly Manufactured Ventilator Systems (RMVS).

This will be uploaded and edited in PTC’s Vuforia Editor

technology, which runs on Microsoft Azure, to create a virtual assembly guide and relayed, through wearable equipment or smart devices such as phone or tablet, to the factories of consortium partners that traditionally do not make ventilators. Protecting all the workers involved in the project is of paramount importance to the consortium and this is where AR is ideal for removing a lot of the dangers, by virtually placing a ventilator expert into a partner factory – thus reducing the risk of the virus spreading.

“This is an unprecedented response from UK manufacturing for an unprecedented crisis and I’m delighted we have been able to support the VentilatorChallengeUK consortium to create two new ventilation production lines in a matter of weeks, a feat that would typically take six months to do,” explained Paul Haimes, Vice President of Field Engineering at PTC. “At the heart of the project was the need to transfer the expertise, skills and intellectual property of the assembly lines at

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“From there, we upload to Azure Cloud and edit it is so that a manufacturing professional – with no prior experience of building a ventilator – can successfully be guided through the process. All they have to do is put on a pair of HoloLens glasses, or view a smart device like a tablet or phone and follow the instructions. We have even put annotations over the footage to help with troubleshooting any potential issues.

“By using the power of Augmented Reality, we have reduced set-up lead times and developed a manufacturing approach that will help the consortium scale up from 50 to 60 ventilators combined capacity per week to producing at least 1500 units of the Penlon and Smiths models every seven days.”

A 15-strong team of PTC specialists have been working on this project and, in order to avoid transmission of Covid-19, only one specialist is working on site with the rest of the support being delivered remotely and through cloud technology.

Another feature of the VentilatorChallengeUK has been a nationwide HoloLens glasses plea, with academic, manufacturing and technology specialists donating more than 250 pairs that are already playing an essential role in a rapidly growing production line.

For further information, please visit www.ptc.com or follow @ptc on twitter.

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New Demag chain hoist features balancer function

Lifting equipment manufacturer, Demag, has launched a new range of electric chain hoists. The DCBS models feature a compact design and a smart control system, making material handling and assembly processes simpler and safer. The DCBS is a variable-speed chain hoist based on the company’s proven DCS range and incorporates the Demag D-Grip Servo control handle. Models are available with SWLs of 125 or 160 kg.

Depending upon choice of operator selected or automatic control mode, the DCBS unit switches between ‘grip control’ and ‘load control’ operating modes, with high-performance sensors facilitating intuitive load control. Manual force exerted by the operator is detected in the grip control system by a pressure sensor and is used to control the lifting motion. This eliminates the need for the operator to press any buttons to control the hoist.

The DCBS chain hoist benefits from an integrated balancer function, which has been adopted from the Demag D-BE electric balancer. It enables loads to be guided without the need to actuate the controller.

The operator simply moves the load to the desired height with minimum effort and can position it much more precisely, using both hands.

An integrated load sensor detects the weight of a load and possible weight fluctuations to determine the desired direction of movement and speed from these values in load control mode. This allows the operator to move the load to the desired position using both hands.

In assembly mode, which is particularly suitable for joining

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components horizontally, any possible uncontrolled load movements are avoided, simplifying precision assembly processes. It also avoids potential damage due to collisions between components and, as a result, improves productivity. The DCBS hoists also incorporate a load pickup mode, which is useful for functions such as changing tools or removing parts from jigs or test benches. The balancer may be adjusted so that it only lifts until a predetermined force is reached. This enables load handling attachments to be lifted and pre-tensioned, allowing loads to be removed from a jig, without dropping or being suddenly pulled upwards.

At the same time, the machine or jig is protected against excessive forces.

The DCBS offers design features that simplify its operation, improve safety and reduce service requirements. These include its slipping clutch with automatic cut-out based on speed monitoring, which prevents permanent slipping in the event of overload. Because the brake is arranged in front of the slipping clutch in the load-bearing arrangement, any dropping of the load is prevented by applying the brake automatically, in the event of a malfunction. All operating modes are linked to additional protection functions, including adjustable load or speed limits for improved workplace safety.

The gearbox, slipping clutch and brake are maintenancefree for up to 10 years. The DCBS safety-related functions satisfy Performance Level C and Category 2 to EN ISO 13849-1 as a minimum requirement.

DCBS models are particularly suited for use with the Demag KBK light crane system, creating integrated solutions for mobility and horizontal load transport.

The hoists can travel on KBK profile section rails, single-girder suspension cranes or in system suspension monorails and slewing jib cranes.

XYZ Machines Tools delivers on its promise of loan machines for vital NHS work The first customer to take advantage of XYZ Machine Tools’ offer of free loan machines to aid the fight against Covid-19 has taken delivery of its machine. The Midlandsbased subcontractor needed additional turning capacity to assist with an order for respirator and oxygen regulator valves.

Their choice of machine from XYZ Machine Tools’ extensive range was an XYZ320LTY turning centre, with Y-axis and live tooling capability. The order was placed on 9th April and delivery was completed on the 15th April, with the machine being commissioned and training completed the following day so that production could begin immediately. “For such vital work assisting the National Health Service we are happy to make available any machine from stock, on a completely free of charge loan basis,” says Nigel Atherton, Managing Director, XYZ Machine Tools.

The offer of a completely free of charge loan machine is open to any business that is currently manufacturing components for any emergency medical equipment that will be used to assist the National Health Service at this critical time.

Subject to availability and suitability the customer can choose any ex-stock machine from XYZ Machine Tools. To take advantage of the offer simply contact XYZ Machine Tools at sales@ xyzmachinetools.com and you will get a call back to help match the right machine to the work needing to be done. Once some basic criteria have been met, XYZ Machine Tools will deliver, install, and provide training to get you up and running as soon as possible, completely free of charge. Head over to xyzmachinetools.com to find out more about their services and products.

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A new era in small enclosure configuration The RiCs configuration process: 1 – Select a System, choose either a single enclosure or enclosure suites 2 – Configure the Enclosure/s, and quickly pick/select accessories 3 – Modifying the Enclosures, by planning cut-outs and hole drilling 4 – Automatically Create a CAD file, representing probably one of the biggest time savings during planning for downloading straight into a Perforex Machining Centre 5 – Submit an Enquiry/Order Online, send an enquiry by e-mail or order directly from the Rittal online shop Benefits of Using RiCs - The benefits of RiCs are many and include: The Rittal Configuration System (RiCS) is an exciting new userfriendly design tool, for errorfree accessory configurations of small and compact enclosures.

The process is so fast and streamlined that it is estimated it can reduce the time it takes for a user to choose, configure and purchase a compact enclosure by up to 95 percent!

How to Configure a Small Enclosure with RiCs Once an enclosure has been chosen, users are then able to browse through a preloaded online catalogue of accessories. RiCs contains an extensive range of more than 250 accessories in total, but the system only presents each user with components that are suitable for their cabinet. Once chosen, each accessory can be positioned within an online 3D model of the enclosure.

In addition, RiCs enables the user to mark-out the positions of cut-outs and drill holes for later individual machining of the product. This built-in capability means that there is no need to switch to alternative CAD programmes during the planning of the enclosure.

Once an enclosure has been fully configured, the system provides a downloadable CAD file that can either be loaded straight into a Rittal Perforex machine (for tailored machining on-site) or the machining can be done by Rittal prior to shipping.

In each case, the machining is tailored to the millimetre to ensure absolute precision throughout every step of the process.

Meanwhile an order for the enclosure and its accessories can be placed online via the Rittal shop.

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- Time-saving configuration and planning - Error-free selection of accessories - Easy planning of the machining - Automatic generation of manufacturing documents/data What’s more, customers can transfer the data from the Configurator to the EPLAN Pro Panel. This creates a 3D electromechanical design of the enclosure and comprehensive production documentation for the workshop, which both speeds up installation and improves the quality of the final enclosure. To find out more click HERE. Further information at www.rittal.co.uk and www.friedhelm-loh-group.com or on twitter @rittal_ltd.

Dual channel IO-Link sensors optimise flexibility and extend the boundaries in automation applications Today’s process and control sensors are benefitting from important technical advances enabling users to explore and develop new control concepts, especially for automation applications. IO-Link is a key example of this and the introduction of a new range of IOLink sensors with Dual Channel capability is an important development from sensing and instrumentation specialists BAUMER. While IOLink sensors transfer signals via pin 4 and offer the flexibility of being used either for switching or bi-directional IO-Link communication, these Dual Channel sensors go even further by enabling the transmission of additional signals parallel to the IO-Link channel. Basically, they enable users to utilise two channels simultaneously, essentially more information, more feedback and faster. Their pin 2 is assigned with a sensor-specific signal, for example like switching or input or output.

This allows for different control concepts to be enabled because by using the Dual Channel as a leading process surveillance, frees up the IO-Link channel for other tasks. From position, to distance or process sensors, Baumer offers a wide range of IO-Link sensors with Dual Channel which are designed in a way that means users can explore and profit from different automation concepts.

This empowers them to be able to switch from analogue to digital regulating, or they can use both channels for more data at a time.

simultaneously to the digital IO-Link communication. With regard to commissioning, or receipt of changes, IO-Link is always valuable in helping with fast and easy parameterisation or access to secondary data, while the Dual Channel capability makes sensors ready to switch from one automation principle to another at any time.

Different control concepts can be explored and enabled because using the Dual Channel as a leading process surveillance tool, frees up the IOLink channel for other tasks. In some applications the latter can also be used for process data, so the sensor offers two measurement channels, in one device. However, the IO-Link channel is still capable of transferring cyclical process data and acyclical data at the same time because the data is transmitted separately which means it’s possible to get at least the diagnostic data in parallel to process data. Exchanging parameter data during measurement is dependent on the specifics of the application. Alternatively, users can shift to using the digital IO-Link channel as the leading regulating output, or the Dual Channel may be operated for a second process valve, or a direct switch for example to an actuator. The latter is interesting for real-time applications that need direct switching without being dependent on cycle times in higher systems. This has the added benefit of relieving the control system. Either way, IO-Link sensors with Dual Channel offer all the IO-Link benefits even if the automation system is not yet ready for digital communication. Users may continue to utilise conventional automation principles

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SME manufacturers need urgent financial support as job losses loom amid Coronavirus crisis

Small to medium-sized (SMEs) manufacturers are calling for greater and faster financial support from the Government as they confront plummeting sales, production volumes and the prospect of job cuts amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The latest Manufacturing Barometer, which surveyed over 600 firms across England, reveals a stark picture of how the virus is affecting industrial confidence, with almost 9 out of 10 respondents predicting a drastic decline in production volumes and a similar number (85%) expecting sales to drop over the next six months.

Conducted by South West Manufacturing Advisory Service (SWMAS) and the Manufacturing Growth Programme (MGP), the report also shows that 55% of firms believe they will need to cut jobs between now and October, despite the business grants on offer and the furloughing scheme designed to boost employee retention. The overwhelming majority of manufacturing SMEs surveyed (84%) say they require urgent financial support to get through the current climate, with only 16 per cent confident that the Government is doing enough to help the sector cope with the

pandemic. SWMAS’ Simon Howes said: “COVID-19 is having a huge impact across the UK economy, but it is especially problematic for our sector as manufacturing cannot be carried out remotely, relying as it does on physical interaction with machinery and parts.

“Current restrictions and the ongoing lockdown measures mean that capacity is dramatically reduced, therefore the majority of businesses are reporting an unprecedented fall in production volumes.

“Top of the wish list for SME manufacturers is stronger financial assistance and for Government to go ‘faster and further’. While the existing package of measures has been welcomed, there remains a pressing need for a deeper level of sector-specific advice and support.

“This crisis has brought home how reliant we have become on overseas supply of strategically critical items. We must learn from this and re-establish UK production of these parts and protect SME manufacturing now, in order to ensure it is ready to spring back into action once the COVID-19 crisis is finally over.”

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The latest Manufacturing Barometer, which is the largest survey of its type in England, reflects a positive response from UK manufacturing to support the urgent request for vital medical equipment and PPE Just over a fifth (21%) surveyed say they have already responded to the Government’s call, with a further 13% willing to access advice on how to switch their production lines. Martin Coats, Managing Director of the Manufacturing Growth Programme, said: “It is no great surprise to see that every indicator for confidence among SME manufacturers appears to have worsened over the last six months due to the impact of Covid-19.

“That said, it is heartening to see that many SME manufacturers are adapting to the situation by diversifying their processes and product ranges in all manner of innovative ways.”

Other key finding in the Manufacturing Barometer, include: - 84% of SME manufacturers have seen an impact on staff attendance due to the Coronavirus outbreak, with 82% saying that their supply chains have also been affected - More than half of respondents plan to reduce future investment in plant and machinery - Only 13% of firms are anticipating an increase in capital expenditure, compared with 51% in the previous Manufacturing Barometer carried out in January 2020 - One in four manufacturers highlight the need for supply chain support, whilst 22% are looking for help with risk management and strategic planning For further information, please visit www.swmas.co.uk/businesssupport/covid-19-supportmanufacturers

Smooth Running! Assured with error free laser marking on bearings

Bearings are often unseen, yet they are an essential element of just about anything that rotates. To fulfil their intended purpose, is essential that bearings are manufactured correctly at all stages and crucially, remain error free at the point of shipment. One of the last operations during bearing manufacture is the laser marking process, and if an incorrect or defective component is marked this adds unnecessarily to the manufacturing cost of the part, with the additional risk that the part may continue to be packed and dispatched.

In this article, Andy Toms – Director at TLM Laser explains how the latest technology from FOBA Laser delivers a single step solution for both bearing and laser mark inspection, ensuring that only good parts are marked and that the laser mark content is also correct.

(FOBA’s single step process includes both bearing and laser mark inspection without the need for component fixtures) There are generally two main ways in which laser marking on components such as bearings is performed. The manual method usually involves an operator placing the part into a fixture within the laser marking system and then initiating the marking

process. This relies on the operator performing both pre and post marking inspection to ensure that the correct part is being marked and that there are no defects present. In an automated environment, in addition to the laser marking system, there may be both pre and post marking inspection operations carried out by a separate machine vision system.

This traditional three stage process can be reduced to a single-step-procedure using FOBA’s fully integrated bearing marking solution. Andy Toms explains: “Small defects in a ball bearing are often difficult to detect. For example, if single rollers are missing, incorrectly assembled, or if a component is of a different size to that expected. This technology takes care of roller inspection, checking for detects, missing or inverted rollers and rejects items with bad or marked rollers. FOBA’s camera-based marking solution offers a cost effective solution that integrates part detection, marking and validation of the marked characters in a single, safe process.”

as there is no need to relocate the part between separate inspection and marking stations. The part remains in the marking field throughout the initial inspection, marking and subsequent code reading operations. In addition, there is no need for component fixturing as the system automatically detects the position and orientation of the part and re-positions the marking field accordingly.

The laser marking and inspection technology described within this article is available from Bromsgrove based TLM Laser, FOBA Laser’s UK and Ireland distributors, and just part of the comprehensive range of laser based technologies and systems offered by the company.

Take a look a video of the system in operation can be seen HERE: For further information, please contact: Mr Andy Toms, Director, TLM Laser, 2 Navigation Court, Harris Business Park, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4BD, Tel: +44(0) 01527 959 099 E-Mail: sales@tlm-laser.com Web: www.tlm-laser.com

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The camera, integrated within the marking head, enables timely error detection and prevents false marking. The marking process is both significantly simpler and faster,

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GForge Super-Charges the Industry’s Top Collaboration Platform

GForge, one of the world’s leading collaboration platforms, today announced the newest version of the popular GForge Collaboration and Project Management Platform. One of the most used Collaboration Platforms, especially by companies within the government and defense sectors, this new version (GForge 2020) adds critical new features to make GForge even easier to use and more powerful.

Some of the impressive new features include Zoom support which enables GForge users to create and manage Zoom meetings from inside the GForge platform. Other important new features include browser based spellchecking support and oAuth support (users can now log into GForge using their Google account.)

To improve user efficiency, the new Autotagging feature enables users to easily tag the user, project and ticket with any technologies identified in the commit (e.g. Java, XML, JavaScript). GForge now indexes Git and SVN repositories allowing users to search your codebase right from GForge.

GForge now supports Large File Storage (LFS) for Git repositories. For on-premises customers, GForge now supports DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) which provides a very high level of security for GForge-generated email. For more details re GForge 2020, please visit https://gforge. com/blog/article/gforge-20-0released.html Checkout this video which demonstrates the new GForge Zoom integration – https://youtu.be/KO4ZnLHUut4 (video) COVID 19 Program – Free Starter Program – GForge is now helping businesses adapt to the coronavirus threat by making it easier than ever before to install and use a collaboration platform to empower remote workers. For organizations new to using collaboration platforms or new to GForge, the company is offering GForge in both SaaS or on-premises formats for free for up to 12 months. GForge can be installed on-premise in one minute, or you can get started instantly using our SaaS platform at next.gforge.com.

In addition, to support businesses who are suddenly transitioning to remote work, GForge is now offering the

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following services free of charge: - Identify the best hosting options for your organization.

- We will configure GForge to conform to the processes of your organization.

- One free online training session for users.

- One free online training session for administrators.

- Weekly reviews to ensure your teams are getting the most out of GForge “Today’s strained business environment is making it imperative that remote teams can interact and work together, no matter how physically apart they are,” says Tony Bibbs, President of GForge. “Not only is GForge free to get started, we provide the necessary support and hand-holding to ensure that even the least technical remote workers can easily and reliably remain an essential component of a remotely operating team.”

“If you know how to use a computer, you can use GForge.”

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SICK’s SIG200 is an IO-Link Master and Control System in One SICK has unveiled its SIG200 PROFINET Sensor Integration Gateway, the first in a family of intelligent Industry 4.0 gateways designed to work as both IO-Link Masters and small, distributed control systems in one. It makes light work of configuring localised sensor applications and, at the same time, opens up highspeed transfer of sensor status, parameter and diagnostics data with enterprise-level or cloudbased systems. SICK’s SIG200 Sensor Integration Gateway is an IO-Link Master with an on-board web server that collects, combines, evaluates and transmits signals from IO-Link devices from any manufacturer. SICK’s innovative DualTalk technology means the SIG200 needs only one cable to communicate simultaneously via the fieldbus with the machine controller and with higher-level enterprise or webbased systems.

Data can be integrated transparently into both common PLC environments and higher-level systems. The SIG200’s built-in logic and remote intelligence make it quick and easy for engineers to create and run distributed sensor applications, even independently of the PLC. “The beauty of the SIG200 is that it offers all the Industry 4.0 benefits of setting up a system using an IO-Link Master, PLC and sensors. Alternatively, it opens a second route, where you can by-pass the PLC and create your own data gathering system linking straight to the cloud,” explains David Hannaby, SICK’s UK Product Manager for Presence Detection.

“Engineers will find it easy to configure and visualise an automation solution with the SIG200,” Hannaby continues: “The SOPAS logic editor has a great drag and drop function so you can visualise all the

connected sensor and actuator signals and measured values without the need for special software knowledge. It saves a huge amount of programming time, effort and cost.

“Process control functions, for example activating a mechanical pusher to reject products from a conveyor system, can be configured and set to operate autonomously without the need for the PLC. So, the communication load in the fieldbus is reduced at the same time.”

The SICK SIG200 makes it easy to solve simple application tasks using binary switching signals or measured values from IO-Link sensors and actuators without an additional control. Meanwhile diagnostics, process parameters, and status information from IOLink devices e.g. for condition monitoring or predictive maintenance, can be accessed both at the machine and company level. Data from the SIG200 can be exchanged rapidly with MES, ERP and cloud-based software applications and a REST API interface enables integration with web-based software.

Each SICK SIG200 has four master ports for connecting any IO-Link sensors and actuators.

Its flexible data integration can even be extended to standard binary sensors with SICK’s SIG100 sensor hub, that can be used to bundle up to twelve standard I/Os in a single IOLink data packet, which can then be communicated to machine controllers and cloudbased systems via the SIG200.

A maximum of 52 I/Os can be connected to one SIG200 by using SICK SIG100. The SICK SIG200 uses SICK’s SOPAS Engineering Tool software as a powerful and intuitive user interface which can be accessed with a PC via standard M8 USB, Ethernet or a web browser of choice. The easy-to-use Logic

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Editor within SOPAS enables the user to visualize all connected signals and solve application tasks quickly and easily using drag and drop logic blocks. An embedded IODD (IO-Link device description) interpreter allows the user to configure both the SIG200 and connected IO-Link devices by simply uploading the IODD files. Using SICK SOPAS, parameterisation of connected devices is straightforward, and device replacement is easy.

This is not restricted to SICK products, the SIG200 can work with any third-party products if the IODD file is accessible.

Through its growing family of Sensor Integration Gateways, SICK’s vision is to offer a scaled portfolio to support integration into fieldbus environments and higher automation hierarchies.

Initially available with the PROFINET Ethernet fieldbus protocol, additional fieldbus versions of the SIG200 will follow in future.

SICK is offering an IO-Link Master Starter Kit, which contains everything needed to set up an application using the SIG200. The kit includes the SIG200, IMC Proximity Sensor, WLG16 photoelectric sensor and reflector, cabling and accessories together with SICK’s SOPAS ET and FieldEcho software. Step by step guidance is provided for a quick-start configuration of a simple application using the IO-Link Master.

For more information please contact Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk www.sick.co.uk

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Lee Spring Mil-Spec stock springs in the UK! Lee Spring are pleased to announce they have a full range of military specification springs in their catalogue. This MIL-SPEC range consists of the Compression MS24585 and Extension MS24586, both of which can be customised to suit specific applications. Lee Spring MIL-SPEC springs adhere to the United States Defence Standard and have been used in America to help achieve standardisation objectives set by the U.S. Department of Defence. This includes high precision designs which meet strict technical requirements to be used in a multitude of Military and Aerospace applications and are referenced all around the world. The MIL-SPEC range is available in four AS24585 and AS24586 approved materials. These include Uncoated Music Wire, Cadmium Plated Music Wire, Zinc Plated Music Wire, and Corrosion Resistant Stainless Steel 302, giving them the strong and durable, yet flexible qualities needed in the industry.

They are known interchangeably as “military standards”, “MIL-SPEC”, “MIL-STD”, or “MilSpecs”.

These high precision designs meet stringent technical requirements and are used in a multitude of Military and Aerospace applications, both defence and non-defence related on a global basis. MILSPEC springs are increasingly specified by other non-defence government organisations, technical organisations, and highly regulated industries because of the high level of standardisation and quality inherent in these products. Lee Spring has adapted some of its processes to adhere to the new MIL-SPEC designs. The standard for compression springs for loads below 20lbs used to be MS24585, and is now AS24585. The MIL-SPEC standard for extension springs for loads below 30lbs is AS24586; this was formerly MS24586. All MIL-SPEC springs are available in the four authorised AS24585 and AS24586 materials: Uncoated Music Wire per ASTM A228; Cadmium Plated Music Wire in accordance with SAE-AMS-QQ-P-416, Type II, Class 2; Zinc Plated Music Wire in accordance with ASTM B633, Type II, Fe/Zn5; Corrosion Resistant Stainless Steel 302 per ASTM A313 with passivation treatment in accordance with ASTM A967 or AMS2700. DFARS Compliant Stainless Steel included in Lee Spring ex-stock.

Further information on Lee Spring products can be found on their website – www.leespring.co.uk or by following them on Twitter – https://twitter.com/ leespringuk.

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Filter effectiveness testing using flowmeters

Titan Enterprises reports on how its flowmeters are being used by filter manufacturers to test the effectiveness of their products. Filters are used in many processes to remove particulates from a fluid or gas flow. A typical liquid filter efficiency testing procedure uses a simple circuit consisting of a fluid reservoir, contaminant to be removed injection point, a pump and the filter under test.

Monitoring of the loop is usually done using particle counting equipment before and after the filter to test the removal efficiency. In addition, the set-up uses a differential pressure gauge to monitor the pressure loss across the filter when a known amount of added contaminant has been removed by the filter. And finally, a flowmeter, usually installed after the filter, is used to measure the volumetric throughput of fluid through the system.

Using this set-up – particle size and contaminant removal efficiency can be recorded giving vital technical information for a filter manufacturer, filtration equipment supplier and ultimately more information for a process engineer to aid their selection of the optimum filter for their application.

Over recent years, Titan Enterprises has worked with several filter manufacturers to develop optimised flowmeters to meet the different demands of their particular test rigs. These flowmeters range from quite low flow devices through to larger systems and even bypass filtration systems. In bypass filtration applications – a continuous measurement is made of the flow through the filter where the majority of the flow bypasses the element but the proportion that is filtered is usually to a much higher level than could be readily achieved with a full flow filter.

Over time the whole of the fluid is thus filtered to a very high standard.

For further information on flowmeter set-ups for helping test the efficiency of your filtration products please contact Titan Enterprises on +44-1935-812790 / sales@flowmeters.co.uk.

Alberto Bellondi - New Managing Director at Schmersal, China

The Schmersal Group has appointed Alberto Bellondi as Managing Director of Schmersal Industrial Switchgear Co. Ltd., based in Shanghai.

In this role, he is responsible for around 170 employees at the production site in Shanghai who produce position and safety switches and lift switchgear for the Chinese and East Asian markets.

The internationally experienced manager has worked in China for the past ten years and has held senior positions in various companies in this country. He has many years of sales and production experience paired with intercultural skills and profound knowledge of the country and the Chinese market. Alberto Bellondi speaks five languages, including Mandarin.

“Joining Schmersal is a great honour. Schmersal is an internationally leading and recognised supplier of machine safety and automation technology products. Schmersal has operated a manufacturing site in China for more than twenty years now, and has, over those years, made a name for itself. Schmersal is also well represented in China’s industrial centres thanks to its network of sales offices”, explains Alberto Bellondi. “China is one of the largest and most competitive sales markets in the world. I am greatly looking forward to the opportunity to expand on Schmersal’s already strong position in what is a very exciting market.”

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Sectigo and Infineon Partner to Protect IoT Devices with Automated Factory Provisioning of Certificates Sectigo, a leading provider of automated digital identity management and web security solutions, today announced a partnership with Infineon Technologies AG to provide automated certificate provisioning for Infineon’s OPTIGA™ Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 using Sectigo IoT Identity Manager.

The integration provides manufacturers with a complete certificate management solution, including issuance and renewal, starting right on the factory floor, with secure certificate creation and insertion using the OPTIGA™ TPM for private key storage.

“Including a TPM chip in an IoT device design is the first step in enabling strong authentication and secure communication for IoT devices,” explained Alan Grau, VP of IoT/Embedded Solutions at Sectigo. “Together, Sectigo and Infineon are enabling device manufactures to leverage strong authentication and secure communication for IoT devices during the manufacturing of the device itself. This integration not only automates the process of provisioning certificates for IoT devices, but also delivers a complete PKI solution leveraging Sectigo’s highly secure cloud infrastructure.”

Device manufacturers across industries increasingly recognize the need to strengthen the security of their devices. The Sectigo-Infineon joint solution enables manufacturers to provide the enhanced levels of security required to protect their devices and to ensure compliance with ever-emerging and evolving IoT security standards and regulations across the globe. For example, manufacturers are able to provision certificates into devices before they leave the factory, so that their connected IoT and IIoT products comply

with the authentication requirements of the California IoT Security Law, along with other similar legislation.

Device identity certificates enable strong authentication and the TPM—a specialized chip on an endpoint device— provides secure key storage to ensure keys are protected against attacks. The joint solution enables the insertion of certificates into the device during the manufacturing of the device, when the device is first provisioned into a network, or into the TPM chip itself before the chip is shipped to the manufacturer. By installing certificates into the TPM chip prior to manufacturing, manufacturers are able to track the component throughout the supply chain to protect against device counterfeiting, ensuring that only authentic devices are manufactured.

“Infineon’s audited and certified TPMs enable manufacturers of connected devices to achieve higher levels of security.

Together with our partner Sectigo, we are now also able to offer automated factory provisioning. This gives our customers a proven path combining ease of integration with the benefits of higher security performance,” said Lars Wemme, Head of IoT Security at Infineon Technologies. The Sectigo IoT Identity Platform

removes the complexity associated with securing and authenticating connected devices so that businesses can protect their infrastructure in an easy, scalable, cost-effective, way. The platform enables enterprises and OEMs to ensure the integrity and identity of their devices and maintain that security by managing certificates throughout the lifecycle of the device. Infineon’s OPTIGA™ security solutions, including the OPTIGA™ TPM, offer a broad portfolio of security controllers to protect the integrity and authenticity of embedded devices and systems. With a secure key store and support for a variety of encryption algorithms, the security chips provide robust protection for critical data and processes through their rich functionality—and are essential for strong device identity solutions because the crypto co-processor can securely store the private key of the device. Infineon’s proven key storage, coupled with Sectigo’s automated certificate issuance and management, delivers a robust, automated and easyto-use PKI solution for device manufacturers.

Organizations interested in a demo of the fully integrated, automated certificate provisioning solution, please visit sectigo.com/about/contact.

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Intelliconnect Connector Solutions for Medical Electronics Systems and Cochlear Ear Implants In addition to standard coaxial and triaxial types, Intelliconnect provide a fast turnaround custom design service for nonstandard medical connector requirements. With no NRE costs to customers and low minimum order quantities, Intelliconnect custom designed medical connectors offer an ideal solution for specialised medical products.

Intelliconnect (Europe) Ltd the UK based specialist manufacturer of RF and waterproof connectors offers a wide range of connectors suitable for use in diagnostic, treatment and wearable medical device technologies.

The versatility of Intelliconnect products in medical systems is demonstrated by the wide range of applications already supplied.

These include connectors for RF cancer treatment, radiation dosimeters and detectors, bio-medical test equipment and bionics. Intelliconnect also manufacture micro-miniature waterproof coaxial connectors for use in cochlear ear implants.

This very demanding application requires a rugged and reliable quick-disconnect waterproof connector capable of making several thousand disconnects during its product lifetime. The Intelliconnect design meets IP68, is comfortable to wear close to the skin and may be used in normal domestic environments including swimming pools, showers, baths and high humidity environments such as saunas, steam rooms etc.

Roy Phillips, Managing Director of Intelliconnect, comments;” Increasing use of wearable medical electronics such as cochlear ear implants and monitoring equipment and the growth of RF treatments continues to provide us with new design-in opportunities.

Our wide range of standard products and ability to produce custom connectors cost effectively and quickly, typically in just seven weeks from confirmation of design, ensures our customers can a get nocompromise connector solution at a very competitive price.”

Standard products available from Intelliconnect suitable for medical applications include the TRB and TRT triaxial connector series designed primarily to reduce noise levels in systems while providing an isolated ground. The TRB series has a bayonet locking mechanism as designed on the BNC series while the TRT series has a 7/1628 thread coupling mechanism as designed on the TNC series.

Both the TRB and TRT series are non-constant impedance and incorporate a third conductor.

These two products feature a state-of-the-art clamping construction and weatherproof sealing features which ensure excellent termination to various twinaxial and triaxial cables.

The waterproof ABMS micro miniature size connector series is similar to, and offers the same weight and space benefits of,

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the standard MCX connector series. The ABMS connector is a more rugged design, rated to 3000 mating cycles and waterproof to IP68.

This connector series offers a quick snap-on locking mechanism and is used with small, semi-rigid and flexible cables. These connectors can also accommodate various PCB, surface, edge, press fit and bulkhead mounting configurations.

Al Intelliconnect RF connectors are designed in accordance with US MIL-STD-348 and US MIL-PRF and have an operating temperature range of -65°C to +165°C and the ABMS series is waterproof to IP67/68.

In addition to connectors for medical applications Intelliconnect (Europe) Ltd manufactures a wide range of standard and custom RF connectors and components, including waterproof and fast turnaround custom designs which are undertaken without NRE charges to their customers.

Intelliconnect also manufacture a large range of coaxial adaptors to facilitate interseries connection and gender change etc. and custom cable assemblies Typical applications include MIL and aerospace, marine, oil and gas, medical and general microwave markets. For more information call +44(0)1245 347145, email sales@intelliconnect.co.uk or visit www.intelliconnect.co.uk

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Increased range of Handles for Enclosures and Panels available from Foremost Electronics Foremost Electronics, the engineering-led Essex based importer and specialist distributor of electromechanical components is a major supplier of standard and custom cabinets and enclosures and continues to add to its range of panel building accessories.

A wide range of high-quality handles from MENTOR, the world’s premier manufacturer, are now available from Foremost. The very diverse range of industrial, enclosure and equipment handles offer designers elegant and functional solutions to suit any application. It includes hundreds of plastic (including twocomponent and heat-resistant versions), anodised aluminium, chrome, steel and stainless-steel variants, all with multiple size options. MENTOR handles offer high quality, elegant, ergonomic and comfortable styles which and can be configured to meet any dimensional requirement.

MENTOR’s plastic handles are cost-effective, versatile and easy to install. The range offers many bow section designs using single-plastic or two-plastic construction including handles for various load capacities and temperature requirements.

Versions made with highly durable heat resistant black Duroplastic type FS 31 offer a maximum operating temperature of 100°C. Aluminium is an ideal material for many handle applications offering lightness, strength and a high-quality surface finish. MENTOR’s wide range of standard aluminium handles includes equipment handles, bow-type handles, fingertip handles, handle systems and folding handles. Colouranodised versions are available with gloss or brushed finishes.

MENTOR’s chrome handles are made from steel and are

ideal for high load bearing and suitable for pulling, pushing and lifting actions in equipment and machinery applications while still being elegantly designed.

Many types of chrome handles are available, including both straight and angled bow-types, as well as collapsible handles.

Several styles are also available with plastic coating on the grip bar. The thin-coating, UL224 Polyolefine flame retardant, hand grips meeting E196690 approvals are available in black, red, white, blue, yellow, green, grey, orange and brown and have an operational temperature range of -55°C to +125°C. Stainless steel handles are the ideal solution for medical and catering applications and other product designs requiring elegance combined with strength. The standard range offers handles made of round or flat oval stainless steel, folding/ collapsible handles and an easy to assemble modular handle system. The handles can be finished in matt, polished or uncoated stainless steel with several similar designs made in robust chrome-plated steel.

Foremost serve a wide number of diverse markets from industrial, instrumentation, audio/broadcast, rail, medical to education. Established in 1989, Foremost Electronics Ltd. are long established agents and distributors of electromechanical components including switches, connectors, cabinets, enclosures and handles, control knobs, thermal fuses and optoelectronics.

Foremost are also a supplier of joysticks and controllers for both OEM and stand-alone applications and have specialist online stores for IP Joysticks and Electric Vehicle Connectors and Accessories www.enclosures4u.com

Alan Vincent, Sales Director of Foremost, comments, “Our enclosure and cabinet business is growing very rapidly, and our customers need high quality accessories to enhance the appearance and performance of their systems. MENTOR offer one of the most extensive ranges of handles available, making them an ideal partner for us to be able to offer a one stop shop for all of our customer’s panel and enclosure requirements.”

To see the MENTOR range of high-quality handles available from Foremost, please visit www.4most.co.uk call +44 (0)1371 811171 or email sales@4most.co.uk

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Hydra-Slide low profile system skids transformer under bridge and onto foundation A 350-ton (310-tonne) capacity Hydra-Side low profile skidding system was the centerpiece of a multifaceted transformer delivery and installation in Sweden recently. The LP350 skidded the 264-ton (240-tonne) transformer under an overpass—a planned manoeuvre on the 25-mile (40km) route from Sundsvall to Nysäter—and then into its final position. The 37 ft. (11m) long, 12.5 ft. (3.8m) wide, 15.5 ft.

(4.7m) high transformer was delivered by Jinert, a Swedish lifting and material handling company, for its customer, DSV, a global transport and logistics firm. Including the truck, the entire transportation weighed in at 360 tons (327 tonnes).

Jinert purchased the LP350 after having attended Rapid Response Solutions’ (RRS) open house event at its Portsmouth, UK facility last September.

There, Hydra-Slide’s European distributor showcased and demonstrated the entire range of equipment, including the LP350.

Joakim Andersson, heavy project division at Jinert, said: “We already had an extensive fleet of equipment, but we were challenged with the sliding, lifting and transportation of a transformer from a vessel to its foundation; it was a big project.

The planning survey meant that en route we had to unload and slide the transformer under a bridge, reload it and continue the journey, which was the most efficient method of getting it to the site. A requirement was to stay as low as possible, which is why our research led us to the Hydra-Slide product. We worked with a 4-inch (10 cm) margin between the transformer and the overpass, sliding approximately 115 ft. (35m).”

The LP350 represents the continued evolution of the lowprofile range that also includes the XLP150 extreme low-profile

system. In contrast to their heavy track counterparts, these products are completely handportable, compact and ideal for use in areas with limited access or clearance.

Under the bridge An overnight road closure was implemented to facilitate the underpass slide. Cold weather and snow presented further challenges for the night crew; trucks were called in to salt the road surface to ensure the equipment had sufficient traction.

Andersson explained that the team also had to overcome an added complication beneath the bridge because of a gradient. By contrast, the 39 ft.

(12m) slide onto the foundation was easier as the ground was flat. A track length of 59 ft. (18m) was used throughout with steel plates to distribute ground bearing pressure. The skidding system was powered with a split flow pump and a hydraulic gantry was used to lower the transformer onto the skidding equipment.

Andersson said: “We were very pleased with the [Hydra-Slide] system. We have a history stretching back 50 years

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principally in Sweden but around the world too—and a hallmark of the company has always been innovation and development of our equipment fleet. The LP350 fits with that overarching theme.”

In addition to the skidding equipment and gantry, Jinert also utilized jacks and a heavy trailer. The transport portion of the project was subcontracted in this instance as Jinert’s equipment was already committed to another job. It did, however, supply four Goldhofer axles in addition to the 16 provided by the subcontractor, totalling 20 axles.

Jinert has 18 depots stretching from Trelleborg in the south of the country to Varberg on the west coast and Norrköping near Stockholm. It has a fleet of cranes ranging in capacity from 25-ton (22.5-tonne) to 750-ton (680-tonne) capacity including crawler cranes, mobile tower cranes, mini cranes and crane trucks, in addition to trailers for heavy transport, wheeled loaders and telescopic loaders. The fleet is regularly engaged in varying projects including turbine and generator installation, bridge skidding, chimney assembly and general construction.

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3D-integrated component carrier replaces flexible PCBs

Flexible circuit boards offer numerous advantages. However, the mechanical fixation of these circuit boards is highly complex.

Harting has developed a new solution based on 3D-MID (mechatronic integrated device) technology that is capable of replacing flexible circuit boards, which could slash assembly costs by up to two-thirds. As part of the MID process, a customized layout is applied on a 3D injectionmolded part, surface mount components can then be assembled directly on any of the carrier surfaces. The component carrier connects element between the printed circuit board (PCB) and electronic components such as LEDs, ICs, photodiodes and sensors. The populated component carriers are delivered in tape & reel.

In their standard design, the carriers can be processed in automatic assembly systems, just like other SMD electronic components. Two different sizes are currently available and can accommodate electronic components of standard size SOIC-8 and smaller. But Harting can also produce the carriers in customer-specific sizes. In three example applications, components can be mounted at a 90° angle to the circuit board,

when sensors need to be positioned normal to the circuit board, but this could be useful for LEDs or photodiodes too, to generate precise light barriers.

The component carrier also makes it possible to maintain a clearance between the circuit board and an electronic component (again in the case of a temperature sensor which could be used to measure the temperature in the housing without being influenced by the waste heat from other components on the PCB). A LED mounted on such a component carrier can be placed clear of the circuit board, avoiding the risk of casting shadows from surrounding components.

What’s more, the component carrier can be manufactured using different base polymers.

In this way, different antenna material properties can be factored in, such as dielectric constant and loss factor. The specific antenna layout can be used for various applications in the MHz and GHz frequency range, such as Bluetooth, WiFi, ZigBee and 5G. Harting has been implementing the entire 3D-MID process chain in-house for over 10 years, from

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the project idea to the populated series product. The technology is finding use in application scenarios in areas such as medical technology, industrial electronics and consumer electronics and all the way through to safety-related components in the automotive industry.

Harting 3D-MID www.harting.com

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New Cognex In-Sight D900: First Industrial Smart Camera Powered by Deep Learning

expertise, this robust tool can be retrained to read applicationspecific codes that traditional OCR tools are not able to decode.

Performs fast and accurate assembly verification The In-Sight D900 uses artificial intelligence to reliably detect complex features and objects and verifies parts and kits are assembled correctly based on their location within a predefined layout. The In-Sight ViDi Check tool can be trained to create an extensive library of components, which can be located in the image even if they appear at different angles or vary in size.

Analyzes complex defect detection tasks

Cognex Corporation has introduced the In-Sight® D900 embedded vision system. A first-of-its kind solution, the InSight D900 features Cognex’s ViDi™ deep learning software inside an In-Sight industrialgrade smart camera. The selfcontained system is designed to solve a broad range of complex in-line inspection applications including optical character recognition (OCR), assembly verification, and defect detection.

“Sophisticated manufacturers are increasingly turning to deep learning vision to solve inspections that are too complicated, time-consuming, or costly to program using human or rule-based machine vision,” said Joerg Kuechen, Senior Vice President of Vision Products at Cognex.

“By embedding our ViDi deep learning software on In-Sight, customers can solve even the most complex visual inspections quickly, easily, and more costeffectively.”

Combining the self-learning ability of a human inspector with the robustness and consistency of a vision system, the In-Sight

pD900 expands the limits of what can be inspected in factory automation. The system, which can be setup using a small number of sample images, leverages Cognex’s familiar and easy-to-use spreadsheet platform and does not require a PC or deep learning expertise to deploy.

The In-Sight D900 is ideal for automating complex inspection applications across a range of industries including automotive, consumer electronics, consumer products, packaging, food and beverage, medical devices, and logistics.

Decodes challenging OCR applications in minutes The In-Sight D900 deciphers badly deformed, skewed, and poorly etched codes using optical character recognition (OCR). The In-Sight ViDi Read tool works right out of the box, dramatically reducing development time, thanks to the deep learning pretrained font library. Users simply define the region of interest and set the character size. In situations where new characters are introduced, without vision

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The In-Sight ViDi Detect Tool learns from images of good parts in order to identify defective parts. ViDi Detect is ideal for finding anomalies on complex parts and surfaces, even in situations where defects can be unpredictable in their appearance.

Deployed on powerful, customizable vision systems In-Sight ViDi applications on the In-Sight D900 can be deployed without a PC. This highly-modular, IP67-rated deep learning vision system includes field-changeable lighting, lenses, filters, and covers that can be customized to match the user’s exact application requirements. It also includes an embedded inference engine that is specifically designed to solve complex deep learning applications at production line speeds.

For more information, please contact Janina.guptill@cognex. com or visit www.cognex.com

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RittalXpress facilitates fast, flexible IT infrastructure upgrades As ever-more demands are place on our IT systems, so there is a pressing need for upgrading existing infrastructure and for these installations to be done in the shortest possible time to allow businesses to remain competitive. Customers are increasingly demanding racks that can accommodate the future requirements of server and network gear as these needs evolve. This places huge pressure on IT and clearly increases the need to employ flexible, easy-to-install rack systems that can be used for many different applications. Meanwhile, the process of ordering and configuring racks also needs to be made as easy as possible. To this end, Rittal has created RittalXpress, which offers rapid distribution of a specially selected range of its most popular TS IT racks and accessories.

Rittal’s TS IT Data Centre Solutions gives IT users unrivalled structure and support through its flexible design and wide array of accessories.

Its TS IT racks offer an efficient internal space, variable widths and depths, and baying versatility.

Their standard parts allow users to configure solutions that are tailored to individual data centres and allow for efficient cabling and thermal management (to protect sensitive electrical equipment from rising temperatures as the number of internal components increases).

Meanwhile, the RittalXpress delivery service ensures that solutions arrive on-site quickly.

“We’re making express delivery of the TS IT Rack as simple as ABC,” says Emma Ryde, Rittal Product Manager for IT and Industrial Enclosures.

“A: Choose your rack, B: Choose your accessories and C: Choose your delivery.

“The RittalXpress service offers a carefully selected range of TS IT network/server rack options, plus accessories. These items are available either for 24-hour despatch for unassembled units, or seven working days for configured units,” adds Emma.

Further information at www.rittal.co.uk and www.friedhelm-loh-group.com or on twitter @rittal_ltd.

New igus drylin linear robots for cost-effective automation

Simple, precise, fast processes: these are the requirements of Cartesian robots. They are used for such things as pick & place applications, sorting systems and medical technology. igus has now developed a line and room linear robot for large workspaces. The two new kinematics systems allow users to move up to 5kg. Both linear robots are available directly from stock with no minimum order quantity.

The drylin line and room linear robots consist of pre-configured linear modules, aluminium linear axes, NEMA stepper motors and encoders. The line robot is for simple pick & place tasks, transporting loads of up to 50 N in a workspace of 800x500mm at a maximum speed of up to 1m/s. For more complex tasks, the room robot can transport loads of up to 50 N in a workspace of 800x800x500mm at a maximum speed of 0.5m/s. Two ZLW toothed belt axes and one GRR gear rack axis ensure precise guidance and lubrication-free operation.

In addition to the stock items, users can assemble their own linear robot with strokes of up to six metres at www.igus.co.uk/drylinEconfigurator and request a quotation from igus. Depending on customer requirements, axis length and various motors can also be configured with such items as energy chains and cables from igus.

For more information about the drylin linear robots, please visit: www.igus.co.uk/info/drivetechnology-drylin-gantries or call igus directly on: 01604 677240

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Optimum connectivity and reliability with AC micro-drives

The probability that many people already use a smartphone or tablet to interact with a host of domestic devices suggests why not be able to do this with your Variable Speed Drive? The latest GA 500 & 700 Series of Variable Speed Drives from YASKAWA are certainly designed to enable users to ‘go mobile’ and discover the benefits of mobile connectivity, combined with reliability and ease-of-use.

From drive selection, through design, installation, start-up, or trouble shooting, the design brief for GA500 and GA700 Drives has been clearly focused on making life easier. These AC Micro-drives have been developed for the widest range of industrial applications which combine valuable functions and features to provide important benefits through the whole life-cycle of a machine or installation.

With 100 years of experience in manufacturing electric motors and over 27 million AC Drives produced YASKAWA’s pedigree is unmatched in developing products which combine technical superiority,

easy handling and now the opportunities and convenience of mobile connectivity. The latest GA Series of variable speed drives are compact, incredibly flexible in terms of connectivity and designed to handle nearly any application enabling users to run any motor type from 0.2 up to 315Kw. In many control applications today there is a growing appetite for data-rich connectivity with all major industrial networks as part of the drive toward the Industrial IoT and Yaskawa is helping to satisfy this demand. The key features and benefits include; integrated EMC filters, embedded dual channel safety (STO SIL3/PLe), one field-bus card for up to 5 network drives, the ability to meet all global standards along with safe, convenient set-up and monitoring, with apps for all mobile devices.

Other features include, a robust design enabling the drives to operate up to 4000m altitude and in hot environments up to 60ºC. Coated PCB’s protect against dust and mist, while Integral temperature controlled fans run only when needed, so

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any potential for contamination is minimised while service intervals can be prolonged.

The bright LED display and tactile keypad ensures easy and intuitive navigation through menus, while the common menus and parameters are arranged and named as any other Yaskawa drive minimizing the need for re-training. Also, an embedded programming environment for customising drive functions means scalability and the potential to replace the need for external controllers.

The USB port means easy connection to a PC or mobile device for programming, monitoring or trouble-shooting while easy-access terminals ensure quick and convenient connection of mains and motor cables without the need to remove any cover. Also screw-less control terminals create long lasting, reliable connections without the need for re-tightening.

UK to lead the rest of Europe in commercial drone deliveries, as Covid-19 accelerates disruptive tech in aerospace prototypes and low-volume production parts.

Report shows more than half of people believe commercial drone deliveries will be commonplace by 2023, as Governments and firms find new ways to guarantee services.

Challenges posed by Covid-19 are accelerating the willingness to embrace drone technology and the UK is leading the way, according to a new European aerospace study released today.

The first findings of Protolabs’ Horizon Shift report, which involved 325 aerospace business leaders from across Europe, highlights an increased appetite for ‘low space’ innovation and more investment into the fast-track testing of robots and drones. More than half of companies questioned (53%) believe commercial drone deliveries will be commonplace by 2023, as both the public and private sector seek safe ways to guarantee services whilst containing the spread of any viruses. 78% of companies questioned from the UK felt convinced that disruption in the form of drones represents the sector’s best opportunitiy for growth in the future. This figure from the UK outperformed itspeers in Italy (75%), France (64%) and Germany (57%).

“Covid-19 has brought huge disruption to the global economy, with the aerospacesector being among the hardest hit,” explained Bjoern Klaas, Vice President and Managing Director of Protolabs Europe, the world’s fastest digital manufacturer of custom

“However, a crisis can act as a catalyst for further innovation, forcing organisations to seek alternative ways to survive in rapidly changing times. Our report shows that right now within aerospace, the ‘low space’ sector is demonstrating agility in its approach to innovation and there is a real appetite to see it work in the UK. “In fact the UKSA, the Government agency responsible for the UK’s civil space programme, just announced a new drive to fund spaceenabled technology to strengthenthe NHS response to Coronavirus. Drone technology can help meet challenges, such as delivering test kits, masks, gowns and goggles, in the management of infectious disease outbreaks.”

He continued: “Commercial drone deliveries are the most likely disruptor and this was reinforced across the duration of our study, which was carried out as the Covid-19 pandemic started to take grip. In just a few weeks, the appetite for this technology increased by 11% to 53%.

“Depending on legislation and advances in technology, it’s feasible that last mile delivery of products, through drones, could reach up to 30% of citizens across Europe. Furthermore, nearly a third of people feel that urban mobility will be a viable mode of transport in the next three years.”

Despite the positive outlook, there are a number of obstacles standing in the way of companies operating in low space.Cost of initial investment over return on investment (ROI) is seen as the biggest challenge by a third of respondents and

this is closely followed by technology integrations and issues caused by inflexible supply chains. Detailed testing programmes and product development cycles are the main barrier to innovation, whilst risk management and an inability to learn from failures could also stifle progress. More than a third of companies want investment in STEM education, improved international regulation/collaboration and increased Government support.

Disruptive Times The Protolabs “Horizon Shift’ report was completed during March and April and involved 325 leading aerospace professionals from France, Germany, Italy and the UK. Respondents work across senior management, R&D, engineering design, technology and supply chain management, providing one of the most comprehensive overviews of the sector recently completed. Disruption was a core theme throughout the survey, with 62% saying that disruptive technologies are making their companies more competitive. Advances in technology will also unlock the value migration to new business models, including faster charging of lithium-ion batteries (59%), Artificial Intelligence (59%) and battery storage (58%).

Bjoern concluded: “We are operating at a time when the unimaginable is fast becoming reality and the aerospace sector and supply chain has to keep pace with this change in attitude.

“There are real opportunities for suppliers to look at ways they can deliver parts that can be used in this transition, whilst exploring material applications that deliver the lightweight savings and optimum performance required.”

For further information and to download the initial findings, please visit www.protolabs.co.uk

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Rugged flat flex cable to PCB connection system from Nicomatic offers full design versatility

Resolve Optics - State-of-the-Art Lenses for Medical Technologies

Nicomatic, the leading manufacturer of high performance interconnect systems is offering a complete system of flat-flex cable to PCB interconnect based around its patented CrimpFlex™ system which complies with the most rigorous electrical and mechanical requirements.

CrimpFlex™ contacts ensure excellent mechanical retention and electrical contact by piercing the flat-flex cable conductor in 6 points; this is the basis for the Nicomatic patent, and the contacts can pierce cable materials including polyester, FR4, polyimide, PTFE and more. Contacts are available on 1.27mm and 2.54mm pitch, in male, male solder tab and female versions to meet most requirements. Female contacts are selectively gold or tin plated, and are available in three versions: HiFlex; low insertion force; and high insertion force.

Operating temperature is from -55°C to +150°C. CrimpFlex™ housings, classified to UL94V-0, are made from thermoplastic filled with fibre glass making them very durable. They can be configured as single or double row devices offering 2-50 ways (2.54mm pitch) and 4-100 ways (1.27mm pitch). Many variants are available including locking polarized, high density and right-angled versions. They are compatible not only with Nicomatic’s range of PCB headers, but with generally-existing 0.635mm marketstandards products. A full range of male and female shunts plus crimping tools are also available.

Comments Sebastien Charbonnel, Director, Nicomatic Germany: “The CrimpFlex interconnection system including matching PCB connectors delivers tremendous versatility to our customers. It is a proven, one-stop-shop solution for demanding industrial applications.”

Resolve Optics is an experienced developer and supplier of specialised lenses and lens systems for medical applications opening up new possibilities for you in prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

In recent times, as people have become more health conscious and are living for longer, the demand from medical technology companies for state-of-the-art optics to help prevent illness, and to detect and treat it at an early stage has grown significantly.

Mark Pontin, Managing Director of Resolve Optics commented “We were approached by a leading radiotherapy equipment supplier who sought a high-resolution lens able to withstand, and precisely focus, the high levels of radiation produced by their synchrotron device onto tumours. Using cerium-doped glasses, we were able to design and produce a compact f/2.8, 24mm diameter fixed focus lens able to withstand long-term exposure to radiation up to a dose of 100 million radians without discoloration. This new lens is enabling the supplier to improve the precision radiotherapy treatment of tumours that its equipment provides”.

Drawing upon nearly 30 years experience – Resolve Optics has built a strong reputation for specialist lens design and manufacture of smaller production quantities of high performance precision lenses and optical products on time to strict quality and target price guidelines. For further information on state-of-the-art lenses to optimise the performance of your medical product please contact Resolve Optics Ltd. on +44-1494-777100 or sales@resolveoptics.com

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Rittal’s New Wire Station 540

The Rittal Wire Station 540 mobile wiring table is a fully ergonomic, modular and flexible working platform.

The Wire Station brings offers many benefits for workstations across panel building, switchgear manufacturing and in electro-mechanical workshops. For example, thanks to its modularity, the table can be tailored to suit a company’s assembly process. It also allows workshops to take a further step towards automation when used alongside Rittal’s automatic Wire Terminal wire processing machine and the EPLAN Smart Wiring software tool. Wiring components in panel building and switchgear manufacturing is still a very manual process.

Even workshops using the Rittal Wire Terminal still need to install wires by hand, either within the enclosure or on the mounting plate. The same is true of assembling cables with larger cross-sections as well as connectors.

Fully Customisable Wire Workstation Rittal’s new Wire Station 540 is based on a work table that can be adjusted to suit both the person and their working situation. Optional accessories include a powerful, dimmable LED light, socket strips and a multi-functional monitor holder.

There is also a drawer for storing hand-held tools, cable reels, wire packs and storage trays.

Furthermore, semi-automatic hardware for wire processing – including automatic cut-tolength, insulation stripping and crimping machines – can be easily integrated. The workstation – which can be fitted with an optional screen – can be used in conjunction with the EPLAN Smart Wiring software. It includes a holder into which can be attached wire rail magazines from a wire terminal wire processing machine. In addition, work on wires with larger cross-sections as well as special wire-end

treatment, can be carried out efficiently and easily on the wiring workstation.

Wire with Ease The Wire Station is mounted on casters, meaning it is fully mobile, while the (manually or automatically assembled) wires, plus all the tools and semi-automatic machines, as well as the additionally required material, are always at hand.

It means that panel builders no longer need to waste time shuttling backwards and forwards between the enclosure and their workbench. Further information at www.rittal.co.uk and www.friedhelm-loh-group. com or on twitter @rittal_ltd.

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