TL;DR:
- Turck introduces DR series radar distance sensors with 15m range and RF technology for noisy environments.
- New IMXK12 amplifier for explosive areas and RFID tracking system enhancements.
- Latest from Turck includes TX800 edge controllers, robust encoders, and improved HMIs.
- Supply chain challenges in automation due to chip shortages and delays in power equipment.
- Strategies to address supply chain issues include component overstocking and digital tools for remote training.
- Copia introduces DeviceLink supporting Siemens Step 7 5.x for efficient PLC programming and version control.
- Kawasaki Robotics unveils CL cobot series for machine tending and educational applications.
- Advantech launches UNO-148 V2 industrial edge computer for fast AI processing and connectivity.
- Kawasaki presents Astorino robotics platform for educational use with 6-axis setup and low cost.
- ABB releases CIP safety module for ACS380, ACS580, and ACS880 drives, simplifying safety integration with PLCs.
Ready to stay ahead in the fast world of automation? In "This Week in Automation," we cover the latest trends and news you can't miss. If you're strapped for time but eager to stay updated, this is your go-to blog. Join me as we dive into the top stories reshaping administrative tasks, recruiting, and marketing for small businesses like yours!
Latest Advancements by Turck in Automation
Turck has expanded its product line with new DR series radar distance sensors. These sensors can detect objects up to 15 meters away. They are built for tough conditions found in the port and transportation industries. The IP69K-rated sensors can handle high shock and resist salt spray.
The standout feature is their use of radio frequency (RF) to detect objects. This makes them ideal for noisy places with shifting light. The RF works at 122 GHz, accurately pinpointing distances between cranes and containers.
Another new product is the IMXK12 single signal amplifier. Designed for tight spaces, it fits in narrow cabinets. The amplifier is safe in explosive environments, meeting Zone 0 standards. This makes it suitable for permanent installations in refineries and chemical plants.
Turck also enhanced its RFID systems with the Q130 HF read/write head. This device can quickly read and write data, making product tracking smoother. Its IP67 and IP69K ratings mean it thrives in harsh conditions and integrates well into existing systems.
The TX800 series brings upgraded human-machine interfaces (HMI) and edge controllers. These controllers, equipped with quad cores, handle process operations rapidly. They offer programmability for a customized user experience.
Turck also delivers robust electrical encoders for monitoring speed and position. The RM105/106 and RS107/108 models are built to endure industrial environments. These encoders can withstand temperatures from -40 F to 176 °F and up to 10 g of vibration. They are Ethernet-ready, allowing easy integration with other devices.
Read more about these advancements at Control.com.
Supply Chain Woes and Solutions
Automation engineers still face supply chain woes from the COVID-19 crisis. Though supply lines are near normal, some issues linger. According to Control, persistent microprocessor shortages and power equipment delays remain problems.
Why are there delays? The primary issue is a lack of chip diversification. Chips for analog cards used in PLCs and drives have long lead times. During the pandemic, these chips went to medical and automotive industries instead.
To solve these issues, suppliers are diversifying sources and enhancing domestic production. This process leads to better lead times and more stability.
What are the new strategies? Suppliers and customers adapted by overstocking crucial components. This prevents future disruptions. Digital tools also play a big part. Engineers rely more on software and virtual services when hardware is delayed.
Training has changed too. Virtual training programs offer flexibility. Engineers can now learn and manage equipment without needing the hardware. This helps manage and mitigate disruptions effectively.
To read the full article from Control, visit: Using Digital Tools to Calm Overstocking Issues.
Copia DeviceLink Expands to Siemens Step 7 5.x
Finding the latest PLC project version often means copying and pasting files, which can cause errors. Copia Automation's DeviceLink changes this. It ensures your automation software backups stay current, safe, and tracked.
This week, Copia expanded DeviceLink to support Siemens’ Step 7 5.x software. This move aims to improve PLC programming on the factory floor. Traditional backup methods left room for disaster. Copia uses a Git version framework, allowing multiuser programming. Projects can be stored on the cloud or local servers.
DeviceLink can schedule automatic backups or notify you of changes. With many shifts and technicians making changes, periodic backups are vital. DeviceLink ensures compatibility with Rockwell Automation, Beckhoff, Codesys, Siemens TIA Portal, and now Siemens’ Step 7 5.x.
For more on this update, read the full article at Control.com.
Kawasaki Robotics Reveals New CL Cobot Series
Kawasaki Robotics unveiled its new CL Series of collaborative robots at the International Manufacturing and Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago. In collaboration with Neura Robotics, Kawasaki showcased the cobots' capabilities, including machine tending and interactive displays.
The CL110N, which has a 10 kg payload and a 1000 mm reach, features flexible mounting positions, a speed of 200 °/s, and repeatability of ± 0.02 mm. It includes integrated cables for better maneuverability and an IP66 rating for protection against high-pressure water jets.
IMTS visitors saw the CL110 in action, tending an upgraded Wauseon 1004EL Electric End Forming Machine. This machine reshapes tubes or pipe ends, used in automotive, aerospace, and construction sectors.
Attendees tried Zero-G mode with the CL108 cobot, allowing them to hand-guide the robot and record programs. This feature reduces setup times and errors.
Kawasaki also demonstrated a no-code robotic machine tending solution. This setup helps in low-volume, varied part production with minimal robot programming required. Modern welding robots, like the BA013N and BA013L, were also on display. These welders can change their welding paths in real time to match material changes, ensuring consistent welds.
IMTS showcased K-Positioners and K-Tracks technology. K-Positioners automate the placement of workpieces for optimal welding. K-Tracks allow a single robot to handle multiple parts, reducing costs and increasing flexibility.
For more details, read the full article at Control.com.
Advantech's New Edge Computer: UNO-148 V2
This week, Advantech revealed the UNO-148 V2, a groundbreaking industrial edge computer. It uses a 13th-generation Intel core processor and can house an optional NVIDIA Ada Lovelace MXM GPU. These features make it super powerful for AI tasks and fast, real-time calculations.
Edge computing processes data closer to where it is generated, speeding up and securing operations. The UNO-148 V2 aims to speed up industrial processes by making control decisions quickly. It does so using its low-latency architecture. Its solid-state drive with RAID support helps minimize delays.
For connectivity, the UNO-148 V2 has many interfacing ports. This makes it easy to update, program, and connect to various devices. Its small size fits in tight spaces and can be mounted on DIN rails.
Edge computing localizes decision-making, ensuring production does not stop if the main system is down. This speeds things up and increases reliability. The UNO-148 V2 can be extended with modules for more flexibility, making it a versatile choice for industries needing fast, precise control.
Find more details here: control.com.
Kawasaki Robotics Introduces Astorino for Hands-On Educational Experience
This week, Kawasaki Robotics showcased their new educational robot, Astorino. It’s built for the industrial/technical education sector, mirroring modern industrial robots but at a lower cost. Astorino aims to help educators train students in real-world skills.
Astorino's name links to the Arduino platform and development partner Astor. It taps into Kawasaki’s expertise in hardware, firmware, control systems, application software, and training. Students can even 3D print 99% of the robot's replacement parts.
A 1 kg payload and 6-axis setup lie at the heart of Astorino. It weighs 12 kg and runs on a standard 110V outlet, making it classroom-friendly. The package includes a control system, Modbus TCP and USB/Ethernet communication, and safety features like e-stop and safety brakes. Motor control needs just three signals (pulse, direction, enable), while its steel gears minimize backlash.
Priced at $5,000, Astorino offers a low student-to-equipment ratio, ensuring ample hands-on time. This boosts knowledge retention and preps students for real-world scenarios in robotics.
Astorino’s design keeps costs low for educational institutions. The platform includes free software and firmware, avoiding recurring costs like software licenses. Educators can focus on teaching, with students able to 3D print parts as needed.
Paul Marcovecchio, Kawasaki Robotics USA’s general industries director, states the goal is to advance industrial robotics education. The platform eliminates barriers to advanced robotics tools in classrooms, providing more hands-on experiences vital for modern manufacturing.
For further details, read the full article here: automationworld.com.
CIP Safety Module for ABB Drives
This week, ABB rolled out a CIP safety communication module for three popular motor drives. The ACS380, ACS580, and ACS880 drives can use the FSCS-21 safety module, making integration faster by skipping the need to wire each safety signal.
Why It Matters
Variable frequency drives (VFDs) control AC motors in machines like flywheels and cutters. They change motor speed by adjusting electrical frequency. Safe control of these motors is vital.
Details on CIP and Safety
Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) sends data between devices and safety systems. This new module works with CIP, letting drives connect with safety-rated PLCs like GuardLogix from Rockwell Automation. It also supports gateways that turn other safety protocols into CIP Safety.
Key Safety Functions
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Safe Torque Off (STO): Cuts power to the motor, stopping all torque at the shaft. With CIP, this signal is sent through the interface, reducing wiring needs.
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Safe Stop 1: Stops the motor through the drive, then activates STO. This also uses ethernet signals, reducing wiring.
Benefits for Technicians
With the FSCS-21, technicians don't need to manually wire safety I/O. Without a CIP module, extra safety PLCs and contactors are needed, which are costly. This module simplifies and cuts costs by needing just a safety PLC.
Interested in Learning More?
For further details, explore this Control.com article.
Conclusion
Blog Post Outline:
- Introduction to Automation for Small Businesses
- Benefits of Business Process Automation
- Key Areas to Automate: Administrative, Recruiting, Marketing
- Steps to Implement Automation in Your Small Business
- Tools and Resources for Effective Automation
- Real-Life Examples and Success Stories
- Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Future Trends in Business Automation
Wrapping up, we explored how automation can transform your business. We showed you its benefits and key areas to automate, like admin tasks, recruiting, and marketing. We also shared actionable steps, useful tools, and real success stories. Remember, the future belongs to those who adapt and innovate. Keep up with trends and let automation propel your business forward!
