Seminar To Address Robotics In Rail Sector

ABB Robotics is to hold a rail manufacturing technology seminar in Milton Keynes on 4 June 2009. The seminar will present the latest robotic products, systems and services to transform rail material handling, welding and inspection applications. It will demonstrate the rapid payback available on robotic investments while addressing the common misconceptions that may be preventing many manufacturers from realising the benefits of robots.

Workshops and demonstrations will cover a range of rail industry applications and provide an opportunity to learn the basics of robot control with 'hands-on' training. Attendees will also gain an insight into ABB's 3D-robotics simulation suite for offline programming and control and the recently launched Remote Service Technology.

ABB's Remote Service Technology uses GPRS communications to enable both the customer and ABB to monitor a robot's health and record key performance data while offline or working in a production environment.

Fluke Updates Multimeter For Rail Applications

Fluke has introduced the 287/TPWS datalogging multimeter, for rail applications, in the UK. In addition to the wide functionality of the Fluke 287, this model also provides testing of the red-signal Train Protection and Warning Systems (TPWS), meeting the requirements of Network Rail with Certificate of Acceptance PA05/03684.

The accuracy of measurement provided by the Fluke 287/TPWS is vital when checking the strength of signal from the static transmitter, placed between the rails, as detected by an on-board receiving aerial. The Fluke 287/TPWS provides simultaneous readouts of different measurements, such as true-RMS AC and DC amps and volts, frequency, dB and more. The interface ensures data transfer to a PC, on which optional Flukeview Forms software allows users to document, store and analyse readings, and then convert them into meaningful graphs and tables for professional reports.

The Fluke 287/TPWS set-up is customisable to save time and increase productivity. Multiple save options and automatic time stamping allow convenient recall of field measurements. Peak capture can record transients as fast as 250us. A relative mode removes test lead resistance from low ohms or capacitance measurements. The Fluke 287/TPWS has Cat IV 600V/Cat III 1,000V safety ratings and comes with a lifetime warranty.