Mining Company Chooses GE Process-Control Solution

GE Intelligent Platforms' Proficy Process Systems process-control solution has been chosen by Barun Mining, a subsidiary of China Baogang Group, for use in its iron mining business in China. The company chose GE's solution to facilitate product quality improvement, optimise production and reduce costs. China Baogang, an equipment manufacturer in China, is involved in the construction of metallurgical, infrastructural facilities and other industrial projects.

The company also provides geo-technical engineering construction, industrial and civil construction, rock and earthwork excavation, equipment installation and steel-structure fabrication and installation services. Barun Mining provides an additional source of material from China's Bayan Obo area for the Baogang group to protect against global supply-chain disturbances. Proficy Process Systems is a scalable, fully integrated system for process automation and control.

With an open and scalable architecture, it leverages GE's hardware and software platforms to provide a system that is suitable for rugged mining operations control. Barun Mining is using Proficy Process Systems to record process data for the whole plant. 'The Proficy Process Systems high-availability Pacsystems RX3i controller, I/O [input/output] and forward-thinking architecture of 100Mbps I/O rack connectivity will enable us to increase our productivity,' said Dongziqing, vice-president of Barun Mining.

Proficy Process Systems provides a single control environment and comprehensive engineering and operator functionality. Its open architecture reduces lifecycle costs through precise calibration and secure electronic configuration.

Proficy Process Systems' Global Namespace provides a single point of configuration to eliminate the risk of inconsistencies between multiple databases and the need to duplicate engineering efforts. The real-time monitoring of the plant and an alarming system provide the overall equipment effectiveness of production equipment efficiency and critical plant conditions.

Bott Delivers Storage Solution For Assembly Line

A range of workplace systems from Bott has been used to provide an ergonomic storage solution to meet lighting specialist Urbis's lean manufacturing criteria during the design of a new assembly line. When Urbis introduced a new street light, it needed to make significant changes to its assembly lines as the current setup was unable to cope with the weight of the product.

To ensure that the new production facilities fulfilled the company's criteria, Urbis turned to Production Design and Supply (PD and S), a specialist in designing and installing assembly lines, which proposed a solution using Bott's APS range of workstation systems. The problem facing Urbis was that the assembly jigs for its new Evolo lights weighed 11.5kg, which is 80 per cent heavier than those previously used on the production lines.

With an anticipated output of around 300 units per day, this posed health-and-safety concerns, so Urbis decided to install a completely new line capable of operating on lean techniques and specifically suited to the new products. In designing the line to meet lean manufacturing techniques, which involved implementing efficient processes and optimising the available space, the main issue to be resolved was the ergonomic problems associated with the repetitive lifting of the heavy pallet. Various parameters were drawn up, including the use of jig boards rather than carriages and the elimination of manual lifting; the new line also had to be easy to clean.

The assembly had to have good storage capacity for boards and stock and needed to provide simple access to components. Lastly, it could not take up more space than the one it was replacing. PD and S based its solution on Bott's APS modular conveyor and workstation equipment, designing some bespoke elements using its in-house 3D computer-aided-design software. This helped everyone involved at Urbis to understand how all the concepts worked and fitted in around existing installations on the factory floor.

Bott's APS range consists of assembly workbenches, workstations, roller tracks and trolleys. Roller tracks and ball transfer tables are a key part of the APS system and allow for a quick and efficient setup of lines designed to maximise productivity and minimise manual handling, according to Bott. A manual roller track system was chosen for the Urbis assembly line. The lighting specialist also decided to install two new lines, instead of just one, with a view to replacing two further lines in the future.

Borri Introduces Single-Phase UPS Solution

Borri has launched the B50 single-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS), a cost-effective solution for office and domestic use. The single-phase UPS has been designed to meet smaller back-up needs for applications such as small closed-circuit television systems and electronic point-of-sale and information-technology (IT) applications. The B50 ranges from 600VA to 1.5kVA, with four UPSs in the series.

Most desktop computers operate within this power range, making the B50 suitable for preventing a PC from suffering power failures. The B50 is designed with Line Interactive Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) technology, which is said to be important to any small UPS. The AVR technology allows the input voltage to fluctuate by as much as -30 per cent to +20 per cent without having to engage the batteries, thus extending battery life.

The AVR, combined with spike arrestors, protects a PC against sags and surges, providing a clean and constant supply to the user's IT equipment. The B50 acts as a plug-and-play UPS, thus facilitating installation. It comes with free monitoring software, which allows the UPS to be monitored and managed remotely. By installing the software, the user or IT manager can actively view the performance of the UPS and the battery life when under mains-fail conditions.

Agilent Selected As HDMI Test Solution Provider

Simplay Labs, which operates four of the eight HDMI Authorized Test Centers (ATCs), has selected Agilent Technologies as its high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) test solution provider. Agilent's test solution meets, or exceeds, the requirements of the HDMI Compliance Test Specification (CTS) Version 1.4 and is listed as recommended test equipment. The Agilent test solution addresses four sectors: source testing, sink testing, media physical layer evaluation and protocol test.

The test solution was designed to reduce development costs while providing accurate test results with greater flexibility. Agilent's HDMI solution offers full automation software, which speeds up testing, providing efficient electrical performance of the devices and fast test throughput, which increases productivity; and the HEAC (HDMI Ethernet and Audio Return Channel) sink test setup, which is independent of the TMDS signal generator, often heavily used for high-speed electrical sink testing.

Agilent has been involved with the HDMI specification since the standard was first established to help companies meet compliance testing and address the challenges presented by this technology. Agilent has developed tools in the physical, data link and protocol layers to meet the challenges posed by the standard. They are designed to reduce development costs, provide accurate test results and simplify the measurement processes for test engineers in the consumer electronics, cable manufacturer and semiconductor industries. ATCs are using Agilent's HDMI platform to test products, identify problems, measure data and determine whether tests have passed or failed.

Agilent's modular HDMI test platform is said to help customers improve the quality of their consumer electronics products and meet the demand of this rapidly advancing market. 'Upgrading our US, Korean and two China facilities will enable us to serve our customers with all HDMI Specification Version 1.4 test services,' said Joseph Lias, president of Simplay Labs. 'Continuing to work with Agilent and its partner Bitifeye Digital Test Solutions ensures that our customers' products can be effectively tested in our ATCs for HDMI 1.4 features such as 3D over HDMI, 4K video format, content type and the new colour spaces,' he added.

The Agilent HDMI 1.4 complete test platform includes: modular HEAC test upgrade using Agilent's 81150A pattern generator platform and Infiniium oscilloscopes; single high-speed N5998A audio/video timing and video picture analyser recommended in the CTS Version 1.4; TMDS electrical test coverage with a single E4887A TMDS signal generator, which covers all high-speed digital tests; and test automation with broadest test coverage using the N5990A software controlling TMDS signal generator, the N5998A, an oscilloscope and complementary Quantum Data 882EA (for EDID, CEC and HDCP test).

It also includes: Infiniium 90000A Series oscilloscopes with N5399A compliance test software; Parbert 81250-based E4887A TMDS signal generator; N5998A protocol/audio/video generator and analyser; N5990A test automation software platform from Bitifeye; E5071C network analyser; and N1080A Type A test-point access fixtures.

Micromech Offers Complete Linear Motion Solution

Micromech's Promech linear actuators from Parker are for OEM instrument manufacturers looking to speed time to market and reduce the overall installed cost for linear motion axes. Promech Series LP28 and LD28 actuators come completely assembled and tested and include linear bearings, drive screw, thrust bearings, motor mount, coupling and motor. With a travel range from 5mm to 500mm, the LP28 has several linear bearing options and a variety of leadscrew and motor size options to match the positioner to the application requirements.

This compact actuator is suitable for positioning payloads up to 4.5kg and may also be fitted with optional seal strip, home and limit sensors. The LD28 is a complete linear actuator solution that offers greater screw and motor design flexibility, enabling OEMs to pursue optimal solutions for their applications. It offers a travel range from 5mm to 300mm and is offered with a variety of options to match the actuator to application requirements.

The LD28 is also suitable for thrusting applications requiring up to 4.5kg of thrust. The LP28 has a miniature cross section of 28mm x 28mm, is designed with an optimal length-to-travel ratio, has a high-performance leadscrew drive train and re-circulating linear bearing. Some competitive miniaturised drive trains use the radial bearings in the step motor to contain the motor rotor, manage thermal expansion as the motor heats, and bear the axial loads generated by the application.

In some cases this is an acceptable practice, but may prove to be a reliability risk further down the road. The LP28's bearing design results in a highly reliable and long life positioner, said Micromech. The leadscrew options are 1mm, 3mm and 10mm, and NEMA 11 or NEMA 17 stepper motors are included as standard. Fully adjustable home and limit sensors are available and the actuators can be configured for multi-axis platforms. The design has an extruded aluminium body that provides functionality and structural strength.

Internally, the drive train is highly integrated and includes the drive screw, screw nut, independent pre-loaded thrust bearing set, shaft coupling and motor. Externally, an optional linear bearing may be used to support heavier or cantilevered payloads. Installation is performed using toe clamp mounting. Home and limit sensors, which are triggered by a magnet in the carriage assembly, may be mounted using the T-slot and are fully adjustable over travel. The LP28 is engineered for transport of small payloads over distances as short as 5mm and as long as 500mm.

The LP28 is commonly used in life sciences, medical and semiconductor equipment although it is not limited to these markets. Typical applications include transport of 0.45kg to 0.9kg payloads such as microplates, vials and small syringe pumps. In inspection applications, the LP28 can be used as a focus axis for adjusting the position of a camera, optics or payload. The LP28's light weight also makes it suitable for mobile equipment. It is available with multiple lead options to match payloads over the life of the actuator.

The LD28 is also a miniature cross section actuator 28mm x 28mm and has an independent thrust bearing set resulting in a high thrust per package size. It can have either stepper (NEMA 11 or NEMA 17) or servomotor; it has backlash compensation and a high-performance leadscrew drive train with options of 1mm, 3mm and 10mm leadscrew. Designed for OEMs needing simple positioning solutions for instrument and light industrial applications, the Promech range of positioners offers a complete positioning solution.

The LD28 is also a packaged linear actuator having all the same 'completeness' attributes as the LP28 being fully assembled and tested. The Promech LD28 is engineered for thrusting small payloads over distances as short as 5mm and as long as 300mm. In addition to the standard configurations, the LD28 actuators can be customised to address the unique requirements of a particular high-volume application. These modifications may further reduce the installed cost and can include special motors (stepper, servo or DC), motors fitted with rotary encoders, special screws (finer leads, ballscrews, special nuts), and environmental preparation (vacuum, high temperature).

Here again the LD28 is commonly used in life sciences, medical and semiconductor equipment, although it is not limited to these markets. Typical applications include syringe pumps and positioning stages and its light weight makes it suitable for mobile equipment.

MAX2172 Provides Complete Digital-Tuner Solution

Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the MAX2172 digital radio tuner for FM and digital audio broadcast (DAB) signals, with a high sensitivity for the FM, VHF and L-band frequency ranges. This device integrates all components necessary to implement a complete tuner solution, including LNAs, mixers, an IF filter and a fully synthesised local oscillator.

Additionally, the IC integrates a front-end tracking filter to eliminate interference between the UHF, VHF and FM bands. An on-chip received signal-strength indicator (RSSI) and temperature sensor ensure fast and accurate scan and seek functions. The RSSI provides +/-2dB accuracy and outputs the measured level in digital form through the I2C bus. FM sensitivity is -111dBm (typ) and FM adjacent-channel performance meets ETSI EN 55020.

Drawing 61mA (typ) from a single 3V supply, the MAX2172 strikes an excellent balance between performance and power consumption, making it ideal for consumer and automotive applications. The MAX2172 utilises a standard 2.048MHz IF frequency that is compatible with most DAB digital demodulators. The device is packaged in a lead-free, 6 x 6mm 40-pin TQFN and is fully specified over the -40 to +85C extended temperature range. An evaluation kit is available to speed designs.

Cheddars Snacks Include Payne's Tear Tape Solution

United Biscuits's (UB's) recently launched 'Best Ever' Cheddars cheese biscuits includes a tear tape solution from Payne Security, which is designed to improve access to the contents. UB, a European manufacturer of biscuits and snacks, has long added Payne tear tape to its roll wrap packaging. However, one issue that emerged was that users were sometimes having difficulty locating the end of the tape as the existing tab design became stuck down when the pack was sealed.

Payne devised a communication tab system to provide a solution to this issue. By cutting a larger, U-shaped or horseshoe tab into the tape during its application, the tab protrudes beyond the seal area to deliver a prominent opening feature that is easily visible to the consumer. UB trialled the tab and found that it offered easier integration into the packaging line, with the provision of enhanced pack opening and opportunities for communicating with consumers at the point of consumption.

This has led to the addition of Payne's tab feature to the Jacob's Cheddars cheese biscuit packaging - part of the brand's 'Best Ever' launch. The packaging has been printed with the words 'Easy Open Tear Tape' to underline the benefits to consumers. Paul Cheeseman, packaging systems manager at UB, said: 'The new Cheddars cheese biscuits deliver our "Best Ever" recipe. 'Therefore, we wanted to offer consumers packaging to match.

'Roll wrap is already one of the simplest and most efficient uses of packaging and yet we believe that, with the addition of Payne's communication tab system, we have managed to improve and enhance the overall product for the consumer,' he added. Payne's tab cutter comprises two main components: the cutter mechanism and the tab save device. The cutter mechanism, a compact unit designed to fit to most wrapping machines, clamps and cuts a horseshoe-shaped tab 12mm wide x 20mm long into the film during application of the tear tape.

The compact, pneumatically operated unit is designed to fit most wrapping machines. It is supplied in three sizes (100mm, 150mm and 200mm) to accommodate varying film widths. The tab save device is a compact mechanism that can be mechanically or pneumatically operated. It is designed to save the tab from being cut during the main film cut operation.

Mechatronic Drive Solution Earns SEW-EURODRIVE Recognition For Product Innovation Of The Year

SEW-EURODRIVE, a global leader in drive engineering, has been recognized by Frost and Sullivan for its pioneering work in the development of the world’s first truly mechatronic drive system. The company cited SEW EURODRIVE MOVIGEAR®, which integrates motor, drive and matching drive electronics in a single compact housing, with its Product Innovation of the Year award.

“Thanks to pioneering new technology – including single line installation – MOVIGEAR offers a number of benefits over conventional drive solutions” said Frost and Sullivan industry analysts Suman Bhaskar and Kaushik Ghosh, who conducted the European market survey that singled out SEW’s innovative drive. The award cited the compact design, high overload capacity, short commissioning and start-up times, low noise emissions and smooth housing design of MOVIGEAR, predicting that it will also mean lower installation and energy costs for customers.

In contrast to current decentralized automation technology, which relies on two separate cables for energy and communication, the single line technology deployed with MOVIGEAR uses one cable, reducing the complications and cost of on-site installations. This simplified system structure can reduce the duration of startups from weeks to a matter of days.

MOVIGEAR provides a combination of energy-efficiency, hygienic protection and functionality within a single drive that has never been achieved before. It is designed for use in a wide range of horizontal conveyor applications, including automotive assembly, food and beverage, airport logistics and package and parcel handling.

“The positive market response has encouraged us to broaden our marketing activities for MOVIGEAR in preparation for release in other countries, including the U.S.,” said Dave Ballard, U.S. engineering and marketing manager. The company successfully implemented MOVIGEAR systems into several European projects for the automotive and beverage industries in 2007.

Frost and Sullivan pointed out that MOVIGEAR can reduce overall costs for customers, even though component costs are slightly higher than those for conventional drive solutions. This is due to the high-quality network characteristics and control concepts of the design. These reduce startup time considerably and minimize monitoring and maintenance tasks.

“Our experience in developing and field-testing the pre-integrated MOVIGEAR System has confirmed the benefits of mechatronic engineering,” said Ballard. “We’re taking electronic components out of their comfort zone, where they could be exposed to vibrations, higher temperatures and humidity, so we’ve had to redesign every component, from microchips to heat sinks to housings, to ensure reliable, long-term performance.”

By creating a pre-integrated drive system which functions within the enclosed environment of a housing, MOVIGEAR components are matched to application requirements. Since each component operates more efficiently, the resulting drive system uses less energy. That, along with lower maintenance costs, will lower equipment operating costs.