November 2016

FactoryTalk Batch software introduces modern approaches

Industrial producers with batch applications can now create more flexible, reliable and productive operations with the latest release of FactoryTalk Batch software from Rockwell Automation. The software enhances scalability and responsive control of distributed, skid-level phases with the integrity of plant-level coordination, whilst delivering an improved, reliable user experience with built-in mobility. “Rather than trying to force-fit applications into rigid batch control systems, producers can now customise a modern batch system to their application’s needs,” said Dan UpDyke, Product Manager, Rockwell Automation. “These enhancements give batch producers greater flexibility when designing, operating and expanding batch systems. They also enable producers to use mobile devices for a more intuitive experience and improved workflows.” Integration with the SequenceManager solution from Rockwell Automation enables batch sequencing to occur at either the controller or server level. This allows machine builders to develop and deliver fully tested skids that end users can integrate into their batch process with minimal validation and commissioning effort. It also minimises the rework required when manufacturers with small, controller-based batch systems expand to larger, server-based batch systems. New mobile support can help create intuitive workflows, reduce procedural steps and increase collaboration. With mobile devices, workers no longer need to be bound to control rooms and fixed terminals. Instead, they can access real-time information, interact with processes and secure approvals from anywhere in a plant. A modern web interface also helps reduce the number of clicks required to access information.

Konecranes extends steel industry and advanced technology leadership

In the picture:Konecranes staff at the 2016 Steel Convention. From left to right, Daniel McCarney (Operations Manager), Peter Monaghan (National Industrial Equipment Sales Manager), James Dowe (Managing Director, Australia, New Zealand and Philippines) and Steve Gagnuss (Head of APAC Region). Global crane manufacturer and service leader Konecranes is extending its technology and leadership involvement in the steel industry by being a major sponsor of the Australian Steel Convention for the 5th year in a row. At this year’s convention, hosted in Melbourne CBD in Konecranes, which employs over 12,000 people across 600 locations in 48 countries, demonstrated its UNITON crane. UNITON is particularly applicable to the steel industry and related uses such as materials handling, manufacturing and maintenance. A strong focus this year was on advanced technologies such as SMART features, lifecycle care through yourKONECRANES and the new Konecranes parts store, all of which are designed to provide a greater level of safety, reliability and information that can help to better plan maintenance and service schedules. “Our continued support of this convention provides us with a valuable opportunity to discuss the steel industry with other experts and help shape its future into one that is safe, efficient and reliable,” said Konecranes Managing Director, Australia, New Zealand and Philippines, Mr James Dowe. Mr Dowe also attended Konecranes’ booth at the convention, along with Konecranes Head of APAC Region, Mr Steve Gagnuss, National Industrial Equipment Sales Manager, Mr Peter Monaghan and Operations Manager, Mr Daniel Mccarney in order to answer any questions about Konecranes technologies or the steel industry in general. “Our company has a strong ethos of safety, which is vital to the steel industry. I’ve had some insightful conversations about the future of the steel industry at past conferences, and I’d invite anyone who is interested in cranes for the […]

Combining Forces Means Stronger Land Vehicles

Two South Australian companies are proving the strength that comes with combining forces, teaming up to win a contract that will see them help develop the future of Australia’s land defence force. Rugged hardware developer APC Technology and mission software designer Acacia Research have won a contract to develop systems for the national LAND 400 initiative to build Australia’s next generation of armoured fighting vehicles. Managing Director of APC Technology Scott Begbie said the joint effort would allow both companies to build upon each other’s strengths. “APC has extensive experience supplying hardware solutions into the defence area, and Acacia Research have very efficient software that requires minimal computer resources,” he said. “Therefore, combined solutions can be provided that minimise heat generation, volume and weight in systems, which are always important issues in military applications. “This is an example of what can be achieved by the use of innovative Australian technology.” “This is the culmination of independent Australian development that enables us to collectively compete with anyone in the arena.” The two companies will jointly develop both hardware and software for the new mission systems, which are aimed to serve all needs in terms of command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR). While the system is being designed specifically for the LAND 400 system, once complete the technology will be usable by a variety of defence projects. “The combined solutions we develop are applicable in the C4ISR environment, and the systems can operate independently or as part of a network-centric environment,” Begbie said. “This is the culmination of independent Australian development that enables us to collectively compete with anyone in the arena.” The combined forces approach of APC Technology and Acacia Research is the newest addition to a growing number of South Australian technology partnerships. South Australian aviation services […]

“Manufacturing is dead in Australia?” We don’t think so

John Sheridan, CEO at Digital Business insights. When we asked people across our industry networks two years ago, “Is manufacturing dead?” the answer was resoundingly “No.” But it is in transition. It is not just manufacturing that is changing. All our industries are being disrupted to a greater or lesser extent. And that is intimidating for many. The digital revolution continues to disrupt, largely in ways that are ill understood by politicians. Industry sectors are impacted and transformed. Jobs disappear daily. And nobody knows who to blame. Internet. Email, The World Wide Web. Google. Multiple apps and devices. Take your pick. The use of connected wisdom and insights (joined up thinking) to manage the disruptive change is absent without leave. Governments and businesses postpone action and wait and see. And “Leadership?” is a cry for help from populations across the planet. This is no time for dickering around. Another year has almost gone. The political news side-show alley in the US, Europe and Asia is super sticky and attractive day by day, but really just a shell game hiding the deep and fundamental issues of digital change that are a million times more disruptive than presidents and brexits could ever be. And to address that we need strategic and thoughtful action, not side-shows. We have to recognise and then understand what is changing and then do what we can about it. Which surprisingly is rather a lot. Because with the shift of power from vendor to customer, old world to new world, and “command and control” to collaboration, most useful action is now starting at the grass roots. Born of frustration. But also born from the recognition of the positive power of network connection and collaboration. Two years ago there were a number of comments from ministers in Canberra about […]