Beckhoff: More productive TwinCAT projects with AI-assisted engineering
Beckhoff’s TwinCAT Chat Client, for the TwinCAT XAE engineering environment, makes it possible to use Large Language Models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT from OpenAI, conveniently in the development of TwinCAT projects for increased productivity in control programming.
Demystifying robots, cobots and Industry 4.0
While Industry 4.0 solutions have become increasingly popular, there are still many misconceptions surrounding this technology — particularly on the subject of robotics.
Smart packaging for confectionery: Creating value with IO-Link
The modular, twin station high-performance fold wrapping machine for chewing gum and chocolate multipacks runs at a cycle rate of 200 pcs./minute to box and then tightly wrap with cellophane small rectangular candies such as chocolate bars and chewing gum sticks. An IO-Link equipped, modular, automatic stacker ensures reliable and efficient delivery of the cardboard packaging.
Industry 4.0 and Australia: How are we tracking?
In this PKN exclusive round-table discussion with Open IIoT, Australia’s leading cohort of Industry 4.0 and automation experts, we find out from where things are at…after Covid.
Why Invest in Smart Manufacturing Practices?
We’re all privy to talks about smart manufacturing, smart factory, machine learning, IIOT, ITOT convergence, and so on, and many manufacturers have already embarked on their smart manufacturing journeys. Let’s take a pause and really think about it… Is it really important or is it a fad? If it is important, then why?
Before investing in new technology, consider its holistic value.
Predictive maintenance — to catch equipment breakdowns before they appear and reduce downtime — is becoming a priority for manufacturers. As evidence of this, Balluff was recently asked by a Melbourne manufacturer to deliver a solution that proactively manages maintenance on press tools.
Drive Solutions for Innovative Solar Technology
Sewage treatment plants consume large amounts of electrical energy and space. It is not possible to cover the area with conventional photovoltaic systems since the settling basins must be accessible from above at any given time for operational reasons.
NORD worked with DHP technology to redefine solar technology and deliver a solution with the PLC integrated in the drive unit, controlled via weather station and an algorithm that allows to manage the sequences independently even in case of incidents, maximising the plant’s operational safety.
Additive manufacturing unlocks industry 4.0 possibilities
The concept of Industry 5.0 – developing Artificial Intelligence to work alongside robots and smart machines- has been an increasing topic of conversation in the global manufacturing landscape. However, a number of key manufacturing insiders have argued that Australia still needs to get to grips with Industry 4.0 before we can move on to the next phase of industrialisation.
Product News: A customised finish with Beckhoff’s servo control
The design options open to Pinggau-based BT-Watzke are close to endless. That’s because the traditional Styrian company operates its own in-house engineering. Servo drive technology from Beckhoff Automation likewise plays an important role.
Predictive maintenance to alleviate challenges
The margin for error in food processing and packaging is slim to none, with a breakdown in the production line potentially resulting in a whole batch of products being discarded. The Open IIoT Group explains how machinery data and predictive maintenance tools can reduce those risks.
Open IIoT is an Industry 4.0 collaboration of some of Australia’s most prominent automation brands – SMC Corporation, Beckhoff Automation, NORD Drivesystems and Balluff. In 2018, our members formed a cohort to deliver valuable, efficient and easy-to-understand information on IIoT and Industry 4.0.
