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Re-imagining machine configuration through intelligent drives

Mike Lomax of Bosch Rexroth examines the role of intelligent drive systems in optimising machine configuration and performance.

Solving tomorrow's hydraulic problems through innovation

Industrial hydraulic engineering is not renowned for rapid leaps in technology, rather a gradual progression that overcomes problems and incorporates evolving technologies as they arise. However, every challenge needs a champion and at the forefront of the product development process is a company that excels in delivering innovation. Jim Cairney, Engineering Manager at Oilgear (UK), examines the processes involved in developing new products to meet the latest expectations.

A simple business case for integrated robotic vision

As the need for flexibility and adaptability within packaging operations grows, Steve Capon, technical manager of FANUC UK looks at how integrated vision technology can help businesses respond to evolving market requirements more easily and package more complexly shaped products.

Guidelines for ethical robot design

In The Matrix, a lack of robot ethics leads to the destruction of the human race, with robots enslaving humans in a simulated reality. Despite it being a prolific cinematic theme, robot ethics has not been discussed much in industry until now. However, the most recent technological advancements in the field have led to the introduction of a new UK standard for robot designers. Leroy Spence, head of sales development at EU Automation, explains the new standard and the impact on industry.

Being smart about smart meters

"Who's left this TV on again?" You can almost hear the cries of dads all around the country as they realise their home smart meter is showing a spike in energy consumption. It's not just dads either. Energy companies are currently promoting smart meters as a way for consumers to reduce their energy costs. But did you know these can also be used in industry? However, as Steve Hughes, managing director of power quality specialist REO UK explains, they must be used effectively.

Meeting systems integration challenges of pharma manufacturing

The convergence of several key trends is placing new demands on pharmaceutical automation systems. That's why it is essential to have the right partner at your side.

Choosing the right touchscreen

Touchscreen technology has come a long way since it was first used in 1966 in a radar screen used by the Royal Radar Establishment (RRE) for air traffic control. Despite it being bulky, slow, imprecise and very expensive, it was in use until the 1990s. Since then, consumers have come to expect quick and responsive touchscreens, which are increasingly used in industrial environments. Here, Noel Sheppard, director of Distec Ltd, explains how companies can choose between projected capacitance (PCAP) and resistive touchscreen technologies.

Lifting is going wireless

New wireless control technologies are being adopted by manufacturers and users of cranes and other lifting equipment. Tony Ingham of Sensor Technology Ltd explains the advantages and looks at how the field is developing.

Retrofit your way to Industry 4.0

The English language has the phrase: "˜you can't have your cake and eat it too'. Put simply, this phrase means that you can't have it both ways. However, it is possible to retrofit while migrating to Industry 4.0. As industrial plant managers struggle with aging infrastructure and strict regulations, they're looking for cost-effective ways to upgrade. With industry trends such as Industry 4.0 on the rise, many engineers may consider retrofitting a step backwards. In reality, system retrofits can contribute to improved communication and optimised production, resulting in a cost and energy efficient factory where you can eat as much cake as you like. Here Jonathan Wilkins, marketing director of EU Automation, discusses issues to consider when retrofitting in your migration to Industry 4.0.