Now that a few older narratives, such as memes and SocialFi, have become hot again during what seems like a new crypto mania, we see the outline of where GameFi might rediscover itself in MemeFi, an idle gaming project getting at the heart of the question: “Why the hell do you need crypto in games anyway?

This is where MemeFi comes in, a new idle gaming ecosystem that has attracted more than 6.5 million users in its Web2 native Telegram game and is releasing some of the most peculiar Web3 apps.

Financializing Gaming

GameFi has been a bit of a trainwreck since the very start. Why build games around crypto? If you go beyond adding a simple payment method via crypto, the obvious answer is to reward users. This seems like a faulty one because it is: if you need to pay users to play your game, you’d better not launch it at all.

The answer provided by MemeFi is to treat financials as if an element of the game, similarly to how the economy is seamlessly integrated into EVE Online. Money is gameplay.

MemeFi Web3 Game

MemeFi takes idle gaming and builds a competitive crypto economy around it. Players engage in boss fights, reaping rewards for their successes and spending their energy in case of failures. Their daily raiding activity defines their performance and profitability.

What makes this system interesting is the system of “keys”, similar to friend.tech. Players’ rewards are partly distributed to their keyholders in the form of keys: this means you do not actually have to be a crypto whale to win lots of rewards — just find the right keys.

This creates a competitive environment, where players seek to get rewards via keys, with a variety of economically optimal states. The whole process is “spiced up” with loads of social features and a quadratic bonding curve that governs key prices.

Users & Telegram

The MemeFi ecosystem features another app from the sphere of idle gaming. The MemeFi Coin Telegram Clicker has galvanized an audience of a whopping 6.5 million players, with 1.5 million daily active users.

The immense potential of clicker apps was first shown by Notcoin, a simple idle gain that has attracted millions of users. Players tap regularly and collect virtual Notcoins, which they expected to materialize and rightfully so — $NOT has been listed on May 16 on top crypto exchanges. A simple free activity turned out to be extremely lucrative for some of the players.

The engagement of MemeFi Coin users is monetized via an Ad Network, which, contrary to what the name suggests, is rather a single source of highly active traffic channeled through incentivized activities in the app.

This harmonic advertising ecosystem may very well be craving crypto. For this reason, MemeFi is seeking to integrate crypto solutions into the app, leveraging the social power of Telegram.

Building on Linea

The prospects of both the Telegram app and its Web3 counterpart seem to have been realized by Linea, a layer 2 blockchain for Ethereum closely associated with Consensys. The project backed by Metamask founders saw value in the MemeFi ecosystem early on, suggesting there’s a partnership on their social media.

The support of Linea may enable something a lot of blockchain developers dream about — a mass conversion of Web2 users to Web3 through a real product.

At the same time, the Web3 app seems to be an ideal resort for Web3 natives, who are degening their ways to the top of the leaderboard, hoarding keys and outcompeting each other on a financial PvP battle arena.

MemeFi has released at a very peculiar moment, mixing together the hottest narratives of today’s crypto: memes and Social Tech. And while the hype train is still there, it is indeed a novel way to do crypto in gaming that might actually work.

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dataFEED OPC Suite V5.35 provides access to SINUMERIC 840D CNC machines
© Softing Industrial

The dataFEED OPC Suite combines software solutions for OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA) and OPC Classic communication as well as IoT cloud connection in a single product. With the new SINUMERIC 840D support in the dataFEED OPC Suite V5.35, users can read out all process parameters from the Numerical Control (NC) part, the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) part, and the drive data of the machines without having to interfere with the machine configuration.

Another new feature of version 5.35 is the web services functionality, which enables direct access to production data via web client applications such as Web Browser, Postman, or Client for URL (cURL) and its integration into IT solutions.

The features of the new dataFEED OPC Suite V5.35 in detail:
• Full support for SINUMERIK 840D Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) machines:
The dataFEED OPC Suite can be used to read axis, tool, and program data as well as alarms from the NC section. Status, program sections, and alarms can be read from the PLC section. It is also possible to read out the drive data. Data is recorded without affecting the machine configuration.

• Integration with SIMATIC Siemens S7-300:
The suite offers a seamless connection to the integrated SIMATIC Siemens S7-300 for comprehensive control and monitoring.

• Versatile application possibilities of the dataFEED OPC Server CNC:
The server can be used as an OPC Classic Server or OPC UA Server and enables the seamless integration of Siemens SINUMERIK CNC controllers into modern Industry 4.0 solutions.

• Provision of production data:
The suite enables the provision of production data via the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) or Representational State Transfer (REST) protocols and their transfer to IoT Cloud or Big Data applications on platforms such as Microsoft Azure, Amazon AWS and Siemens MindSphere. The data is subsequently available for various applications such as condition monitoring, predictive maintenance and evaluation.

• Integration of production data in IT solutions via web services

“The new support for SINUMERIK 840D CNC machines and the web services feature add two important features to our dataFEED OPC Suite. We see great potential to make the suite accessible to a wider range of users, especially concerning the support of SINUMERIK 840D,” explains Andreas Röck, Product Manager at Softing Industrial Automation. “With this development, we have reached another milestone in fulfilling our claim of providing an all-in-one solution for secure and robust OPC communication and IoT cloud integration.”

Further information on dataFEED OPC Suite: www.industrial.softing.com

About Softing Industrial
Softing connects disparate automation components to feed data from the shop floor to the cloud for control and analytics. The company’s products enable the monitoring and diagnosis of communication networks and thus ensure a reliable data flow. In this way, they create the basis for the optimization of production processes. For more information: https://industrial.softing.com

Softing Industrial Automation GmbH
Richard-Reitzner-Allee 6
D-85540 Haar
WIDDER Stephanie
Phone : +49 (89) 456 56-365
Fax : +49 (89) 456 56-399
stephanie.widder@softing.com

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• Comau returns to Automate to showcase its portfolio of sustainable, advanced automation solutions that drive the Power of Automation across diversified industries
• S-Robot Family: a new generation of water and dust resistant compact welding and handling robots that recall Comau’s red robot roots will make their worldwide debut in Chicago
• MI.RA/OnePicker: A fully automated, intelligent piece-picking system that can recognize and grasp heterogenous objects
• MATE-XB and MATE-XT: Two wearable exoskeletons for the lower and upper back respectively to support workers during bending, lifting and overhead tasks
• Comau will demonstrate its seamless integration with the Unified Robot Control (URC) Solution from Rockwell Automation as part of an innovative handling and palletizing application
• Comau underscores its long-term collaboration with Intrinsic to make the next generation of robotics more accessible to all

Comau is spearheading the Power of Automation with new digital-driven, advanced robotic and powerful AI-backed automation solutions, which it will unveil at Automate, North America’s leading automation show. Underscoring its global presence with local roots, Comau will be at Chicago’s McCormick Place from May 6-9, 2024 in Booth 4041 to debut the new S-Family of small 6-axis articulated “red” robots and a new AI-enabled vision-based automated piece-picking solution for random objects (Booth 4041). Comau’s unique approach to making advanced automation highly intuitive and accessible is designed to address the continued growth of industrial automation, which is expected to reach up to 14% CAGR 2024-2030*, thus bringing the benefits of advanced automation solutions to an increasing variety of diversified markets.

Automate is the ideal backdrop for Comau’s exclusive worldwide launch of the new S-Family of high-speed, energy efficient robots, with payloads of 13 kg and up to 18 kg, that are specifically designed for arc welding and handling applications where accuracy, repeatability and speed are non-negotiable. Featuring a protective water and dust-resistant IP68 hollow-wrist design, with integrated arc and gigabit dressings, the 6-axis articulated robots are perfect for a wide range of arc welding, handling, food & beverage and general assembly applications, in addition to foundry, automotive, and battery manufacturing processes. Further benefits include improved access to small spaces, protected cables to avoid damage and reduce the risk of contamination in sensitive environments, and multiple mounting positions (floor, wall, ceiling) to optimize space and increase robot density without sacrificing performance.

The compact, robust and versatile robots, with which Comau returns to its historical red robot roots, will be featured within a demonstration cell showcasing an arc welding application. In a second cell, Comau will present an automated product sorting and picking system featuring MI.RA/OnePicker which will automatically detect and distinguish between randomly placed items. A third demo cell with a Racer-3 robot will identify objects in multiple frames to perform palletizing, color sorting and depalletizing through the use of the Unified Robot Control Library and Emulate3D from Rockwell Automation, further confirming the strong relationship between the companies.

Comau Open Controller, which was nominated for an Automate Innovation Award, is an advanced proprietary robot control software that enables external PCs to seamlessly control Comau robots, making it the go-to choice for companies, universities, research centers, and innovative industries looking to implement their own motion strategy or algorithms to control a robot.

Comau’s MATE-XT and MATE-XB upper and lower body exoskeletons will also be on display. Aligned with Comau’s steadfast commitment to helping workers in their daily tasks and helping companies achieve their sustainability goals, they are designed to assist the wearer during lifting, bending and repetitive tasks by offering both muscular relief and reduced perceived effort. As a result, the exoskeletons protect worker well-being as well as the quality of manual tasks, and can also help individuals who, without the proper assistance, may be excluded from certain types of work.

Another way Comau is supporting workers and companies is through upskilling and reskilling initiatives with Comau Academy and its innovative educational e.DO robot. e.DO-based training includes digital skills training, robot programming, simulated welding training, and more.

“With more than 50 years of experience in automotive, one of the most complex realities in terms of processes, cycle times, flexibility requirements and technology rates, Comau is in a prime position to meet the growing demand for sustainable automation, particularly in emerging sectors that previously lacked automation.” explained Pietro Gorlier, Comau CEO. “As a 360° automation partner able to quickly transition from R&D to field-tested deployable innovation, Comau is forging new ground in harnessing the power of automation to drive increasingly complex manufacturing tasks all over the world.”

Leveraging the strength of its global presence at a local level, Comau will discuss how it is powering automation innovation in the USA and elsewhere in logistics, warehousing, hydrogen and e-Mobility as well as in shipbuilding, aerospace and other unstructured environments with its intelligent robots and mobile robotic solutions.

To this end, Comau underscores its longstanding collaboration as an Industry and Innovation Partner with Intrinsic, an Alphabet company and Google moonshot, with whom Comau is working to make the next generation of robotics significantly more accessible for companies of all sizes and across all industries. Indeed, the two companies will showcase the joint solutions at their respective stands (Intrinsic booth 2808).

*Comau’s internal estimates are corroborated by various market studies

About Comau
Comau, a Stellantis company, is a worldwide leader in delivering sustainable advanced automation solutions. With 50 years of experience and a global presence, Comau is helping companies of all sizes in almost any industry leverage the benefits of automation. Backed by a continuous commitment to designing and developing innovative and easy to use technologies, its portfolio includes products and systems for vehicle manufacturing, with a strong presence in e-Mobility, as well as advanced robotics and digital solutions to address rapidly growing markets in industrial sectors. The company’s offering also extends to project management and consultancy. Through the training activities organized by its Academy, Comau is committed to advancing the technical and managerial knowledge necessary to face the challenges related to automation and leverage the opportunities of a constantly changing marketplace. Headquartered in Turin, Italy, Comau has an international network of 6 innovation centers and 12 manufacturing plants that span 12 countries and employ 3,700 people. Together with its wide network of distributors and partners, the company is able to respond quickly to the needs of its customers, no matter where they are located throughout the world.
www.comau.com

Comau LLC-USA
21000 Telegraph Rd
Southfield, MI 48033
FERRERO Stefania
Phone : –
Fax : –
stefania.ferrero@comau.com

Comau SpA
Via Rivalta 30
10095 Grugliasco (To)
Italy
COSTABILE Giuseppe
Phone : +39 338 7130885
Fax : –
giuseppe.costabile@comau.com

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Caption: Rohde & Schwarz ensures a successful migration to MCX broadband.

When lives are at stake, reliable communications are vital to emergency services. While voice applications are still the top priority for first responders, data and video-based mission-critical applications are becoming increasingly important in crisis situations and for efficient day-to-day operations. Public safety and government agencies around the world are migrating their various communications networks from narrowband land mobile radio (LMR) like TETRA or P25 to broadband networks that meet this new need not only for voice but also for high-speed data services.

This migration to either 3GPP-compliant isolated secure networks or commercial 4G/5G-based cellular networks with embedded mission-critical capabilities must be planned and executed very carefully in order to maintain existing narrowband capabilities. Narrowband networks will still be in use in parallel for another decade, providing features such as push-to-talk (PTT) to their users. The 3GPP-defined internal architecture for MCX services includes amongst others user/group management, policy and charging enforcement, signaling control, and cross-network interworking. Applying appropriate and advanced test and measurement techniques during this ongoing migration process is essential to ensure reliable operation of critical communications for first responders and to save lives in crisis scenarios.

As an established partner of the critical communications ecosystem, Rohde & Schwarz is showcasing its comprehensive range of test solutions for MCX at Critical Communications World 2024, taking place from May 14 to 16 at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai, UAE. At booth M20, visitors can learn from Rohde & Schwarz experts about the full range of test solutions, extending from R&D and conformance testing of end devices to network testing including MCX application verification. Solutions for spectrum monitoring and network protection complete the exhibited portfolio, all aimed at ensuring the reliable operation of mission-critical networks and services.

Device R&D and conformance testing
Rohde & Schwarz is bringing its extensive expertise in 3GPP conformance testing to the world of critical communications, demonstrating at CCW 2024 for the first time its industry-leading 3GPP MCX device conformance test suite on the R&S CMX500 4G/5G one-box tester. The test suite includes comprehensive 3GPP RF, functional, protocol and application tests for rugged MCX devices. In addition, the R&S CMA180 radio test set for testing PMR (public mobile radio) and LMR (land mobile radio) devices will be on display, highlighting the company’s cutting-edge solutions for device R&D and conformance validation for MCX device manufacturers.

Network testing
As an expert in mobile network testing, Rohde & Schwarz will also present its know-how in active and passive mobile network testing methods and solutions that cover the entire MCX network lifecycle, from coverage and interference measurements to specific MCX service testing like MCPTT and MCVideo quality. Visitors will be able to experience a unique MCX smartphone-based test solution implemented on the QualiPoc. This solution can be used in any MCX environment to assess the performance of MCX private and group calls, including measurement of 3GPP-specified MCX KPIs. Another test solution based on the R&S ROMES4 drive test software and the R&S TSMA6B mobile network scanner provides a universal tool for network engineering and optimization.

Spectrum monitoring and analysis
The Rohde & Schwarz portfolio also includes efficient solutions for stationary, transportable and portable spectrum monitoring systems that provide comprehensive spectrum awareness. At CCW 2024, Rohde & Schwarz will be exhibiting the R&S PR200, a tried-and-tested portable monitoring receiver for interference hunting in and around specific areas and facilities. It is an indispensable tool for regulatory authorities, mobile network operators, police forces, military units and other security organizations.

Cellular network analysis
R&S NESTOR is a turnkey mobile communications solution for situational awareness, law enforcement and protection of critical infrastructure. It is a software platform used in conjunction with R&S TSMA6B mobile network scanners and QualiPoc smartphones to analyze cellular networks via the air interface. Public authorities and security organizations, for example, use it to detect, identify, locate and analyze deployed cellular technologies and occupied bands and channels.

Rohde & Schwarz will present its comprehensive portfolio of solutions for mission-critical communications at Critical Communications World 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 14 to 16, 2024, at booth M20. In addition, Rohde & Schwarz experts will share their insights at the Focus Forum on testing and certification of broadband devices on May 15, 2024 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

www.rohde-schwarz.com

Rohde & Schwarz

All press releases, including photos for downloading, are available on the internet at www.press.rohde-schwarz.com.

Rohde & Schwarz USA, Inc.
6821 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Columbia, MD 21046, USA
Loberg Dominique
Phone : +1-503-523-7951
Dominique.Loberg@rsa.rohde-schwarz.com

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Save the date: Eplan L!VE / 07 May 2024 / 2.30 p.m. to 5.00 p.m.

After its successful premiere last year, the online event “Eplan L!VE” is having a second go of it. This time it will be a live report from the factory floor at Sejfo, a Swedish system integrator and supplier of machines and automation systems.

Best practices – but not just for plant operators and system integrators
During the two-and-a-half hour live broadcast, Sejfo and Eplan will show how the automation technology of a new production plant was designed – from the first planning step through to ongoing operations:
• Initial plant planning: standardised plant specifications with structured engineering
• Basic and detail engineering: based on data for mechanical engineering, panel building and control cabinet engineering
• Digital maintenance and service: digital wiring plan pocket, maintenance with augmented reality

Whether it’s for standardising plant specifications, the basic and detail engineering for machine building, panel building and control cabinet design, or digital maintenance and service – Eplan systems support companies along every step of the process.

Sneak Preview of the Eplan Platform 2025
In addition, users and others who are interested can already become familiarised with some of the initial highlights of the Eplan Platform 2025 during the online event. The software, which will be available this summer, focuses on ease of use and greater speed in project planning and design. It helps reduce the workload for qualified specialists in both engineering and in production. Furthermore, machine cabling is now supported via pre-assembled cables.

These are the most important features of the upcoming Eplan Platform 2025:
• Easy to use: property display specific to device type, macro preview in device management
• Easing the burden in production: schematics are more easily readable via QR codes and images on symbols
• Expanding on machine cabling: pre-assembled cables in Eplan Electric P8
• Getting more out of it: machine cabling reaches a new level with the new Eplan Cable proD in connection with Eplan Electric P8
• Clever connections: interface for Eplan Pro Panel and Phoenix Contact ClipX Engineer

Sejfo Production (Source: Sejfo) A view of the production facility at Sejfo, the Swedish system integrator that has opened its production facility for the Eplan L!VE event.

40 years of Eplan: review and outlook
The company Eplan is celebrating its fortieth anniversary this year. Reason enough to take a look back and think about the outlook as part of the international event. CEO Sebastian Seitz will be talking about the trends and issues that Eplan has set its sights on for the coming years.

Application (Source: Sejfo) The Eplan Platform enable efficient project planning and design – from plant system specifications, to basic and detail engineering for machine building, panel building and control cabinet engineering, and to digital maintenance and service.

The package of information – including examples proven in practice, innovations, tricks of the trade from the Eplan Platform 2025 and the coming trends and industry topics – is what has been brought together for users as part of the Eplan L!VE event.

Those interested can register free of charge at: www.eplan.de/live

EPLAN Software & Service

For more information visit:
www.eplan.de and www.friedhelm-loh-group.com

EPLAN Software & Services LLC
425 N. Martingale Rd., Suite 470
Schaumburg, IL 60173
USA
Raymundo Debbie
Phone : +1-847-744-5729
Fax : +1-847-240-4667
raymundo.d@eplanusa.com

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The new 30,000 sq ft Customer Service area comprises a training center for theoretical and practical diagnostics, for both classroom-based and remote courses; a state-of-the-art diagnostics lab; and the teardown area itself, where engines and other components returning from the field are analyzed with the aid of a dedicated digital platform.

FPT Industrial is a brand of Iveco Group N.V. (EXM: IVG), dedicated to the design, production, and sale of powertrains and solutions for on- and off-road vehicles, as well as marine and power generation applications. Over 8,000 people across ten production sites and ten R&D centers work for FPT Industrial all around the world. Active in nearly 100 different countries, its global sales and its Customer Service department supports all Brand customers. The extensive product offering includes six engine ranges with power outputs from 42 hp to over 1,000 hp, transmissions with torque up to 500 Nm, and front and rear axles from 2.45 to 32 tonne GAW (Gross Axle Weight). FPT Industrial offers the most complete line-up of natural gas engines for industrial applications on the market, with power outputs ranging from 50 to 520 hp. A dedicated ePowertrain division is accelerating the path towards net zero-emissions mobility, with electric drivelines, battery packs, and battery management systems. This extensive offering, and its strong focus on R&D, makes FPT Industrial a world leader in industrial powertrains and solutions. For more information, visit www.fptindustrial.com.

FPT Industrial S.p.A.
Via Puglia, 15
10156 – Turin, Italy
CILIBERTI Emanuela
press@fptindustrial.com

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By Robert Fraunberger, x-technik

The German premium car manufacturer BMW has been producing diesel and petrol engines at the Group plant in Steyr for almost 45 years. In addition, BMW’s largest engine plant has also been increasingly producing e-mobility components for around five years. Over one million engines and more than ten million core components for engines leave the plant every year. They power around half of all BMW and Mini vehicles worldwide. From 2025 at the latest, the efficient drives will be produced using CO2-neutral energy – thanks to green electricity and district heating from biomass.

E-drive technology will also play an even greater role for the site in the future: This is because the next generation of electric drives will be produced here from 2025. The Steyr development site is also breaking new ground – a completely new high-performance electric drive is currently being developed.

Quality promise for drives

What unites all vehicle components from Steyr is BMW’s high quality promise for drives of all kinds. For the approximately 4,500 employees in production and development, their expertise and quality awareness guarantee the image and reliability of the premium vehicles. The BMW Group plant in Steyr is responsible for the production of the core engine components that are installed in other BMW plants.

BMW’s demands on performance, dynamics, comfort and smooth running are very high. This is why core parts such as crankcases, housings for the latest generation of electric drives, crankshafts, cylinder heads and connecting rods are manufactured at the BMW Group plant in Steyr. The machining accuracy is measured in micrometres. Accordingly, the manufacturing machines and production facilities are state of the art.

Apprentice training as the basis for quality

This is also the case in the newly built training centre, which is equipped with the latest technology. Not least because of the high quality standards and the constant growth in Steyr, BMW decided around two years ago not only to take apprentice training into its own hands, but also to raise it to the best possible level – an important investment in its own young talent.

At the BMW Group plant in Steyr, apprentices are trained in various technical professions, with machining technicians accounting for the largest proportion (note: see info box). A total of 21 lathes and milling machines – from conventional lathes to CNC lathes and CNC milling machines – including simulation equipment from Emco are available for the future machining technicians. “We have excellent premises with top machinery and can offer our current 60 or so apprentices optimum vocational training,” says apprentice trainer Thomas Sakuler. Himself a trained machining technician with a qualification as a master craftsman, he has more than 20 years of experience at BMW in a wide variety of departments and plants.

Thanks to the high-quality equipment, the apprentices can be optimally prepared for their future “BMW life”. This is because each apprentice is assigned their future specialist area during the training period. In addition to technical skills, training at BMW also aims to promote individual talent and flexibility. The strengths of the young trainees are particularly encouraged, but internal further training and a change to different departments are possible at any time by arrangement.

Emco as a training partner

Emco has many years of experience in the field of training machines, both in Austria and in international projects around the world. “Emco offers a wide range of turning and milling products for training, a high level of technical expertise and very fast response times,” says Christian Brötzner, the responsible Area Sales Manager at Emco. Over the years, this has resulted in excellent references in school, inter-company and in-company training as well as from industrial customers with their own training workshops.

“With production in the heart of Europe, a balanced price-performance ratio and standard industrial machine components – such as the Sinumerik ONE control system – Emco can offer a coherent concept ranging from conventional machine technology to CNC multitasking lathes and 5-axis machining centres,” continues Brötzner. BMW’s equipment also includes six training workstations with PCs and digital twins of the machines. “Various machining operations can be simulated and trained here specifically for CNC training,” says Brötzner, highlighting the modern possibilities of the new training centre.

Comprehensive support guaranteed

Emco attaches great importance to after-sales support. This is why the Austrian machine tool manufacturer guarantees all customers a direct contact person. In addition, an extensive stock of all necessary spare parts is kept at the headquarters in Hallein. “In my opinion, what also sets us apart from the market is our comprehensive service expertise. 14 experienced technicians on the free hotline and 30 service technicians throughout Austria guarantee fast response times and competent support for all our customers’ concerns,” emphasises the sales technician. Emco also offers a remote maintenance service if required, guaranteeing the best possible support for all commercial and technical issues.

Training centre with a wow effect

With the new training centre, BMW has set a benchmark in apprentice training. “When you enter our training centre, there is a wow effect for our young trainees. The machine park has everything that is technically possible. All in all, the best conditions for getting off to a flying start at BMW,” concludes Thomas Sakuler with great satisfaction.

 

 

At the BMW Group Steyr plant, apprentices are given the best possible preparation for their future professional lives.

 

The machine park of the new BMW training center has two modern Emcoturn E45 CNC lathes from Emco.

 

For Thomas Sakuler, training apprentices is a matter of the heart (note: Jasmin Blümelhuber in the picture on the left).

 

Emco offers a coherent training concept from conventional machine technology to CNC multitasking lathes and 5-axis machining centers.

 

Apprentices are taught a high level of quality awareness during their training period.

 

In total, the machinery in the BMW training center consists of 16 conventional, one cycle-controlled and four CNC turning and milling machines from Emco.

 

Apprentices at BMW are optimally introduced to complex machining processes at six training positions with PCs and digital twins of the machines.

 

A good team structure and mutual support is particularly important for Thomas Sakuler.

Additional images online

 

The BMW training team in Steyr (from left to right) Thomas Sakuler, Leopold Tursch and Manuel Höllwarth.

 

A housing of a BMW electric drive: Due to the high-quality equipment of the training center, the apprentices can be prepared in the best possible way for their future “BMW life”.

 

Apprentices in their first year of training continue to work on conventional turning and milling machines in order to get a good feel for machining technology.

 

A good team structure and mutual support is particularly important for Thomas Sakuler.

About EMCO
EMCO, a mechanical engineering company based in Salzburg, ranks among Europe’s leading machine tool manufacturers. EMCO currently employs about 800 people at a total of 5 production sites in Austria, Germany and Italy. The international, family-run company owes its success to more than 75 years of expertise and experience in the area of machine tool engineering. Today, EMCO stands for top-of-the-line, customised, automated complete solutions for both turning and milling.

To learn more > www.emco-world.com

EMCO GmbH
Salzburger Straße 80, 5400 Hallein-Taxach – AUSTRIA
Biscaro Margot
Phone : +43-6245-891-0
Fax : +43-6245-86965
Margot.Biscaro@emco-world.com

Source

Caption: Vehicle-in-the-loop test setup with Dürr x-road curve roll test stand, Rohde & Schwarz RadEsT and CARLA simulation environment.

Road safety is a key challenge for future mobility, especially for automated and autonomous vehicles. Ensuring the continued functionality of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving (AD) features is critical for long-term vehicle safety and performance. Therefore, manufacturers of vehicles equipped with these features require certification, either from a third party, authority or by self-certification. A vehicle-in-the-loop (VIL) test can validate the correct operation of all ADAS/AD functions in the end-of-line (EOL) and ensure conformity of production (COP) before a vehicle leaves the factory. In addition, maintaining proper functionality throughout a vehicle’s lifespan requires additional control measures during periodical technical inspection (PTI).

Simulating various driving scenarios
To address these additional requirements in the EOL and PTI process, Dürr and Rohde & Schwarz initiated a joint project incorporating Dürr’s patented x-road curve multi-function roll test stand, Rohde & Schwarz’ new RadEsT radar target simulator and the open-source simulation platform CARLA. The combination creates a virtual environment specifically for the camera and radar sensors installed in the test vehicle, allowing for the OTA simulation of different inspection scenarios without touching the vehicle. These scenarios include critical situations such as unintended lane departures and other vehicles braking suddenly or switching lanes directly in front of the test vehicle. The test vehicle must react promptly to changes in the VIL simulation and, if necessary, trigger the automated lane-keeping systems (ALKS) or advanced emergency braking systems (AEBS), for example, to pass inspection.

Patented technology for ultimate versatility
The 4WD x-road curve allows for unrestricted driving with steering movements, facilitating cornering maneuvers without altering the test vehicle. Laser measurement technology recognizes the front wheels’ position and steering angle while swiveling front double roller units automatically adjust for any angular difference to the driving direction. This ensures the vehicle remains centered on the test stand even at high speeds, regardless of the steering wheel’s position, and without the need for vehicle fixation, thus minimizing cycle times.

Resilient processes and precise results
RadEsT, the radar target simulator developed by Rohde & Schwarz, is exceptionally resilient to external factors, ensuring consistent performance in production and workshop environments. Its ability to provide precise and repeatable measurements makes it an invaluable tool for conducting accurate assessments in real-world conditions. Moreover, its compact and lightweight design enables easy and flexible integration at a cost-effective price point.

Easy to use test scenario generation
The open-source tool CARLA offers vehicle manufacturers or PTI organizations maximum flexibility with additional cost-saving opportunities and great potential for scenario selection. The recently announced upgrade of the CARLA simulator to Unreal Engine 5 is expected to enhance modeling, simulation realism, and performance, particularly for over-the-air camera simulation via monitors.

By combining Dürr’s patented x-road curve multi-function roll test stand, Rohde & Schwarz’ innovative radar target simulator, and the open-source platform CARLA, automated and autonomous vehicles’ full functionality can be cost-effectively evaluated to ensure proper operation in production and throughout the complete vehicle’s lifespan.

www.rohde-schwarz.com

Rohde & Schwarz

All press releases, including photos for downloading, are available on the internet at www.press.rohde-schwarz.com.

Rohde & Schwarz USA, Inc.
6821 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Columbia, MD 21046, USA
Loberg Dominique
Phone : +1-503-523-7951
Dominique.Loberg@rsa.rohde-schwarz.com

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The valve consists of just a few components and is only eight millimeters long. It is part of the anti-lock braking system of a large automotive supplier and is required in seven-digit quantities every year. Production must run with a takt time of half a second in order to cope with this volume. Of course, this happens fully automatically and at such a speed that the human eye can barely keep up with the individual assembly steps.

Small parts in a narrow Alpine valley
The individual parts are first fed from storage containers, separated using a shaker and correctly positioned on a conveyor system ready for the first manufacturing step. The components are then transported to the respective station where delicate grippers pick them up and join them together or process them in some other way. If you watch the machine go about its work, you will witness a fascinating choreography, which combines smoothly flowing transport of the conveyor belts and the rapid, jerky movements of the grippers into an intricate, rhythmic dance.

The machine that executes these complex movements in precise synchronization is a compact automation of the LTM-CI series from STIWA. It is designed for products with a spatial diagonal of up to 30 millimeters – and is itself the result of drastic miniaturization, as Roland Schiermayr, Departmental Head of Automation Research and Development, explains: “A customer in the west of Austria produces dampers for a well-known furniture retailer that needs millions of these parts every year. The company wanted to buy a new production machine. The existing machine was 10 meters long – for the production of small components measuring just a few centimeters in length, this was simply too much for the production site in a narrow Alpine valley. This was the impetus for us to fully utilize all miniaturization possibilities.”

The result of the development phase was the above-mentioned compact machine, or more precisely an automation platform which, depending on the configuration and equipment fitted, manages with a length of 3 to 4 meters. A rigidly linked transport system forms the basis, and the other system components depend on the needs and specifications of the customer. “We can integrate up to 22 function modules, each measuring 90 millimeters in width, for different work steps,” explains Christian Mersnik, who was involved in development from day one. “These functions include, for example, pick-and-place, laser welding with up to five degrees of freedom, screw insertion, press-in operations, labeling as well as testing and measuring processes.”

Power density that is unique worldwide
The compact automation has been well received by the customers. They appreciate, among other things, the uniform, smooth movements without impacts or vibration, which guarantees a stable process; one regular customer reports that the system runs “like a sewing machine”. With the LTM-CI, the cycle times have been reduced to almost just half a second, which brings with it a significant leap in productivity.

The drives used in the actuators inside the machine make a major contribution to the smooth movement as well as the high speed. In earlier generations, electric motors of a completely different size class were used; for the compact automation, the developers discovered the products from FAULHABER. In the LTM-CI, the LM 1247 linear motor now plays a key role. It performs its task at up to twenty points in the system, including stopper units – sliders that interrupt the flow of material – and grippers. One particular strength of the FAULHABER linear motors is their extremely high speed. This drive also delivers an enormous thrust: At just 12.5 mm wide and 19.1 mm high, it produces a continuous force of 3.6 Newtons. “When operating at full power, it can even manage 10.7 Newtons,” points out Roland Schiermayr. “There is no other small linear motor with this power density available on the market anywhere in the world.”

Longevity is what makes the real difference
The engineers from STIWA heap equal praise on the brushless motor of the BX4 2250 series. In the portal handling of the compact automation, this motor drives the swivel units that move the tools or components to a specific position. When selecting a suitable drive, in addition to the typical strengths of the FAULHABER motors, the availability of an accessory part was also an important factor, as Christian Mersnik explains: “At this point in the system, we require an extremely high level of precision and repeatability. This is why it was an important argument for us that FAULHABER was able to deliver this motor with a matching multiturn absolute encoder. The signals from this encoder are necessary to achieve the high production quality and for quality assurance.”

For STIWA, however, it is the longevity and long-term reliability of all components that make the real difference. This is because the company guarantees its compact automation customers fault-free operation of no less than 60 million strokes. This huge number must therefore also be achieved by all moving parts – and this, of course, includes the motors. “We subject our own parts as well as additionally purchased components to endurance tests,” explains Roland Schiermayr. “In these tests, we attempt to destroy the parts through wear and unfavorable conditions. Only those parts that survive the endurance tests are installed in the machines. The motors from FAULHABER have shown that they can meet such extreme requirements. They help us to achieve our own peak values with minimum space requirements and the shortest cycle times.”

Company box: The drive experts from Schönaich
FAULHABER is specialized in the development, production and deployment of high-precision miniaturized and miniature drive systems, servo components and drive electronics with up to 200 watts of output power. This includes putting into effect customer-specific packaged solutions as well as an extensive range of standard products, such as Brushless Motors, DC-Micromotors, Encoders and Motion Controllers. The FAULHABER trademark is recognised worldwide as a symbol of high quality and reliability in complex and demanding application areas, such as medical technology, factory automation, precision optics, telecommunications, aviation and aerospace, and robotics. From the powerful DC-motor with a continuous torque of 200 mNm to the filigree micro drive with an outer diameter of 1.9 mm, the FAULHABER standard range can be combined in more than 25 million different ways to create the optimum drive system for a particular application. At the same time, this technological construction kit is the basis for modifications which allow to configure special versions to meet the specific needs of customers.

www.faulhaber.com

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May 7, 2024, West Hills, CA – Electro Rent, the global leader in test and measurement equipment rental solutions, announced today that it now offers Calibration-as-a-Service (CaaS) in U.S. and Canada markets for customers’ test and measurement equipment inventories. This new offering enhances the company’s already market leading portfolio of solutions and services which includes rental, sale of new and used equipment, and asset optimization services.

With the world’s largest rental inventory of electronic test and measurement equipment, Electro Rent is uniquely positioned to provide optional rental backfills to its calibration customers while their equipment is being calibrated. This not only adds to the convenience of using Electro Rent’s new calibration services, but also helps customers maintain project efficiency and continuity of test.

Electro Rent’s CaaS supports a wide range of product types and broad spectrum of certifications, including popular calibration standards such as ANSI Z540.3 and IS0 17025. Electro Rent can also calibrate to many other additional NIST and CIPM standards, which helps ensure that whatever testing standards the user might need, this CaaS program is a one stop shop.

Customers can easily make calibration requests directly though Electro Rent’s comprehensive MyER online portal. This portal also allows users to track both rented and owned equipment, store calibration documents, schedule calibrations, and track equipment in the calibration process.

According to Mike Clark, Electro Rent’s CEO, “This new CaaS offering greatly enhances our full-service portfolio, including various procurement options that reduce capital costs and optimization tools that provide valuable strategic insights. Companies are looking for a holistic approach, managing fewer suppliers with greater offering sets and flexibility to react to uncertain market conditions.” Mr. Clark added: “The ability to provide rental back-fill with our CaaS solution is an important differentiator which will ensure that disruption and downtime can be eliminated.”

Customers can also benefit from more than 55 years of expertise in test equipment management, providing asset utilization tracking and systems that dramatically improve efficiency and reduce costs in their test operations.

To learn more about the new Calibration-as-a-Service from Electro Rent, click here.

www.electrorent.com

About Electro Rent

Electro Rent is a registered trademark of Electro Rent. All other trade names referenced are the service marks, trademarks, or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Electro Rent Corporation
8511 Fallbrook Avenue, Suite 200, West Hills, 91304
ACRIS George
Phone : –
Fax : –
george.acris@electrorent.com

PR Contact
Gordon Lucy
Phone : +44 (0) 203 4882 465
Fax : –
l.gordon@mepax.com

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