At Smart Factory Expo, HARTING (Hall 2 – Stand number 51/52) is demonstrating its
range of automation solutions for improving the efficiency of manufacturing logistic
processes based on the concepts of Integrated Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things
(IoT).
HARTING’s approach to smart manufacturing is based on the addition of
intelligence to manufacturing processes with the aim of achieving a high level of
connectivity, visibility, awareness, and adaptability at all stages in the supply chain. By
enhancing users’ processes with RFID technology, HARTING makes it possible to
implement solutions that deliver real profitability gains without the need for re-
engineering already proven, stable manufacturing processes.
HARTING/050/2 Smart Factory Expo November 2016
The two key elements of HARTING’s approach are machine-to- machine
communications and manufacturing logistics. Machine-to- machine communications is
typically concerned with the transmission of information obtained from the monitoring of
production equipment to improve diagnostics and to enable effective preventative
maintenance.
Manufacturing logistics replaces the existing supply chain management model
with the use of intelligent systems to implement functions such as supplying the line with
discrete and accurate quantities of materials; ensuring goods flow on a “just in time”
schedule, and faithfully tracking assets and inventory in the warehouse and in transit.
HARTING’s approach to manufacturing logistics involves the use of RFID sensor
networks to collect manufacturing data which is then “operationalised”, allowing, for
example, production lines to be adjusted, maintained, or re-tooled, based on live
information. The ability to use this manufacturing data rapidly to inform IoT systems can
be invaluable to users in creating a competitive advantage in complex markets.
New developments in RFID technology being featured by HARTING include the
unique Ha-VIS LOCFIELD® flexible coaxial travelling waveguide antenna, which can
sense multiple transponders via an RF field radially extended over its length of up to 10
metres. It can be applied in limited space applications where normal patch antennas
would be difficult to install. Also on show is the compact Ha-VIS RFID RF-R300 reader,
whose rugged construction and IP67 degree of protection means that it can be sited in
harsh environment conditions, and a comprehensive range of passive transponders that
can be applied on all types of materials, in particular metal surfaces.
HARTING/050/3 Smart Factory Expo November 2016
HARTING now allows manufacturers to integrate together the two key
manufacturing IoT elements of machine-to- machine communications and manufacturing
logistics through its new open-source industrial computing device known as MICA
(Modular Industrial Computing Architecture). MICA can save, evaluate and process data
from sensors, and can then either act as a stand-alone offline computer that can either
make local decisions or operate as a gateway via the internet to allow access to a
higher-level IT system. It operates with open architecture software, allowing it to be very
easily customised. Software applications run in Linux-based containers which hold all the
necessary libraries and drivers. As a result, there should be no concerns over data
security when MICA is allowed access to a higher-level production operating network.
“By applying both of these innovative HARTING solutions – passive UHF RFID
and MICA technology – production line manufacturing managers can monitor the
condition status of key machinery in real time for material supply chain management or
preventative maintenance issues”, comments Howard Forryan, Product Marketing
Specialist: “They can then carry out continuous control adjustments through the separate
simple, compact and reliable computing device which provides secure access to the
main operating software system to maximise process efficiencies. As a consequence,
users can achieve important productivity gains.”
Also targeting smart factory applications is the new module from HARTING’s
Han-Modular ® family of industrial connectors: the Han-Modular ® Switch US4 connector,
which integrates a very compact but fully functioning ‘store and forward’ 4-port Ethernet
active switch device into the Han-Modular ® I/O mixed connector, allowing network
devices to be deployed closer in the field while reducing the effort of retrofitting new
Ethernet modules.