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Omni Stop provides pedestrian protection

There are regular reports of incidents where vehicles have crashed into construction zones, bus stops, pavement cafes and retail shop windows. Protecting lives from potential injury or death is paramount for all authorities so after each of these incidents, there is an investigation to assess whether or not it could have been prevented. One way to prevent out of control vehicles crashing into work zones or pedestrian areas is to erect a barrier which affords protection but does not restrict everyday activities on, or adjacent to, a road. Some common types of barrier, such as precast concrete sections or water-filled plastic units, provide inadequate protection and in some cases increase damage and injury to drivers and pedestrians. The Omni Stop Bollard is an energy absorbing bollard that is the only one of its type in Australia. It has been extensively crash-tested with impacts up to 60 kilometres per hour and complies with the requirements of AS/NZS3845:1999 Table 5.3.3(3). The Omni Stop Bollard permits access for workers to a construction zone or pedestrians to a shopping precinct while at the same time preventing vehicle penetration. PICTURE: Vehicle travelling at 60 km per hour safely stopped with minimal deflection of the Omni Stop Bollard. Designed, assembled and tested in Australia, the Omni Stop Bollard is available from Saferoads. Based in West Gippsland, Victoria, Saferoads has been servicing State government departments, local councils and road construction companies with a broad range of products designed to direct, protect, inform and illuminate all road users since 1992. The carbon steel bollard of the Omni Stop is supported by a unique energy absorbing cartridge that is encased in a concrete footing. When the bollard is impacted, the cartridge deforms and absorbs the kinetic energy of the vehicle. When a 1600 kilogram car at 60 kilometres per hour […]

I2R showcases innovations for a world of increased productivity and efficiency

Singapore – A*STAR’s Institute for Infocomm Research (I2R) is continuing its efforts to help international organisations move their business forward and enabling local SMEs gain their competitive edge through increased productivity. The home-grown innovations showcased at IoT (Internet of Things) Asia 2014 in April and at A*STAR’s SME Day. Last October, I2R exhibited its ‘ready-to-go’ ICM productivity solutions at its annual flagship event, ICM Horizons. This was in response to the National Productivity Council’s call to boost the productivity and efficiency of Singapore’s local enterprises to drive productivity for labour-constrained SMEs. PICTURE: The Age & Gender Recognition Technology is able to measure audience demographic by detecting frontal human faces on digital video stream. Within a span of six months, more than 57 of I2R’s technology deployments have been implemented by 27 SMEs, with technologies ranging from image recognition, augmented reality to sensor networks. Feinmetall, a local SME in precision engineering, is now using the image recognition technology ‘Snap2Tell Alive’ mobile application, which streams instructional videos of production equipment to mobile devices, allowing customers to view these easily instead of referring to printed manuals or consulting technicians. This enhances the productivity of Feinmetall as their technicians need not be present at their customers’ premises. At the same time, customers’ equipment downtime is reduced, as they can now bring the equipment back to operation without much delay. IoT Asia 2014 The inaugural IoT (Internet of Things) Asia Exhibition and Conference is the first in the region to focus on bringing IoT technology and tranformation to end-businesses, governments and society. It provides a spectrum of enterprise platform solutions for Multinational Corporations (MNCs) and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to integrate within their product or solution offerings and enables them to gain an edge in information business. I2R is one of the founding members of […]

ANALYSIS: The benefits of unified communications in the manufacturing industry

-Bruce Downing (Managing Director, Asia and South Africa) of ShoreTel. What is unified communications (UC)? Unified Communications, or UC, is a term used to describe a communications system that includes voice and data, as well as collaboration tools and applications delivered on a single platform. ShoreTel UC leverages Voice over IP to bring together VoIP telephony, instant messaging, video conferencing, mobility, presence and collaboration capabilities into a seamless business environment. How can UC solutions help manufacturers meet the key industry challenges and the growing pressure to innovate? Unified Communications solutions that offer scalability, availability and reliability, as well as ease of use and management, deliver the most value to manufacturers. Dealing with distributed offices or multiple remote plants can be a challenge for manufacturing companies; however, a UC solution that allows integration between legacy systems, whilst consolidating communications technology onto a single platform, will ensure continued growth – leveraging existing assets without costly production days. Using advanced call-routing features and centralised management across the system, ShoreTel helps minimise operational headaches, whilst maximising user adoption and customer satisfaction. Providing the organisation with the means to communicate easily and effectively – across diverse geographies, time zones and devices – enables better collaboration; and through that, there is more dynamic innovation. Can you share examples of ShoreTel customers who have successfully adopted UC in their manufacturing facilities, and the benefits they have reaped since? ShoreTel has a number of manufacturing customers in Asia using our UC, Contact Centre and Mobility solutions. For example, Tien Wah Press (TWP) was first established in Singapore as a family-run letterpress business in 1935. TWP has two main locations – its sales office and manufacturing plant are in Singapore, and it has two additional plants in Malaysia. They wanted to upgrade their old analogue phones and reduce costs […]

The Interview: KC Yee, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Siemens PLM.

KC Yee discusses the Asian manufacturing industry and the need for simulation-driven design in today’s manufacturing world to increase efficiency, productivity and profitability. How do you see the future of manufacturing industries globally? And what is Siemens PLM’s role for the future growth for the manufacturing industry? We’re beginning to see the convergence of manufacturing and information technology, also known as the ‘Internet of Things.’ With more ‘smart’ machinery now connected to the internet and capable of capturing real-time data, product complexity is becoming a big issue, and many traditional manufacturing companies just aren’t equipped with the kind of in-depth IT infrastructure on the product design side. The important thing to realise here is that the manufacturers need to effectively become IT companies in order to capture, control and profit from the data generated by this new generation of smart industrial technology. By controlling and owning that data, it opens up a whole new platform of business. So we believe manufacturers will begin to dramatically build out that infrastructure – most likely through strategic partnerships – and the product lifecycle management (PLM) process itself must now expand to enable and incorporate these new capabilities. Manufacturers must find a way to quickly and efficiently build these vastly more technologically complex products and then leverage that data to drive intelligent business decisions in real-time. Having the ability to capture and analyze real-time data will allow manufacturers to minimise the mistakes that can cost valuable time and resources, but first they must find new ways to incorporate and enable new project stakeholders by providing easier access to product information on an intuitive, user-friendly platform. We see PLM solutions evolving in three major ways, all having to do with enablement. Firstly, through intelligently integrated information – how information is organized to extract value from […]

Keeping SMBs Ahead of the Manufacturing Innovation Curve in SouthEast Asia

By Rajiv Ghatikar, Vice President and General Manager, Siemens PLM Software, ASEAN / Australasia The Southeast Asia region as a whole has achieved unprecedented growth and development in recent decades and is increasingly playing the role of a global growth pole, fast emerging as a manufacturing and information technology hub of the world economy. According to a recent report from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), more than 96% of all enterprises across the region are considered SMBs, and those organizations account for between 50% and 85% of all domestic employment. Specifically, the SMB sector is an important pillar of Singapore’s economy as they contribute more than 50% of the economic output and 70% of employment. Needless to say, it is clear that small and mid-sized businesses play a unique and integral role across the region, serving as suppliers to large firms, customers of large firms and their own customers. Yet scale and making significant economic contributions have not protected SMBs from the pressures of the global economic slump, rising costs, competition from neighbouring countries and a shortage of skilled workers. GDP growth in the Southeast Asia manufacturing industry is predicted to accelerate modestly from 6.3% in 2013 to 6.5% in 2014 – slower in both years than the 6.9% growth in 2012, meaning manufacturing growth is dependent on the future of its smallest but most significant contributors. Against this backdrop, innovative SMBs are looking for the next generation of tools and strategies to stay ahead of the competition. As stated in a recent SBF DP SME Index, a joint initiative of the Singapore Business Federation and DP Information Group, manufacturers are tackling the challenges first hand by embracing a new wave of technologies and innovations. Product lifecycle management (PLM) software, which includes computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation technologies, […]

Injection moulders chosen for new BMW i3

The production team and the machine platen. Krauss Maffei of Munich Germany have supplied BMW’s production plant at Leipzig, Germany with two double swivel plate Injection Moulding machines, complete with industrial robots that produce multi material plastics components for the New BMW i3 which went into production in September 2013. The MX 4000-17200/12000/750WL machines are impressive with dimensions of 24m Long x 9M wide x 7m High. They have a clamping force of 4000 tonnes and are producing the thermoplastic outer shell and combined substructure of the BMW i3. The BMW i3 is a five door urban electric car and is BMW’s first zero emissions mass produced vehicle that features carbon-fibre reinforced plastic that improves the vehicles energy consumption. Using the ‘joining in injection moulding’ process, the outer door shell and its substructure are injected in a single pass and are then joined when the two swivel plates turn and are bonded with a third plastic component. The combined work processes are said to ensure very high dimensional accuracy of the parts. The Injection Moulders were specifically developed for the project and produce the sidewall panels, rear bumper and hoods for the new generation BMW i3’s.

K-Seal for radiator leaks

An over-heating engine caused by a leaking radiator on a deserted stretch of road is a motorist’s worst nightmare, but now there’s an instant fix. It’s called K-Seal and it’s a relatively inexpensive solution to coolant leaks under the bonnet and, what’s more, it can provide a permanent repair to some problems. K-Seal will permanently repair and fix most leaks in the radiator or radiator casing up to a maximum size of 0.7mm – larger holes or cracks will require an epoxy putty. And, in addition to the radiator, it will also repair leaks in the head, head gasket, block, heater matrix, freeze plug and water pump casing, which makes it ideal for older engines, where the owner does not want to incur a big expense on major repairs. K-Seal is simple to use – a quick shake, then pour and go. No need to drain or flush the system. No need to worry about what type of anti-freeze or coolant is in the cooling system.It’s suitable for use with all water-cooled engines, including cars, motorbikes, commercial vehicles, heavy plant, agricultural machinery, marine engines and generators. The secret behind how K-Seal can repair a coolant leak so easily and effectively is down to a specially developed blend of chemical ingredients, including ceramic micro-fibres and copper particles.When added to the cooling system, the ingredients disperse and flow freely around the system suspended in the coolant.But if coolant is leaking from the system, either externally or internally across the head to the cylinders, then K-Seal will follow the coolant through the hole or crack and begin fixing the coolant leak. What happens is that the micro-fibres start to mesh together within the crack or the hole, building a seal literally fibre by fibre.In reality, this takes place almost instantly once K-Seal has […]

Optimism high in 2014

Last year, Forbes listed Rockwell Automation as one of the world’s top 100 most innovative companies. The Interview: John Watts, Director -Integrated Architecture Asia Pacific, Rockwell Automation SEA Pte Ltd. What have been some of the significant milestones for Rockwell Automation recently? As we look back on 2013, Rockwell Automation continued to see more stability in our local markets and the global economy. We planned for the second half of the year to be stronger in Asia and that is exactly how we performed. How do you see 2014 for Rockwell Automation? Many of the key indicators we track point towards greater year-over-year growth in 2014. Our growth in the last six months, combined with favourable indicators in the developing markets, creates a very good base for optimism in 2014. How is Asia performing vis-a-vis the rest of the company? Over the last five years we have had good growth in Asia. It has been exciting for the company to witness overall strong performance in all regions over the last few years, despite some of the challenges the global economy has presented. Where do you see manufacturing growth across Asia coming from? The industries that we have seen -and expect to see -good growth include Oil & Gas and Mining. In addition, we expect, and are beginning to see, higher growth from the Consumer Packaged Goods industry as emerging markets look to fuel more domestic growth. Which export markets are you moving into? Rockwell Automation has enjoyed significant growth over the last 10 years. We now have offices in Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Singapore, which serves as our South East Asia Headquarters. Our Integrated Architecture, Intelligent Motor Control, Solutions and Services – combined with our acquisitions throughout the year -provided significant growth in the […]

MTA VIETNAM2014 amidst thriving manufacturing sector

Singapore: Following the successful edition in 2013, MTA VIETNAM is set to return with the largest and most comprehensive display of showcase of metalcutting and metalforming machinery as well as tooling systems that cater to Vietnam’s robust manufacturing industry. The Vietnamese manufacturing sector has gained momentum this year, with January seeing the strongest rise in output since April 2011. There is a sharp increase in pledged FDI, mostly channelled into the manufacturing sector, which is expected to further accelerate exports in the coming year. This reflects the country’s competitiveness in labour-intensive manufacturing, which may drive Vietnam to become an alternative to China as a manufacturing base. Retaining its position as the premiere trade event for Vietnam’s manufacturing industry, MTA VIETNAM2013 will return to the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City from 8 – 11 July. The event remains the choice event of the Vietnamese manufacturing industry to source for the latest technologies and services in precision engineering, machine tools and metalworking equipment presently available in the global marketplace. Since its inaugural edition back in 2005 in Ho Chi Minh City, MTA VIETNAM has established itself as the must-go annual event for Vietnamese manufacturing professionals. As with the previous edition of MTA VIETNAM, the show this year continues to see strong support from international trade bodies and government agencies. MTA VIETNAM2014 will welcome group pavilions from Germany, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand, as well as an impressive line-up of local supporting government organisations. “MTA VIETNAM has supported the manufacturing industry in Vietnam through the years, by offering the ideal platform for the showcase of the latest technologies and solutions, as well as business networking and idea exchange opportunities. With the Vietnamese manufacturing capabilities gaining momentum this year, MTA VIETNAM is set to play an even […]

Aurecon appointment to expand manufacturing business

John McGuire has been appointed as Global Industry Director, Manufacturing Buildings. He will be directly responsible for leading the businesses growth, strategy and sophisticated client offerings for Aurecon’s manufacturing business. The manufacturing sector is undergoing a major structural shift worldwide as it moves from mass production systems to those of customised goods and services dependent on supply chains with global reach. This shift places demand on manufacturers to become technologically rich to connect to the world of their customers. Stephen Wells, Chief Business Development Officer, said: “Increased speed to market, productivity and knowing and understanding consumer behaviour, trends, and client needs will become critical in keeping manufacturers competitive across the globe. “Having John come on board is a great start to the year for Aurecon. Drawing on his previous experience leading international businesses and growing them relevant to a globally interconnected world, John will be responsible for helping AureconÕs manufacturing clients navigate the rapidly changing landscape.” John is an experienced business leader, offering over 25 years of experience in consulting and contracting in Australia, the Middle East and the United Kingdom. He has been involved in a wide range of projects, specifically in health care, forensic and specialist containment laboratories and is highly regarded and recognised throughout Australia for his creative and innovative design approach to engineering and project leadership. Notable projects with which John has been involved include the AUD 1.78 billion Fiona Stanley Hospital in Western Australia, the AUD 450 million Austin Repat Mercy Redevelopment in Victoria, and the Auckland City Hospital in New Zealand. John was most recently Global Director (Health) – Building Systems with AECOM, where he was responsible for the growth and development of the health market sector internationally across all of AECOM’s geographies in the Building Engineering practice line, as well as its development […]

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