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ASTM tests exoskeletons for proposed ‘firefighter readiness’ standard

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The exoskeletons and exosuits committee (F48) of industry standards association ASTM has proposed a new test method for evaluating exoskeleton device performance on first responder tasks.

According to ASTM member Ben Beiter, there are currently 16 different test methods to evaluate the performance of exoskeletons for industrial applications.

The specific applications of the technology for first responders, though, are unique. This new test method aims specifically at testing exoskeletons for their ability to help with firefighting tasks. [Read more…] about ASTM tests exoskeletons for proposed ‘firefighter readiness’ standard

International Robot Safety Conference to discuss ‘most important standard in robot safety’

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Companies deploying robots can get clear guidance on how to keep human workers safe at the International Robot Safety Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio, October 1-3.

Hosted by the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), which develops robotic standards in the US, the conference will feature revisions to the industrial robot flagship standard – ISO 10218 – along with talks describing technologies and best practices around risk assessment, regulatory compliance, mobile and collaborative robotics, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI).

Carole Franklin, director of standards development, robotics, A3, says: “The need for comprehensive robot safety knowledge couldn’t be more critical. [Read more…] about International Robot Safety Conference to discuss ‘most important standard in robot safety’

Scythe Robotics to lead adoption of North American charging standard in outdoor power equipment industry

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Scythe Robotics, the Colorado-based company developing advanced, commercial-grade autonomous solutions for the landscape industry, says it has adopted the North American Charging Standard (NACS) charge port for M.52. 

This proactive move will integrate NACS capabilities into their all-electric, fully autonomous commercial mower as early as Q4 2024.

As an industry first, Scythe leads the charge in non-automotive vehicle adoption of this standard, paving the way for widespread integration of electric commercial equipment in landscape operations. [Read more…] about Scythe Robotics to lead adoption of North American charging standard in outdoor power equipment industry

Benefits of S1000D Conversion

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In the technologically advanced landscape of technical documentation, particularly in sectors like aerospace, the transition to the S1000D standard marks a significant leap forward.

If you wish to explore the multifaceted benefits of S1000D conversion, focusing on its enhancement of information exchange, accessibility and interoperability and its integration with innovative tools such as the Multipurpose Digital Data Viewer (MDDV) and Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (IETMs) – keep reading.

Transforming Information Exchange in Aircraft Maintenance

S1000D fundamentally transforms information exchange, a crucial aspect of aircraft maintenance. This global specification allows for the creation and maintenance of a unified source of data, ensuring that all involved – from engineers to maintenance staff – have access to consistent, updated information.

This uniformity is vital for accurate troubleshooting in aircraft systems, minimizing the risk of errors that could arise from outdated or conflicting data.

The standardized XML format of S1000D simplifies the exchange of information across different platforms and systems, fostering a more synchronized approach to maintaining technical accuracy and safety.

Accessibility Enhanced by IETM

The adoption of S1000D significantly improves the accessibility of a technical manual. Its modular approach to information management, where data is organized into discrete, reusable modules, makes it easier for users to find specific details quickly.

When integrated with IETMs, this feature becomes particularly beneficial in complex aircraft systems, enabling technicians to swiftly access the necessary information.

The addition of multimedia elements, which S1000D supports, makes these manuals not only more comprehensive but also more engaging, aiding in better understanding and application in practical scenarios.

Interoperability with the MDDV

A key advantage of s1000D Conversions is their interoperability, notably with advanced tools like the MDDV.

The MDDV offers an interactive platform to navigate and comprehend complex technical data, which, when paired with S1000D-compliant documentation, enhances the efficiency of maintenance and operational procedures.

This interoperability is essential in environments where collaboration across various departments and external entities is common, ensuring that technical documentation is universally accessible and understandable, thereby streamlining workflows in aircraft maintenance and operations.

Streamlining Troubleshooting with S1000D

S1000D’s clarity and detail-oriented structure significantly streamline troubleshooting processes in aircraft maintenance.

The standard equips technicians with precise and up-to-date manuals, facilitating quicker and more accurate problem identification and resolution.

This efficiency not only reduces downtime but also enhances the overall safety and reliability of aircraft operations, demonstrating the practical, high-value impact of S1000D in maintenance and operational contexts.

Future-Proofing with S1000D

The S1000D standard is not just about meeting current needs; it’s about future-proofing technical documentation.

Its structured, data-driven approach is well-suited for integration with emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI).

AI could leverage S1000D’s structured data to predict maintenance needs, optimize repair procedures and offer real-time support in troubleshooting.

This potential for future integration ensures that organizations adopting S1000D are preparing for the next wave of technological evolution in technical documentation.

Conclusion

Transitioning to the S1000D standard is a strategic realignment for organizations, especially in the aerospace sector, positioning them at the forefront of technical documentation efficiency, safety and innovation.

The advantages of S1000D in enhancing information exchange, improving accessibility, ensuring interoperability with tools like the MDDV and IETMs and streamlining troubleshooting processes are undeniable.

As the industry continues to evolve with technological advancements, the adoption of S1000D emerges not just as a best practice but as a critical component for future-ready, efficient and safe operations.

Wiferion launches compact wireless charging system for small mobile robots

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Wiferion, an energy solution supplier powering mobile robots and autonomous industrial vehicles through wireless charging, introduced its new inductive etaLINK 1000 charging system to the US market, making its successful wireless charging technology available to smaller robots for the first time.

The new mobile charging unit integrated into the robot measures just 160 mm – making it 36 percent smaller than the etaLINK 3000, Wiferion’s standard charging system for autonomous mobile robots (AMR) and autonomous guided vehicles (AGV).

etaLINK 1000 has all the advantages of the larger models, such as high positioning tolerance, maintenance-free operation, and fast start up of power transfer in around one second. Wiferion will debut the etaLINK 1000 at Automate, May 22-25, 2023, in Detroit. [Read more…] about Wiferion launches compact wireless charging system for small mobile robots

Methods Machine Tools releases its first end-to-end standard automation system for Nakamura turning centers

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Methods Machine Tools, the foremost supplier of high-quality, high-precision CNC machine tools and automation in North America, has released the Turn-Assist 200i and 270i from RoboJob as its first, end-to-end standard automation system for Nakamura-Tome turning centers.

A semi-collaborative system engineered for lathe automation, Turn-Assist is designed to be implemented and run by operators of any skill level. With a simple tablet-style HMI and standard Ethernet IP interface, shops can successfully change over from one part to another within minutes.

Zach Spencer, Methods’ automation manager, says: “By pairing the Turn-Assist from RoboJob with Nakamura-Tome, we have created a unique automation solution for high-mix/low-volume and/or mid-volume with frequent changeovers on round workpieces often associated with Nakamura lathes. [Read more…] about Methods Machine Tools releases its first end-to-end standard automation system for Nakamura turning centers

ASME updates 3D printing standard to streamline production

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Since the 1940s, engineers have used a common design language – a set of definitions, symbols and practices – to draft engineering drawings that can serve as clear manufacturing blueprints or inspection checklists.

While this system still works well for many traditional manufacturing methods, it has not equipped engineers to produce clear and consistent design documents for additive manufacturing, commonly called 3D printing. And the absence of standard methods of communication leaves room for information about 3D-printing designs to be lost in translation.

This week the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) published an updated standard – based in large part on research by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – that includes language specifically for 3D printing. [Read more…] about ASME updates 3D printing standard to streamline production

Festo unveils extended version of robotic systems design software

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Festo has unveiled an extended version of its robotic systems design software, saying it enables the design of Cartesian robots “in minutes”.

Festo’s Handling Guide Online (HGO) now includes 3D cantilever systems in addition to linear, planar surface and 3D handling systems.

The company says these improvements mean that design engineers can now plan “extremely compact or extremely dynamic Cartesian robots in a matter of minutes” using the HGO’s intuitive configuration and ordering software. [Read more…] about Festo unveils extended version of robotic systems design software

Yaskawa launches two new collaborative robots for industrial applications

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Yaskawa Motoman, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of industrial robots, has launched two new collaborative robots – HC10DTP and HC20DTP, each of which has six axes.

The company describes them as “highly reliable robots (that) enrich easy capability for Yaskawa’s HC-series line”.

Hand-guided programming allows users to direct teach points without a pendant, and an ISO standard tool flange and electrical connections facilitate a plug and play approach for easy deployment of the robot system. [Read more…] about Yaskawa launches two new collaborative robots for industrial applications

New Kuka robotic technology ‘guarantees highest hygiene standards’

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Kuka says it is now using a range of new lubricants in its robotic technology which “guarantees the highest hygiene standards”.

The food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries impose special requirements on robotics.

Kuka says its new “Hygienic Oil” (HO) portfolio and “Hygienic Machine” (HM) variants are designed to avoid potential contamination and comply with the highest hygiene requirements. [Read more…] about New Kuka robotic technology ‘guarantees highest hygiene standards’