News

Movella, a leading full-stack provider of sensors, software, and analytics that enable the digitisation of movement, has formed a partnership with precise positioning sensor manufacturer Fixposition to accelerate the development and commercialisation of GNSS inertial navigation sensors that implement visual inertial odometry.

Fixposition has pioneered the implementation of visual inertial odometry in positioning sensors, while Movella is a world leader in inertial navigation modules. Movella has introduced the first product to emerge from the partnership between the two companies: the Xsens Vision Navigator, available worldwide immediately, integrates position inputs from three high-accuracy sources:

• Dual-antenna RTK GNSS receivers which can receive signals from all constellations
• Inertial measurement unit incorporating a three-axis accelerometer, three-axis gyroscope and magnetometer
• Visual inertial odometry system

The Xsens Vision Navigator can also optionally accept inputs from an external wheel speed sensor. This positioning sensor achieves centimeter-level accuracy when operating in GNSS mode with an RTK fix. When deprived of GNSS signals, the Xsens Vision Navigator alone achieves class-leading accuracy of 2% of travel distance, or just 0.75% when supplemented by wheel speed.  In open field, orientation accuracy is 0.4 degree with one meter baseline between two GNSS antennas, and velocity measurements are accurate to ±0.05m/s. This high performance with and without GNSS signals makes the Xsens Vision Navigator ideal for outdoor positioning applications such as:

• Materials handling equipment
• Commercial and specialist vehicles
• Last-mile delivery
• Inspection equipment
• Inspection Drones
• Agricultural equipment
• Mining and construction equipment

Existing GNSS-enabled Xsens modules such as the MTi-680G use dead reckoning in GNSS-deprived areas to maintain accurate positioning data. Fixposition’s visual inertial odometry technology complements this positioning, producing very low drift over time, and excellent dead reckoning results over distance.

Peter Xie, Vice President of Sensor Modules at Movella, said: “The combination of Fixposition’s visual technology with the outstanding Xsens IMU and GNSS+RTK performance gives extremely high dead reckoning performance in any outdoor application that has to operate in the temporary absence of, or degraded, GNSS signals. Additional vision-enabled Xsens inertial navigation products are in development and are scheduled for release in 2023. We are very excited to work with Fixposition to add this new vision-based inertial navigation module product family to address fast growing applications such as vehicle and robot automation”.

Zhenzhong Su, CEO of Fixposition, said: “The partnership brings together the combination of the quality and reputation of the Xsens range of inertial sensor modules with Fixposition’s vision fusion technology that helps to remove the time-accumulated drift in inertial navigation system. We believe this allows Fixposition to expand its market reach much faster by aligning with Movella’s extensive global sales channels and market reach.”

System developers can evaluate the Xsens Vision Navigator now with the Xsens Vision Navigator Starter Kit (part number XVN-090D-1A-SK), which is available worldwide directly from Movella or from any authorised distributor of Xsens products. The kit includes an Xsens Vision Navigator in its enclosure, an aluminium mounting system with suction cups, two dual-band GNSS antennas, a Wi-Fi radio antenna, power, Ethernet, I/O and antenna cables, and a battery with charger.

To enquire about the Xsens Vision Navigator module or Starter Kit, contact sales@movella.com or any authorised distributor.

A new dual measurement high resistance bridge is exciting laboratories around the world with the best uncertainties available.

The 6540 dual measurement resistance bridge from leading metrology manufacturer, Guildline Instruments, has a measurement range from 100 kΩ to 20 PΩ, and provides two measurements mode.

Bridge Mode allows technicians to use a reference standard and multiple ratios for best uncertainty, or Direct Mode allows a resistance to be measured without a reference standard.

Historically, high resistance measurements were difficult to make with low uncertainty due to environmental and EMI considerations, design and limitations of available standards, and complexity of test setups such as using a dual source system. Measurements with a DMM are limited in range, available test parameters, and have higher uncertainties.

Sometimes, manufacturers of similar instruments, develop a system which is closed into a 19” rack, composed of several separate components made by different manufacturers. All these components are connected by cables which can lead to issues.

Guildline has always developed instruments that offer a full modularity to the users without using third part manufacturers.

Guildline 6540 is a single device, all embedded and immediately ready for use. The user doesn’t need any additional instrument or pre-adjustment before starting the measurement. All that is needed is inside the instrument.

The 6540 design eliminates or reduces environmental effects such as temperature, EMI, and operator proximity. It provides two (dual) measurement capabilities allowing users to take full advantage of standards and operator skill levels within the laboratory environment. It also has a low impedance standard which means as you measure higher value resistance, the loading effect of the high resistance is minimized, allowing for much better uncertainty in the measurement. The 6540’s unique temperature-controlled measurement chamber behind the input and source terminals keeps all internal measurement circuitry at a stable temperature. This chamber is also heavily shielded for protection against EMI noise.

The design of the 6540’s measurement circuitry is based on the stability of a single Voltage Source that only requires an annual verification. The configuration of the measurement circuit and the low impedance, provides more stable and more accurate measurements. For life cycle cost considers, the 6540 incorporates a simplified artifact calibration approach, requiring just a single 100 MΩ Standard Resistor and a DMM (i.e. for voltage) with a full calibration required only once every three years.

The 6540 is available from sales partner Evolution Measurement in most European countries. For more details on the Guildline Instruments 6540 dual measurement resistant bridge, full details are available at EvolutionMeasurement.com or call +44 (0)1264 316470.

Under the brand name ExpertDAQ, Acceed offers a comprehensive range of scalable and cost-efficient IO modules for networks in demanding operational environments. The modules with analogue and digital inputs and outputs also serve to link distributed sensors, actuators, meters or relays in extensive areas or via the Internet. They are robust, energy-efficient and can be installed and commissioned without any great effort. The EX9250-MTCP is a digital I/O module with ten inputs and six outputs. Two Ethernet interfaces enable the linking of several modules. Here, the auto-bypass function ensures the further operation of the other modules in the chain if one fails.

The digital I/O module EX9250-MTCP has two Ethernet ports (RJ-45, 10/100-Base-T) for network connection and establishing daisy chain connections. It offers ten insulated digital inputs (dry/wet) and six digital output channels with 3750 Vrms galvanic insulation. All digital input channels support the latch function for signal processing. Simultaneously, these DI channels can also be used as 300 Hz meters. The digital output channels also support the pulse output module. The protocols Modbus/TCP, TCP/IP, UDP, ICMP and ARP are supported. With the automatic DIO synchronisation (peer-to-peer), the direct allocation of two EX9250-MTCP modules can be defined so that the input values are directly transferred to the output channels. Therefore, an output channel (local or remote) can be activated, dependent on the data pattern of the input channels (1/0 or toggle): if the data pattern changes from “agreement” to “non-agreement”, the corresponding output is set to active (1 or 0).

The particularly narrow module with its 2.75 cm is prepared for top-hat rail assembly, the connections for the power supply (10 to 30 V DC) are designed as plug-in screw terminals, the inputs and outputs as plug-in terminals. The admissible ambient temperature for operation is specified with -10 to +70 °C in accordance with industry requirements. LEDs on the front display the most important information on readiness for operation and data communication within the network. A comprehensive manual explains commissioning, use options and switching and provides an additional detailed overview of further modules with specialised functions and properties. All modules are available at short notice from acceed (www.acceed.com) Also, drivers and utilities are available for Windows.  

Two of the world’s leading companies in VOC detection have launched an informative on-demand (free) webinar that is available now. Speakers from both ION Science and Industrial Scientific describe what VOCs are, why they should be monitored, what detection techniques are suitable, and where and when measurements should be undertaken.

The webinar speakers are Ilaria Tramelli, Business Development Director for PID, at Industrial Scientific, and Peter Morris, Head of Sensors at ION Science. “This webinar will be an ideal learning opportunity for anyone with responsibility for health, safety or the environment in almost any industry,” explained the webinar host, Emily Lane, Marketing Manager at ION Science Ltd, “VOCs occur in most industrial sectors, but their relative toxicity varies widely, and there are a number of ways in which they can be detected, so this webinar has been designed to provide the core knowledge that is necessary for VOCs to be managed effectively.”

The on-demand webinar lasts for around 30 minutes and can be accessed, free of charge, by visiting https://bit.ly/3j7RUI0

The main objective of the webinar is to provide educational content that contributes to the professional development of viewers. Whilst explaining the advantages and disadvantages of different detection technologies, the speakers also describe the unique aspects of the ION Science MiniPIDs that make them ideal for OEM integration for accurate and reliable VOC detection.

The speakers also describe the most common applications for VOC detection; providing insights into the factors which can lead to potentially dangerous concentrations of VOCs. Pete also describes the increasing use of PIDs in low-cost, (sometimes mobile) spatially dense ambient air quality monitoring networks and in indoor air quality monitoring; an area of growing concern post-Covid. In addition, Ilaria explains the requirement for first responders to be able to quickly assess the levels of danger following an incident or accident involving hazardous materials.

Given the fast response, sensitivity and wide range of VOCs detected by ION’s MiniPID, their inclusion in the Industrial Scientific products is a major benefit. Laura Faust, Product Manager at Industrial Scientific commented: “The Ventis Pro 5 multi-gas monitor gives you the power to monitor up to five gases simultaneously and with multiple connectivity options, you can manager worker safety anytime, anywhere. Now with the addition of the PID sensor, you can protect workers from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with the same compact personal monitor. This valuable addition brings us one step closer to our vision of ending workplace deaths by 2050.”

After viewing the webinar, attendees should have a better understanding of what VOCs are, what their acute and chronic health effects are, and how they affect the environment. They will also be aware of the different detection techniques that are available, and their relative advantages and disadvantages. This should include an understanding of the reasons why PID is the most commonly accepted method for VOC detection.

It’s about much more than just selling products: Conrad Electronic see themselves as a solutions provider and, as a result, are on their way of becoming the leading platform for technical business supplies in Europe. As a competent partner trusted by companies across the board, the Conrad Sourcing Platform not only offers a comprehensive range of products to business customers, but also provides a variety of services centred around e-procurement and calibration. At the moment, the team at Conrad are focusing on industrial-grade test equipment aimed at facility managers, using practical examples and designated product worlds to showcase well-known brands and their latest releases. 

Taking Accurate Readings Inside and Outside Buildings

Maintaining the functionality of structural building components, machinery and plant ensures smooth and efficient manufacturing processes. This does not only involve red-hot topics such as energy consumption, saving money on heating bills and controlling room temperature levels. Building surveys and MRO of machinery and plant are also an integral part of what facility management is all about.  Most importantly, it all boils down to carrying out functional testing at regular intervals and taking accurate readings when you are at it.

Conrad Electronic support professional facility managers, supplying an exhaustive selection of testing and diagnostics equipment, grid analysers, environmental testers and electricity meters. Whether it’s versatile thermal imagers to minimise energy losses, or panel meters fitted to switchboards, Conrad’s measurement range comprises established brands such as Fluke, Flir and Voltcraft known for the quality and usability of their testers.   

Technology You Can Rely On

When it comes to CATIII testing scenarios, the Fluke team recommends using their 110 series digital multimeters. The Fluke 117, for instance, is perfect for challenging tasks revolving around electrical wiring. The device allows taking non-contact voltage readings and comes with an AutoV/LoZ feature that prevents inaccuracies caused by stray voltage. Also, Fluke’s 62 MAX+ infrared thermometer has got everything you need for taking professional temperature readings which includes MRO jobs in hard-to-reach places. Moreover, the product is highly accurate and can withstand being dropped from heights of up to three metres.    

Identifying dampness and moisture issues in buildings usually requires a whole set of different test equipment including moisture meters, psychrometers and thermal cameras. Flir’s MR277 building inspection system bundles all of above functions, combining the benefits of infrared readings and multi-spectral dynamic imaging (MSX) on one hand, and state-of-the-art environmental sensors one the other.

Another indispensable product for facility managers is the Voltcraft WBM-460 thermal multimeter. This piece of equipment comes as a 2-in-1, combining two essential devices which helps you save time during the job. This multimeter reads amperage, voltage and resistance values while the built-in infrared camera makes identifying and visualising temperature anomalies and trouble spots fast and easy.

More information about Facility Management products at Conrad available here.

The new LS25CI throughbeam photoelectric sensor from Leuze is powerful and flexible and can transilluminate even metallized and dark films – meets the stringent requirements of the packaging industry.

The films used in the packaging industry vary greatly: they are more or less transparent and sometimes even dark or metallized. This makes it challenging for photoelectric sensors to reliably detect the position of the objects in the packaging. With the LS25CI, Leuze is introducing a throughbeam photoelectric sensor that is up to the job: The LS25CI is very powerful and can transilluminate any type of film. This enables the reliable separation of products and sealing of the film in the right places. The infrared light used is harmless and poses no danger to the eyes.

Detects object or film

System operators can pick from two models: The LS25CI.XR1 high power can transilluminate dark films as well as identify individual transparent films. The performance of the photoelectric sensor can be conveniently configured via a potentiometer. For even tougher requirements, customers may want to opt for the LS25CI.XX superpower: It transilluminates metallized and dark coloured films, even if they are multi-layered. The receiver works with both transmitter models. The sensitivity of the receiver can also be quickly and intuitively adjusted via potentiometers.

Robust housings

The housings of the transmitter and receiver meet protection classes IP67 and IP69K. They are also ECOLAB certified for use in harsh environments that require frequent cleaning. The devices are wired with M8 or M12 connectors and can thus be easily integrated into systems.

Contrinex’s new stainless-steel-bodied M18 photoelectric sensors, available from PLUS Automation, have arrived and look like repeating the success of their plastic-bodied sisters. The best-in-class sensing distances, exclusive Contrinex ASIC technology, IO-Link connectivity and competitive price is carried across into the stainless-steel bodied versions.

The plastic sensors have quickly become popular, in part, because they are more robust than many competitors M18 sized sensors, and are more compact at only 37mm long. The stainless-steel versions are also only 37mm from their shatterproof PMMA optics to the end of the M12 connector.

All versions of the Ecolab-approved sensors, resist washdown and process fluids and offer industry-leading sensing distances across sensing technologies: Reflex 7 m, Diffuse 1.2 m, Background-suppression 250 mm and Through-beam 30 m.

The stainless-steel bodied versions provide enhanced robustness for environments where mechanical shock and excessive vibration are encountered for only a +6% price premium over the plastic-bodied sensor’s highly competitive price – Therefore the metal-bodied versions are looking like being a run-away success.

Further expanding Contrinex’s position as having the largest selection of sensors with IO-Link in the World, the digital communication protocol is provided free of charge to enable real-time access to process data and functions such as user-configurable outputs, sensitivity adjustment, event flags, dual-channel operation and sensor temperature measurement.

The growth of rail transportation and rail travel is becoming increasingly important to the UK’s infrastructure network with current passenger and freight volumes predicted to double by 2050. Experts believe this mode of transportation can be a sustainable alternative to short-distance air travel while increasing freight via rail would complement other transport modes. Recently completed projects and those currently being constructed in the UK such as; The Elizabeth Line, HS2, East West Rail and The Great Northern Rail project, are all examples of the major investment in the rail network.

These projects, both current and future, coupled with the demand for increased automation present significant challenges to engineers to provide the most sustainable, reliable transportation systems. Sensors and encoders are among the essential components for these systems and sensing and instrumentation specialists Baumer are well positioned to deliver the most effective solutions.

From innovative axle encoders, precise pressure and level sensors, to high speed cameras, Baumer has over 50 years’ experience of designing sensors for the railway industry. This is underlined by delivering products which conform to EN 50155 standards, TSI certification along with providing the highest levels of customer service and engaging in the close partnerships required to deliver the best sensor solutions.

Specific products and applications include; LBFS point level switches for sand box level monitoring which provide suppression of contamination to ensure reliable level detection and avoidance of false detection, PP20R pressure sensors for coolant control in converters and transformers which ensure low temperature drift and accurate level measurement from start-up to full load operation. 4 circumferential pressure balancing openings ensure that these sensors provide safe and reliable performance even in dusty and humid environments. Furthermore, they can operate across a temperature range of 125ºC to ambient ensuring effective sensing of almost any liquid cooling cycle on rolling stock.

TE2 and TCR6 are compact yet robust temperature sensors offering high accuracy to optimise engine efficiency, with low drift to ensure greater repeatability across all load conditions along with flexible mounting options to suit any application.

Finally for monitoring and control applications PBMR pressure sensors monitor maximum pressure changes over time according to applicable standards (UIC5 660) and provide high accuracy and low drift measurements with absolute gauged pressure sensors.

Baumer has over 50 years of experience in designing sensors for rail industry applications. As an owner-managed family business we serve customers worldwide, so you can trust our know-how and values that run from the development of sensors through to the highest production values.

For the last 20 years, Powrmatic a leading British manufacturer of HVAC equipment, has been using Signal Group analysers to check the regulatory compliance of its products, which include gas burning warm air heaters, radiant heaters and ventilation equipment.

Powrmatic’s Engineering Manager, Dr Lee Herbert, says: “It’s incredible that the same analyser rack has delivered consistently reliable measurements over such a long period of time, but we attribute this longevity to the quality of the analysers themselves and to the excellent service that Signal Group delivers.

“Under our agreement with Signal, they visit the factory twice a year for routine maintenance, and provide a rapid call-out service if necessary.”

Many types of energy-related products (ErP) are regulated to ensure that they meet specific criteria relating to their energy usage. This reduces their environmental impact, improves their energy efficiency, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions. All products must have supporting technical documentation to demonstrate compliance, as well as a Declaration of Conformity, and they must display the appropriate conformity marking.

During 2021 the Ecodesign requirements in the ErP regulation reduced the maximum levels of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) emissions allowable for space heaters. This regulation also raised the efficiency requirements for this type of equipment. Powrmatic’s products are therefore tested with the Signal analysers, and supplied with a BSI verified Declaration of Conformity with ErP 2021.

In addition to NOx, the Signal analysers also measure carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, and are used by both the production team and the R&D department, where they help develop new HVAC products with lower emissions and even better efficiency.

Looking forward, Dr Herbert says: “I have seen Signal’s latest analysers, and would very much like to benefit from their new technologies, but with 20 years under their belt, our current analysers are still going strong, so for the time being, we’ll just have to wait for the day when they can be upgraded.”

Analog Devices invites you to experience life at the Intelligent Edge through interactive demonstrations and expert discussions at CES 2023.

Visit the ADI booth: Connecting the physical and digital worlds by both sensing and processing at the edge will make data and insights available where decisions are made, resulting in faster and more effective execution. Stop by booth #4725 at the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall to learn how the Intelligent Edge will impact every moment of our lives, big or small, to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges by enabling a more efficient, safer, and sustainable future.

“Insights from the Edge” Panel Sessions: ADI executives will be joined by experts and thought leaders in a series of conversations about how technology is enriching lives and accelerating human breakthroughs. All discussions will be held at ADI’s booth. For any updates on panel sessions or details regarding ADI at CES, please visit www.analog.com/ces.

Panel sessions:

• The Future of Automotive: Bringing Personalised and Immersive Experiences into the Vehicle
  • Thursday, January 5, 11:30-11:55 a.m.
  • Participants: ADI, Jaguar Land Rover, and Harman
• The Ocean’s Critical Role in Combatting Climate Change
  • Friday, January 6, 12:00-12:25 p.m.
  • Participants: ADI and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)

Demonstrations: Explore 30 live demos featuring ADI’s technology to see how the Intelligent Edge will continue to advance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability in our daily lives from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

• Automotive: Explore how ADI’s innovations are enabling a more personalised, immersive, safe, and sustainable mobility experience. ADI’s advancements in connectivity, audio processing platforms, and power management solutions are pioneering a seamless transition from home to vehicle.
• Consumer: Discover how ADI’s technology is making the office work from anywhere, as well as streamlining and enhancing the way we create and enjoy movies, music, and media.
• Digital Healthcare: See how ADI’s sensing technologies in a range of wearables continuously monitor body vital signs to support the management of health and sleep patterns.
• Industrial: Watch how terrain-based navigation and stabilisation is helping to make workdays safer and more productive. See ADI’s technology in action as it helps vehicles operate more safely and efficiently in agriculture, on construction sites, and more.

Award-winning tech: Learn more about the ADTF3175 which earned a 2023 CES Innovation Award for opening up endless possibilities in augmented and mixed reality. The ADTF3175 is the industry’s first high-resolution, industry quality, indirect Time-of-Flight module for 3D depth sensing and vision systems. The CES Innovation Awards are based upon descriptive materials submitted to the judges. Consumer Technology Association (CTA) did not verify the accuracy of any submission or of any claims made and did not test the item to which the award was given.