Editorial

AI challenges revealed in book

The Future Computed: AI and Manufacturing is an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities of AI and how it’s transforming the manufacturing sector. Interviews with customers, policymakers, labor representatives and Microsoft experts shed light on how AI is driving efficiencies, enabling products and services, and allowing for safer workspaces. The book also offers a timely look at how society can respond to some of the challenges this new technology creates, and the need to develop new laws and regulations to address workforce disruption and develop AI in an ethical and responsible manner. A free download of the book is available at The Future Computed microsite, where you can also find other interesting content from the book (e.g. customer videos, case studies, and executive summary).

The sense test

~ How human senses are revolutionising industrial robots ~ As season two of the critically acclaimed TV show Westworld ended in summer 2018, the conversation around what the robot of the future will look like continues. While many believe we will have human-like robots soon, such as those depicted in sci-fi blockbusters like Blade Runner, it will be functionality that dictates the appearance of these machines. Here, John Young sales manager at industrial parts supplier EU Automation, explains how allowing manufacturing robots to see and feel is enabling them to step out of the cage. When we think of robots, we often think of either clunky metal frames that complete menial tasks or something so human, it is almost indistinguishable to the person standing next to you. Both appearances have their uses though, whether it’s for picking, packing and palatising in a manufacturing plant, or entertaining guests at an amusement park. Traditionally, robots have been large and noisy pieces of equipment, often posing potential safety risks to the workforce. A new breed of collaborative robots has changed this though, allowing machines to work side-by-side with human employees. This type of robot is now becoming increasingly commonplace on the plant floor, revolutionising the manufacturing process. In a study carried out by the University of Tennessee’s Knoxville Global Supply Chain Institute, robotics was identified as one of the biggest supply chain disruptors. Paul Dittmann, executive director of the Global Supply Chain Institute and author of the paper, said: “Robotics have been around for more than 50 years, but they have become dramatically more dynamic in the last five. They are no longer stationary, blind, expensive and unintelligent, but can work alongside people and learn as jobs change.” The evolution of the humble robot One of the biggest advances in robotics […]

HandySCAN 3D scanner meets Boeing’s requirements

Creaform, the worldwide leader in portable 3D measurement solutions and non-destructive testing (NDT) solutions, has announced that its HandySCAN 3D metrology-grade 3D laser scanner can now be used for recording physical attributes of aircraft dents and blends on all models of Boeing commercial airplanes. Boeing has released a service letter with guidance on the use of 3D scanners for measuring dents and blends on airplanes. The SmartDENT 3D solution and the flagship HandySCAN 3D scanner were used in the process of guiding Boeing’s quality requirements for the service letter. “Creaform is proud to see leaders such as Boeing, turn to 3D scanning solutions for surface defect inspection. With SmartDENT 3D, our goal is to provide the most accurate damage assessment to our customers, so they can make informed and safe decisions, while getting their aircraft back flying with minimal down time,” said Jérôme Beaumont, Global NDT Business Manager at Creaform. Overview of SmartDENT 3D benefits: Speed: 80 times faster than the pit gauge technique. It is the fastest and most reliable aircraft surface damage inspection tool available on the market. Metrology-grade measurements for aircraft maintenance: The scanner is accurate to 0.025 mm (0.0009 in.) and has a resolution of up to 0.100 mm (0.0039 in.) with high repeatability and traceable certificate. Intuitive pass/fail assessments: With its intuitive design and real-time software visualization, Creaform’s NDT solutions ensure short learning curves and minimal operator experience influence on the accuracy of results. Live visualization and portability: Weighting less than a kilo, the handheld scanner is the perfect tool for work in hangars or directly outdoors. Users can easily perform 3D surface inspection of any part of an aircraft on which they would use manual techniques—including on and under wings. In addition to complying with Boeing’s service letter, Creaform HandySCAN 3D scanners are listed […]

Gamma helmets new benchmark for welder safety

Kemppi has launched its new Gamma range of helmets for welders The personal gear offers welders the best protection for the eyes, face and respiratory system, and it also integrates work lights for clear vision and safety in low light working conditions. The Gamma range reduces work fatigue, increases comfort, and helps guard against welding related health hazards. Designed to deliver maximum protection and safety for welding professionals, the Gamma family now sets the global benchmark. Intense light and heat from the welding and cutting arcs are known hazards in welding workshops. However, welding also contaminates the surrounding air. Welding and cutting fumes, which contain dangerous elements that are generally not visible to the naked eye, pollute the breathing air and can pose serious health risks. Typically, welders can breathe 4,000 litres of air in an 8-hour work shift, and if the lungs are unprotected, tiny fume particles can pass deep into the lung structure and can cause serious health risks through long and short-term exposure to the contaminated air. The new Gamma series protects welders from 99.8% of airborne fumes and particulates. ‘The Gamma series, when used together with the new powered filter unit, meets the highest European Total Inward Leakage (TIL) classification for respiratory performance, class TH3 as well as Australian and New Zealand standards,’ said David Green, Managing Director, Kemppi Australia. “This places the Gamma series in a category all of its own when it comes to delivering maximum overall protection for the welder.” Powered from either a battery powered filter pack or an airline breathing source, the Gamma GTH3 respirator models work on the ‘positive air pressure’ principal to exclude dangerous welding fumes, and supply clean and fresh breathing air into the breathing zone. These helmets ensure the welder enjoys a safe, cool and comfortable breathing […]

Wellbeing Budget 2019 delivers, but not for business

The EMA was not expecting much for business from the Wellbeing Budget 2019, but it was still disappointed it did not tackle some of its members’ key concerns. Chief executive Brett O’Riley says the 8500-strong member organisation’s focus is primarily on employees and their workers. “Nobody would argue that people’s overall wellbeing is important, and there is no doubt that a happier, healthier community is a more productive one. We do welcome the investment in mental health as it is a cost to everyone in different ways, including business, and any improvement in this area would benefit everyone,” says Brett O’Riley. “However, greater recognition could have been made of wellbeing in the business sector as a healthy economy provides the funding to deal with the difficult and complex social issues the Government is tackling,” he says. From an EMA member point of view, the best news for business probably came ahead of today’s budget with the decision not to introduce a capital gains tax. Mr O’Riley says two positives were the $300m of expansion capital for start-ups will be able to access in order to grow, and $197m to tackle homelessness through Housing First, a social housing initiative that could further the construction sector. With a key part of the economy’s success linked to being competitive in the digital age, and the EMA welcomes today’s announcement of $6.8m over four years to future-proof New Zealand’s manufacturing industry, as well as the additional $157m for research and innovation linked to low emissions. This ties in to another of the major challenges for members is getting the people they need. While the EMA is pleased to be involved in the crucial Future of Work project, more focus is needed to achieve an employment framework that supports future growth. In addition, the immigration […]

Focused spending for business and the economy

The Wellbeing Budget contains spending that would be positive for business and the economy, says BusinessNZ. Chief Executive Kirk Hope said the focus on innovation, research and skills would help more businesses develop at higher levels and grow the economy. “The Budget recognizes that commercialization of new ideas is often constrained among mid-sized firms and makes a $300 million provision to support this. “Another $157 million to assist firms in developing high-value low-emissions products recognises the deep need for research to come up with business solutions to climate change. “New Zealand was the world-leader in initiating the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases and it is pleasing to see this supported with an $8.5 million provision in the Budget, along with $25 million for the Agricultural Climate Change Research Platform.” Mr Hope said business wants to ensure that the current reform of vocational education will increase the the number of people in on-job and other vocational training. He said the allocation of $197 million was a positive sign in support of that goal, and the allocation of unused Fees Free funding towards this was appropriate. Investment in equipping young people with civics knowledge, financial literacy, and key workplace competencies was also important for business, Mr Hope said. “One area where business would have liked to see more investment is in infrastructure that supports growth. We would also appreciate a fuller explanation of the Government’s infrastructure strategy, and how it fits into its wider economic strategy. “The relatively robust figures seen in today’s Budget are dependent on the economy continuing to deliver growth so that tax rates can finance the Government’s ambitious expenditure programme. The trick will be to ensure the economy keeps growing sufficiently to ensure promised funding can be delivered to critical areas in a timely way. “If […]

Budget overlooks business wellbeing

Budget 2019 largely overlooks one of the key drivers of people’s wellbeing – their livelihoods, says Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Leeann Watson. Budget 2019 utilised the Treasury’s Living Standards Framework to inform the Government’s investment priorities and funding decisions. “This is not a Budget that will transform our economy,” says Ms Watson. “While it will go down in history as the first wellbeing Budget, it does not go far enough in terms of supporting businesses to enable growth. “We are generally supportive of the concept and impetus behind the wellbeing framework, but it doesn’t work if we don’t have the financial wherewithal to fund those wellbeing initiatives. The key aspect that has been overlooked is an explanation of how the wellbeing Budget approach might assist business growth and reduce the burden on business.” Ms Watson says that while this was not a ‘business Budget’, there were aspects of the Budget that would be welcomed by the business community. “It was positive to hear the Government’s $300 million fund for investing in venture capital markets, with a particular focus on mid-sized businesses, as well as the $157 million allocated to help support start-ups focused on innovation to promote low-emissions. We also welcome the investment in infrastructure through the $1 billion earmarked for rail over two years. “At a local level we are very pleased to see the increase in funding for the Christchurch Schools Rebuild Programme, which will make a significant difference to our community. We also look forward to hearing how the confirmed funding for the Reform of Vocational Education will be parcelled out.”

What is a Wellbeing Budget?

It is commendable for Government to tackle things in different ways, to take an in depth look at how are all doing and try to make our lives better -Doug Green, Publisher, NZ Manufacturer There are plenty of areas to focus on – one might say the usual suspects – health, education, housing, domestic violence and the shocking role alcohol plays in this…just saying, skills training – to lead to fairness and equality. However, the strength in the Wellbeing Budget will also be seen in the focus Government gives to economic matters – in an economy that is starting to slow down. Circling all this good will and intent is Productivity. Grant Robertson knows this. If Productivity cannot be lifted, then there cannot be wage growth. If we don’t experience wage growth, then people do not get ahead. Have you ever heard of a power company or cable provider reducing their charges because the consumer isn’t keeping up with the cost of living? Dieter Adam, Executive Director of The Manufacturers’ Network tackles some of this in his article on Page 10 “Relearning what it means to be globally competitive” when he says “we could sell more if we could make more, and we could make more if we had the right people for it”. And of course, the right people are the well-paid people who can afford a home, good healthcare and education for their children with the incentives in place for them to do a good day’s work. I am impressed with EMA Chief Executive Brett O’Riley’s personal viewpoint on Page 29 about the Overseas Investment Office’s decision to block Waihi mining company OceanaGold’s application to purchase nearby farmland to expand its operation. He sees this decision as a disincentive to business investment for the good of the […]

Facilities Integrate 2019

Now in the hands of renowned B2B event manager – Lorraine Smith, Facilities Integrate 2019 is set to deliver a unique experience for attendees and exhibitors. Lorraine, is promising a ‘more engaging show experience, with a distinct focus on learning, special features, interactive displays and showcasing the latest technology. “Features engage the audience and provide learning and motivation. And more than ever, we live in an interactive world, so being able to touch, see and feel rather than merely look provides a far more valuable experience,” says Smith. Taking place on 25 and 26 September this year, Facilities Integrate is the trade-only event for people who make facilities and buildings smarter, safer, and more efficient. The two-day expo provides unparalleled opportunities to try and source the latest equipment, meet the best suppliers, network with potential business partners, and stay on top of what’s going on in the industry. Smith says vendors recognise the value of reaching a select audience of professionals engaged in the facilities management and system integration industries, amongst others. “This is the show for architects, building operators, electrical engineers, electrical service contractors, facility managers, installers, integrators, property developers, system designers, and more. We uniquely combine elements of building technology and design, providing a view of the latest developments and even a glimpse into the future,” she says. Explaining the focus on ‘experiential’ displays, Smith points to the outdoor ‘Drone Zone’ which is introduced for the first time. “We’ll have seminars and equipment on display showing what’s available and how this technology can be used by facilities managers. What we’ll also offer is the opportunity to see drones in action – and delegates can even fly a drone themselves, providing a true hands-on experience.” “Within an integrated facility, security is an increasingly contentious and fascinating topic. There’s the […]

Incredible result was the right one

Australia has voted in a resounding way to maintain the status quo, rejecting the Labor Party’s push to create a government with a trade union heart. From Moggs Creek to Burnie, Port Hedland to Coffs Harbour the country chose a steady, progressive LNP as against Labor, which was riding on the legend of the Silver Bodgie, hoping this would get them over the line first. Throughout the campaign Scott Morrison produced a herculian effort – mainly alone – to drive the LNP message to Australians. He was focussed and considered and wasn’t easily riled. Bill Shorten on the other hand often came across as a trade union official, keen to sign up members. Bill Shorten has resigned as leader and it is hard to see who will replace him and be a charismatic force to bring about change in public opinion. When you consider the key issues that worried Australians – health care, housing, the Adani mine, climate change, care of the over 60’s, education and employment, none of this could be placed at the feet of the LNP as Labour tried so hard to do. Because these are worldwide issues, issues that all countries are constantly battling with. They were not issues that LNP or Scott Morrison were responsible for alone. The Adani Mine and climate change are huge challenges for the Morrison government. Mining provides lots of employment opportunities for Australians. We live in times where full employment is the ideal. Australia’s climbed to 5% unemployment just before the election. More so if not for mining. Sometimes the ideal is not the reality. And a final thought: the proud history of the Australian Liberal and National Parties with their support and backing were never going to tolerate a trade union reign of power. Some of them may be the […]

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