trends in automation

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Issue 32 trends in automation
Festo worldwide 36 – 37
The intelligent glove
The ProGlove allows bar codes
to be read quickly and easily.
Germany// For the tugger train drivers who
supply material to the assembly stations at the
Festo Scharnhausen Technology Plant, the routine
task of loading and unloading boxes, sorting them,
and then scanning each one using a scanning
device was a laborious and tedious procedure.
Relief is now on the way in the shape of a glove
featuring an integrated scanner. Following
successful completion of a test phase, the ProGlove
is now being used for all tugger trains.
At first glance, the ProGlove looks just like any glove
you might find in a DIY store. However, beneath the
glove's surface lies sophisticated technology in the
form of sensors that trigger a scanner on the back of
the hand. These sensors automatically detect
containers as the tugger train is loaded and
unloaded and throughout the processing steps.
Thanks to the glove, the tugger train driver can use
both hands to grip the boxes. The glove also
protects against injury. Another advantage is that
workers can work more quickly. It takes
much less time to scan using the glove
than with a separate scanning device.
Implementing Industry 4.0 workshop
Great Britain// This new workshop is focused on understanding
the core elements in Industry 4.0 and the business opportunities
it presents.
Currently everybody is talking about Industry 4.0 and there are
many different explanations of its meaning. Leaders in
organisations are increasingly confronted with Industry 4.0 and
have to be aware of its potential impacts.
There are many ways companies can improve their productivity,
quality and processes. However, before starting an
implementation, managers need to have a basic understanding
of the core elements and technologies and how their interaction
leads to Industry 4.0. Subsequently, they can think of new
business models and specific strategies to implement
Industry 4.0.
Neil Lewin from Festo Training & Consulting says, “This course is
specifically designed for business leaders who want to make the
most of the opportunities presented by Industry 4.0. During the
two days, we help leaders assess how Industry 4.0 can be
applied in their organisations, working in small groups and
teams, as well as understanding and debating the challenges
posed by Industry 4.0. It is for leaders who want to make better
investment decisions that will equip their organisations for the
future.”
For more information and course dates see
The new two-day course from Festo Training & Consulting will help leaders assess how Industry 4.0 can be applied in their organisations.