Q&A
Konecranes TRUCONNECT provides real-time equipment monitoring, plus online web access.
equipment monitoring system, offers online web access through the Konecranes Customer Portal. Additionally, Konecranes' Lifecycle Services deliver data-based maintenance insights as part of our comprehensive service delivery. From online storefronts to custom APIs, and from real-time alerts to full automation, Konecranes offers a wide range of customisable, digitally enabled services to meet our customers' needs and ensure optimal performance of lifting equipment.
OCH: Industrial automation has seen a dramatic rise over the past five years. Are there any areas or improvements to the components/technology that you think can be added in the future to improve safety and efficiency? RN: I think the performance of such a system is based on a couple of factors: the data that is fed into it and what is done with that data. Although the market has widely implemented the use of crane-mounted sensors, wearable technology (such as AR-integrated wearables and RFID trackers) for operators and other personnel is not as common. There is room for improvement in the technology, implementation and integration of wearable sensor technology when it comes to industrial automation. In addition to increased use of wearable technology, implementing AI and machine learning (ML) to analyse the data coming from all of these sensors in real time can predict and prevent breakdowns, improve KPIs and eliminate safety risks. I think AI and machine learning can be particularly useful for analysing video feeds for real-time hazard detection and
behavioural analytics. So, to improve safety and efficiency, we must improve the data being collected, as well as improving what should be done with the data, which can be accomplished by increased use of wearable technology and AI/ML.
JHC: One of the most promising areas for enhancing industrial automation lies in integrating technology with the daily operations of factory workers and crane operators to improve safety and efficiency. By focusing on how operators interact with equipment, rather than solely on the physical equipment itself, we can develop solutions that are not only innovative but also practical and user-friendly. For example, implementing intuitive control systems and real- time feedback mechanisms can help operators make more informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of accidents and equipment failures.
OCH: In addition to the standard intelligence you provide, do you receive any unique requests for further analysis from your clients? If so, can you elaborate? RN: Yes, there was feedback that was provided by one of our customers, which we incorporated into our solution because it was such a great recommendation. That recommendation was to incorporate camera feeds into the data collection system. Typically, our CMS system collects and stores data from various devices such as VFDs and other field sensors, which aids maintenance in troubleshooting a system, and getting it back into operation. Although the CMS system could help them get the system back into operation, the cause of the issue was unexplainable. After adding cameras, they identified operator errors that were causing the issues. Having all of the data alongside visual video feeds painted the full picture.
JHC: Konecranes is dedicated to offering customer-specific advice at all times, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. This includes, for example, remote support requests, individual equipment performance evaluations, anomaly analysis, and assistance with equipment upgrades and process optimisation.
Joan Hexter-Christensen, Konecranes
OCH: What are the most frequent challenges that clients present to you and what solutions do you provide to overcome them? RN: Most of the applications that clients present to us are existing systems, which consist of various OEMs and vendors, and complex integration.
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