Cama Group has developed a new Live FAT (factory acceptance testing) programme to help allay concerns around the pandemic and maintain business continuity.
The company said through the deployment of automation solutions, Industry 4.0 concepts, and comprehensive on- and off-machine connectivity, Cama can virtualise every step of a project, from initial design concepts through build; testing; commissioning and installation; and beyond.
Cama’s new Live FAT is the latest addition to its digital-capabilities portfolio, which also included pre-sales visualisation, virtual design (using augmented reality), and virtual commissioning.
“The launch of our Live FAT service comes at the perfect time,” Daniele Bellante, CEO at Cama Group, said.
“Someone once said that necessity is the mother of invention, and this is especially true in the current business climate. Although we have been working on the technology for some months now, its virtual, on-line approach is proving incredibly pertinent and beneficial in these times of lockdown and separation.”
Using the Live FAT Platform, smart cameras located close to the machine’s primary operational elements give customers real-time video access to machine tests. These use their own protocols and project specifications. In addition to the comprehensive overview given by the smart cameras, customers can also access complementary cameras covering static equipment, such as electrical panels.
The visual information and data streams are shared via a secure, invite-only Microsoft Teams portal, accessed using a computer, tablet, or phone. High-definition cameras coupled to dedicated visualisation software and auto lighting, ensure the clearest possible views, immaterial of the viewing platform. Customers also have the option to go full screen on particular views, to get even more detail.
Bellante said, “The adoption of smart on-machine technology and far deeper connectivity delivers multiple benefits for both us, as machine builders, and, of course, for our many customers, who operate in multiple industries across the globe.
“Virtualisation can be applied to so many different facets of a machine’s lifecycle, and will help address multiple geographical, economical, technical and, in this instance, societal hurdles, where customers may not currently be able to deliver test products due to quantities, shipping costs, or simply because they are overly delicate or frozen. For our customers it will be like having a highly knowledgeable Cama engineer on site – all day, every day.”
Cama is a member of the Australian Packaging and Processing Manufacturers Association (APPMA).
