Smart Systems

Siemens is presenting its new developments in industrial automation and digitalization for the intralogistics industry at this year's Logimat. Faced with global challenges like labor shortages, growing sustainability requirements, and demographic change, the technology company is introducing innovative automation and digitalization solutions that increase efficiency, adaptability, and sustainability in intralogistics. Siemens Xcelerator ecosystem Siemens shows in a highlight showcase how the mix of software-defined and data-driven With Simatic Robot Pick AI Pro, an industrial vision AI for the development of AI-supported picking robots, Siemens demonstrates in a highlight showcase how the combination of software-defined and data-driven automation creates more adaptability and flexibility in automation solutions in order to overcome the challenges and complexity of today's intralogistics and to offer future-proof solutions. The Siemens Xcelerator ecosystem plays a central role by promoting innovation and integration across platform boundaries, which is accelerating the transition to a Digital Enterprise. Automation for advanced robotic solutions A blueprint for software-defined automation for advanced robotic solutions for robot-based picking of small parts in the intralogistics industry The centerpiece of the showcase at the Siemens booth is Simatic Robot Pick AI Pro, a pre-trained deep-learning vision software from Siemens that enables model-free 3D robot picking of unknown objects with individually adaptable vacuum multi-grippers. Simatic Robot Pick AI Pro The software reliably delivers gripping poses for a wide variety of inventory items in milliseconds The software reliably delivers gripping poses (6-DoF) for a wide variety of inventory items in milliseconds, regardless of their shape, size, or packaging. This means that Simatic Robot Pick AI Pro will facilitate the development of cost-effective, autonomous, and scalable robot solutions for single-piece order picking for sectors like e-commerce. It also addresses the labor shortage associated with monotonous picking tasks. Siemens Industrial Operations X portfolios Simatic Robot Pick AI Pro is a solution of Siemens Industrial Operations X portfolios, which is part of Siemens Xcelerator. Siemens Industrial Operations X combines software-defined automation and data-driven solutions within industrial ecosystems aiming to make systems more adaptive. An essential component of software-defined automation is Simatic AX, a modern development environment that increases efficiency in the creation and management of both physical and virtual controls. Use of advanced technologies Use of advanced technologies like edge and cloud computing to optimize operational processes Virtual PLCs (programmable logic controllers) are also being used to provide greater flexibility and scalability in deploying control systems as software containers based on industrial edge management. Industrial Operations X integrates these technologies and enables a seamless collaboration between different systems and the use of advanced technologies like edge and cloud computing to optimize and continuously improve operational processes. With this, machine builders can develop flexible and scalable robot order-picking systems that can be adapted to meet specific requirements. Robots with Siemens AI vision software Robots with Siemens AI vision software can autonomously identify and handle a variety of unknown objects, ensuring increased flexibility and adaptability in dynamic environments. There is also a seamless integration with TIA, which ensures a continuous data flow from the robot order-picking cell to the entire operational process.  Development of new solutions and technologies Siemens will also show exactly how the Siemens Industrial Copilot supports automation engineers Siemens Xcelerator offers an open ecosystem for collaboration and innovation within a network of certified partners, such as Zivid for industrial 3D cameras or Piab for vacuum tools, to support the development of new solutions and technologies. At the exhibition, Siemens will also show exactly how the Siemens Industrial Copilot supports automation engineers in code generation and fault diagnosis and facilitates the engineering of complex automation systems. Siemens Industrial Copilot for engineering complex machines With the Siemens Industrial Copilot for TIA Portal Engineering, Siemens presents the first generative AI assistant for industrial engineering.  Thanks to its seamless integration into the TIA Portal, the AI assistant simplifies and accelerates development processes and significantly minimizes error sources. It also allows less experienced professionals to effectively apply their knowledge and skills.

The surge in demand for Category 3 Control fire performance cables used in critical situations can only help to meet safety compliance requirements, says pioneering cable supplier AEI Cables. The systems powered by these cables – including smoke and heat extraction systems – assist fire services in firefighting and a safe evacuation in the case of life safety. Selection and installation of cables AEI Cables has been highlighting the importance of following the technical guidance for the selection and installation of cables for Category 3 Control fire performance cables under the revised British Standard BS8519: 2020 Code of Practice. These cables reduce harmful smoke, toxic gases and flame spread in the event of a real fire. Stuart Dover, General Manager of AEI Cables, said: "We are seeing quite an increase in demand for Category 3 Control cables and perhaps the information to use these cables for a specific safety reason is getting through to the supply chain." Guidance for Category 3 Control fire performance The guidance for Category 3 Control fire cables applies to evacuation alarms for the disabled in care homes Stuart Dover adds: "There can be no compromise when it comes to the selection of cables for these critical applications. We offer our comprehensive range of Category 3 Control backed up with our technical support and guidance for these specific uses." The guidance for Category 3 Control fire performance cables applies to evacuation alarms for the disabled in care homes, emergency voice communications systems and voice alarm systems in relevant buildings including tall buildings, office spaces, hospitals, shopping malls and stadia. AEI Cables’ products AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling has been approved and certified by LPCB to BS8519 (Annex B), Category 3 Control in addition to Category 2 Control. The BS Code of Practice under BS8519 contains six categories of cables, three for power cables and three for control cables each covering survival times of 30, 60 or 120 minutes. All AEI Cables’ products are supplied with approvals from independent bodies including BASEC and LPCB. It also holds approvals from organizations, including Lloyds, the MoD, Network Rail and LUL and works to international standards around the world.

GlobalLogic Inc., a pioneer in digital product engineering, announces that the post-acquisition integration of Meelogic Consulting GmbH is complete. GlobalLogic will launch the combined organization’s service offerings through the introduction of the GlobalLogic website for Germany. As the newest addition to the GlobalLogic portfolio, now known as GlobalLogic Germany GmbH, the group primarily focuses on automotive, healthcare and medical technology serving customers in Germany and greater Europe. Their project portfolio ranges from mobile solutions to business systems and embedded development, while being supplemented by online marketing and Atlassian consulting services. Software-based solutions Their project portfolio ranges from mobile solutions to business systems and embedded development These offerings add to GlobalLogic’s competencies in those industries, while also introducing fresh insights into software-based solutions that can transform other businesses operating in other verticals. “Our goal has always been to provide our customers with the best level of competency and service as possible,” said GlobalLogic’s Ayana Alemu, former CEO of Meelogic Consulting GmbH. “Having completed the successful integration with GlobalLogic, we look forward to continuing that effort and bringing a wider range of services and value to our clients.” Talented engineering resources The acquisition was completed in April 2020 and the operational integration began soon after and was completed in under twelve months.  With offices and development centers in Germany and Poland, the combined organization will continue to service clients in the DACH region and beyond. New German clients will benefit from both the local presence and customer service, as well as the global reach and access to a wider range of talented engineering resources from GlobalLogic.

CORE is prepared for significant snowfall and adverse weather forecast for Wednesday, March 13, through Friday, March 15, across their service area. Line crews in their Sedalia, Bennett, Conifer and Woodland Park districts are on standby, with additional contractors ready to assist, if needed. They also have replacement equipment on hand, and fleet vehicles are fueled up and ready to roll into even the roughest terrain in their 5,000-square-mile service area. CORE encourages members to prepare for spring storm CORE encourages members to also prepare for the expected weather. Some key tips: Keep an easily accessible ‘outage kit’ that includes a battery-powered radio or TV, flashlights or headlamps, and fresh batteries. Add enough water, blankets and non-perishable food to supply the whole family. Turn faucets on slightly during an extended outage. The slow drip will help prevent water from freezing in the pipes. Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices. Keep refrigerators and freezers closed to preserve cold food. If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines, such as operating it outdoors and away from windows and doors. CORE’s online Outage Center If the electric service is interrupted, use CORE’s online Outage Center to report and monitor outages, or call (833) 267-3349. To report a downed line or pole, or any other safety concern or issue beyond interruption of service, please contact them as soon as possible through any of the channels on the company’s contact page.

After a period of development, EdmoLift introduces EC64, an innovative and future-proof electrical control system. With a modular design and smart features. The new electrical control system is designed to meet both current and future needs. The initial sales launch will take place on June 1, 2025. Future Ready electrical control system "EC64 is the result of several years of development, combining EdmoLift’s expertise in smart lifting solutions with the latest technology".  "Thanks to its intelligent features and interfaces, the system offers high flexibility, user-friendliness, and advanced performance despite its compact design". "EC64 is the most flexible electrical control system, optimized to deliver great value relative to cost", says Jonathan Grip, CEO of EdmoLift. Quality and safety EC64 has been carefully is developed, tested and manufactured in Sweden EC64 has been carefully designed in terms of both design and function. It is developed, tested and manufactured in Sweden to ensure consistently high quality and performance.  "To guarantee quality and safety, the electrical control has undergone an independent third-party audit by RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden)". "This audit covers hardware, software, processes, and documentation, ensuring that EC64 meets the high standards of reliability and compliance", Jonathan explains. Smart features for a digital future The electrical control system is prepared with digital interface, enabling seamless communication and integration EC64 takes EdmoLift’s digitalization to the next level. Alongside its launch, the digital tool eLift Assist is introduced, simplifying configuration, traceability, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.  The electrical control system is also prepared with digital interfaces such as USB-C and CAN bus, enabling seamless communication with other machines and systems, such as AGVs for an integrated and automated production environment. Seamless Control Solutions “It’s modular design allows the system to be scaled or customized based on unique needs. This means future upgrades can be offered without replacing the entire system, simplifying service and maintenance." "Our ambition has been to create an electrical control system that is easy to use while having great potential for the future, all while maintaining user-friendliness without compromising flexibility”, Jonathan concludes. Launch plan The launch of EC64 will take place in stages. The first sales launch will apply to the TM series lifting tables, starting June 1, 2025, with production beginning after the summer holiday. Subsequently, the rest of the product range will be covered by the new electrical control system.  By early 2026, previous versions of electrical control systems are planned to be fully phased out. Spare parts for the previous version will be available for at least 10 years, but new products with older control systems will no longer be available for order.

Siemens is ramping up investments in the U.S. to support and benefit from America’s industrial tech growth. “The industrial tech sector is the basis to boost manufacturing in America and there’s no company more prepared than Siemens to make this future a reality for customers from small and medium sized enterprises to industrial giants,” said Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG. Recent investments of Altair The $285 million investment is expected to create over 900 skilled manufacturing jobs The U.S. is already the largest market for the company, relying on American talent and American supply chains. The recent investments in the company’s U.S. manufacturing footprint and the planned acquisition of Altair, a Michigan-based software company, amount to more than $10 billion. This week, Siemens is unveiling two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities for electrical products in Fort Worth, Texas, and Pomona, California. The $285 million investment is expected to create over 900 skilled manufacturing jobs. Industrial AI revolution The equipment produced will support critical sectors such as the commercial, industrial and construction markets while powering AI data centers all over the country to support America’s leadership in the industrial AI revolution.  With that Siemens is more than doubling its production capacity of electric equipment to power critical American infrastructure such as AI data centers.  Smarter software to help design America’s manufacturing The mix with existing software from Siemens will create the world's most complete AI-powered design In October 2024, Siemens signed an agreement to acquire Altair. The combination with existing software from Siemens will create the world's most complete AI-powered design and simulation portfolio.  This will allow users in America and all around the world to design and manufacture more complex and smarter products faster – by simulating in the digital world, first. They could for example do a virtual crash-test for a new car design; or calculate in advance how a cell phone reacts to drops and thus develop the design optimally, before they build it in the real world. Powerful AI tools help along the way. Innovation and strength of America’s industry “We believe in the innovation and strength of America’s industry. That’s why Siemens has invested over $90 billion in the country in the last 20 years. This year’s investment will bring this number to over $100 billion. We are bringing more jobs, more technology and a boost to America’s AI capabilities,” said Roland Busch. Siemens employs more than 45,000 people in the U.S. and is partnering with about 12,000 suppliers nationwide.

RO Capital Partners (“ROCP”), the RO Group’s venture capital arm, announces that its portfolio company, measurable.energy, has installed its smart power sockets in the office of PKF Francis Clark in Bristol. PKF Francis Clark is an award-winning firm of chartered accountants and business advisers. measurable.energy is a UK tech company that designs and manufactures smart, machine-learning-enabled power sockets that will reduce the energy costs of PKF Francis Clark’s Bristol office by more than 20%. PKF Francis Clark is located at 90 Victoria Street in that city, an office building comprising 24,377 sq. ft. of high-quality office accommodation across four storeys. Small Power energy use Up to 40% of total electricity usage in most commercial office buildings can be attributed to this type measurable.energy’s solution eliminates ‘Small Power’ waste, which is energy not required by devices that are plugged in or directly wired; such as printers, AV equipment, chilled and hot water taps, monitors, and heaters, and which are often left fully on or in standby mode overnight. Up to 40% of total electricity usage in most commercial office buildings can be attributed to this type of ‘Small Power’ energy use. Edward Rowlandson, Group Managing Director, the RO, said: "We are very pleased to have installed measurable.energy’s technology in our flagship Bristol property for a key tenant, PKF Francis Clark. We acquired 90 Victoria Street in Bristol in April 2023, and ROCP’s investment into Reading-based measurable.energy was also made early in 2023." PKF Francis Clark’s values Rowlandson added: “That investment was driven by the need to reduce energy, and we are delighted that PKF Francis Clark’s values align with our own, and that of measurable.energy. We look forward to seeing their simple solution for office occupiers who are under pressure to take action, cut energy costs, and reduce emissions installed in more properties around the country, as the business looks to scale.” CEO and Co-Founder of measurable.energy, Dan Williams said: “My electricity-saving message to companies is to not be fooled by the small size of certain devices. A very high percentage of an office occupier’s electricity bill hides in the shadows, among small gadgets and forgotten chargers." Power usage patterns Williams added:"This silent power drain adds up faster than tenants think, and without ever realizing it. Powered by machine learning, our plug sockets will automatically identify and eliminate ‘Small Power’ waste for PKF Francis Clark, turning every appliance in their Bristol office into a cost-saving superhero.” Jim Solomon, Regional Facilities Manager at PKF Francis Clark concluded: “Since deploying measurable. energy's AI-powered sockets, we have not only reduced our office's energy consumption of the devices using the sockets by 38%, but have also gained invaluable insights into our power usage patterns. This technology has been instrumental in our efforts to operate more sustainably and efficiently.”

The project aims to increase the resilience of the city's transmission network, reducing dependence on energy supply from other locations, and meeting demand during the peak tourism season. WEG has just announced the supply of a complete energy storage system (BESS) for the city of Aspen, located in the state of Colorado, USA. The project aims to enhance the resilience of the local power grid, which does not have its own power generation system and is entirely dependent on generation from other cities. Microgrid management software The solution provided by WEG includes transformers, AC/DC voltage converters, battery containers, switching and protection systems, as well as advanced microgeneration or microgrid management software. The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy, with the potential to expand to up to 8 MWh when fully implemented. The management software is being developed by teams of specialists in the United States and Brazil, where WEG’s largest software development technical team is based. Implementation of the BESS system This project is yet another in the portfolio of BESS systems in the United States, where WEG has a group of engineers dedicated to this product in the cities of Duluth, GA, and Barre, VT. According to Carlos Bastos Grillo, Managing Director of Digital and Systems at WEG, the implementation of the BESS system will not only reduce dependency on external energy sources, but also increase the city's resilience against power supply interruptions during the peak season and dry periods, when wildfires occur more frequently in the region. Facing similar challenges "The guarantee of a stable power supply is vital for the sustainability of local tourism, which is the backbone of Aspen's economy. We believe that this project will not only benefit residents and visitors, but also serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges," assures the Executive. The BESS system is scheduled to be completed by September 2024, preparing Aspen for the high ski season that starts in November. Timely completion will ensure that the city does not suffer from power shortages during one of the most critical periods for local tourism.

Jenkins sold a Jenkins Motor Test System to Oman, where temperatures can exceed 120ºF. While Jenkins Motor Test Systems are built tough and for industrial environments, this specific location required customizations to be the most effective in an extremely hot environment. Locations near large bodies of water or tropical environments can also cause problems as the humidity in the air will cause the copper wiring in the transformer to oxidize over time. Although Jenkins designs its equipment to operate for long periods, some applications for customer environments require specific customization. The Solution  Jenkins engineers and winders worked together to develop a custom solution for this harsh climate, particularly paying close attention to temperature and water resistance. To customize the transformer for this environment, the Jenkins team made the following modifications: Doubling the spacing between winding layers to increase airflow. Encasing the transformer first in a high tolerance epoxy varnish, and then in a polyester over-dip that prevents the application from rust, dust, and harmful materials. Utilizing expanded metal at the base of the MTS enclosure, allows heat to escape, reducing the internal temperature. Installing temperature-sensitive cooling fans (set to 100ºF) atop the enclosure to prevent overheating. The Results  Jenkins technicians checked insulation for 10,000 volts (resistance to ground), checked each voltage leg, and high voltage potential to ground, and ensured the taps were in the correct place. Voltage was confirmed to operate up to 20% above normal operation, ensuring maximum efficiency and longevity of the transformer. These modifications have resulted in prolonged use of the Jenkins Motor Test System in harsh environments and ultimately customer satisfaction.

As part of a long-term modernization project at the Baltimore Washington International (BWI) Airport, Helios Electric was retained to perform design-assist, system integration, and on-site field engineering services.  The project involved replacing an existing 7.5/10.5 MVA outdoor substation transformer and performing retrofit services at the corresponding medium-voltage switchgear lineups. The project also included enhancements to the electrical system protection since power reliability was deemed vital for airport operations. SEL-787 transformer protection relay A new SEL-787 transformer protection relay was installed to perform advanced transformer monitoring, controls, and system protection. New pilot control devices were installed on the corresponding switchgear lineups to indicate transformer faults, alarms, and mechanical conditions. Vacuum circuit breakers at the existing switchgear lineups were retained and modified to establish connectivity with the new substation transformer and the new transformer protection relay. transformer protection functions This installation approach yielded improved protection for the new transformer while limiting the scope, budget, duration, and power outages required to accomplish the necessary tasks. The improved transformer protection functions included the following: ANSI-87 – Current Differential Protection ANSI-87G – Restricted Earth Fault Protection ANSI-50/51 – Phase Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-50/51G – Ground Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-63 – Transformer Sudden Pressure ANSI-71 – Transformer Low Oil Level ANSI-49 – Transformer High Winding Temperature ANSI-26 – Transformer High Oil Temperature AC/DC control modifications To fulfill the customer’s desired requirements, the Helios Electric team investigated the internal circuitry of the switchgear lineups and ascertained the specific AC/DC control modifications required at the existing. Work performed under this project included the following: Examining and analyzing the components and sub-components of the existing switchgear lineups. Tracing the existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breakers to determine the existing field configuration. Developing modified equipment shop drawings for approval, construction, and as-built conditions. Programming and configuration of SEL-787 Transformer Protection Relay to establish system protection, controls, and integration with the facility’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System. Installing and modifying existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breaker controls to accommodate the new substation transformer and transformer protection relay. Developing Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals for modified electrical equipment lineups. On-site electrical equipment training for airport maintenance personnel.

SoFi Stadium, a world-class venue, turned to industry major - Belden for a complete end-to-end cabling and connectivity solution. Belden’s cutting-edge technology supports the stadium’s data-heavy demands, including the one-of-a-kind, roof-suspended Oculus video board, Wi-Fi infrastructure, digital ticketing, and a DAS system. Belden’s solutions for SoFi Stadium When the stadium’s owners required a solution that delivered top-tier quality, performance, and reliability while reducing labor costs, they called Belden. Count on Arrow to deliver unparalleled excellence in the low-voltage industry. Arrow will equip with the competitive advantage needed for any customer, any configuration, and any budget. Copper Cables & Copper Solutions Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Many cables featured their signature patented Bonded-Pair design, guaranteeing unparalleled signal integrity. Plus, with DataTuff® Industrial category cables, rest assured the system remains resilient against the toughest environmental conditions. Category 6A Choose from an assortment of configurations including small diameter, snake, industrial, non-bonded, and their innovative patented Bonded-Pair technology. Elevating performance benchmarks, Belden's renowned 10GXS Cable stands as the gold standard in the industry. Category 6 Belden has a wide array of Category 6 performance options, featuring their top-of-the-line REVConnect 3600 System cable boasting premium performance and ample headroom. The REVConnect 2400 System cable, surpasses TIA-568-C.2 standards, all backed by Belden’s renowned quality. Category 5e Belden presents a range of Category 5e performance options, with their flagship 1200 Series cable delivering exceptional headroom, surpassing the TIA-568-C.2 Category 5e standard. Featuring Bonded-Pair technology, their 1200 Series ensures unparalleled robustness in installations. Patch Panel Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations Belden offers a comprehensive range of copper patch panels tailored to meet the demands of both commercial and industrial settings. Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations or pre-loaded with high-quality copper jacks designed for Category 6A, 6, and 5E network installations. Trunk Cable Optimized for data centers, enterprise networks, and any environment prioritizing swift installation, Trunk Cable Assemblies offer factory termination and rigorous testing, slashing installation time by up to 90%. Eliminating the need for termination, these assemblies come in diverse lengths, equipped with connectors tailored to specific application requirements. Patch Cord Enhancing both performance and physical durability, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords ensure optimal transmission quality for network channels. With superb return loss characteristics adaptable to any environment, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords come in modular, small-diameter, and traceable solutions to meet specific needs. Fiber Cable & Fiber Solutions Discover an array of high-quality indoor and outdoor cable solutions within Belden’s comprehensive product line, featuring both tight buffer and loose tube designs. Tailored for diverse industrial settings, their offerings include armored, burial, and ruggedized options. Crafted to meet various specifications, their product range encompasses OM1, OM3, OM4, OM5, and OS2 (Single Mode) configurations. Tight Buffer Fiber Cables Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments, these cables stand out as a crowd favorite, ideal for intra-building backbones and both horizontal and vertical installations.  Offering versatility like no other, they come in fiber counts ranging from two to an impressive 144, making them adaptable to any project scale. Whether indoors or outdoors, these cables are engineered to exceed expectations, boasting a design that ensures seamless performance in any environment. Loose Tube Cables Belden’s Loose Tube Cables offer the ultimate solution for all outdoor and indoor/outdoor fiber optic needs. Whether it’s for OSP, conduit, direct burial, aerial, or trunking applications, Belden’s cables offer unmatched versatility and performance. Choose from a variety of options including dry or gel-filled single and double-jacket designs, with plenum and riser ratings. Armored Cables Belden’s armored cables are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage. The armor layer provides an extra level of protection against mechanical stresses, such as crushing, impact, and abrasion, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the cable. It also helps to maintain cable integrity in areas prone to disturbances such as rodent activity. Connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate fusion splicing with field-installable connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate the advantages of fusion splicing with the ease of field-installable connectors, they greatly enhance flexibility for field termination, while elevating installation performance and reliability beyond traditional mechanical splice connectors.  Eliminating the need for crimping, polishing, or adhesives during termination significantly reduces installation errors. Cassettes Belden offers an advanced DCX and LAN Cassettes platform designed to cater to a wide spectrum of density requirements, ranging from low to ultra-high density applications. Cassettes platform encompasses frames, cassettes, and covers for a comprehensive array of connector types, including LC, SC, ST, and MPO connectors, as well as Copper RJ45 Jacks and Couplers. Patch Cords Simplified, durable, adaptable, and readily accessible. Unmatched quality and performance define Belden's FX patch cords, engineered with a robust design to endure daily wear and tear. Available in standard configurations off the shelf or swiftly customized for tailored installations, they ensure reliability in any setting. 

Siemens has developed a digital twin especially for large event spaces. The technology makes it possible to realistically reproduce and simulate very precisely a building’s acoustics and structure. The Sound of Science application will be used for the first time in the Großes Festspielhaus – the Large Festival Hall – at the Salzburg Festival. Sound of Science application Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance Sound of Science will enable event organizers to virtually explore how acoustics change in different spatial configurations – for example, how adding acoustic panels affects the listening experience – in order to select the optimal acoustic scenario. Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance – before a single note is heard in the real world. This approach saves money, resources and time. Siemens to use digital twins “With Sound of Science, we’re designing the future. Digital twins are not only transforming the everyday for many companies, but are also creating new opportunities for the cultural and creative industries,” said Prof. Dr. Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program. Dr. Stephan Frucht adds, “In the future, we’ll be able to plan stage productions better and even simulate them acoustically in advance. We’re delighted to have the Salzburg Festival at our side as a long-standing partner, who recognizes the opportunities such innovations offer.” Sound of Science app for select partners Siemens will make the Sound of Science app available to selected partners from the cultural world free of charge as a demonstration application. There are currently no plans to market the application. Its simulation solutions, however, may be purchased. The Salzburg Festival’s Großes Festspielhaus is the first and only large event space to date in which Sound of Science is available. However, Siemens is planning to digitally simulate further spaces – including concert halls in Germany and England. At the Salzburg Festival, audiences will have an opportunity – unique for the time being – to use VR glasses to experience the application at the festival’s opening on July 20. Siemens and the Salzburg Festival “Siemens and the Salzburg Festival share a common passion for excellence and innovation. And we’re delighted to partake in this pioneering technological development and innovation as part of our long-standing close and trust-based partnership,” said Dr. Kristina Hammer, President of the Salzburg Festival. Dr. Kristina Hammer adds, “We’re excited to see what diverse applications will stem from Sound of Science in the future.” Siemens Simcenter’s simulation solutions The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter, which has been part of the company’s core business for over 15 years. The technology is mostly used in industry – for example, for the acoustic optimization of vehicle interiors or for protection against street noise. For Sound of Science, Simcenter uses a combination of impulse response measurements and ray tracing for the 3D modeling of each event space. These methods can measure the echo and reverberation of a sound and simulate how sound waves propagate in a room. Depending on the material, reflections of sound waves behave differently. Those that bounce off a concrete wall react differently from those that hit a carpet or reach the ear directly. As a result, the simulation can reproduce the individual sound signature of each event space – in other words, its acoustic DNA. Siemens Festival Nights Siemens has been working closely with the Salzburg Festival for around 30 years. Since 1999, the company has also been the festival’s main sponsor. Since 2002, the Siemens Festival Nights have been held on Kapitelplatz square during the Salzburg Festival. Since its beginning, this open-air event has provided more than one million visitors with the opportunity to experience previous and current festival productions on an LED screen free of charge. In addition, some of the Salzburg Festival’s venues are equipped with Siemens technology from the areas of building automation, security and acoustics.