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Month: October 2021

Battery maker Sunlight records 68% growth

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Sunlight, a member of the international investment Olympia Group, has published strong financial results for H1 2021 with an 180% increase in EBITDA and 68% increase in turnover, compared to H1 2020. Recording yet another robust financial performance, the company continues implementing its diverse investment plan in facilities, infrastructure, expansion, R&D and human resources. Simultaneously, Sunlight continues maximising production capacity for lead-acid and lithium-ion energy storage systems, as well as developing, producing, and launching new products.

Turnover for Sunlight in H1 2021 amounted to €126m compared to €75m during the same period last year, i.e. a 68% increase. This is attributed to the dynamic repositioning of #in the global market and the addition of new customers, as well as the trust in the company firmly exhibited by the existing customers. Combined with the swift recovery of the market, the company was well-prepared to develop more rapidly than its competitors.

Despite the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant drawbacks to the sector due to certain shortages – for example in semiconductors, used in industrial vehicles and lithium batteries – Sunlight’s positive H1 2021 performance is a testament to its resilience and agility to respond to both challenges and emerging opportunities.

Sunlight also announced that its adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation) for H1 2021 amounted to €13.1m, compared to €4.7m recorded in H1 2020. The impressive 180% surge is due to an increase in sales and reduction of production cost – especially in the motive batteries range – the addition of new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) customers, and the expansion of the company’s product portfolio.

Two new and innovative products were launched in H1 2021: the semi-traction lithium-ion battery, ElectroLife, and the Battery Management System for lead-acid energy storage systems, KnoWi.

Commenting on the release of the H1 2021 financial results, Sunlight CEO, Lampros Bisalas, noted: “I’m very proud of Sunlight’s strong first half performance. The results show that we’re effectively monitoring and addressing an unprecedented situation, such as the one defined by the pandemic. We accurately identify and navigate risks via robust business planning and efficient mitigation actions. We overcome challenges and create opportunities to complete our transformation into a fast-paced and rapidly growing technology company that specialises in integrated and innovative energy storage solutions and contributes to a more sustainable future.

“The market is facing strong pressure due to the increased prices of raw material and this is anticipated to affect the wider supply chain for at least the next 12 months. Despite the uncertainty, we feel confident that we shall maintain our positive financial performance for the entire year, and that we have the foundation to perform even better in the years to come.”

To further increase production and, consequently, growth, Sunlight is implementing a strategic and diverse investment plan to expand the capacity of both lead-acid and lithium-ion energy storage products. This includes the upgrade of the company’s units in Greece (Xanthi and Komotini), Italy (Verona) and USA (North Carolina), with the installation of infrastructure, state-of-the-art machinery, and automated assembly lines. This 5-year business plan entails a total investment of €560m.

Investments are also ongoing in human capital. On 30th June, 2021, Sunlight and its subsidiaries collectively employed 1,206 personnel, i.e., 229 people or 23.4% more than H1 2020. Just the R&D (Research & Development) department has been staffed with 70+ highly skilled researchers and scientists, while the company is dedicated to attracting the most talented professionals available – from both Greece and abroad. And in doing so, maintain and increase its contribution to social security and taxes, which marked a significant 21% rise between H1 2020 and H1 2021.

Sunlight continues its transformation to a technology-agnostic company making the most of Industry 4.0 principles – including use of Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning Tools. The company also continues upgrading and digitising its production process. And it continues offering better flexibility, functionality and performance in the development, manufacturing and distribution of lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries for industrial and consumer applications.

Battery maker Sunlight records 68% growth

Posted on by David Priestman

Sunlight, a member of the international investment Olympia Group, has published strong financial results for H1 2021 with an 180% increase in EBITDA and 68% increase in turnover, compared to H1 2020. Recording yet another robust financial performance, the company continues implementing its diverse investment plan in facilities, infrastructure, expansion, R&D and human resources. Simultaneously, Sunlight continues maximising production capacity for lead-acid and lithium-ion energy storage systems, as well as developing, producing, and launching new products.

Turnover for Sunlight in H1 2021 amounted to €126m compared to €75m during the same period last year, i.e. a 68% increase. This is attributed to the dynamic repositioning of #in the global market and the addition of new customers, as well as the trust in the company firmly exhibited by the existing customers. Combined with the swift recovery of the market, the company was well-prepared to develop more rapidly than its competitors.

Despite the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant drawbacks to the sector due to certain shortages – for example in semiconductors, used in industrial vehicles and lithium batteries – Sunlight’s positive H1 2021 performance is a testament to its resilience and agility to respond to both challenges and emerging opportunities.

Sunlight also announced that its adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation) for H1 2021 amounted to €13.1m, compared to €4.7m recorded in H1 2020. The impressive 180% surge is due to an increase in sales and reduction of production cost – especially in the motive batteries range – the addition of new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) customers, and the expansion of the company’s product portfolio.

Two new and innovative products were launched in H1 2021: the semi-traction lithium-ion battery, ElectroLife, and the Battery Management System for lead-acid energy storage systems, KnoWi.

Commenting on the release of the H1 2021 financial results, Sunlight CEO, Lampros Bisalas, noted: “I’m very proud of Sunlight’s strong first half performance. The results show that we’re effectively monitoring and addressing an unprecedented situation, such as the one defined by the pandemic. We accurately identify and navigate risks via robust business planning and efficient mitigation actions. We overcome challenges and create opportunities to complete our transformation into a fast-paced and rapidly growing technology company that specialises in integrated and innovative energy storage solutions and contributes to a more sustainable future.

“The market is facing strong pressure due to the increased prices of raw material and this is anticipated to affect the wider supply chain for at least the next 12 months. Despite the uncertainty, we feel confident that we shall maintain our positive financial performance for the entire year, and that we have the foundation to perform even better in the years to come.”

To further increase production and, consequently, growth, Sunlight is implementing a strategic and diverse investment plan to expand the capacity of both lead-acid and lithium-ion energy storage products. This includes the upgrade of the company’s units in Greece (Xanthi and Komotini), Italy (Verona) and USA (North Carolina), with the installation of infrastructure, state-of-the-art machinery, and automated assembly lines. This 5-year business plan entails a total investment of €560m.

Investments are also ongoing in human capital. On 30th June, 2021, Sunlight and its subsidiaries collectively employed 1,206 personnel, i.e., 229 people or 23.4% more than H1 2020. Just the R&D (Research & Development) department has been staffed with 70+ highly skilled researchers and scientists, while the company is dedicated to attracting the most talented professionals available – from both Greece and abroad. And in doing so, maintain and increase its contribution to social security and taxes, which marked a significant 21% rise between H1 2020 and H1 2021.

Sunlight continues its transformation to a technology-agnostic company making the most of Industry 4.0 principles – including use of Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning Tools. The company also continues upgrading and digitising its production process. And it continues offering better flexibility, functionality and performance in the development, manufacturing and distribution of lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries for industrial and consumer applications.

Hungary strengthens potential as intermodal hub

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Hungary is strengthening its potential as an intermodal transit hub by investing in the country’s railways. In this article, Botond Kovacs-Mate (pictured), Branch & Country Manager in Hungary AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG, analyses the ramifications of Hungary’s current infrastructure projects for trade between China and Europe.

Trade relations between Hungary and China have been strengthening year by year. Currently, the Middle Kingdom is Hungary’s largest trading partner outside the EU. In turn, Hungary, after Poland and the Czech Republic, is China’s third largest trade partner in Central and Eastern Europe. In terms of volume, Hungary’s primary exports to China are plastic products, machine products, and wood. Hungarian imports from China are mainly machine goods and chemical products.

For now, the vast majority of trains from China to Hungary cross the EU border at the Polish town of Małaszewicze near the border with Belarus. It is the world’s largest rail dry port where goods to be reloaded from broad-gauge trains to standard-gauge ones. The facility’s capacity is limited, however, and investments in infrastructure are becoming increasingly essential. A central logistic terminal must be built to improve transport flows to and from Poland’s northern ports and logistic terminals, and railway line improvement must be accelerated.

These investments will be considerable but insufficient, and supply chain participants are actively seeking alternatives. By investing significant funds in rail infrastructure, Hungary aims to service more rail traffic from China and overtake Poland as the key European logistics hub for Asian cargo.

In this race for a “trade monopoly” in Asian rail traffic, one of Hungary’s first investments was the modernisation of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line. This investment began in 2013 and was financed largely by a Chinese loan. Despite general delays, the project is expected to be completed by 2025. The main goal of the venture is to shorten shipping time by providing direct access to Central and Eastern Europe from the Greek Port of Piraeus.

Meanwhile, due to rapidly growing cargo volumes in 2020 and insufficient capacity on existing transport corridors, international businesses have been looking for alternative routes via, for example, Ukraine. At the beginning of January 2021, Hungary began constructing the East-West Gate container terminal in Fenyeslitke, 20km from the Ukrainian border.

Progress has been fast, and in May a standard-gauge railway line was commissioned to connect the Fényeslitke railway station with the new terminal. The facility will enable the reloading of containers from wide-gauge to standard-gauge lines. The target reloading capacity of the new terminal is to amount to 1 million TEU per year.

AsstrA Hungary, working closely with the corporate group’s well developed network of offices in other countries, constantly seeks to provide customers with solutions meeting their unique requirements and tailored to current market conditions wherever they do business.

Hungary strengthens potential as intermodal hub

Posted on by David Priestman

Hungary is strengthening its potential as an intermodal transit hub by investing in the country’s railways. In this article, Botond Kovacs-Mate (pictured), Branch & Country Manager in Hungary AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG, analyses the ramifications of Hungary’s current infrastructure projects for trade between China and Europe.

Trade relations between Hungary and China have been strengthening year by year. Currently, the Middle Kingdom is Hungary’s largest trading partner outside the EU. In turn, Hungary, after Poland and the Czech Republic, is China’s third largest trade partner in Central and Eastern Europe. In terms of volume, Hungary’s primary exports to China are plastic products, machine products, and wood. Hungarian imports from China are mainly machine goods and chemical products.

For now, the vast majority of trains from China to Hungary cross the EU border at the Polish town of Małaszewicze near the border with Belarus. It is the world’s largest rail dry port where goods to be reloaded from broad-gauge trains to standard-gauge ones. The facility’s capacity is limited, however, and investments in infrastructure are becoming increasingly essential. A central logistic terminal must be built to improve transport flows to and from Poland’s northern ports and logistic terminals, and railway line improvement must be accelerated.

These investments will be considerable but insufficient, and supply chain participants are actively seeking alternatives. By investing significant funds in rail infrastructure, Hungary aims to service more rail traffic from China and overtake Poland as the key European logistics hub for Asian cargo.

In this race for a “trade monopoly” in Asian rail traffic, one of Hungary’s first investments was the modernisation of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line. This investment began in 2013 and was financed largely by a Chinese loan. Despite general delays, the project is expected to be completed by 2025. The main goal of the venture is to shorten shipping time by providing direct access to Central and Eastern Europe from the Greek Port of Piraeus.

Meanwhile, due to rapidly growing cargo volumes in 2020 and insufficient capacity on existing transport corridors, international businesses have been looking for alternative routes via, for example, Ukraine. At the beginning of January 2021, Hungary began constructing the East-West Gate container terminal in Fenyeslitke, 20km from the Ukrainian border.

Progress has been fast, and in May a standard-gauge railway line was commissioned to connect the Fényeslitke railway station with the new terminal. The facility will enable the reloading of containers from wide-gauge to standard-gauge lines. The target reloading capacity of the new terminal is to amount to 1 million TEU per year.

AsstrA Hungary, working closely with the corporate group’s well developed network of offices in other countries, constantly seeks to provide customers with solutions meeting their unique requirements and tailored to current market conditions wherever they do business.

Aicobotix demos QiCHECK-2 at WOF Expo

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Slovakian start-up Aicobotix launched an upgraded version of its QiCHECK Solutions recognition system at the recent WOF Expo in Bratislava. QiCHECK-2 uses a camera for object recognition and the entire system learns on the spot based on the recognition of good samples.

In this way, the conformity of the product, assembly, type and quality can be checked by accurate comparison with good samples. If an incorrect sample is detected, the operator is informed immediately.

The camera sees the scene, recognises it then evaluates the category in which it is to be placed. The whole learning process is quick and can be handled by a normal operator, which is a good feature when production changes.

All recognition results are also available online via a standard web browser. Deployment does not require significant intervention in the existing line and the production data is processed in an easy-to-understand format. In addition, the entire solution can also be rented and its features tested.

At the WOF EXPO 2021, Aicobotix demonstrated stock recognition using QiCHECK-2 in this way. It recognised the categories ‘empty place’, ‘pallet in the right place’ and ‘pallet with sweets’. The categories were recognised by a camera placed above the test area and the system quickly interpreted the visual image of the virtual warehouse.

Here again, the company demonstrated how quickly QiCHECK-2 could learn what was good housekeeping when changing the desired behaviour.

The camera as a smart sensor represents a visual system with an extremely fast implementation. In doing so, the camera sensor identifies changes in the scene with the support of machine learning. The entire system is suitable for plants with conveyors and can inspect multiple parts at once. It only needs a moment to evaluate and no special knowledge is required to learn it on-site at the production site.

WATCH THIS VIDEO to learn more.

 

Aicobotix demos QiCHECK-2 at WOF Expo

Posted on by David Priestman

Slovakian start-up Aicobotix launched an upgraded version of its QiCHECK Solutions recognition system at the recent WOF Expo in Bratislava. QiCHECK-2 uses a camera for object recognition and the entire system learns on the spot based on the recognition of good samples.

In this way, the conformity of the product, assembly, type and quality can be checked by accurate comparison with good samples. If an incorrect sample is detected, the operator is informed immediately.

The camera sees the scene, recognises it then evaluates the category in which it is to be placed. The whole learning process is quick and can be handled by a normal operator, which is a good feature when production changes.

All recognition results are also available online via a standard web browser. Deployment does not require significant intervention in the existing line and the production data is processed in an easy-to-understand format. In addition, the entire solution can also be rented and its features tested.

At the WOF EXPO 2021, Aicobotix demonstrated stock recognition using QiCHECK-2 in this way. It recognised the categories ‘empty place’, ‘pallet in the right place’ and ‘pallet with sweets’. The categories were recognised by a camera placed above the test area and the system quickly interpreted the visual image of the virtual warehouse.

Here again, the company demonstrated how quickly QiCHECK-2 could learn what was good housekeeping when changing the desired behaviour.

The camera as a smart sensor represents a visual system with an extremely fast implementation. In doing so, the camera sensor identifies changes in the scene with the support of machine learning. The entire system is suitable for plants with conveyors and can inspect multiple parts at once. It only needs a moment to evaluate and no special knowledge is required to learn it on-site at the production site.

WATCH THIS VIDEO to learn more.

 

Nord presents innovative drive technology at FMB 2021

Posted on by David Priestman

From 10th to 12th November 2021, the FMB trade fair once again brings together machine manufacturers and their suppliers. Nord Drivesystems will be on site as an exhibitor (booth 20-D2.2) in Bad Salzuflen (North Rhine-Westphalia) presenting the innovative DuoDrive geared motor, the energy-efficient IE5+ synchronous motor, the new decentralised NORDAC ON frequency inverter as well as the NORDAC PRO SK 500P control cabinet inverter.

The new DuoDrive: Gear unit and motor combined

The patent-pending DuoDrive is a groundbreaking innovation: The innovative geared motor integrates the high-efficiency IE5+ synchronous motor into a single-stage helical gear unit housing and sets new standards with regard to performance, installation space and version reduction.

Thanks to its optimised system efficiency, high power density, compact housing dimension and very low noise emissions, it is a real game-changer. Elimination of many wearing parts results in lower maintenance. In combination with the simple commissioning of the complete solution via plug-and-play, this results in a significant decrease of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to existing drive systems.

The IE5+ motor generation sets standards

Considerably lower losses than the IE4 series: The energy-efficient IE5+ permanent magnet synchronous motors achieve their high efficiency that, at times, is significantly above efficiency class IE5 via a wide torque range – and is optimally suitable for operation in the partial load range. The new IE5+ motors are equally interesting for both intralogistics and hygiene-sensitive areas in food and pharmaceutical industries.

The new motor is available in ventilated or smooth versions up to a power of 4.0 kW. The IE5+ synchronous motors can be combined with all gear units and drive electronics from Nord Drivesystems in a modular system. If required, they are provided with a very smooth surface or the nsd tupH surface treatment.

Smart frequency inverter for IIoT applications

Another new product is the decentralised NORDACON frequency inverter. It is characterised by an integrated Ethernet interface, full pluggability as well as a very compact design while providing an economic plug-and-play solution for IIoT environments.

The frequency inverter can be mounted directly on the drive housing and covers lower power ranges of up to 1.0kW. NORDAC ON was designed for use with asynchronous motors, whereas NORDAC ON+ is intended to be combined with synchronous motors, and supplements the NORD high-efficiency portfolio around the new IE5+ motor generation.

Optimum performance in the control cabinet

NORDAC PRO SK 500P frequency inverters are equipped with an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface, a multi-encoder interface for multiple axis operation and a USB interface for voltage-free parameterisation. The variety of interfaces and functions is characteristic: Various inverter versions can be optimally allocated to various application requirements.

Plug-in control, safety and option modules ensure maximum flexibility and the compact book-size design format enables space-saving installation in control cabinets. Perfect for every application.

 

Nord presents innovative drive technology at FMB 2021

Posted on by Keith McKinley

From 10th to 12th November 2021, the FMB trade fair once again brings together machine manufacturers and their suppliers. Nord Drivesystems will be on site as an exhibitor (booth 20-D2.2) in Bad Salzuflen (North Rhine-Westphalia) presenting the innovative DuoDrive geared motor, the energy-efficient IE5+ synchronous motor, the new decentralised NORDAC ON frequency inverter as well as the NORDAC PRO SK 500P control cabinet inverter.

The new DuoDrive: Gear unit and motor combined

The patent-pending DuoDrive is a groundbreaking innovation: The innovative geared motor integrates the high-efficiency IE5+ synchronous motor into a single-stage helical gear unit housing and sets new standards with regard to performance, installation space and version reduction.

Thanks to its optimised system efficiency, high power density, compact housing dimension and very low noise emissions, it is a real game-changer. Elimination of many wearing parts results in lower maintenance. In combination with the simple commissioning of the complete solution via plug-and-play, this results in a significant decrease of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to existing drive systems.

The IE5+ motor generation sets standards

Considerably lower losses than the IE4 series: The energy-efficient IE5+ permanent magnet synchronous motors achieve their high efficiency that, at times, is significantly above efficiency class IE5 via a wide torque range – and is optimally suitable for operation in the partial load range. The new IE5+ motors are equally interesting for both intralogistics and hygiene-sensitive areas in food and pharmaceutical industries.

The new motor is available in ventilated or smooth versions up to a power of 4.0 kW. The IE5+ synchronous motors can be combined with all gear units and drive electronics from Nord Drivesystems in a modular system. If required, they are provided with a very smooth surface or the nsd tupH surface treatment.

Smart frequency inverter for IIoT applications

Another new product is the decentralised NORDACON frequency inverter. It is characterised by an integrated Ethernet interface, full pluggability as well as a very compact design while providing an economic plug-and-play solution for IIoT environments.

The frequency inverter can be mounted directly on the drive housing and covers lower power ranges of up to 1.0kW. NORDAC ON was designed for use with asynchronous motors, whereas NORDAC ON+ is intended to be combined with synchronous motors, and supplements the NORD high-efficiency portfolio around the new IE5+ motor generation.

Optimum performance in the control cabinet

NORDAC PRO SK 500P frequency inverters are equipped with an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface, a multi-encoder interface for multiple axis operation and a USB interface for voltage-free parameterisation. The variety of interfaces and functions is characteristic: Various inverter versions can be optimally allocated to various application requirements.

Plug-in control, safety and option modules ensure maximum flexibility and the compact book-size design format enables space-saving installation in control cabinets. Perfect for every application.

 

High-speed mirror delivers exceptional single-camera scanning

Posted on by David Priestman

Cognex Corporation, a leader in industrial machine vision, has released the High Speed Steerable Mirror, a patented technology designed for use with the DataMan 470 barcode reader that supports large field-of-view applications with a single compact system.

The new steerable mirror attachment expands DataMan’s field-of-view both vertically and horizontally, giving 3MP and 5MP barcode readers an effective resolution greater than a 50MP sensor. Coupled with the latest in liquid lens technology, this system can both change field-of-view and depth of focus dynamically. A single DataMan system can now be used for pallet scanning, aggregation, and other large area applications that previously required high-resolution PC-vision or multiple fixed-mount sensors.

The steerable mirror arrives preassembled to the front of a DataMan 470. The unit is configured using a built-in web-based setup wizard, allowing operators to deploy an application in five minutes or less. The user simply enters their application specifications, and the wizard automatically calculates the optimal scanning pattern, ensuring the highest read rates in the shortest cycle times.

“The High Speed Steerable Mirror changes the game for large area applications that typically require a multi-reader solution,” said Matt Moschner, Cognex’s Sr. Director of ID Products. “Now, e-commerce and logistics companies can get up and running more quickly, and achieve the same high accuracy scanning results with lower maintenance costs.”

 

Transporeon partners with ZeKju for app-free communication

Posted on by David Priestman

Leading European digital freight platform Transporeon has completed its strategic investment into ZeKju. By joining forces, Transporeon and ZeKju will offer digital, yet app-free and GDPR-compliant communication to facilitate exchange between shippers, carriers and logistics service providers.

ZeKju leverages popular messenger apps such as Telegram, Viber and WhatsApp, thereby eliminating the need for drivers to install 10+ apps on their phone. With ZeKju, forwarders and carriers can close digital white spots and significantly reduce process costs. Key application areas of ZeKju include the digital transmission of transport information to drivers, communication of operational changes between involved parties and real-time proof-of-delivery (POD) collection.

In addition, logistics players profit from the GPS tracking capabilities provided by the tool. Especially carriers without proper telematics systems can now automatically communicate their position via the ZeKju application. For Transporeon, together with its real-time visibility solution Transporeon Sixfold, the integration of ZeKju completes the capabilities of the companies’ real-time network. With ZeKju, in-transit visibility becomes available for all transport.

Furthermore, ZeKju’s capabilities in combination with access to truck data make it possible to calculate key environmental indicators such as fuel consumption of a transport. This ability is key for companies that aim to reduce the carbon footprint of their transports but yet lack the data regarding the climate.

Transporeon CEO Stephan Sieber commented: “With ZeKju, we are offering our customers a further key solution in achieving a real-time enabled network. It is a huge step forward towards closing the telematic gap for forwarders and carriers as ZeKju also allows customers that are not connected to the telematics network to benefit from in-transport visibility. Fully compliant with GDPR and with the capability to deliver telematic data to calculate key environmental indicators, ZeKju can also make an important contribution for our customers to reach their sustainability goals.”

ZeKju CEO Hendrik Rosenboom added: “Transporeon is the ideal partner to make the benefits of our tool available to a broader number of logistics professionals. We are thrilled to work with such a strong partner and become an integral part of the functionalities offered by the Transporeon Network.”

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