Frost & Sullivan has recognized Bimba Manufacturing with the 2015 North American Frost & Sullivan Award for New Product Innovation for its IntelliSense predictive intelligence system for pneumatic devices. IntelliSense combines sensors, cylinders, and embedded software to gather data on the real-time performance of standard Bimba pneumatic devices.
The “intelligence” of IntelliSense lies within its sensor interface module (SIM), a remote monitoring device that alerts users on device operations. A pair of sensors connected by pneumatic fittings to a Bimba cylinder enables the device to accrue data on several variables, including the working condition of cylinders, stroke time, end-of-travel, temperature, and pressure. An optional IntelliSense Data Gateway gives users Internet access to performance data from as many as 12 different SIMs simultaneously.
“By constantly delivering feedback, Bimba’s IntelliSense helps diagnose the actuator system and aids in the proactive maintenance of equipment, making machines much smarter,” said Frost & Sullivan Arun Prasath.
Predictive prognostics, made possible by gleaning real-time data on the application’s performance condition, helps users determine when a cylinder or actuator could fail so they can make informed decisions regarding maintenance, instead of having to resort to guesswork. Combining data on predictive failure with other diagnostic information, such as the state of the actuators and the estimated number of days before a likely breakdown, is another value of IntelliSense.
Bimba aims to enhance its products and service offerings through mergers and acquisitions. A case in point is its procurement of Pneumadyne, Inc., a manufacturer of pneumatic components and control systems. The strategic acquisition augmented Bimba’s product offerings while strengthening its position in the market.
Frost & Sullivan’s Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for outstanding achievement in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research.
Bimba Manufacturing
Filed Under: Pneumatic Tips