Data can be retrieved wirelessly from anywhere – alarm messages and secure documentation

Pharmaceuticals are sensitive products; their quality can be impaired, for instance as a result of incorrect storage temperatures or exposure to humidity. Therefore, in a professional pharmaceutical distribution chain, these environmental parameters must be monitored accurately and documented in a clear manner. Mini data loggers the size of a thumb provide indispensable support for this.

Correct storage of pharmaceuticals of all kinds is essential and guarantees that these products continue to be effective and retain the proper potency until the expiry date specified by the manufacturer. Strict regulations that are incorporated into the law of the Arzneimittel-Bewilligungsverordnung (AMBV – Ordinance on the Authorisation of Pharmaceuticals) issued by the Swiss Federal Council form the basis for the correct storage of pharmaceuticals and sample pharmaceuticals; they are known as GDP (Good Distribution Practice). Therefore, compliance with the GDP regulations is essential and indeed existential for pharmaceutical companies, as inaccuracies or even gross violations thereof may result in significant damage to the company’s image as well as financial loss.

Temperature and humidity: the quality parameters

As an international pharmaceutical manufacturer who is active in various fields of medicine, e.g. pain management and cancer treatment, Italy-based company sigma-tau Pharma AG is especially bound to the effective country-specific regulations. For instance, within the scope of its quality assurance activities, this company’s subsidiary in Switzerland sought a suitable technical concept to help optimally monitor the critical environmental parameters, “temperature” and “relative humidity”, in the distribution chain for pharmaceutical samples supplied to chemists and doctors, and to document them according to modern aspects. In practice, the sample packages to be distributed are stored in different locations, generally at room temperature – usually between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. However, on the one hand the temperature in the storage location must not fall below or rise above this temperature range, whilst on the other hand the humidity must remain at a reasonable level.

Measurement technology stores data in miniature format

Whilst in the past, electronic recording systems were used to monitor the ambient temperature and humidity, these are no longer compliant with the current requirements of sigma-tau, in particular as the employees working within the distribution chain are now equipped with iPad computers. For this reason, both modern, wireless transmission technology and practice-oriented recording software are required.

When looking for new, compact data recording devices equipped with modern sensor, measured data recording and transmission technology, sigma-tau came across the MSR145WD wireless data loggers of Seuzach-based MSR Electronics GmbH. These small data recording devices record the crucial, calibrated parameters “temperature” and “relative humidity” in freely adjustable scanning intervals, ranging from seconds to hours, and store this measured data in an internal semiconductor memory. The recording capacity of this memory is sufficient for monitoring taking place over several months (1 million recorded values). Furthermore, it is possible to record the air pressure, light intensity and acceleration/location, which is not required in the case of the sigma-tau Company. The mini logger, which is barely the size of a thumb, is powered by an internal battery that is charged automatically when configuring the logger via the USB connection and that is available with two different capacities, facilitating even long-term measurements over a number of months.

The temperature and humidity values can be read from the very bright display that has been integrated into the mini logger; however, the engineers of MSR have also integrated wireless electronic features into the small data recording devices, e.g. the “Bluetooth Low Energy” (BLE) wireless short-range radio data transmission. By now, this very low-energy wireless standard has also been integrated into smartphones and tablets of all kinds, therefore they are able to communicate with the small data logger via BLE and read out and display the measured values: Within a radius of approx. 10 m – the distance bridged by BLE radio technology – the temperature and humidity values of the storage location can be checked directly via a tablet or smartphone.

The cloud: monitoring data from anywhere

Yet, Wendelin Egli, CEO of MSR Electronics GmbH, reports even more possibilities of remote reading: “In addition to viewing the measured values on the logger display or at short range on a Bluetooth-enabled mobile device, the temperature and humidity data can also be monitored completely irrespective of the location. By using a BLE-enabled laptop in the vicinity of the logger, a special BLE receiver box, or a smartphone or tablet in the vicinity of the logger, all data can be stored in a protected cloud specifically created for this purpose by MSR via the Internet connection of the respective device. As soon as the data is available in the cloud, the person responsible for quality at sigma-tau will be able to obtain an overview of the storage conditions in every single warehouse. The applications arising from this “MSR SmartCloud” range even further: Limit values previously defined while configuring the logger on the PC, for instance for the temperature, can also trigger alarm messages via the cloud. If required, the measured values from several MSR145WD data loggers can be read out and even shared with a team.

Finally, the small data loggers permanently store all recorded measured values and in the specific case of medicine monitoring at sigma-tau, where ten of these “miniature measurement technology laboratories” are currently being used, they are read out on a monthly basis for documentation purposes and presented clearly by means of a specific software in a “monthly chart”. This way, the storage conditions are documented in a clear, unambiguous manner that is comprehensible by all persons responsible; furthermore, they are archived permanently. Of course, in case of doubt, potentially unsafe storage locations can also be identified this way – possibly through a kind of “test run” without real pharmaceuticals. In any case, continuous monitoring with the aid of these small high-tech data loggers safeguards the quality of the medicines permanently and ensures that it is documented it in a manner that will stand up in court.

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  Watch now: The TX1001 Transport Simulator from Talos Packaging Systems

Protect your goods during transportation!

MSR165 Data Logger to measure g-forces for Talos, packaging service provider

Written by Liam Formaniuk, Marketing Manager at Talos

With its TX1001 Transport Simulator, British company Talos enables its customers to find out how they can optimise transportation and packaging of its products and alleviate the negative impact of knocks and shocks. Talos uses the MSR165 shock and vibration data logger of MSR Electronics GmbH to measure the g-forces.

Talos Packaging Systems, with its head office in Leeds, UK, are a pioneering packaging service provider. The company works closely with international manufacturers of packaging machinery as well as leading polythene producers, enabling them to provide clients with comprehensive packaging solutions. Talos source, assemble and install shrink/stretch hood machinery, several types of conveyer systems and much more. They also offer logistical services, with an emphasis on improving packaging methods.

Their revolutionary TX1001 Transport Simulator lets companies simulate road conditions in-house, allowing them to explore how and why their product transportation can be improved. The MSR165 data logger of MSR Electronics GmbH, which is used to programme this machine, is an essential component of this simulation service. The data logger is capable of making 1600 acceleration measurements per second in all three axes. Shock monitoring is possible up to ±15 g or up to ±200 g, 32 measurement values are recorded even before the event takes place. The installed memory is capable of storing over 2 million measured values which is sufficient for more than 10 000 shocks. A microSD card (≥4GB) can be used to increase the capacity of the data logger to over 1 billion measurement values. The collection and analysis of recorded measured data is effected by help of the MSR PC software. All measurement parameters can be rapidly transferred from the logger to a PC via USB connection.

Mirror real-life road conditions

The MSR165 data logger has allowed Talos to measure the g-force felt during road travel and then replicate this force in order imitate how the pallet is impacted by these movements. The force measurements attained across the x, y and z axes provide Talos with invaluable data which is fed into the Transport Simulator, without these readings, it would not be possible to mirror real-life road conditions. Liam Formaniuk, Marketing Manager at Talos stated the following; “The product is unique and extremely useful, we could not provide this service without it. Once the relevant data has been collected, the interface during subsequent analysis is extremely user-friendly and allows us to make full use of our findings.”

 

Can we also help you with your measuring tasks? We would be pleased to advise you!

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• MSR165 Data Logger for shock and vibration
• Precise recording of dynamic mechanical stress: MSR165 Data Loggers assist with machine, workpiece and production optimisation
• Determining transportation stresses when shipping pallets or individual packages – user report by Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG
• Monitoring of various precision machines in transit
• MSR165 Data Loggers optimise transports for Trimos SA, manufacturer of precision measuring instruments
• The fast way to the right Data Logger

 

Recording measured data:

The following report was published in the September 2015 edition of the Elektronik, Sonderheft messen+testen (Electronics, measuring+testing special edition) magazine.

It goes without saying that quality assurance is one of the most important factors during the production of precision measuring instruments. What happens, though, once these highly sensitive devices leave the factory? Miniature data loggers can help assure the quality along the route of transport.

Trimos SA, which has been active in industrial metrology since 1972, manufactures a wide range of products in the field of dimensional metrology: height gauges, horizontal length measuring and calibrating equipment and non-contact surface measuring instruments. Trimos precision measuring instruments are, for example, used in machine building for measuring all kinds of parts. All instruments are developed and manufactured in the production halls in Renens near Lausanne. The company’s export rate is at a high 95 %; therefore, the company is anxious to organise the transport routes in a way that allows them not to worry about any damage to the devices. As a result of regular evaluations of customer service data and complaints, the company had already realised that in most cases, product complaints were not due to material or manufacturing defects but to damage caused during transport. This did not only result in customers becoming agitated, but in many cases it proved difficult for Trimos to hold the responsible carrier liable for the damage. Therefore, in order to maintain customer satisfaction, Trimos usually bore the cost for repairs itself instead of passing them on to the person responsible. The consequences for Trimos were complex: high costs, as well as a loss of time and a tarnished image.

Data Loggers for objective recording of measured values

Therefore, the aim was to uncover the causes of the damage and to optimise the processes. In order to be able to assess the transportation stresses in more detail in the future, Trimos decided to carry out trial deliveries using data loggers. The Lausanne-based company selected the MSR165 mini data loggers of MSR Electronics GmbH for this purpose. The sensitive 200 g sensor registers accelerations, which arise when the logger is in motion, in all three axes: forward/backward (x), right/left (y), up/down (z). As the data logger also measures the gravitation, the actual position can be determined as well. By determining the position and the acceleration forces, the data analysis can be used to identify which stresses the cargo was exposed to. In order to also record the temperature profiles, the MSR165 transport data logger was additionally equipped with a temperature sensor for use at Trimos.

What happens to the cargo when, where, how often and to what extent?

The MSR165 documents every change, be it ever so small, recording the exact time of occurrence. On the basis of a detailed study it was established what exactly happens during the transports and which adjustments – with respect to the packaging, the route and the means of transport – will be necessary in the future.

By means of the MSR PC software affiliated with the logger, the desired settings for the data recording are selected. The recording can be started via the program or using the button on the data logger. The latter proved convenient during the tests as this way, the recording can be started at any time and there is no need to pay attention to shocks during the installation. An initial test series aimed at testing the properties of the packaging. These tests consisted of dropping a packaged, highly sensitive height gauge under different conditions (height, position of the point of impact etc.) in order to simulate the events taking place during the transport. The tests revealed the weaknesses of the packaging, enabling Trimos to implement improvements. Once the internal tests had been successfully concluded, the test phase was launched under real conditions. The MSR165 data logger was attached directly to a Trimos device during the packaging process shortly before shipment. Subsequently the cargo, including the loggers, was sent to a number of critical places of delivery in order to evaluate the shocks and differences in temperature incurred during the transport. On average, the data logger remained on the cargo for 10 days between leaving the factory and arriving at the destination. As the chart of a typical transport procedure shows, the highest stresses occurred on the y-axis and the differences in temperature were distinctive.

The evaluation of this measured data showed that the most severe shocks occur while handling the cargo and during the final transport. However, the optimised packaging had shown the properties required in order to protect the device against shocks in the most critical direction (y). Measures for optimising the selection of the local carriers were taken. By using the MSR165, the values concerning the optimised packaging of the new Trimos height gauge family were efficiently measured and analysed. Numerous doubts with respect to its ability to absorb shocks during transport were removed this way.

Therefore, data loggers are able to support the quality assurance to the effect that, with their objective measured values, they provide clear facts instead of allowing vague speculations to prevail. The documentation of events causing damage not only ensures that the causes of the damage are identified quickly and the costs can be passed on, but the early detection of damage is also a prerequisite for meeting time-critical delivery deadlines and preventing a tarnished image. Not least, the data loggers deliver valuable measured data for optimising packaging, as well as means and routes of transport.

Can we also help you with your measuring tasks? We would be pleased to advise you!

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• MSR165 Data Logger for shock and vibration
• Collecting data for secure transportation
• Monitoring of various precision machines in transit – MSR165 Data Logger in use
• Precise recording of dynamic mechanical stress: MSR165 Data Loggers assist with machine, workpiece and production optimisation
• Determining transportation stresses when shipping pallets or individual packages – user report by Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG
• The fast way to the right Data Logger

 

MSR165 Data Loggers as ideal Diagnostic Tools

The ambient conditions during the manufacture of concrete elements for the construction industry are harsh. The vibrating tables, which are often used in the process, were supposed to be monitored by means of special miniature data loggers with respect to their vibration parameters, in order to ensure an optimal product quality of the concrete elements.

Where are miniature data loggers used?

In a concrete element production line, vibrating tables have the task of compacting the concrete that has been cast in the formwork or moulds, by means of mechanical vibrations, thus ensuring that it is of a high quality and homogeneous in its inner structure. When filling the formwork, it is possible that the base material is distributed unevenly; therefore, it is necessary to ensure that air or excess liquid can escape from the concrete during the subsequent vibration process. In the case of free-standing containers, a tapping effect intensifies this process.

By changing the displacement or the vibration frequency during operation, the vibration characteristic is infinitely adjustable and can be adapted to the required conditions. Depending on the consistency and curing time of the concrete, it may be necessary to initiate the vibrations during filling or after the casting process has been completed. If such a vibrating table, which is powered by means of a motor and an eccentric disc, does not work one hundred percent, the manufactured concrete elements may not have a homogeneous distribution of the contained base materials.

Avoiding manufacturing problems

During the manufacture of the concrete elements, it is possible for blowholes (air bubbles) to form or the material to be distributed unevenly. For instance, the coarse, heavy components might settle at the bottom. This would, of course, reduce the quality of the concrete elements and must therefore be avoided at all costs – primarily in order to prevent expensive consequential damage and warranty claims with the associated loss of image from the outset. Faulty eccentric discs or defective drive motors can be the reason for a malfunctioning vibrating table.

Data loggers quickly detect malfunctions

Such vibrating tables are, for example, used by Creabeton Matériaux AG, a company that manufactures balcony elements, stairs, angle elements etc. from concrete, to name but a few. In order to ensure that the vibrating tables function properly, Creabeton performed numerous practical tests using the MSR165 miniature data loggers of the Seuzach-based technology company MSR Electronics GmbH. These small data recording devices are mounted on the four corners of the vibrating tables, i.e. exactly where the drives are located. Fitted with special sensor technology elements, these loggers are capable of recording shock loads and vibrations of ±15 g in the three axes; however, an extended working range of ±200 g (g = acceleration of gravity 9.81 m/s2) is also available. The latter working range is useful if stresses are to be recorded, where very large forces occur suddenly. The digital 3-axis acceleration sensor starts recording data either when an acceleration threshold is exceeded or at a set time. 32 measured values are recorded even before the shock event takes place, in order to ensure that the history of the shock can be examined during a g-analysis. The recordings can also be taken over longer periods of time as both the recording capacity of the loggers and their battery performance can be adapted exactly to the respective applications by means of different logger type variants.

The diagnosis is made quickly and reliably

In the production of the concrete parts at Creabeton, these miniature loggers are used in order to record the vibration parameters at specific measuring points of the vibrating tables, at different intervals for a period of 10 seconds each. These parameters are subsequently stored in the logger. In addition, numerous useful and informative measurements can be taken on the gear drives of concrete mixers. The acceleration values in the three axes and their frequencies are recorded. The subsequent data analysis on the PC initially provides graphics diagrams of the vibration parameters as a function of time; any potential time or mechanical deviations of these vibration parameters can be calculated from the provided measured curves. All this then allows the experienced engineer to draw an accurate conclusion as to the possible error source in the electrical or mechanical components of the vibrating table. Ultimately, a particular benefit of recording the vibration parameters arises from the fact that potential malfunctions of the vibrating tables can be identified and eliminated very quickly, which has a long-lasting, positive impact on the product quality of the manufactured concrete elements. Incidentally, these data loggers came to the attention of Creabeton Matériaux AG some time ago, when practice-oriented target values had to be defined for the mechanical vibration parameters.

Conclusion: The compact MSR165 miniature data loggers can be used to easily record and store vibration parameters on vibrating tables for precast concrete elements, even under harsh ambient conditions. The data that can be derived from this quickly shows whether there are any malfunctions in the mechanical elements or in the drives. The resulting optimisation measures ultimately lead to a consistently high manufacturing quality with all its economic and technical benefits.

About Creabeton Matériaux AG

Creabeton Matériaux AG, which is based in Lyss, is the market leader in Switzerland as a manufacturer and supplier of concrete products. In 2000, four firmly-anchored regional companies merged to form Creabeton Matériaux AG and became a part of the Vigier Holding Group. In 2001, Vigier Holding was integrated into the French Vicat Group. Every year, Creabeton processes in excess of 60,000 orders and delivers concrete products with a total weight of 300,000 tonnes. The product range includes prefabricated concrete products and systems for landscape gardening, construction projects above and below ground, as well as infrastructure.

Can we also help you with your measuring tasks? We would be pleased to advise you!

You may also be interested in these articles:

• MSR165 Data Logger for shock and vibration
• Monitoring of various precision machines in transit – MSR165 Data Logger in use
• Precise recording of dynamic mechanical stress: MSR165 Data Loggers assist with machine, workpiece and production optimisation
• Determining transportation stresses when shipping pallets or individual packages – user report by Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG
• Stadler Rail using MSR165 Data Loggers to quantify rail transportation comfort
• The fast way to the right Data Logger