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Automize Lab . ( Japan ) has developed the Valve Automizer , a device that automates manual valves without replacing them . This technology aims to reduce workload , improve safety and enable remote operation at a lower cost .
Text and images by Automize Lab . Co ., Ltd .
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Valves are essential components used to control fluids in various settings , including buildings , agricultural equipment , factory equipment , ships and plants . While some valves are being replaced by electrically operated automated valves , many installed valves remain manually operated . The automation and networking of these valves offer significant advantages when operated as a cohesive valve system . Key benefits of automated and networked valve systems include : 1 . Remote operation and monitoring : During normal operations , these systems can function as Internet of Things / Digital Transformation ( IoT / DX ) equipment , allowing for real-time monitoring of operational conditions and optimization of processes . 2 . Enhanced safety in abnormal situations : Remote operation from secure locations enables safe and reliable implementation of complex shutdown and recovery sequences during abnormalities or disasters .
3 . Improved control precision : Autonomous control of automated and networked valve groups facilitates more accurate adjustments , such as flow control , under normal operating conditions .
4 . Emergency response capabilities : In crisis scenarios , such as pipe breaks , the system can automatically shut off fluid flow from damaged sections and reroute it through alternative channels without human intervention or reliance on higher-level monitoring systems . These applications are relevant across various sectors , including buildings , agricultural equipment , factory equipment , ships and plants . The implementation of such valve systems offers multiple advantages :
• Advancement of IoT / DX initiatives
• Improved work efficiency
• Mitigation of labour shortages
• Enhanced operational safety
• Reduced potential for damage
• Rapid recovery in emergency situations These benefits contribute to the development of robust Business Continuity Plans ( BCP ), addressing current societal challenges . Automize Lab . has developed the Valve Automizer to address these needs . This retrofit
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Figure 1 : Valve Automizer ( medium size )
automation device enables the automation of installed manual valves without replacement or disposal . Additionally , the company has created autonomous control applications for valve systems . This report outlines the technical challenges encountered and the solutions developed during this process .
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Valve Automizer features and specifications
Various types of equipment in factories , buildings and ships are maintained and renewed daily . In situations where a reduction in maintenance and management costs ( life cycle costs ) is required , the aim is to use equipment as long as possible . Additionally , remote operation and automation are often required to save manpower , and these requirements are expected to increase in the future due to the decline in the productive population . The majority of valves in factory equipment and ships already in operation are manual valves . The newly developed retrofit automation device , Valve Automizer , remotely operates and automates existing manual valves without the need to replace or dispose of them . The following effects can be achieved by applying ‘ retrofit automation ’ to manual valves : 1 . No disposal of existing equipment ( manual valves ) or fluid : In addition to being able to use existing equipment ( manual valves ) as they are , retrofit automation can be carried out without stopping the fluid flowing through the pipes or removing it from the pipes .
2 . Pursuit of new technological development , promotion of DX : The valve ’ s open / close
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