The July Technology Evening on ‘Advanced operating graphics’ was presented by Yokogawa’s sales and proposals specialist Ilbehr Theron. Ilbehr spoke about console operator challenges i.e. being overwhelmed by alarms and graphics that make the job harder rather than easier, and the impact this has on the split second decisions operators sometimes have to make. Invariably operators spend too much time finding and understanding information on their displays. The concept of ‘advanced decision support’ was also introduced, namely: the use of technology to provide operators with the right information, in the right format, at the right time. Focus is placed on alarm management, HMI design, procedure/batch management and control room ergonomics.
This approach results in:
1. Increased productivity by speeding up decision making.
2. Improved safety by early identification of abnormal situations/blocking false recognition.
3. Improved work environment due to less stress.
4. Skills transfer through translating the skills of operators and process engineers into explicit knowledge.
Other feedback from the past reporting period
Rustenburg: A second Technology Evening took place where P&F presented on intrinsically safe panels.
Witbank: The branch wanted to co-host a Technology Evening on the same date as the TUT presentation, however due to the challenge of finding a suitable venue this had to be postponed until further notice.
Social function (Oktoberfest): The branch hopes to attend the Deutsche Internationale Schule Pretoria annual Oktoberfest event on the evening of Friday 15 September. The cost to secure a seat is R185 per head.
Seating works in groups of eight per table and allows for some branding and tables to be placed adjacently. The price includes entertainment and parking while meals and drinks can be bought on the evening.
Request for loan equipment for BTech project: One of the fulltime students at UNISA has asked if anyone is able to loan her some equipment for her project. She is in need of instrumentation, a VSD/soft starter and networking equipment. If you or your company can assist, please contact Petrus Klopper on 082 559 7437, [email protected]
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