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The idea of home automation is not bounded to houses, the application area can be extended to security systems, auditoriums, function halls, Libraries etc. Home automation is just a catchy usage.Here, the medium for automation is not considered, only the switchboard connections are discussed. Every automation circuit finally has to control a relay through the port of the microcontroller. So, the circuit is similar up to the relay control, it slightly differs at the load terminals of the relay. Generally, NO and COM terminals of the relay are used for load control, here NC is also used. Basic Idea All the home automation circuits have a remote control feature, and it may be operated through Radio Frequency, Bluetooth, Infra-Red, GSM, Wi-Fi etc. But how to connect them to the existing switchboards, and what if the remote control is misplaced or if the circuit is malfunctioning? To avoid such disturbances in a practical scenario, it is better to have manual control as well similar to the switchboards. If the relays of home automation circuits are connected in series with the existing switches, they provide semi-manual control i.e., Turn OFF is possible, but to turn ON the load, the relay has to operate. So, this is not a suitable type of connection. Combining Two-Way switch and relay Two-way switches offer a solution to this. The relay is just similar to a two-way switch in terms of terminals i.e. both have three terminals like NC, COM, NO. Two-way switch connection for Staircase lighting actually gave this idea, but now, in this case, one manual switch and one electro-mechanical relay are used. Toggling any of them changes the ON/OFF state of the load. Actual wiring By using this, existing switchboards can be modified by replacing one-way switches with two-way switches. As already mentioned, the idea of home automation is not bounded to house, the application area can be extended to security systems, auditoriums, function halls, Libraries etc. Home automation is just a catchy usage.   In the above image, Phase wire is run through all the switches on the top terminal i.e. terminal 1 and these are again connected to NC terminal of all the relays. Common terminals of switches i.e. terminal 2 of the switches are connected to the COMMON terminal of respective relays. Terminal 3 of switches are connected to loads and again connected to NO terminal of relays. So, while modifying the existing one-way switchboard, the common phase is connected to terminal 1 of two-way switches and loads are connected to terminal 3 of two-way switches. In addition to this, three terminals of switches are connected to three terminals of relays as, Two-way switchRelay Terminal 1 ——- NC Terminal 2 –—– COM Terminal 3 ——- NO Now, the loads can be turned ON/OFF manually through switchboard as well as remotely. Suppose if manual operation is not used, then turn OFF all the switches, now this state is similar to One-way switchboard with all the switches in OFF state. All the loads can be operated remotely. Their status can be known from the remote device itself. Suppose, if automation circuit fails i.e., relays in OFF state, then loads can be operated manually similar to One-way switchboard. While using manual along with automated operation, in order to get the status of the loads, an additional circuit is required to read the ON/OFF state of the loads. This is generally required if the user is at a remote location like for a house, if the operator is at the office or on a journey, reading the load status is required. But it is not essential, when the user/operator is in sight of the loads, for example, ON/OFF status of the load is directly visible. Relay board can be placed below the switchboard in a separate enclosure along with the automation circuit. However, in typical situations and requirements, an opto-coupler based sensing circuit can be included in the circuit, if the status of loads is required. Ref: KY66-G3F-203SN DC5-24 KY66-CMRD6055 KY66-CKRA2420

For the first time ever, a cloud of ultra-cold atoms has been successfully created in space on board of a sounding rocket. The MAIUS mission demonstrates that quantum optical sensors can be operated even in harsh environments like space – a prerequisite for finding answers to the most challenging questions of fundamental physics and an important innovation driver for everyday applications.According to Albert Einstein's Equivalence Principle, all bodies are accelerated at the same rate by the Earth's gravity, regardless of their properties. This principle applies to stones, feathers, and atoms alike. Under conditions of microgravity, very long and precise measurements can be carried out to determine whether different types of atoms actually "fall equally fast" in the gravitational field of the Earth – or if we have to revise our understanding of the universe.As part of a national consortium, Ferdinand-Braun-Institut, Leibniz-Institut fuer Hoechstfrequenztechnik (FBH) and Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin (HU) now made a historical step towards testing the Equivalence Principle in the microcosm of quantum objects. In the MAIUS mission launched on January 23, 2017 a cloud of nano-Kelvin cold rubidium atoms has been generated in space for the first time ever. This cloud was cooled down with laser light and radio frequency electrical fields so that the atoms finally formed a single quantum object, a Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC).More than 20 years after the groundbreaking results of the Nobel laureates Cornell, Ketterle, and Wieman on ultra-cold atoms, preliminary evaluation of the sounding rocket mission data indicates that such experiments can also be carried out under the harsh conditions of space operation – back in 1995, living room-sized setups in a special laboratory environment were required. Today's quantum optical sensor is as small as a freezer and remains fully operational even after experiencing huge mechanical and thermal stress caused by the rocket launch. This groundbreaking mission is a pathfinder for applications of quantum sensors in space. In the future, scientists expect to use quantum sensor technology to cope with one of the biggest challenges of modern physics: the unification of gravitation with the other fundamental interactions (strong, weak, and electro-magnetic force) in a single consistent theory. At the same time, these experiments are drivers of innovation for a broad range of applications, from inertial (non-GPS referenced) navigation to space-borne geodesy used to determine the Earth's shape.For this mission, the FBH has developed hybrid micro-integrated semiconductor laser modules that are suitable for application in space. These laser modules, together with optical and spectroscopic units provided by third partners, have been integrated and qualified by HU to provide the laser subsystem of the scientific payload. The results of this mission coordinated by Leibniz Universitaet Hannover do not only prove that quantum optical experiments with ultra-cold atoms are possible in space, but also give FBH and HU the opportunity to test their miniaturized laser system technology under real operating conditions. The results will also be used to prepare future missions which are already scheduled for launch. MAIUS, however, is not the first sounding rocket test for both institutions' laser technology in space; the technology has already been successfully tested in April 2015 and January 2016 on board of two sounding rockets within the FOKUS and KALEXUS experiments.  The MAIUS mission is supported by the German Space Agency (DLR) with funds provided by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy and tests all key technologies of a space-borne quantum optical sensor on a sounding rocket: vacuum chamber, laser system, electronics, and software. MAIUS constitutes a historical milestone for future missions in space that will take advantage of the full potential of quantum technology. For the first time world-wide, a Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) based on rubidium atoms has been created on board of a sounding rocket and has been used to investigate atom interferometry in space. Quantum optical sensors based on BECs enable high-precision measurements of accelerations and rotations using laser pulses which provide a reference for precise determination of the positions of the atomic cloud.The compact and robust diode laser system for laser cooling and atom interferometry with ultra-cold rubidium atoms has been developed under the leadership of the Optical Metrology Group at HU. This system is required for the operation of the MAIUS experiment and consists of four diode laser modules that have been developed by FBH as hybrid-integrated master-oscillator power-amplifier laser modules. The master laser is a monolithic distributed feedback (DFB) laser which is frequency-stabilized to the frequency of an optical transition in rubidium and generates spectrally pure and highly stable (~ 1 MHz linewidth) optical radiation with low output power at 780 nm wavelength. The three other laser modules feature a tapered amplifier chip with a ridge waveguide input section. These tapered amplifier chips boost the optical output power of a DFB laser to beyond 1 W without any loss of spectral stability. Two additional redundancy modules were integrated. Free space acousto-optical modulators and optical components are used to generate the laser pulses according to the experimental sequence. The laser light pulses are finally transferred to the experimental chamber by optical fibers.Furthermore, a laser technology demonstrator designed for future missions has been integrated, consisting of two micro-integrated semiconductor Extended Cavity Diode Laser modules developed by FBH. These modules are specifically required for future atom interferometry experiments that pose more stringent requirements on the spectral stability of the lasers.Reference:GP1A173LCS2FOPB626GP1A53HRJ00F  

Designed for precision angle measurement, Contelec’s Vert-X 48E series non-contacting magnetic encoder is aimed at applications in agriculture, mining or construction equipment, and other applications where extreme environmental conditions exist and accurate control is required for steering, guiding or positioning etc.Available with full product and application engineering support from Variohm EuroSensor, the new sensor is a two-part design with no mechanical bearing or joint between the magnet and sensor components.The 48mm diameter and 17mm high sensor housing is fully sealed to IP68/IP69K and a choice of magnet designs allows maximum installation flexibility. The Vert-X 48E has resolution options of 12- or 14-bits with a choice of single and redundant output types for 0..10 V, and 4…20mA as well as single and redundant CANopen versions. The supply voltage of 8…35VDC will suit various position feedback tasks.With simple installation between rotating and stationary components in steering, drive chain, guide or other transmission mechanics, the sensor works with an air-gap of up to 13mm depending on the sensor type and an optional ‘detection of magnetic loss’ feature will signal a system shut-down in case of the magnetic actuator moving out of a valid air-gap range.The axial alignment allows up to 13mm between the sensor and magnet rotation axes as well as a good tolerance of tilting and radial misalignment. These factors combine with outstanding resilience to humidity, damp and dust as well as EN 60068-2-6 shock and EN 60068-2-27 vibration rated mechanical specifications, for exceptional levels of reliability and endurance.Other options for the range include selectable electrical angle in ten degree steps up to 360 degrees, settable mid-point, start and end point and gradient. One metre cable connection is standard with customised lengths and special connector options available on request. Reference:350-00029ALS-PT17-51C/L177/TR8EE-TP405-X  

The sensor offers a five-fold increase in proximity detection over previous-generation devices. The sensor’s integrated long-distance proximity sensor, ambient light sensor, and 940nm infrared-emitting diode (IRED) eliminate the need for additional light barriers and optical alignment of the IR emitter and photo diode.The device’s small outline saves space and gives design engineers greater flexibility in where and how they locate the sensor.A 16-bit, high-resolution ambient light sensor offers excellent sensing capabilities with sufficient selections to fulfill most applications whether a dark or high-transparency lens design.The devices offer individual programmable high- and low-threshold interrupt features to allow designers to best utilise resources and power on the microcontroller.For the 8-bit proximity-sensing function, VCNL4100 has a built-in intelligent cancelation scheme that eliminates background light issues. The device’s smart persistence scheme prevents false judgment of proximity sensing due to ambient light noise.It provides temperature compensation of -40 to +85 degrees Celsius to keep the output stable under changing temperature.Designers can easily operate proximity and ambient light sensor functions via the device’s I2C (SMBus-compatible) interface protocol.The device operates on a supply voltage range of 2.5V to 3.6V in a lead-free, RoHS-compliant 8.0 × 3.0 × 1.8mm package.Reference:T141AM61STMPE1208SQTRQT1101-ISG 

New Yorker Electronics has introduced a series ruggedised aluminium electrolytic capacitors with welded seals, the MLSG in both Flatpack and Slimpack. This series targets compact power supply applications in military and aerospace, as well as other critical systems.Design enhancements and an electrolyte push the MLSG to nearly double the operating life of its predecessor, the MLSH, at no added cost.Two principal package profiles are offered in this technology, the MLSG Flatpack which measures just 0.5" thick and 1.75" wide and the MLSG Slimpack measuring 0.5" thick by 1" wide, both offered in lengths of 1.5, 2, 2.5 or 3".MLSG Flatpack welded seals capacitors can be made to withstand up to 50g vibrations (10g standard) and altitudes greater than 80,000ft. With stainless steel cases and near hermetic welded seals, they are built for extended duty in very harsh conditions. Especially noteworthy is that a high level of performance is maintained over the full operating temperature range. Capacitance retention at -55°C is very strong, with excellent high temperature performance up to 125°C. The new electrolyte system is fully REACH compliant, allowing application of the components in a broad range of applications where space efficiency and extraordinarily long life are required.A wide range of standard capacitance values from 220 to 24,000µF are available, with voltage ratings up to 250VDC. The unique flat package design does more than save space. It is easily cooled, and can offer flexibility in ganging two or more devices in ways that conventional electrolytics can’t.Options include High Vibration (HVMLSG), for performance to 50g, and High Reliability (HRMLSG), with burn-in at rated voltage and 85°C. Where a true glass-to-metal hermetic seal is required, CDE offers the MLSH Slimpack, which is similarly constructed in a flat stainless steel package. It is available in nine values, from 120 to 3,200µF, with ratings up to 250VDC.With a profile of 1x0.5", the MLSG Slimpack welded seals capacitors fit into the tightest of spaces and meet a DC test of 5,000 hours at rated voltage, 125°C. MLSG Slimpack is a perfect fit for military and aerospace applications requiring a low profile, rugged design and long-life. The MSGL Slimpack is also available in an HRMLSG type for high reliability burn-in – and is rated to vibration levels of 80g.Features and benefits5,000 hours at rated voltage of 125°CStainless steel caseWithstands more than 80,000ft. altitudeType HR, high reliability burn-inType HV, high vibration levelsFlatpack to 50g; Slimpack to 80gApplicationsAerospaceMilitaryCritical systemsPower suppliesReference:F17724102900MKP1841410254BFC246816474 

Inflammation is a good thing when it's fighting off infection, but too much can lead to autoimmune diseases or cancer. In efforts to dampen inflammation, scientists have long been interested in CC chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2)—a protein that sits on the surface of immune cells like an antenna, sensing and transmitting inflammatory signals that spur cell movement toward sites of inflammation. Researchers at the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at University of California San Diego have now determined the 3D structure of CCR2 simultaneously bound to two inhibitors. Understanding how these molecules fit together may better enable pharmaceutical companies to develop anti-inflammatory drugs that bind and inhibit CCR2 in a similar manner.CCR2 and associated signaling molecules are known to play roles in a number of inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases, including multiple sclerosis, asthma, diabetic nephropathy and cancer. Many drug companies have attempted to develop drugs that target CCR2, but none have yet made it to market."So far drugs that target CCR2 have consistently failed in clinical trials," said Tracy Handel, PhD, professor in the Skaggs School of Pharmacy. "One of the biggest challenges is that, to work therapeutically, CCR2 needs to be turned 'off' and stay off completely, all of the time. We can't afford ups and downs in its activity. To be effective, any small molecule drug that inhibits CCR2 would have to bind the receptor tightly and stay there. And that's difficult to do."Handel led the study with Irina Kufareva, PhD, project scientist at Skaggs School of Pharmacy, and Laura Heitman, PhD, of Leiden University. The study's first author is Yi Zheng, PhD, postdoctoral researcher also at Skaggs School of Pharmacy.CCR2 spans the membrane of immune cells. Part of the receptor sticks outside the cell and part sticks inside. Inflammatory molecules called chemokines bind the external part of CCR2 and the receptor carries that signal to the inside of the cell. Inside the cell, CCR2 changes shape and binds other communication molecules, such as G proteins, triggering a cascade of activity. As a result, the immune cells move, following chemokine trails that lead them to places in the body where help is needed.In this study, the researchers used a technique known as X-ray crystallography to determine the 3D structure of CCR2 with two molecules bound to it simultaneously—one at each end.That's a huge accomplishment because, Kufareva said, "Receptors that cross the cell membrane are notoriously hard to crystalize. To promote crystallization, we needed to alter the amino acid sequence of CCR2 to make the receptor molecules assemble in an orderly fashion. Otherwise, when taken out of the cell membrane, they tend to randomly clump together. "Handel, Kufareva and team also discovered that the two small molecules binding CCR2 turn the receptor "off" by different but mutually reinforcing mechanisms. One of the small molecules binds the outside face of the receptor and blocks binding of the natural chemokines that normally turn the receptor "on." The other small molecule binds the face of the receptor inside the cell, where the G protein normally binds, preventing inflammatory signal transmission. According to Handel, the latter binding site has never been seen before.