Careful planning and preparation when adding a new product will help not only leaders, but also lower level employees embrace and efficiently implement changes. Proper communication will also provide support for associates who must incorporate changes in their daily work schedule.

Our own recent addition of Value Added Services, inspired us to share some of the ways VCC was able to plan, design and incorporate this product addition to our offerings. The most important components of managing product changes are covered below.

• Real Time Data – The ability to generate reports based on the latest data is essential to planning, analyzing and actualizing new production practices and concepts. No successful changes can take place if plans are made based on outdated or invalid data. In actuality, it can cause a bump in the road that slows the change process or even derails it entirely.
• Communication – One of the most important aspects of managing a product change or addition is to make sure that people are fully informed about the change, especially those parts of the change that most directly affect their job. Typically, the more information employees have, the less uncertainty they feel, and the greater their level of acceptance for the need to change. Take action to ensure that all levels of your production and design teams are informed about the change and that change-related information is not “lost” or “distorted” as it passes through the company communication channels.
• Impact Analysis – After gathering the latest data and receiving input from valued team members and employees, impact analysis is the next most important component of change management. From production schedules to employee task modifications and identification of third party integration requirements, defining the impact of your change is critical. Not only do it permit you to be prepared for process changes but also enables your organization to recognize possible stumbling blocks but to address them before they become an obstacle to success.
• Challenging and Inspiring Personnel – Communicating a change or addition to the product line can be done in such a way that it creates an environment of cooperation and positive, proactive attitudes among team members. This is accomplished by encouraging questions and discussions about proposed changes and seeking the input and suggestions of those who will be affected.

Without accurate data, successful change is just a dream; without team member input; efficient implementation is out of reach; without believers in the process; the change will meet indeterminate amounts resistance and without effective Product Change Management, the process will not be as streamlined and cost effective as it could be.

Contact VCC professionals today for more on effective product change management. VCC will effectively manage your projects by working closely with all of our dedicated manufacturing partners daily across multiple time zones. We can provide advice, design support, manufacturing resources, global logistics or complete turnkey solutions for a successful product change or addition.

LEDs and Directional light emission

Traditional light sources that were used in the past, emitted light in all directions. This flaw resulted in parts of the light being scattered and luminance lost. Special optics and reflectors could be integrated into the system to create directional light sources, but they caused even further light losses. Because LEDs are mounted on a flat surface, they emit light hemispherically reducing lost and wasted light.

Low Profile/Compact Size LEDs

The small size and directional light emission of LEDs offer designers flexible options for low-profile, compact lighting design. Using either through-hole or SMT LEDs or LEDs coupled with a lite pipe, can eliminate system devices that protrude and cause less space to be available in cabinet or PCB housings.

Breakage resistance

LEDs are extremely resistant to vibration and damage because they do not have filaments or glass enclosures. Standard sginaling lamps may be affected by vibration in certain applications unless specialized vibration-resistant devices are implemented.

Other light and signaling sources are all based on glass or quartz envelopes. Product breakage is a fact of life during transport, storage, handling, and installation. LED devices usually do not use any glass. LED devices mounted on a circuit board are connected with soldered leads that may be vulnerable to a direct impact, but are significantly more stable than other lighting types.

Cold temperature operation

Cold temperatures present a challenge for other signal lamps. Many lamps will require higher voltages to start during colder temperatures, this is not true for LEDs lamps. LED performance actually increases as operating temperatures drop. This makes LEDs a natural fit for refrigeration product, cold storage facilities, and outdoor applications.

Instant on

Lamp types that are not LED based often requires additional time after system initiation before the full brightness level is reached. In contrast, come on at full brightness almost instantly, with no re-strike delay. This ‘Instant-On’ feature is desirable both for convenience and safety reasons.

Rapid cycling capability

Traditional light and signaling devices will burn out sooner if switched on and off frequently. In many cases, a timer is designed into the circuit for protection of the circuitry when the device has been in use that prevents further use until a cooling period has been met. LED life and lumen life cycles are unaffected by rapid cycling. In addition to flashing light displays, this rapid cycling capability makes LEDs the perfect device to integrate into your circuitry and with other electronic devices such as occupancy sensors or daylight sensors.

Controllability

Traditional, lighting and signaling sources present a number of challenges with regard to lighting controls. Dimming of the system lighting is readily available and effective, although at a substantial cost premium. LEDs offer benefits in terms of controlling light levels (dimming) and color appearance. As LED driver and control technology continues to evolve, this is expected to be an area of great innovation in a large variety of applications.

No IR or UV emissions

Today’s manufacturing and regulatory commissions are increasingly concerned about IR and UV emissions. The trend is to implement restrictions on power usage and circuitry Ir and UV emissions. LEDs emit virtually no IR or UV. This not only helps reduce carbon footprints but lowers circuit power requirements. In addition, it eliminates excessive heat (IR) from lighting that presents a burn hazard and also the UV rays that can be damaging to any unshielded devices.

Where can I get more information?

The experts at VCC Optoelectronics are available daily to help with your design requirements and also selection of the best LEDs for your project. Contact us today for advice, information, design assistance and superior LED devices.

Automation Isn’t Just for the Big Boys Anymore

Just a few years ago the majority smaller companies could not afford the initial investment cost for implementing an automation system. Today, companies are realizing the purpose of automation has expanded to issues broader than productivity and costs. Automation is now often applied primarily to increase quality in the manufacturing process, where automation can increase quality substantially. Smaller companies are also creating hybrid factory systems where specific time consuming or repetitive assemblies and products with high reject rates are automated to not only create a faster manufacturing process but also increase quality.

Why Automate?

There are a number of reasons to automate processes such as:

• Growth of Industry – Products that have sudden increases in demand that can’t be handled by the current workforce are prime candidates for automation.
• Increased Efficiency and Quality – Components and assemblies that are automated have proven increases in efficiency and quality.
• Faster Time to Market – Products and assemblies that are barely meeting schedules or tend to run late should be viewed as possible automation projects. Functions such as determining correct orientation, part identification, code reading, metal work and material handling, once automated, will experience exceptional reduction in manufacturing times resulting in product delivery times will increasing substantially.
• Health and Environment – The costs of automation to the environment are different depending on the technology, product or assembly being automated. Hazardous operations, especially those including industrial chemical handling or metalworking are prominent contenders for automation. Automating hazardous processes allow better health for workers, a safer manufacturing facility and reduced environmental effects.

What Automation Options are Available?

There are a number of different systems available for automating processes or entire manufacturing lines. Among those options are:

• Robotics
• Motion Control
• Drive Systems
• Machine Vision
• PLC Control

VCC has experienced personnel that can help you pinpoint possible products that are ripe for automation and specify indication and PCB components that will help make your automation plan successful.

North Shore Safety is a leader in the development of electrical safety products for diverse and custom applications.  In a recent project, North Shore Safety units were implemented into the public charging stations for electric cars. This application required that the device perform as an in-line fault detector to prevent electric shock or fire in the case of a short circuit. The units effectively operate as inline isolators between the car and the charging station. If circumstances were to occur that resulted in a charging station malfunction, the North Shores Line Guard will terminate all current flow to the vehicle.  Designed to meet extreme conditions reliably; this is an industrial grade ground fault circuit interrupter that is a “Go Anywhere” protection device.

VCC has been a leader in LED panel indication for years so when North Shore Electric needed an indicator for this device that could function under extreme conditions, they turned to VCC.  This device had to meet stringent NEMA 4X ratings, as the design parameters required this device to be outdoors, impact resistant and also able to withstand exposure to chemical elements.

North Shore investigated their options thoroughly and chose the VCC lens products as the best solution with proven testing results to meet and exceed project requirements. VCC Lenses are UV resistant, meet NEMA 4X ratings and offer Fresnel rings that increase the discernable brightness of LED devices. This option was an important feature because if an error occurs, it will be indicated by the LED. This means the LED must capture the users attention and must be viewable in a variety of conditions, including direct sunlight.  Dave Futkos, President of North Shore Safety, estimates the number of units needed to supply demand will be close to 1 million, as each electric car dealer will need a charging station in addition to each consumer who purchases an electric vehicle.

VCC was thrilled to provide our panel lenses to meet the challenges of this project and look forward to a long lasting relationship with North Shore Safety. Contact VCC today for more information about our line of products to meet your most stringent application requirements.

Below are some of the major developments that currently make VCC printed circuit board components a step above the rest:

Panel Mounts and Clips

Buying your panel mounts and clips from VCC allow your product to take advantage of the innovations of the VCC mounts and clips for LED indicators. The VCC clips and mounts are available in 3mm and 5mm sizes and provide the most efficient through-hole connections that are composed of U.L.94 V2 polycarbonate. These clips are simple to install or remove and protect your printed circuit boards from any possible pushback issues as well as blocking the transmission of ESD.

Interconnectors

The VCC line of interconnectors provides a simplified means of connecting your panel mounted LEDs to their power source. Our interconnectors provide stable connections that use the latest innovations to support leads and maintain a secure assembly that eliminates broken leads and wires while resolving pushback issues. Our itnerconnectors have even withstood vibration testing of up to 6G’s from 0 to 2000Hz.

PCB Standoffs for LEDs

PCB standoffs seem to be an unimportant component until problems are encountered with maintaining uniform component heights, inability to correctly mount bi and tri-lead LEDs and lack of stability that can cause electrical shorting on the PCB.

VCC has solved these issues with its line of PCB standoffs. Our STD series of standoffs allow for single, dual and tri-lead devices on standard spacing. They are designed with a cylindrical body that includes channels to maintain leads separation and provide stability. Also incorporated into these channels are tabs to allow pre-assembly before the wave soldering process and molded standoff pads that permit thorough cleaning of contaminants after the soldering process is complete.

As you can see, choosing VCC Optoelectronics for your PCB component manufacturer will help you resolve possible circuitry issues from component level which will free up design and test time in other areas. The flexibility of these parts will also permit a wider range of design options. To order your parts or speak to one of our dedicated representatives, contact VCC today.

• Connector Material – The material used in your PCB connector is a thermoplastic derivative. The CNX series of PCB Connectors from VCC has been engineered with a thermoplastic derivative that is capable of withstanding the intense heat that may be generated from your PCB. It can also withstand changes in temperature without expansion of the clamp material which can cause wiring to loosen.
• Clamping Connector – The panel mount and locking header connectors from VCC use a camping type connector that can be installed without the use of tools. The advantages over screw clamp types is clear in that installation time, testing, production and replacement times are all more efficient and accomplished at a lower cost. Clamping connectors also resolve push-back issues that often degrade the wiring and in turn the signal or power being delivered.
• Locking Header Connectors – For polarity sensitive circuits, VCC provides the CNX-V locking header connector series. By reinventing the tab connection to a finger release type, this connector closes the gap between the low cost friction header and the more expensive positive locking header. The ‘Click to Lock’ feature of this connector prevents the connector from being installed in the incorrect position and causing damage.
• Stock Availability – When you have an emergency need for components, VCC has your back by offering our CNX and CNX-V PCB connectors in stock 365 days a year. Just contact us and we can ship your components immediately.

VCC Optoelectronic’s CNX series of panel mount and locking header connectors is truly the best PCB connector for your project. Our connectors will provide secure and reliable bonds between your circuitry and PCB.  Check our catalog or contact our experts today for more information, to make your selection or to place an order.

Below are some ways VCC strives to help our clients meet that desired time and cost savings in the design process:

• Expertise – The industry but even more importantly, our clients have recognized VCC, as an innovative leader in the field of Optoelectronics and LED Engineering. Our staff can assist in any number of challenges that present themselves your design. From questions about LED types, to power and heat issues and even cabling, we can save you the time of researching options for resolutions by presenting those options to you for selection.
• New and specialty product recommendations – Calling or meeting with your supplier and presenting special conditions such as high dust and moisture applications, viewing and layout conflicts or prototype samples will allow them to recommend new developments in products or advise the use of components such as our LCS and LMS Series Litepipes which keep dust and moisture out or Flexible Litepipes to resolve layout and viewing issues. VCC is also happy to send samples for your prototype and testing use.
• Custom Components – In the rare instance that our ‘on the shelf’ product line doesn’t meet your current requirements, VCC has and will assist in the creation of a custom product for your project. Simply call us or write an e-mail describing your design needs and one of our experts will collaborate with you to create a solution.
• Quick Delivery – One of the biggest delays in we hear about from our clients regarding other suppliers is product availability. VCC Optoelectronics is proud of the fact that our clients do not have this issue with our products. We keep stock products to meet your most production needs immediately and deliver our bulk orders with minimum delivery schedules.

Contact the VCC experts today and schedule a presentation time to hear about the latest developments in LED and Optoelectronic products or let us know your job requirements and allow us to recommend solutions for you to implement. This is one time when spending a little, time in this instance, can not only save you time later during development but also relieve some of the stress of the day as you have left your needs in capable hands.

If you are beginning a new project, consider the benefits of using solid-state (LED) lighting in your design:

• The very name solid-state belies one it’s the biggest advantages. With no moving parts, the resistance to shock and vibration is substantial. A bump or short drop is unlikely to damage solid-state devices.
• No electrical filaments or toxic gases. Electrical filaments found with incandescent lights can easily be broken and are also subject to evaporation giving them a very short life cycle. Fluorescent lights contain toxic gases that may provide a longer life cycle but also pose a greater environmental threat.
• LED lighting provides substantial energy savings and in turn financial savings. An LED uses 90% of the power it produces allowing for brighter lighting that is also cool to the touch since only 10% of the power is lost to heat dissipation.
• Lighting flexibility is increased enormously when LEDs are implemented. Flexible and effective lighting can be achieved with the use of lightpipes. There is no longer a need to have wiring and fixtures in confined spaces whether it is for lighting or communication purposes.
• With the proper circuitry, color, intensity, signaling can be easily controlled. Using PCB or PLC programming, a virtually endless number of effects can be achieved.
• Solid-state lighting allows for variety in packaging and sizing. If space is limited, as it usually is, solid-state lighting can be implemented in a number of sizes and mounting positions. In a few inches of space you can provide the lighting for an entire control panel interface. The reduced heat generation allows flexibility as well since solid-state lighting can be mounted closer to other components.

VCC Optoelectronics is a leader in LED design and specializes in LED signaling. When you are designing your next project, contact our experts to provide you with the latest details and design innovations in the LED field. We are also happy to assist you in selecting the correct components to achieve the ultimate benefit in both energy and cost by selecting a component that is best suited for your project type.

There are many factors to consider when selecting a light pipe to ensure the most effective use in your application. The most important of these considerations are listed below:

• Rigid or Flexible – There are two basic types of light pipes available and those are rigid and flexible. Both have their own strengths as described below:

Rigid light pipes are selected for applications where you have a straight or right angle connection from the power source to the display panel. This lightpipe type is generally                   smaller and less expensive as the wiring cost is minimized by the direct connection.

Flexible light pipes are used when your panel is further away from the power source or when you do not have a straight line of sight connection available. The VCC Flexible                      Litepipe™, one of the most advanced, can provide a 180° viewing angle and very little light degradation even when implemented with extreme bending angles.

• Shape, Size – An extensive selection of light pipe shapes and sizes are available to meet your production and signaling needs. The Litepipe™ series includes but is not limited to square, rectangle and round shapes with sizes ranging from 2.5mm to 5mm. When implementing an intricate signaling process, a combination of different shapes and sizes used in conjunction with different colored LEDs permits a wide range of options for providing clear communication.
• Environment – The environment in which you are placing your light pipe signaling connection is one of the most important considerations to take into account. VCC’s Litepipe™ series has both flexible and rigid options for use in locations that encounter moisture, dust and other debris that can damage and degrade normal connection types. The LMS and LCS series are moisture sealed and have been successfully used in a number of applications with dust and moisture exposure.
• Power – The amount of power available to power your signaling system is often determined by the heat sink abilities of your PCB. VCC’s Litepipe™ series can be implemented with minimum power consumption. There is also a high-intensity Litepipe™ available where a more intense light is required by the design or environment.  One phone call or e-mail to your VCC representative or a look the VCC catalog will provide you with Litepipe™ specifications to find the exact requirements for your selection so it can be built into your power design.

VCC has long been a leader in this field and our experts can provide you with more in depth information regarding our wide array of Litepipes™ and inventive ways to implement them into your design. Contact us today at: www.vcclite.com for all your light pipe needs.

With the launch of our website, we have created additional ways to communicate with those who share the same interests. Help VCC light the way.

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