With the publication of the model administrative regulation in 2017, the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBt) redefined the approval requirements for hold-open systems for FAA and firmly anchored them in building law. The building authority approval of the hold-open system for FAA is separated into general building authority approval (abZ) of the release device and energy supply on the one hand and general type approval on the other. In addition, the framework conditions for free-movement controls, emergency power supplies and expert approval have been specified. The transitional period set by the DIBt for the implementation of the new technical requirements expires on 15.07.2019 - from this date onwards, manufacturers must provide proof that their systems fully comply with the amended requirements for new builds and modernizations. However, this legally mandated technological advancement also offers conveyor system operators
technological development also offers numerous opportunities for
cost savings.

Advanced control system
The HPS-Evolution circuit board control system developed and manufactured in-house by Hodapp GmbH & Co. KG is at the heart of atago solutions GmbH's conveyor system closures. When developing the current generation, the focus was not only on adapting the control system in accordance with the new legal requirements: the company pursued the further development of the control system with the premise of being able to offer the most universal technology possible, which can be flexibly adapted to the special features of different conveyor system manufacturers. This significantly reduces the planning work involved in new construction projects, both for the respective conveyor system manufacturer and for the manufacturer of the conveyor system closures themselves. The design of the new assemblies followed the "design to service" principle. The aim was to reduce the total cost of ownership for spare parts and service. The use of quickly replaceable circuit boards and interchangeable data carriers makes it easier for the system operator to repair the conveyor technology himself in the event of a fault. The majority of faults can be rectified by the operator's own trained personnel with little effort. This reduces downtimes and costs. This ensures fire protection in accordance with legal requirements and thus protects the operator's assets.

Decentralized control facilitates modernization
A BUS system also enables the HPS-Evolution hold-open system to be used in very complex conveyor system constellations. With this extension, several conveyor system closures can be controlled decentrally in parallel. When expanding operations, existing systems can be scaled cost-effectively to include new systems. When modernizing existing systems, replacing a centralized fixed stall system is often very cost-intensive and in some cases even impossible. A decentralized fixed housing system such as the HPS-Evolution can provide a remedy. The system complies with the new regulations for the complete monitoring of pipes and all additional safety-relevant components and is therefore ideal for modernization. In old systems, there is very often no free-movement control or emergency power supply installed. In the course of the conversion, fire protection is optimized due to legal requirements and the systems are better protected. Optimizing fire protection means greater safety for the assets. The adaptation of the operational safety and fire protection concept following modernization can therefore be used to renegotiate the conditions for building and contents insurance.

About Atago Solutions

As a sales partner of Hodapp, atago solutions supports manufacturers and operators of conveyor systems throughout the entire life cycle of their conveyor systems - from the planning and implementation of new buildings to service and maintenance through to modernization. The aspects of optimizing individual production and logistics processes are taken into account as well as the aspects of system availability and the requirements of property insurers and legislators. atago solutions was founded as a manufacturer and service provider in the field of fire protection doors for conveyor system closures by three family businesses (Hodapp, Arturo Service and Gärtner Consulting). Accordingly, the company draws on interdisciplinary specialist and industry knowledge. The service portfolio includes conveyor system closures and electrical engineering for the closure of wall and ceiling openings between structural fire compartments. This portfolio, ranging from standard elements to special solutions, is suitable for all types of conveyor systems. All service and maintenance services comply with the new requirements of EN 14677 and the specifications
of the DIBt for building inspectorate approvals.