TURCK Australia and New Zealand has launched MARGEE, a Visual Studio Code extension that lets compatible block I/O modules function as PLC-style controllers with integrated web-based visualisation. The tool uses IEC 61131-3 structured text and standard software-development workflows, enabling version control, modular code reuse and debugging directly in the IDE rather than on a traditional rack PLC. For mining plants, this pushes control logic closer to field devices on conveyors, pumps and crushers, reducing panel hardware, simplifying retrofits and shortening commissioning cycles.

Bentley Systems has expanded Seequent’s subsurface portfolio by acquiring Eliis, a seismic interpretation specialist with a global team of more than 100 staff. Eliis’ software, used for structural and stratigraphic interpretation of 2D and 3D seismic volumes, will be integrated into Seequent’s geophysical workflows to link seismic attributes more directly with geological and reservoir models. For mining and civil tunnelling projects, this tighter coupling of seismic interpretation with subsurface modelling should improve early-stage geohazard identification and reduce uncertainty in deep infrastructure design.

The Structural Timber Association, working with Timber Development UK, Swedish Wood and Knauf Insulation, has launched the Structural Timber Thermal Details platform, a free online library of psi values for timber frame junctions. Developed with Studio Partington Architects and Briary Energy, the resource provides pre-calculated linear thermal transmittance data for common details, supporting more accurate SAP and SBEM assessments. For designers and energy modellers, this should reduce bespoke thermal-bridge calculations and help optimise wall, floor and roof junction specifications in structural timber buildings.