Omron has announced the launch of its first ‘Robotic Integrated Controller’, the new NJ501-R, based on its leading NJ series of machine controllers for industrial automation. With the integrated controller, it is possible to automate advanced and complex manual work and simulate the design and modification of production facilities in a virtual environment and conduct maintenance remotely. The new machine controller offers real-time synchronisation between all automation equipment, including robots, vision components, drives and safety equipment.
Improving the speed and accuracy of production, users can simulate entire production lines without having to deploy physical equipment. This simplifies maintenance and reduces time-to-market during the design, planning, commissioning and changeover processes.
Many industries are facing labour shortage issues and the world is experiencing a turning point in how society conducts business, due to health concerns. As a result, the demand for more advanced automation with robots has increased, along with a growing demand for digitalisation.
Traditionally, automation equipment for production facilities has been controlled by a number of different controllers creating a challenge to set up and coordinate the speed and timing between various devices. It was very difficult to verify a process design in advance prior to construction of a machine or production line. Result: after equipment is commissioned, adjustments need to be made onsite along with specification changes, resulting in a significant amount of extra work.
As a manufacturer of motion sensors, robotics and safety equipment for fully automated production lines, Omron has now addressed these issues by seamlessly integrating the control equipment.
Integration of control and the construction processes
The new controller automates processes that require precision timing design. The robots and equipment are now controlled and fully synchronised in real-time by a single controller, improving device performance and achieving higher throughput levels.
The programming language has been unified for robot and machine control, making it easy to simulate a production line with a single software program. The system visualises the process, reducing man-hours for process design and operational verification by up to 50%. Furthermore, all of this can be conducted remotely. Through Sysmac Studio’s user interface, users can design, program, troubleshoot, operate and maintain future automation systems from anywhere in the world.
New energy-efficient evaporation line for dissolving pulp production
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Valmet will deliver a new evaporation line to Altri Biotek mill in Portugal. This delivery is part of Altri’s €75 million project to convert the Biotek mill to produce dissolving pulp for the textile industry.
Read more...Valmet modernises turbine automation
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Valmet has received an order to deliver a comprehensive replacement of plant DCS and turbine control systems at Ennatuurlijk’s combined cycle power plant in the Netherlands.
Read more...Hybrid DCS for an evolving industrial landscape Schneider Electric South Africa
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Today’s industrial automation continues to evolve at a blistering speed, which means traditional DCSs have to keep up to ensure continuous integration into modern, digital infrastructure.
Read more...Upgrading legacy automation Omron Electronics
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Legacy automation is characterised by technology in the later stages of its useful life. As new automation technologies continue to emerge and interconnect at an exponential rate, failing to integrate these technologies can widen the gap between the competitive and the obsolete.
Read more...OMRON launches new non-contact Omron Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
OMRON has unveiled its latest innovation in non-contact safety door switches, the D40A-2, which is designed to enhance workplace safety and streamline machinery operations.
Read more...Looking into the future of machine vision Omron Electronics
IT in Manufacturing
Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a significant transformation in all areas of industrial automation, and machine vision is no exception. Omron’s AI-powered machine vision systems seamlessly integrate state-of-the-art algorithms, enabling machines to analyse and interpret visual data meticulously.
Read more...Automation in the energy and process industries
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
For over 40 years, ABB has built and maintained a leadership position in the distributed control system (DCS) market by preserving its customers’ capital investments while providing new capabilities.
Read more...A seamless partnership driving smart material flow Omron Electronics
Motion Control & Drives
OMRON and Interroll have launched a flexible conveyor module designed for seamless integration with autonomous mobile robots. This innovative solution enables efficient material handling, enhancing productivity in various industrial settings.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.