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.
How the DCS can step off the hardware obsolescence treadmill Schneider Electric South Africa
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Ageing servers and unsupported operating systems are quietly eroding the stability of process plants that rely on distributed control systems. Kobus Vermeulen of Schneider Electric explains how virtualising the DCS environment can break the hardware obsolescence cycle without disrupting operations.
Read more...Next-generation autonomous mobile robots from Omron Robotics Omron Electronics
Editor's Choice
The new LD-150 and LD-300 autonomous mobile robots from Omron Robotics offer higher payload capacity and advanced navigation in a compact footprint, with wireless inductive charging and fleet management integration to support high-throughput material transport in demanding production environments.
Read more...OMRON launches non-contact safety door switch Omron Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
OMRON has unveiled its latest innovation in non-contact safety door switches, designed to enhance workplace safety and streamline machinery operations.
Read more...Centralised control rooms where growth is elastic, not physical Schneider Electric South Africa
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Modernised control rooms feature distributed control system architecture consolidated into centralised compute environments. replacing traditional PCs with thin clients.
Read more...Futureproofing pharma, one pixel at a time Omron Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, there’s no room for error. Omron’s FH-AI and FHV7-AI vision systems introduce AI-powered inspection that adapts to real-world variability, something conventional rule-based vision systems cannot easily achieve.
Read more...Monitoring relays keep operations running Omron Electronics
Operator Interfaces, Switches & Relays
OMRON’s K8 series relays are designed to prevent breakdowns, protect critical assets and support smarter maintenance strategies on the plant.
Read more...Siemens launches new generation of logic controller Siemens South Africa
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Siemens has launched the latest generation of its proven intelligent logic controller, LOGO! 9. This enables simple implementation of small automation projects.
Read more...DCS for maximum plant efficiency and reliability ABB South Africa
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
ABB has introduced SPR2025, the latest Symphony Plus DCS package release to enable modernisation and efficient performance for the process and power industries.
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.