Integrated controller for fully automated robotic production systems
Omron has announced the launch of what it claims is the world’s first ‘Robotic Integrated Controller’, the new NJ501-R, based on its 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 will simplify maintenance and reduce time-to-market during the design, planning, commissioning and changeover processes.
Many industries are facing labour shortage issues, and the world is experiencing a major turning point with how society conducts business due to new global 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 managed by a number of different controllers, creating a major challenge to setup and coordinate the speed and timing between various devices. Also, it was very difficult to verify a process design in advance and with a high level of accuracy prior to construction of a machine or larger production line. After the equipment is commissioned, adjustments need to be made onsite and backtracking and specification changes are common, resulting in a huge number of labour hours.
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 process
The Robotic Integrated Controller automates inserting and assembling processes that require delicate and skillful processing. The robots and equipment are controlled and fully synchronised in real-time by a single controller, improving device performance and achieving the world’s highest level of throughput.
Omron has also unified the programming languages for robot and machine control, making it easy to simulate a production line with single programming software. 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 remotely from anywhere in the world.
Visit the Omron website for more information
