Guide To Suppliers

OMRON has announced the addition of the RT1-Series for industrial remote access into its line-up of industrial automation solutions.

OMRON will hold a stake of approximately 10% in Techman, offering robotic technology where humans and machines work together.

Following a major redesign to incorporate a brand-new demonstration area, OMRON’s Automation Centre is helping to ease the transition to automation for manufacturers, putting them on the fast-track to the factory of the future.

Anyone planning to move towards a smart factory needs to choose carefully when considering possible robotic solutions. Should it be an industrial robot or a collaborative robot (cobot)? The answer will depend on your specific needs.

Traditionally, to identify defects and scratches in production has required the sensitivity and knowledge of technicians with extensive experience. But owing to rising labour costs and shortage of skilled labour, manufacturers need to automate processes that once relied on the senses of experienced human workers.

As the UK’s customer-facing businesses plan their reopening strategies, keeping consumers and staff safe from COVID will be a key priority. In a bid to prevent future outbreaks at high footfall, everyday environments like supermarkets, bars and gyms, OMRON has teamed up with UV Systems UK to produce an autonomous robotic sterilisation system that guarantees to kill the virus without damage or harm to surrounding goods.

While the view conjured up by thoughts of smart factories is often one of pristine green field sites with the latest technologies in place, the reality for many manufacturers is very different. Legacy equipment and unconnected lines are more often the norm, along with a wide variety of technologies and differing levels of capability. However, the benefits of digitalisation can be enjoyed by any manufacturer, as Omron explains.