INDUSTRY TALK
How adaptive algorithms create new ways to optimise production Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the engineering sector is gaining momentum. This is owing to increased processing power and the availability of increasing volumes of data. Omron offers innovative solutions to automate factories.
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HOW TO DESIGN AND INTEGRATE AI According to Omron, algorithms integrated in the machine’s control system create the framework for real-time optimisation, at the machine, for the machine. In contrast to edge computing, where individual manufacturing lines or sites are analysed using limited processing power, the AI controller used by Omron, features adaptive intelligence. It is closer to the action and learns to distinguish normal patterns from abnormal ones for the individual machine. The AI controller integrated in the Sysmac platform, which is a complete solution for factory automation, features modules for control,
n the case of the advancements required for Industry
motion and robotics, image processing and machine safety. These
4.0, such as predictive maintenance and networked
are primarily used in the manufacturing process at the points where
efficient production, the use of adaptive algorithms offers
the customer is experiencing the greatest efficiency problems such as
enormous potential.
bottlenecks. The processes gain intelligence based on previous findings
Many manufacturing companies realise AI presents an
opportunity to increase Overall Equipment Effectiveness
and improvements that have been made and subsequently drive holistic optimisation of the entire manufacturing process. •
(OEE). This results in combined reduced costs with increased productivity. Many of the AI solutions advertised on the market, which
Omron – www.industrial.omron.co.za
are often cloud-based, have significant requirements in terms of infrastructure and IT. These solutions also work with an overwhelming amount of data that is laborious and timeconsuming to prepare and process. The question of added value often remains somewhat murky for providers, who cannot determine whether and how the investment in AI will provide a return. System designs for the engineering sector are generally
Achieve flexible production with integrated robotics solutions
both complex and unique. As a result, it is not a matter of simply transferring learnt experiences from other machinery as may be the case for mass-produced products in the consumer goods industry. The majority of systems are generally so complex that it is not possible to map out the entire system mathematically and maintain costs at an acceptable level. It is Omron’s view that a ‘black-box approach’ is more common. The available data in these systems for typical AI algorithms is underdetermined. A reliable operation can only be confirmed through testing, optimisation and over-dimensioning. Delta Parallel robot Quattro and Hornet
Single solution The guiding principle behind the Sysmac
automation
platform is the use of one controller for the entire
Articulated robot Viper
SCARA robot eCobra
Mobile robot LD Series
The new Omron Robotic Automation enhances the most demanding manufacturing lines. Realize faster line start-up & change-over, implement easier to use technology & vertical line integration, and facilitate faster data capture & analysis to increase your in-line efficiency. Our industrial robotics range from articulated, SCARA, and DELTA to collaborative (mobile) robots that optimize the handling of varying lot sizes and diverse products, formats and qualities. Achieve flexible production with integrated robotics solutions that give you a competitive edge! Discover how to improve your flexible production, contact us: +27 (0)11 579 2600 info.sa@eu.omron.com industrial.omron.co.za
machine.
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QUARTER 2 2018 |20-07-17 25 12:52