Omron has launched the AI controller for machine automation, a new solution for predictive maintenance and control. The controller with integrated Sysmac library combines control functions of production lines and devices at a production site with real-time data processing based on artificial intelligence.

This solution helps to reduce the risk of equipment damage and downtime by enabling manufacturing companies to detect problems early and take immediate action to rectify them. Not only do they benefit from the advanced technology, but they can also leverage the know-how of Omron's data experts to facilitate predictive maintenance and prevent sudden interruptions.

The raw data is collected fully automatically by the AI controller, which operates within the machine via edge computing, ensuring maximum consistency and data security. In addition, the controller automatically creates data models from correlation analyses and monitors the machine status based on these models. Without this automation, machine developers and operators would have to create their own analysis and optimization solutions or use costly cloud solutions.

The controller's AI programs detect irregular machine behavior without having to be specially programmed. As it is often necessary to evaluate various factors together when identifying problems, automating data evaluation saves time and resources. The AI's ability to learn is the decisive factor in reducing costs for plant operators.

Omron's AI-based approach is not a cloud solution, but a combination of hardware, software and manual operation. An internet connection is not required. The hardware, which is based on the Sysmac NY5 IPC and the NX7 CPU, uses the company's AI components and a library of pre-programmed function blocks for predictive maintenance created by Omron based on typical applications. Several AI-specific services have also been integrated. These include the Time Series database, which very quickly collects and accumulates time series data synchronized with the control cycle, and an AI engine that quickly and accurately detects irregularities based on this data. as