Omron reports IoT demonstration results for i-BELT platform

November 20, 2017

Field trials at Ayabe and Kusatsu plants

On November 20, 2017, Omron announced the results of a demonstration experiment for its IoT service infrastructure, i-BELT, conducted at its Kusatsu office. i-BELT is a suite of hardware and software services that combine control and information technologies to accelerate digitalization at manufacturing sites.

The experiments were carried out in two locations:

At the Ayabe Plant, Omron monitored the proximity switch module assembly process to identify causes of assembly failures. The company then implemented preventive maintenance measures.
At the Kusatsu Plant, metal machining tests using ultra-fine particle end mills were performed. By applying cutting conditions more aggressive than those used by skilled operators and controlling tool load, the plant achieved both longer tool life and high-speed machining.

NX Series controllers and new monitoring devices

The above improvements were implemented using Omron’s NX Series controllers. On the same day, the company also announced four new status monitoring devices designed to visualize equipment operation conditions. These products were scheduled to launch between November 2017 and February 2018.