Advanced technology is transforming Australia’s manufacturing industry.

Collaborative robots, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine vision is bridging the gap between humans and machines.

And through the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) – using cloud based software – you can now control machines from any device, anywhere in the world.

Earlier this month, Omron hosted a special IIoT seminar and Open Day at its Brisbane office to demonstrate how its latest technology can increase productivity and profitability and improve workplace safety.

More than 40 guests were given a sneak peek at the Factory of the Future, with cutting-edge automation on display. Visitors were shown how humans and machines can work in harmony in modern factories.

Guest speakers included Tim Symonds from Microsoft who demonstrated how IoT can be used to improve productivity in. Mr Symonds explained how Microsoft’s US$5 billion investment in the cloud-based Azure platform can benefit key industry sectors.

Kasper Simonson from Pac Technologies (an accredited Omron solution partner) gave a fascinating insight into how modern factories are using game-changing technology to stay ahead of the curve.

And Omron engineers were kept busy demonstrating how IIoT capable devices can connect to the Internet and to each other to streamline operations.

For the first time, Omron demonstrated how its robots can be controlled using Google voice commands.

Other highlights included:

Collaborative robots

Omron’s new TM collaborative robots (cobots) are a must inclusion in the smart factory. Safe and transportable, with built-in vision, this robot allows for quick start-ups and rapid changeovers. Its intuitive software enables the robot to be easily trained to perform almost any task wherever you need it, freeing workers from repetitive tasks and increasing productivity.

Facial recognition

Omron used new facial recognition and gestures to quickly and easily grant access to control machines. Gesture control means users can start and stop processes without any physical contact.

Machine vision

Omron’s latest machine vision solutions were on display, including the new FHV7 smart camera featuring the world’s first multi-colour light and high-resolution image sensor – the best in class.

High-speed pick and place

Omron’s Quattro (four-axis) parallel robot was also in action. These fixed robots can pick objects from conveyors and box or palletise them at lightning fast speeds. 

More seminars are planned in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne later this year.