Omron launches the Sysmac automation platform
06 December 2011
Omron's new automation platform - Sysmac (System for Machine Automation Control) provides machine control via one controller, one software package and one connection. It comes with a new machine automation controller (Sysmac NJ series), that integrates motion, sequencing, networking and machine vision, the Sysmac Studio software (configuration, programming, simulation and monitoring) plus a fast machine network (EtherCAT) to control motion, vision, sensors and actuators.
An immediate benefit of the new architecture is the seamless integration of Omron’s core competences within one control platform. Machine control and motion control are now one; field devices are controlled across one machine network and programmed by one software package.
One machine controller
The heart of the new automation platform is the Sysmac machine automation controller NJ series, which is designed for high speed and flexibility. It incorporates an Intel® processor proven for harsh industrial environments with fan-free operation and runs under an RTOS (real time operating system). It is scalable with a choice of 16, 32 and 64 axis CPUs. A response time of less than 1ms can be achieved for applications of up to 32 axes. Based on a microcontroller from Intel, running under an RTOS, the Sysmac machine automation controller NJ series shifts from a rigid ASIC based architecture to a flexible and scalable software centric one.
One machine software
Created to give machine builders full control over their automation system, Sysmac Studio integrates configuration, programming, simulation and monitoring into one software. A graphic-oriented configuration allows quick set-up of the controller, field devices and networks, while machine and motion programming based on IEC 61131-3 standard and PLCopen function blocks for motion control cuts programming time. Advanced simulation of sequence and motion control, data logging and data trace reduce machine tuning and set-up.
One machine network
One connection via the Sysmac NJ series allows seamless control and communication with both the machine and the factory. The new NJ series is designed for open communication via EtherCAT, the fastest emerging network on the market for machine automation. It is simple to set-up and cost effective to install as it uses standard shielded Ethernet cables and connectors. EtherCAT is Omron’s de-facto machine network for its wide range of field and motion devices. Omron is also the first supplier offering vision sensors with an EtherCAT interface.
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