This Sysmac-based solution allows to handle devices that may be added, removed, or vary in number without needing to change or duplicate your Sysmac Studio project every time. You maintain 1 project file per machine type and configures the various machine options ... even in runtime!
The Challenge: Every machine is a new project
Let's face it: no matter how many machines of type X or Y you produce each year, almost every delivery becomes a custom job. Customers demand changes in layout, speed, materials, safety functionality, or product handling.
As a result, machine builders face the recurring challenge of:
- Redundant engineering efforts
- Longer commissioning times
- Higher risks of errors and after-sales issues
- Increased costs and delays
EtherCAT Extended Functions: The enabler of modular machines
OMRON’s EtherCAT Extended Functions (EEF v3) redefine how we approach the design and implementation of modular machines. They go beyond standard network communication. Automatic detection and mapping of the EtherCAT I/O and motion devices, and with that exact functionality present in the machine, plus integrity of hardware troubleshooting, facilitate scalable machine sections with plug-and-play EtherCAT nodes. As a result, it allows machine builders to maintain a single project template and configure specific machine options at runtime.
Modular machine design and commisioning
Make your machines more flexible, easier to maintain, and faster to deploy with EtherCAT Extended Functions.
- Quick & Simple Commissioning – Enjoy a software-free setup. Just restore PLC program, User interface, Network topology and Safety project from external storage directly to hardware. Follow the HMI wizard to validate all machine stations in a few minutes.
- Effortless Maintenance – Thanks to the EtherCAT interface, full machine maintenance becomes straightforward: monitor hardware and interface status, review event logs, and reset errors — all directly from the embedded HMI environment.
EtherCAT: Powering the Entire Machine on One Network
Customised Machines: Modular design in an integrated environment
Enabling Technologies
Information, Control and Safety
The NX5 modular controller integrates control, information and safety, providing a new level of speed to manufacturing sites. Speed up all processes from commissioning to operation and maintenance.
NA Series -The Sysmac HMI
As part of the Sysmac automation platform, Omron NA HMI transforms machine data into information, shows information and controls devices based on requirements at FA manufacturing sites. The NA Series enables faster, more efficient control and monitoring. With a widescreen displaying 16,770,000 colors, the HMI that is dynamic, intuitive and predictive makes industrial machines more attractive and competitive.
EthercAT at work
Elektroteks, the world's largest mattress machinery manufacturer, has implemented OMRON's Sysmac Integrated Automation platform across its comprehensive range of production equipment.
Samas and OMRON enhance end-of-line operations in medical diagnostics
The solution integrates SCARA robots, vision systems, and OMRON motion control to optimise feeding to flow-pack and cartoning machines with the OMRON Robotics Packaging Library (ORPL).