Alice Chambers |
Rockwell Automation is exhibiting three of its joint technology innovations with Microsoft at Hannover Messe.
The first is its FactoryTalk edge and cloud solutions that allow manufacturers to use artificial intelligence, internet of things and automation-powered solutions to operate “seamlessly between physical and digital environments”, according to a Rockwell Automation press release. It does this by providing manufacturers with streamlined applications and insights across the value chain via Microsoft Azure.
Its second solution is its digital twin technology, developed in partnership with Microsoft and Nvidia, that provides real-time management and simulation abilities, powered by Microsoft AI tools and cloud technology. Rockwell is displaying this through a simulation of a quality inspection process that is inspired by its customer Nestlé. “The digital simulation is augmented by a physical installation of product sorting and autonomous material handling for packaging,” says the press release. “Production line sorting is represented through a factory digital twin, imitating the manufacturing of one of Nestlé’s products.”
“Visitors to the Rockwell stand in the Microsoft booth at Hannover Messe will see how Rockwell Automation helps empower leading manufacturers globally to reduce waste in their operations and achieve sustainability goals through streamlined industry solutions,” said Nicole Denil, global vice president of market access at Rockwell Automation.
Finally, Rockwell is highlighting its third tool, the Plex manufacturing execution system, which has integrated with FactoryTalk DataMosaix and Microsoft’s Cloud for Manufacturing to drive productivity, safety and quality through AI-powered tools.
“Manufacturers are always looking for ways to drive modernization, optimise efficiency, and reduce costs,” said Dominik Wee, corporate vice president of manufacturing and mobility at Microsoft. “By combining Microsoft’s AI capabilities and trusted cloud platform with Rockwell’s industrial automation solutions, manufacturers will have the tools they need to speed up these objectives and create smart factories of the future.”
Rockwell Automation is at Hannover Messe 2024. Discover more news from the event on our dedicated landing page.