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Industry 4.0 and the internet of things is one of the most pervasive technologies identified by the 2017 MHI annual industry report. Industry 4.0 signals the arrival of IT on the shop floor, and stands to be as big a disruptor of the industry as the steam engine, linear assembly and automation were before it. The 2017 MHI Annual Industry Report, in collaboration with Deloitte, reflects the views of 1,100 manufacturing and supply chain leaders on this important topic. To stay on top of the accelerating pace of change, MHI is embarking on a series of video updates on topics covered in the 2017 report; focusing on projections from leading firms and real-world case studies of the benefits these trends and technologies are having on supply chains and global commerce.
The talent shortage has long been a top concern in our industry and MHI’s 2020 Annual Industry Report aims to address this holistically. It provides recommendations on how companies can adopt new innovations, establish positive culture, standardize processes, and provide continuous training to reskill, recruit and retain their workforce. A key component of this journey, and the focus of this episode, is data.
Creating a digital twin allows you to examine your end-to-end supply chain and the effects of any new process or technology.
Transitioning to smart warehouses infused with robotics demands a comprehensive approach. It requires significant investment in cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, and IoT. Join us to know how it’s possible.
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Data breaches and cyber-attacks are a very real threat. Here’s how to protect against them when it comes to your robots. Cybersecurity experts will tell you…
Crafted to meet today’s industrial needs and the challenges of tomorrow, Schneider Electric introduces the Modicon Edge I/O NTS at ProMat 2025CHICAGO: March 17, 2025 – Schneider Electric, a global leader in digital transformation for energy management and automation, announced the launch of Modicon™ Edge I/O NTS — the future-ready Input/Output (I/O) system for data aggregation – today at ProMat 2025 in Chicago.Modicon Edge I/O NTS is the latest distributed IP20 I/O system from Schneider Electric, allowing customers to meet the needs of a variety of applications ranging from simple to the most demanding. All within a single I/O family, these applications include those in production machinery, discrete manufacturing, and continuous process industries. Machine builders, system integrators, and industrial end users can use the new Modicon Edge I/O NTS across many industries segments, including machinery; packaging; food & beverage; life sciences; water/wastewater; mining, minerals & metals; critical infrastructure; data centers; and energy & chemicals.Designed with the future in mind, Modicon Edge I/O NTS meets customers’ current needs for industrial I/O applications while preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow thanks to the system’s flexibility. Using open Ethernet protocols to deliver connectivity to a variety of devices and architectures, Edge I/O NTS embeds data intelligence in the latest technologies to deliver better performance, availability, and cybersecurity.As internal communication of Edge I/O NTS OPC UA technology is used that enables secure communication and interoperability of the various Ethernet protocols. With this technology Schneider Electric lays the foundation of a new generation of connected products based on industrial networks for Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).“Edge I/O NTS not only provides a very strong and superior catalog for I/O for our customers to build their solutions today, but it also prepares them for the future,” said Grant Van Hemert, US Senior Offer Manager, Digital Factory at Schneider Electric. “Customers are more prepared for advancing digitization, ensuring better and transparent data management, and adapting to the future of Industry 4.0.”“The market for distributed I/O is being driven by digital transformation, which is rapidly increasing demand for additional manufacturing data to support analytics, AI, virtualization, asset management and predictive maintenance, the industrial internet of things (IIoT), digital twins and simulation, augmented and virtual reality, and IT and OT convergency,” according to Craig Resnick, Vice President, ARC Advisory Group.”“However, distributed I/O must be designed on OPC UA over TSN, all while meeting vigorous industrial standards and certifications regarding temperature, harsh, severe and hazardous operating environment, vibration, and electromagnetic compatibility. Schneider Electric’s new Modicon Edge I/O NTS next generation distributed IP20 I/O system meets these market and design requirements and will provide its users with a solution that will help to accelerate their digital transformation journey.”The Edge I/O NTS manufacturing plant is recognized by World Economic Forum as an Industry 4.0 Lighthouse. The production line is fully automated, enhancing quality and traceability, while taking care to reduce the plant’s environmental impact.With the Modicon Edge I/O NTS, machine builders, system integrators, and industrial end users can expect to:• Save time from pre-sales to operations, with adaptive tools, simpler design and wiring, quicker start-up of new machines and processes for less time to market.• Cut costs and reduce Mean Time to Repair and unplanned downtime given the system’s robust design featuring environmentally hardened options, hot swap capabilities, and integrated diagnostics.• Increase flexibility with the ability to customize I/O islands and get the most from the system’s compact design — realizing more I/O modules and more functionality in less space.• Prepare for the future of data-driven industries thanks to the system’s compliance with cybersecurity regulations, allowing end users to securely access and integrate the data they need to optimize industrial efficiency, agility, sustainability, and profitability.Schneider Electric remains at the forefront of advancing industrial automation in the digital world. Ever since the Modicon PLC was invented in 1968 by Richard E. Morley, Schneider has continually advanced controllers to meet the needs of ever-changing industrial environments. The Modicon Edge I/O NTS supports industrial digital transformation with cost savings and reduced downtime — all while keeping performance improvement and cybersecurity at the forefront of industrial operations.To learn more about Modicon Edge I/O NTS, or to speak with a product expert, please visit the Schneider Electric booth #S659 at ProMat 2025, March 17-20, 2025, in Chicago.About Schneider ElectricSchneider’s purpose is to create Impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On.Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency.We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitalization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers.We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a sustainable future for all.Learn more at www.se.com
March 20, 2023 – Chicago, Illinois – Today, Oceaneering announces that its Mobile Robotics group has introduced a new supervisory software for its fleet of autonomous mobile robots. The new supervisory software platform implements logistic flows by coordinating and managing mobile robots and peripheral devices. It complements Oceaneering’s portfolio of mobile robots, such as underride robots and forklifts, allowing for mixed fleets to be deployed in one location. “The new software is more than a fleet manager,” said Patrick Bruijn, Business Development Director, Oceaneering Mobile Robotics. “The software provides safe, predictable, reliable, and streamlined view of data from mobile robots and other sources to enable better decision-making.” The software platform is suitable for use in a variety of applications, ranging from assembly lines to complex logistical flows spanning several floors in different buildings. Using the latest cloud, IIoT (industrial internet of things), machine learning, and big data technologies, the software platform is built for security, scalability, and resilience. Enhanced capabilities such as advanced analytics, natural handling, self-optimization, and more can be expected via continual updates. The software will launch in Q3 2023. Oceaneering Mobile Robotics will attend ProMat (Booth S3847) from March 20-23, 2023. Oceaneering Mobile Robotics designs, manufactures, implements, and maintains innovative turnkey logistic solutions based on autonomous mobile robot technology. Its mobile robot systems consist of one or more robots, advanced supervisory software, and supporting infrastructure. These robots can be operated in mixed fleets. Integration management ensures that these turnkey logistic systems are optimized to suit customer needs and seamlessly interface with other customer processes, while OMR’s high-performance battery solution helps to lower customers’ operational carbon footprint. For over 30 years, OMR has been a trusted partner for the automotive, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics industries. For more information on Oceaneering Mobile Robotics, please visit Oceaneering.com/OMR. Oceaneering is a global technology company delivering engineered services and products and robotic solutions to the offshore energy, defense, aerospace, manufacturing, and entertainments industries. For more information on Oceaneering, please visit www.oceaneering.com.
JONESBORO, Ark.—Sachin Kadus has been hired as Hytrol Conveyor Company’s Director of New Product & Technology Development. In this role, Kadus will oversee Hytrol’s robust product development process, creating and managing the next generation of Hytrol innovations. Hytrol’s Chief Technology Officer Orlando Sellers said, “Sachin is our eye to the future. He will be encouraging creativity, ensuring that Hytrol remains on the cutting edge of product development and advancing our focus on the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT).”Kadus has over 18 years of product development experience and has managed diverse teams. His education includes a Bachelor of Engineering and postgraduate in Product Design from Pune University. He is also currently pursuing his MBA from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. From trainee design engineer to a global engineering manager, Kadus has performed in multiple roles related to technology and product development. He has managed large teams in simulation-based design, global computer aided design (CAD) and architecture design, with members spanning the globe. Four distinct patent innovations list Kadus as a design inventor.Pune, India is where Kadus grew up, but he and his family have been living in the Saint Joseph, Michigan area for the past eight years. His family consists of his wife Shivani, daughter Anvi, and son Avaneesh who will join him in Jonesboro. Kadus’ hobbies include playing cricket, running and watching a variety of sports including soccer, F1 racing and football. He is also a fan of both classical and modern music.About: Hytrol Conveyor Company Inc. is a world leader in the design and manufacturing of material handling systems for a variety of industries. Since its founding, the company has been dedicated to pushing forward the material handling industry. Hytrol is the largest conveyor manufacturer in the United States. It designs, develops, and delivers the most advanced material handling systems and includes a network of more than 100 independent businesses worldwide. The company also develops software for conveyors and warehouse management. For more information on Hytrol, visit hytrol.com.Contact:Robyn GarrettPublic Relations Specialistrgarrett@hytrol.com 870.974.5699
Kardex will present its latest developments designed to enhance intralogistics efficiency at Promat 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago March 17 – 20, 2025. We invite attendees to visit booth S3562 to experience our innovative technologies first‐hand. Our demonstrations will feature integrated software solutions and advanced picking assistance tools working seamlessly with our ASRS technologies to improve inventory management, order picking accuracy, performance and ergonomics.One of the key highlights will be our Kardex Shuttle – a Vertical Lift Module designed to optimize space, improve efficiency, and increase flexibility in warehouse operations. It will be working together with Kardex Power Pick Cloud – a new software solution offering greater data security with simplified implementation, agile process adaptation, fast onboarding, and an overall improved user experience. Our experts will demonstrate how the Kardex Shuttle integrates seamlessly into existing operations, reducing storage space by up to 85% and accelerating order picking times.Further, test drive our newest innovation, the Wearable Task Assistant – a portable device that takes picking efficiency and ergonomics to the next level. Equipped with a hands‐free scanner, pick and place support, and a color‐coded wrist display, the Wearable Task Assistant minimizes errors and improves the overall quality of the picking process.Learn how to keep your existing machines up and running using Kardex Connect. Kardex Connect provides a secure industrial internet of things platform offering smart connected services like remote support, analytics, monitoring, and video conferencing for your Kardex solutions. See it all in action!Additionally, Kardex empowered by AutoStore will feature a full‐size AutoStore grid connected to Kardex FulfillX, an innovative warehouse execution system designed to remove the unpredictability from system go‐live, allowing new AutoStore systems to ramp‐up faster and achieve or exceed business objectives in as little as 6 months.Visitors can also experience a live demonstration of Kardex’s Intuitive Picking Assistant, which projects relevant picking information directly onto the surface of the AutoStore access port. This interactive and user‐friendly picking display responds to hand movements and facilitates ergonomic, high speed, error-free picking – setting Kardex empowered by Autostore apart from other integrators.Lastly, stay ahead of the latest industry trends and up to date on technologies by attending our on‐floor seminars during Promat:• Maximizing Warehouse Efficiency by Leveraging Automation Throughout your Facilities on Monday March 17 at 1:00 PM in Theater B• Achieving ROI on Day 1 with a 6‐Month Cube ASRS Deployment: Revolutionizing Warehouse Automation on Wednesday March 19 at 11:15 AM in Theater CCan’t make it to Promat? Explore our virtual exhibition.About Kardex Remstar, LLCKardex is a leading global partner for intralogistics solutions in an attractive and growing market. The Group offers premium automated products, standardized systems and lifecycle services that guarantee high availability and low total cost of ownership. Kardex provides an intelligent entry into automation with its dynamic storage and retrieval systems, offers integrated material handling systems, small parts storage systems and automated high‐bay warehouses and acts as a global AutoStore™partner, offering flexible and modular storage and order fulfillment solutions. The Group employs around 2’500 people in over 30 countries. Kardex Holding AG has been listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 1989.ContactChristina DubeDirector Marketing & Communications Americachristina.dube@kardex.com
Compact, heavy-duty axis with two carriages optimizes space requirements and cycle times of dynamic handling applications Linear axis can accommodate two masses weighing up to 385 kg each Can be individually configured as a single axis or as a part of a multi-axis system Suited for applications with high drive torques and short cycle timesBosch Rexroth is expanding its CKR series of compact modules with an innovative dual belt axis for dynamic handling with a total load capacity of up to 770 kg. The new CKR-280 heavy-duty axis combines the functions of two linear axes into one linear system. Two, independently driven carriages in a single frame enable dynamic applications with high drive torques and short cycle times. The compact, dual-handling system reduces valuable installation space and increases productivity, while saving time and costs for engineering, assembly and commissioning. The new solution can be utilized as a single axis or combined with other linear axes into a multi-axis system, with the option also to include a drive package.Whether in battery production, intralogistics or machine tool automation, many industries are increasingly seeking compact handling solutions that can move large payloads with high dynamics. With the new dual belt version of the CKR compact module series in size 280, Bosch Rexroth offers a space-optimized, heavy-duty axis that can handle two payloads up to 385 kg each and drive torques up to 250 Nm.To enable fast and easy engineering, the compact modules can be configured online in lengths up to 5.50 m. Bosch Rexroth can also deliver longer travel ranges on request. High accelerations of up to 5g and a maximum speed of 5 m/s provide the optimal conditions for short cycle times with high precision and a repeatability of +/- 0.05 mm. Depending on the requirements, a variety of travel profiles can be implemented independently.After its market launch, the CKR-280 heavy-duty axis will also be integrated into the e-tool chain as a new size for single-axis and multi-axis systems.For more information on Bosch Rexroth’s complete line of compact module solutions, please visit boschrexroth-us.com.About Bosch RexrothAs one of the world’s leading suppliers of drive and control technologies, Bosch Rexroth ensures efficient, powerful and safe movement in machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile and Industrial Applications as well as Factory Automation. With its intelligent components, customized system solutions, engineering and services, Bosch Rexroth is creating the necessary environment for fully connected applications. Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drive and control technology, gear technology and linear motion and assembly technology, including software and interfaces to the Internet of Things. With locations in over 80 countries, around 32,600 associates generated sales revenue of 6.5 billion euros in 2024.To learn more, please visit the local country sites:USA: www.boschrexroth-us.comCANADA: www.boschrexroth.caMEXICO: www.boschrexroth.mxThe Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 417,900 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2024). According to preliminary figures, the company generated sales of 90.5 billion euros in 2024. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. With its business activities, the company aims to use technology to help shape universal trends such as automation, electrification, digitalization, connectivity, and an orientation to sustainability. In this context, Bosch’s broad diversification across regions and industries strengthens its innovativeness and robustness. Bosch uses its proven expertise in sensor technology, software, and services to offer customers cross-domain solutions from a single source. It also applies its expertise in connectivity and artificial intelligence in order to develop and manufacture user-friendly, sustainable products. With technology that is “Invented for life,” Bosch wants to help improve quality of life and conserve natural resources. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 470 subsidiary and regional companies in over 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch’s global manufacturing, engineering, and sales network covers nearly every country in the world. Bosch’s innovative strength is key to the company’s further development. At 136 locations across the globe, Bosch employs some 86,900 associates in research and development, of which nearly 48,000 are software engineers.Additional information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.iot.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com.Contact Bosch Rexroth CorporationEden Estabrook(704) 942-4227Eden.estabrook@boschrexroth-us.com
The always-on, lights-out distribution center has been a conversation point in the supply chain space for years. Many industry professionals look to that ideal as inspiration while building automation into their processes and designing for end-to-end connectivity. Now that we are seeing more use cases for agentic AI, are we meaningfully closer to a DC that can truly operate without any human intervention?Discussing this idea are Warren Owen, VP of Solution Consultants at Netstock; Karl Sanchack, COO of Carnegie Foundry; and Thomas Zoehrer, CEO and Co-Founder of SSy.AI.