Category Archives: Automation/Robotics

AImotive Announces aiSim 3.0

Aimotive has announced aiSim 3.0, the next generation of the world’s first ISO26262-certified simulator for the development and validation of ADAS and AD systems. aiSim 3.0 brings multi-node and multi-client capability together with physics-based sensor simulation enabling high and measurable correlations between virtual and real-world testing from large-scale software-in-the-loop testing to real-time environments.

Multi-client support allows several ego vehicles or multi-ECU control systems to be placed in the same virtual environment to test interactions between numerous automated vehicles or system components. The multi-node feature enables the distribution of sensor simulation to multiple computers to simulate physics-based models efficiently, even for the most complex sensor setups during real-time, hardware-in-the-loop testing.

The aiSim 3.0 sensor simulation framework builds on the Khronos Group’s Vulkan API to improve multi-GPU raytracing performance. Vulkan creates a transparent pipeline for the physically-based simulation of various sensor modalities (cameras, radars, LiDARs) and efficiently shares tasks between available GPU resources. Since Vulkan is an open standard, aiSim runs from the cheapest notebook to the largest cloud cluster on all compatible systems, regardless of the manufacturer.

Test automation and manual test execution for forensics analysis are equally important during virtual validation. The recent release of aiSim provides an intuitive user experience, enhancing the usability of existing features, such as creating scenarios, sensor setups, changing the weather and environment, and analyzing results from a single unified interface. Its flexible architecture and open APIs ease its integration into continuous development – continuous integration pipelines providing native support for both on-site or in-cloud deployments.

aiSim 3.0 is available now.

For more information about Aimotive, visit website.

Productive Robotics Updates Software for OB7 Cobots

New software updates add 50 operational and ease-of-use features to the line of OB7 collaborative robots from Absolute Machine Tools’ partner Productive Robotics. The software updates enhance the cobots’ connectivity, expedite efficient integration with other equipment, and facilitate real-time status monitoring.

Included in the list of new and upgraded features is full linear control that broadens the cobots’ “no-programming, no coding,” simple-to-teach intelligence. The updated software also strengthens the cobots’ ability to directly monitor and control the machines they work with, including providing instant connection to equipment with Rockwell Automation’s Ethernet IP. Live online monitoring with email and text alerts provides real-time updates and notifications of machine stoppages or other issues. Complete interoperability with Cognex and other smart camera systems expedites systems integration.

With seven axes, OB7 cobots have extended flexibility that enables them to reach around obstructions and operate in confined workplaces. The family of four different OB7 cobots is engineered to accomplish simple to complex tasks for various payloads and sizes. Because they are manufactured in the US, Productive Robotics cobots benefit from fast, reliable technical support and part supply services.

Productive Robotics products support Absolute Machine Tools’ commitment to providing comprehensive engineering assistance for custom-tailored automation, robotics and turnkey machining solutions aimed at reducing manufacturing costs.

About Absolute Machine Tools, Inc.

Absolute Machine Tools, Inc. sells and supports Johnford Bridge & Gantry Mills; You Ji Vertical Turret Lathes; Tongtai Horizontal Machining Centers (former Hitachi-Seiki OEM); PCI Horizontal Machining Centers; Quicktech Multi-Axis Multi-Spindle Mill/Turn Centers; Lico Multi-Slide CNC Screw Machines and Twin Spindle Multi-Slide Mill/Turn Centers; Nexturn Swiss-type Lathes; AccuteX Wire EDM and Die Sinker Machines; APEC 5-axis Gantry-style Linear Motor Machining Centers; and Precihole Gundrilling Machines. The company has worked with several of its principal machine tool partners for over 25 years to offer some of the most heavy-duty, accurate, and productive machines in the industry. The company has built its reputation on exemplary applications engineering, service, customer support, comprehensive training, and effective preventive-maintenance programs. In addition to its headquarters in Lorain, OH, the company has established direct full-service technical centers in Mason, OH; Livonia, MI; and Rockford, IL.

For more information, visit www.absolutemachine.com.

Omron Launches K6PM Thermal Condition Monitoring Device

Omron Automation Americas has a new technology to help facilities get closer to the ultimate goal of zero downtime. By providing continuous, remote thermal monitoring of electrical panels and other components, Omron’s K6PM Thermal Condition Monitoring Device lowers the time and cost required for critical equipment inspections and minimizes the risk of unplanned shutdowns.

The number of parts that need monitoring is increasing in today’s highly automated facilities, but a shortage of maintenance engineers is making it harder to keep up with this demand. As a result, industrial facilities are at a higher risk of unexpected downtime as well as serious accidents. Device failures have various causes, most of which lead to overheating and subsequent insulator breakdown.

Using the K6PM, manufacturers can rest assured that their equipment is being monitored on a continuous basis for any abnormalities resulting from overload, vibration, condensation or other causes. Automated data collection and analysis enables even inexperienced personnel to recognize a potential device failure early on and take action to prevent serious problems. Operators can easily and accurately visualize a panel’s temperature without opening the door.

Industry professionals interested in taking advantage of the K6PM’s capabilities for reducing unplanned shutdowns and accidents caused by device failures are encouraged to visit the K6PM’s product page for more information.

About Omron Automation

Omron Automation is an industrial automation partner that creates, sells and services fully integrated automation solutions that include sensing, control, safety, vision, motion, robotics and more. Established in 1933 and currently headed by president Yoshihito Yamada, Omron’s 36,000 employees help businesses solve problems with creativity in more than 110 countries.

Learn more at automation.omron.com.