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Michael Matthesius, EVP Division Automation and ProductionIn addition to offering automation and digitization solutions that leverage robust cloud infrastructure and industrial analytics, the company also has proven expertise in providing intelligent and communication-capable components for the control cabinet and the field. In the case of terminal blocks, panel structures often have to be configured individually and redesigned several times as part of a time-consuming process. Weidmüller recognizes this and has aligned its solutions along the increasing trend in progressive automation in the assembly, installation, and wiring processes in panel building. The company’s Klippon Connect terminal blocks reduce planning and development times for control cabinets. With the Weidmüller Configurator software tool, terminal blocks and other Weidmüller terminal rail components can be selected, configured, and ordered as required. The synergic implementation of the two offerings extends beyond traditional modular kits and results in complete application solutions for recurring panel applications. “Throughout the panel building process chain—starting with planning and moving on to installation and, finally, operation—we are tapping into the potential for optimization, that when combined translates into measurable extra added value,” says Michael Matthesius, EVP, Division Automation and Production at Weidmüller.
IIOT and digitization are other fundamental focus areas for Weidmüller. The company provides an integrated solution portfolio that envelopes everything from individual components through to complete solutions that are already fully-tailored to the requirements of IIOT.
We work closely with clients to deliver customized solutions that match their expectations
As such, Weidmüller caters to distinct application areas, such as industrial analytics, cloud services, energy management, digitalization, networking, and data consistency. Moreover, the company’s web-based services allow for intelligent information processing from virtually anywhere in the world. The Weidmüller energy management solutions help to highlight efficiencies and potential energy savings within the relevant system. Weidmüller’s Industrial Analytics solutions can collect and process data from the system in question and analyzes it using intelligent processes. With innovative communication-capable signal converters, I/O systems, routers, M2M technology, wireless and switches, Weidmüller also makes data available in the network and ensures IT security as a result. The company works closely with clients to deliver customized solutions that match their expectations.
One of Weidmüller’s clients relied on laborious manual quality control, which was carried out by the operator for their friction stir welding system. With Weidmüller’s Industrial Analytics solution in the picture, the client was able to record and document the process parameters; the software also provided information as to when the “friction pin” responsible for generating the heat at the machine is in need of being replaced. As a result, in addition to minimizing the number of rejects that occur as a result of a broken tool, availability of machinery was also increased. The client was able to achieve minimal rejects and system downtime.
While evolving from a component manufacturer to a solution provider, Weidmüller is combining established and new products into a holistic solution which is tailored to the requirements of IIOT. “In the long term, we want to establish ourselves as a solution provider while at the same time not neglecting our component business, as this is always part of the solution,” concludes Matthesius.
Weidmüller Launches u-OS system at PACK EXPO Las Vegas
Thursday, September 21, 2023
During PACK EXPO Las Vegas, this smart industrial connectivity and automation company launched its operating system for automation at OEM facilities.
During PACK EXPO Las Vegas, Weidmüller, a leading provider of smart industrial connectivity and automation solutions, introduced its latest automation innovation, the u-OS (innovative operating system) for automation products. This system has been specifically engineered for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) operating in sectors such as conveyance, food and beverage, and oil and gas.
The u-OS is a versatile platform with multiple functions. During the exhibition, Weidmüller showcased a PLC controller running this operating system to illustrate how their customers can enjoy the flexibility of loading various applications into their systems, thereby ensuring containerization and Dockerization for seamless integration.
“The best part about u-OS is it's strategically poised to solve a lot of the problems that we have today with having PLCs connected to the cloud. Remotely deployed assets always need some mechanism by which you can reach out and continue to update and upgrade with patches and firmware, so edge management and fleet management,” says Kenneth Crawford, director of automation in North America for Weidmüller. “We offer a portal called Easy Connect that you'll be able to remotely connect to the devices and keep them current.”
An application focused on enhancing the modularity of conveyance is centered on housing the core modules within IP-rated enclosures, along with control systems, gateways, and network switches to facilitate interactions with upstream and downstream components. This configuration enables seamless data sharing and access, ensuring the transmission of relevant information to the cloud.
Furthermore, Crawford highlights that the u-OS can be leveraged for various purposes, including the integration of third-party applications or the development of custom control and cloud-based applications by OEMs. These applications can range from JavaScript and Python applications, harnessing the capabilities of MQTT and data handling for any cloud-based applications a company may employ.
Another valuable application of this new system pertains to proactive maintenance practices. Instead of relying on a reactive break-fix model, OEMs can remotely monitor the health of their machines. In the event of any issues, they can swiftly prepare for on-site maintenance within a span of eight to 12 hours, equipped with all necessary components, or provide remote troubleshooting assistance.
The u-OS also empowers Weidmüller to replicate a customer's network, even when an on-premise network is unavailable. This is achieved by offering a cellular network option to establish connectivity with the customer's cloud or VPN. Additionally, a customer's network can be used to access their equipment through their firewall, maintaining security and permissions.
Given the current challenges related to availability and resource allocation within the industry, some OEMs may encounter difficulties accessing their PLCs. By incorporating Code Assist, Weidmüller can efficiently port a customer's IP, migrating it from Code Assist to the Weidmüller platform encoding system, and have it operational within a single day. This approach greatly benefits manufacturers who require a quick transition without the need for extensive learning curves associated with new programs, facilitating a speedy resumption of equipment operations.
Weidmuller USA Announces the Launch of u-OS
Monday, October 09, 2023
Weidmuller USA, a provider of Smart Industrial Connectivity products and solutions headquartered in Richmond, Va., has introduced a new open operating system – u-OS – that is uniquely engineered for Industrial IoT and Automation applications.
A snapshot of u-OS features includes:
• u-OS is made for maintenance – Easy cloud-based diagnostics and fleet management for your remotely deployed devices
• u-OS offers seamless integration – Merge proprietary and third-party apps effortlessly using containerization
• u-OS is future-proof – Built on open standards like Linux, OPC-UA, and Docker
• u-OS is independent – Future-proof solution with no lock-ins for more choices
• u-OS offers universal compatibility – Supports multiple fieldbus protocols
• u-OS provides easy scalability – Expand and adapt with cloud-based device management
• u-OS is migration-ready – Transition to new systems without the hassle
An added feature is that the CODESYS APP, a leading IEC61131-3 programming tool used in machine building and system integration, is fully integrated into the u-OS platform. This enables anyone, from newcomers to automation experts, to harness the power of CODESYS, which provides a robust and user-friendly environment tailored to the user’s needs.
“u-OS isn’t just the bridge to Industry 4.0, it’s the on-ramp,” said Ken Crawford, Senior Director of Automation at Weidmuller USA. “Plus, it’s independent and built on recognized open standards like Linux, Containers, and OPC-UA to ensure future resilience and ease of system migration by eliminating reliance on a single provider.”
Crawford noted that u-OS is compatible with other Weidmuller products such as the u-remote and u-control lines as well as IoT Gateways and easyConnect. “We are continuously growing the u-OS ecosystem to make our solutions even more flexible and valuable to a wide variety of industry sectors in U.S. and global markets.”
Company
Weidmuller
Management
Michael Matthesius, EVP Division Automation and Production
Description
Weidmüller offers automation and digitization solutions in addition to intelligent and communication-capable components for the control cabinet and the field
