HMUSA 2022 Conference: Implementing IIoT Solutions for Robots Using Sensor-level Protocols

About the presentation
Sensors are the eyes, ears, and skin of a robot, and are the basic devices for gathering data for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications. In the past, sensors were individually wired to robots and controllers, requiring many cables and a lot of time to set up. Their data was limited (on/off, analog values, etc.), and gathering and using this data in IIoT applications was cumbersome.

Sensor-level networks, such as CANbus, AS-Interface, and IO-Link simplify robot start up. Sensors can be connected to I/O blocks using standard cabling, reducing wiring time and troubleshooting. Built-in advanced capabilities allow more and better data – for example, IO-Link sensors provide process, event, and service/device data, supporting IIoT functions. In addition, these networks easily connect to higher level ethernet or fieldbus protocols and can be directly accessed by control systems or cloud devices using standard masters or gateways.

Registration
Powered by AMT and managed by GIE Media, The IMTS 2022 Conference features 69 different sessions you won’t want to miss so register today. Focused on a range of topics that include process innovation, plant operations, quality/inspection, and automation, The IMTS 2022 Conference addresses improving productivity; improving part quality; and developing a stable, competent workforce to lower the cost of manufacturing in the United States and create new levels of market demand.

Meet your presenter

Tom Knauer has more than 30 years of experience in the industrial automation industry with equipment/solution suppliers including Balluff, Omron STI, Parker Hannifin, and GE Fanuc. His focus is on product management and business development for sensors, safety, and networking. Recently, Knauer’s work includes robotics, material handling, condition monitoring, general factory automation solutions, and market development. He led Balluff’s activities to evaluate and understand changes in robot and factory automation technologies and the marketplace. He also directed Balluff’s strategy and technology development path based on this information.

About the company
Balluff is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of inductive, photoelectric, vision, capacitive and magnetic sensors as well as linear position transducers, RFID systems, and networking products. Balluff products for OEM and factory floor solutions are used to control, regulate, automate, assemble, position, and monitor manufacturing, assembly, and packaging sequences for industries including metalworking, automotive, plastics, material handling, wood processing, aerospace, alternative energy, medical, electrical, and electronics.