What are the cutting-edge developments shaping the future of control systems? Get firsthand impressions from a recent trip to SPS (Smart Production Solutions) – the massive industrial automation trade fair held annually in Germany. This episode unpacks key takeaways relevant for professionals right now (May 2025).

Hear about the scale of SPS and its distinct focus on control devices and automation solutions. The discussion highlights several significant trends observed on the show floor:

• The growing adoption and importance of IP67-rated components, essential for robust performance in demanding applications like AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) and other field-level robotics.
• Noticeable progress in weatherproofing critical components, such as servo amplifiers, with specific examples like a new IP65 compatible model from Bosch Rexroth being mentioned.
• A major industry shift towards Virtual PLCs (vPLCs), including Virtual Safety PLCs. This rapidly evolving trend leverages IT technologies like virtualization and Docker containers to decouple control software from specific hardware, fostering greater IT/OT convergence, flexibility, scalability, and potentially simplifying multi-protocol support.  

The overall takeaway is clear: industrial automation control technology is evolving at breakneck speed. Developments showcased at SPS signal significant changes ahead, likely impacting the strategies and competitiveness of both European and Japanese manufacturers.

Tune in for valuable insights into global automation trends direct from a leading European event – essential listening for engineers and decision-makers, particularly those here in Japan's industrial heartland like Aichi.

#SPSfair #SPSGermany #ControlSystems #IndustrialAutomation #IP67 #IP65 #ServoAmplifier #Bosch #VirtualPLC #vPLC #SoftPLC #SafetyPLC #ITOT #Docker #AutomationTrends #Podcast #JapanAutomation #EuropeanAutomation #Aichi

Okay, here's an English podcast description based on the provided source audio details, incorporating the current context:

Suggested Episode Title: Announcing Monozukuri-kei Podcast Day! Theme: Safety Doors

Description:

Get ready for something new and exciting in the world of Japanese manufacturing podcasts! This episode introduces the first-ever "Monozukuri-kei Podcast Day" – a collaborative event where multiple manufacturing-related podcasts will simultaneously release episodes focused on a single, shared theme.

For this inaugural event (happening around May 2025), the chosen theme is "doors," and we're focusing our discussion specifically on safety doors within the crucial context of industrial automation and machine safety.

Join us as we explore:

• Different types of safety door locks and interlocking switches.
• Features and offerings from prominent manufacturers in the field, potentially including companies like Pilz, Keyence, Idec, and others active in the Japanese market.
• Key characteristics such as integrated communication capabilities and modular designs in modern safety components.
• The emerging concept of Safety 2.0, which proposes moving beyond traditional physical barriers (like fences) towards adaptive safety systems that use real-time data (e.g., from distance sensors) to ensure safety dynamically.

We'll also briefly touch upon the current landscape of the Japanese manufacturing podcast scene here in Japan and encourage all our listeners to check out and support the "Monozukuri-kei Podcast Day" initiative by exploring the themed episodes from all participating shows.

#Monozukuri #Manufacturing #PodcastDay #JapanesePodcast #SafetyDoors #MachineSafety #IndustrialSafety #Pilz #Keyence #Idec #Omron #Safety20 #IndustrialAutomation #FactoryAutomation #Japan #PodcastEvent

While unit testing is a cornerstone of robust software development, how effectively can it be applied in the world of Factory Automation (FA) and PLC programming today (May 12, 2025)? This episode dives into the crucial need for, and significant challenges of, implementing unit testing in industrial environments.

The discussion acknowledges the clear benefits – improving code quality and enabling early bug detection. However, it highlights a major hurdle: the current lack of easily accessible and adequate simulation and emulation environments specifically designed for efficient unit-level testing of PLC logic, even as powerful system-level simulation tools become more common for virtual commissioning.

Exploring potential solutions, the conversation examines the rise of software-defined automation platforms. These platforms offer intriguing possibilities like centralized management, integrated version control, and even AI-assisted code generation, potentially creating more testable systems. Yet, their current scalability, financial viability, and integration challenges within existing infrastructures are realistically debated.

Ultimately, the episode grounds the discussion in the economic realities of the sector. It explores how the often inherently low profitability associated with developing custom production equipment makes it difficult to justify significant investment in comprehensive software testing environments and advanced platforms, despite the long-term quality benefits.

Tune in for a practical look at the state of software quality practices in FA, the limitations hindering effective testing, the promise and challenges of emerging software-defined solutions, and the economic factors shaping technology adoption in industrial automation.

#UnitTesting #FactoryAutomation #PLCprogramming #SoftwareTesting #Simulation #Emulation #CodeQuality #SoftwareDefinedAutomation #VersionControl #AICodeGeneration #IndustrialAutomation #Podcast #AutomationTrends #SoftwareQuality

Okay, here's an English podcast description based on the discussion about Takahashi's drivable kotatsu project:

Suggested Episode Title: Building a Street-Legal Drivable Kotatsu: Takahashi's Solo Contest Challenge

Description:

Imagine hitting the road... in a heated table? That's the ambitious DIY project Takahashi is tackling right now (May 2025): building a mobile heated table (kotatsu). And he's doing it alone, fueled by a 500,000 yen budget from a company idea contest, with the deadline looming large.

This episode delves into Takahashi's unique undertaking. Hear about the inspiration – a blend of wanting a supremely comfortable, portable workspace and an appreciation for mobile, running-style art installations. Discover how recent legal changes in Japan concerning vehicles like electric kick scooters provided the opening to potentially make such a creation road-legal.

Get a glimpse into the realities of the build, including grappling with design flaws and complex wiring challenges. Learn how rapid prototyping tools like M5Stack are proving invaluable, significantly reducing the need for time-consuming soldering.

The conversation also branches into a fascinating practical challenge: bridging the gap between accessible maker hardware like M5Stack and traditional industrial automation equipment (PLCs). We discuss the difficulties arising from differing communication protocols and contrasting setup philosophies, particularly the industrial preference for reliable hardware-based configuration over purely software-driven approaches.

Tune in for a unique story of personal ambition, the trials of building a complex mobility device, and insightful commentary on connecting modern prototyping tools with the world of industrial control.

#DrivableKotatsu #Kotatsu #DIY #MakerProject #IdeaContest #M5Stack #RapidPrototyping #IndustrialAutomation #PLC #Wiring #Electronics #Podcast #TechStory #Micromobility #Japan

What are the core strengths defining the major Japanese PLC manufacturers in today's fiercely competitive industrial automation landscape (as of May 12, 2025)? This episode features an insightful interview where two industry observers share their personal perspectives on the titans of the Japanese PLC market.

Gain valuable insights into the strategies and advantages of key players, including:

• Mitsubishi Electric: Analyzing its dominant domestic market share (often #1 in Japan, top 3 globally) and the power of its vast installed base, coupled with recognized strengths in intuitive programming and motion/discrete control.
• Omron: Examining its strong position (often #2 in Japan, top 5 globally) built on expertise in sensors and delivering highly integrated motion control solutions.
• Keyence: Understanding its unique model characterized by remarkably rapid product development and driven by an exceptionally strong sales and marketing focus.
• Yaskawa Electric: Acknowledging its deep historical roots and continued specialization in the demanding field of motion control.
• Panasonic: Discussing its growing presence, particularly in high-performance motion applications for industries like battery manufacturing, often leveraging its own sensor technologies alongside its PLCs and servo systems.

The conversation also briefly touches upon the observed increase in the use of the CODESYS software platform in certain international markets, potentially influenced by factors like demand from China.

Tune in for a compelling comparative analysis of the leading forces shaping factory automation in Japan and understand their distinct approaches to innovation and market leadership.

#PLC #JapanesePLC #MitsubishiPLC #Omron #Keyence #Yaskawa #Panasonic #IndustrialAutomation #FactoryAutomation #MotionControl #Sensors #MarketShare #CODESYS #Podcast #JapanAutomation

Okay, here's an English podcast description based on the discussion points, enriched with context from the search results and current date:

Suggested Episode Title: IPCs vs. PLCs: Convergence and the Future of Automation Control

Description:

In the dynamic field of industrial automation (as of May 12, 2025), are the lines blurring between Industrial PCs (IPCs) and traditional Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)? This episode explores the evolving landscape and convergence of these core control technologies.

We discuss the rapidly increasing capabilities of IPCs, driven by advancements in processing power and software. However, the conversation also delves into critical questions: Are these extensive features always necessary? What are the considerations around navigating safety requirements and managing potential implementation complexity when choosing an IPC over a dedicated PLC?

Participants observe that, especially at the high end, IPCs and PLCs are indeed becoming functionally very similar. Looking ahead, the discussion suggests the future focus in automation control may shift significantly. Rather than fundamental hardware distinctions, development and innovation will likely center on:

• Sophisticated software applications and platforms.
• Holistic system design and integration (including trends like IT/OT convergence and unified protocols).
• The critical adoption of modern software practices like structured programming (e.g., adhering to standards like IEC 61131-3) and the use of reusable code libraries to ensure efficiency, quality, and maintainability.

Tune in for insights into the ongoing IPC vs. PLC evolution, the pivotal role of software in shaping the future of automation, and why robust programming practices are becoming more crucial than ever.

#IndustrialPC #IPC #PLC #ProgrammableLogicController #IndustrialAutomation #FactoryAutomation #Convergence #ControlSystems #SoftwareDevelopment #SystemDesign #StructuredProgramming #IEC61131 #AutomationTrends #Podcast #ITOT

What are the practical hurdles slowing down IIoT and SCADA advancements in manufacturing right now (as of May 12, 2025)? This episode features a candid discussion reflecting on current challenges and desired improvements in industrial automation.

Listen in as the speakers discuss:

• The persistent high cost and difficulty associated with collecting granular data from field-level components, such as servo motors.
• Perceived limitations or configuration complexities when using current communication protocols like OPC UA and MQTT for demanding real-time data transfer applications.
• The practical desire for more robust edge devices suitable for the factory floor, specifically highlighting needs like direct AC power compatibility and rugged IP67 environmental ratings.
• The potential of emerging technologies like Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) to simplify connectivity, reduce costs, and enable Power over Data Line (PoDL) for field devices.
• The ongoing differences in perspective between IT and OT professionals regarding data handling and system architecture, including the common OT preference for centralizing data collection in controllers.

This conversation provides valuable insights into the current pain points and future directions for industrial data acquisition, edge computing, and control systems integration.

Finally, for those interested in exploring these topics further, stay tuned for an invitation to an upcoming study group event (potentially relevant for listeners in or connected to the Miyoshi, Aichi, Japan area, or attending online).

#IIoT #SCADA #IndustrialAutomation #Manufacturing #DataAcquisition #EdgeComputing #OPCUA #MQTT #RealTimeData #IP67 #SinglePairEthernet #SPE #ITOT #ControlSystems #Podcast #Aichi #Miyoshi #StudyGroup

How does the crucial relationship between government and the manufacturing industry differ across nations, particularly when comparing Japan to European countries like Germany? This episode delves into varying national approaches to industrial strategy and innovation.

The discussion analyzes the perception that Japan may have a less visibly integrated model of government-industry collaboration compared to European approaches, such as Germany's Industrie 4.0 framework, which heavily emphasizes coordinated standardization and enhancing production efficiency. While recent high-level EU-Japan agreements (like the Strategic Partnership Agreement and Digital Partnership) show strengthening international cooperation on topics like economic security and semiconductors, the speakers explore potential differences in domestic integration models.  

Furthermore, the conversation touches upon the often-discussed challenges in effectively connecting Japanese academia with industry, noting difficulties that can arise in translating fundamental research into practical industrial applications.

However, the episode strongly counters any notion of Japanese stagnation by highlighting the nation's proven track record in innovation and successfully establishing global technical standards. Beyond well-known examples like the QR code and G-code, Japan's ongoing leadership through bodies like JISC (Japanese Industrial Standards Committee) in areas such as smart manufacturing, robotics, and energy systems demonstrates significant innovative capacity, even if the collaborative model differs from elsewhere.

Tune in for a nuanced comparison of manufacturing policies, the interplay between government, industry, and academia in Japan, and how different approaches might influence national competitiveness and innovation.

#Manufacturing #IndustrialPolicy #Japan #Germany #Europe #GovernmentIndustry #AcademiaIndustry #Standardization #Innovation #QRCode #Gcode #JISC #IndustrialStrategy #Podcast #EUJapan

Okay, here's an English podcast description based on the discussion points, enriched with context from current trends:

Suggested Episode Title: Essential Skills for Factory Automation Pros: Mastering Networks & Security

Description:

In the fast-evolving landscape of Factory Automation (FA) as of May 2025, what are the most critical technical skills professionals need to acquire and hone? This episode features a focused discussion exploring this vital question.

One speaker strongly advocates for deep Ethernet and industrial networking knowledge as a foundational requirement. As more devices become interconnected through IIoT and smart factory initiatives, understanding network protocols (like EtherNet/IP, Profinet), infrastructure, and troubleshooting is essential – not just for operations, but as a critical layer of cybersecurity.

The other expert highlights Security itself as a key differentiator. With the increasing connection of production equipment to enterprise systems and the cloud, expertise in OT cybersecurity principles, vulnerability management, and implementing secure architectures (potentially referencing standards like IEC 62443) is paramount. Mastering this area can significantly increase professional value and unlock new career opportunities.

Both speakers agree that developing robust skills in networking and cybersecurity is crucial for navigating the modern FA environment, offering more diverse career paths and the ability to contribute to innovation. While other skills like PLC programming, data analytics, and adaptability remain important, this discussion emphasizes these two interconnected pillars for future success.

Tune in to understand where to focus your learning efforts to build a resilient and valuable career in Factory Automation.

#FactoryAutomation #IndustrialAutomation #TechnicalSkills #CareerDevelopment #Ethernet #Networking #Cybersecurity #OTsecurity #Cloud #IIoT #Manufacturing #Automation #FutureSkills #Podcast #IEC62443

Can you truly apply software concepts like encapsulation when programming PLCs using Ladder Logic? On this episode of Factory Automation Radio, the hosts dive into this intriguing question.

The discussion explores what encapsulation means in the context of industrial automation programming, drawing parallels to principles from Object-Oriented Programming (OOP). They debate whether striving for encapsulation is always necessary or beneficial, considering the complexity and future maintenance needs of the PLC software.

Key points covered include:

• The practical limitations of current PLC programming environments for implementing robust encapsulation.
• The pros and cons of using Function Blocks (FBs) versus other Program Organization Units (POUs) as a means to structure code and achieve a degree of encapsulation.
• The broader trend of adopting more sophisticated software development practices within industrial automation.
• The persistent challenges in bridging the gap between abstract software design and successful on-site implementation and debugging.
• A brief look at the potential role AI might play in assisting PLC programmers in the future.

Tune into Factory Automation Radio for a thought-provoking discussion on bringing software engineering best practices like encapsulation into the world of Ladder Logic and PLC programming.

#FactoryAutomation #IndustrialAutomation #PLCprogramming #LadderLogic #Encapsulation #SoftwareDevelopment #FunctionBlock #POU #OOP #PLCsoftware #AIinAutomation #ControlSystems #Podcast #FactoryAutomationRadio