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Cloud-based HMI portfolio offers users choice and agility
Rockwell Automation has launched a portfolio of cloud-based software and hardware that allows customers to use visualisation software to design HMI applications that will work with either Rockwell or third-party controllers, and can run on any hardware.
The FactoryTalk Optix portfolio allows users to connect to a variety of third-party software, devices or systems using software designed for interoperability that supports OPC UA. Users only pay for the functions they need, cutting expenditure on unused functions.
The portfolio provides an open architecture along with options for design, deployment, connectivity and extensibility that will allow industrial organisations to develop and program easy-to-use industrial applications.
The portfolio consists of:
• The FactoryTalk Optix HMI visualisation platform that users can access from a browser or download to a computer. It delivers flexibility, scalability and interoperability and allows them to design and deploy HMIs to meet their needs. It includes functions such as multi-user collaboration, Web-based design and test, and version control.
• Sealed OptixPanel graphic terminals that come pre-loaded with FactoryTalk Optix and FactoryTalk Remote Access software licenses. The all-in-one devices are ready to run at first power-up. A pre-installed, closed OS reduces risks in implementation and maintenance.
• FactoryTalk Remote Access which provides secure remote connections, allowing users to view, assist, manage and troubleshoot from anywhere in the world. Teams can respond faster and resolve production issues rapidly.
• ASEM 6300 industrial PCs which are available in box or panel formats and allow customisation.
• Embedded Edge Compute Modules which allow users to process visual data locally and remotely while maintaining the capability to grow and scale systems as needs change.
“Rockwell Automation is continuing to introduce cloud-based solutions that will dramatically increase productivity by providing customers with new capabilities that overcome limitations and improve multi-user collaboration and support evolving workflows,” explains Brian Shepherd, senior vice-president in the company’s Software & Control division. “In a world that’s changing faster than ever, the best technology is designed for agility and the FactoryTalk Optix portfolio gives users choices and flexibility across the HMI solution lifecycle.”
Guy Lopes, vice-president of operations at the wrapping machinery specialist, Wulftec International, regards the new portfolio as a gamechanger. “It is an open solution that offers flexibility with a future-ready approach, and it allows us to design more innovative equipment faster through multi-user collaboration, Web-based design and testing, as well as integrated version control. The FactoryTalk Optix portfolio is a big plus for us and we are very excited to have it standard on our machines.”
Craig Resnick, vice-president of the ARC Advisory Group, comments: “Cloud infrastructure and software-as-a-service offerings are unlocking tremendous value in nearly every corner of the business world, and manufacturing is no different. Rockwell Automation’s FactoryTalk Optix portfolio provides this value by helping to unlock new possibilities in the world of HMI through the cloud and on-premises. The portfolio is designed to help enable users to create more innovative designs and scale through seamless access to physically distant sites while also offering more flexible deployment choices, including dedicated graphic terminals and industrial PCs to support a wide array of applications.”
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