UniversalAutomation.Org Presents Open Automation Approach at SPS Fair 2022

Summary

UniversalAutomation.Org (UAO), an independent, not-for-profit association managing the implementation of an industrial automation shared runtime execution engine, presented the latest advances in manufacturer-independent automation at the SPS Fair in Nuremberg, Germany, Nov. 8-10. 

The event brought together some of the most innovative companies across smart and digital automation. With various in-depth exhibitions focusing on industry-leading themes, the event offered the opportunity to engage with other industry experts and showcase the latest equipment that is driving the industry forward.  

In Hall 7, Stand 491, visitors discovered the importance of the development of an ecosystem of portable, interoperable “plug and produce” solutions and why it’s time to abandon proprietary solutions in automation technology. Adopting an open automation approach is a step forward to advancing software-centric industrial automation and shaping the next generation of automation. 

As a non-profit organisation, UniversalAutomation.Org offers its members the reference implementation of a runtime environment based on the IEC 61499 standard. This gives partners access to a secure technical basis in which the portability of software applications is a standard feature. 

There are now thirty members in UniversalAutomation.Org, ranging between industrial companies, manufacturers and OEMs, as well as renowned universities and start-ups. The latest additions are Kyndryl, Mayer, ENGlobal, ASRock and Upstate Automation. The first offerings are also already available: most recently with, Advantech, ESA S.P.A, Kongsberg Maritime, Flexbridge and R. Stahl presenting solutions with IEC61499-based automation, which are now available via UniversalAutomation.Org. 
 

About UniversalAutomation.org

UniversalAutomation.org (UAO) is an independent, not-for-profit association that will unleash innovation by decoupling application software from the hardware on which it executes.

UniversalAutomation.org manages and shares a runtime execution engine based on the IEC 61499 standard which decouples automation application software from the hardware it executes on. UAO provides a ready-to-go solution that enables flexible Industry 4.0 automation architectures and drastically improves return on investment on application software by supporting reusability and portability across hardware platforms. 

The ongoing development of the runtime is managed by the association following shared source principles to ensure compatibility. Members act collectively, sharing technology development, insights, and information to create a market of “plug and produce” automation solutions.  

UniversalAutomation.org is expanding with more end users/SIs/OEMs and vendors eager to implement the runtime in their products. Universities can use the technology to help educate and inaugurate the new generation of industrial engineers driving automation innovation. Any entity looking to help advance industrial automation is welcome to join.