On June 19, 2024, Ultech Engineering had the privilege of attending the KVC and Rockwell Automation "Smart Factory Day Unlock with Digital Innovation SI & Partners" event at the New World Hotel in Bintulu. The day was filled with insightful presentations, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities, all centered around the latest advancements in industrial automation and digital innovation.
The event kicked off at 9:50 AM with an introduction to KVC, Rockwell Automation's SI managing partner. KVC, a prominent name in the automation industry, not only collaborates with Rockwell Automation but also represents a plethora of other automation brands. Attendees were introduced to KVC's impressive state-of-the-art warehouse, which employs robots to fulfill inventory orders efficiently. This cutting-edge facility underscores KVC's commitment to covering a wide range of products and services for industrial partners in the market, ensuring they remain at the forefront of automation technology.
Following the introduction to KVC, the focus shifted to the Rockwell Automation Partner Program and its benefits. The program encompasses four major technology disciplines: Control, Information, Power, and Process. As a current SI partner for Rockwell Automation products under the Control category, Ultech Engineering expressed interest in expanding its expertise to include products from the other three categories. This segment highlighted the comprehensive support and opportunities available to partners, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the Rockwell Automation ecosystem. At the same time with the support of principal partners, Ultech Engineering is then competent to provide that instantaneous service support required by most industrial clients.
After a brief coffee break at 11:15 AM, the program resumed with an introduction to PowerFlex VSD drives. The presentation delved into the integration of AI for predictive maintenance and automated optimization using FactoryTalk Analytics GuardianAI. This innovative solution leverages advanced analytics to predict equipment failures and optimize performance, thus minimizing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency. The use of AI in predictive maintenance represents a significant leap forward in industrial automation, offering proactive solutions to common operational challenges.
The next presentation focused on another form of AI optimization: FactoryTalk Analytics LogixAI. This powerful tool inputs data from existing processes, suggesting improvements and detecting anomalies on the operational plant floor. It can integrate predictions in a closed-loop system or provide feedback for operations to decide on feedforward inputs. The ability of LogixAI to analyze data and make real-time recommendations underscores its potential to transform industrial processes, driving efficiency and productivity.
One of the event's highlights was the live demonstration of variable implementation on FactoryTalk Analytics software. This hands-on session provided attendees with a practical understanding of how these advanced tools operate in real-world scenarios. Following the demonstration, participants enjoyed a networking buffet lunch at 12:40 PM, offering a chance to connect with industry peers and discuss the day's insights.
The afternoon sessions commenced at 2:00 PM with an introduction to FactoryTalk Optix, a scalable HMI with MQTT and OPC UA interoperability. This IoT and cloud-enabled device enhances visualization and data integration, streamlining operations and facilitating real-time monitoring.
At 2:20 PM, the focus shifted to ThinManager, a centralized content delivery and device management solution for manufacturing. ThinManager seamlessly integrates with existing PLCs and HMIs, providing tools and methods to monitor and adjust user sessions from any location. This centralized approach simplifies device management, enhances security, and improves operational efficiency.
The final presentation covered the Modular MCC Solution for IEC 61439. The CUBIC modular system approach to modularity and electrical component independence simplifies the design, construction, and installation of electrical switchboards for any application. This innovative solution offers flexibility and efficiency, catering to the diverse needs of industrial operations.
The SI Partners crowd then moved on to another live demo featuring ThinManager and PowerFlex VSD with FactoryTalk Analytics GuardianAI in action. This demonstration provided a tangible experience of how these advanced technologies work together to optimize industrial processes.
To wrap up the day's events, attendees participated in a fun and engaging pop quiz, with prizes awarded to the top three scorers. Two members of the Ultech Engineering team were among the winners, taking home prizes generously sponsored by KVC.
The day concluded with a group photo and additional networking opportunities, allowing participants to further discuss the day's insights and forge valuable connections. The Ultech Engineering team left the event with a wealth of knowledge and a renewed sense of excitement about the future of industrial automation.
In summary, the "Smart Factory Day Unlock with Digital Innovation SI & Partners" event was an invaluable experience for Ultech Engineering. The presentations and demonstrations highlighted the transformative potential of AI and digital innovation in industrial automation. As Ultech Engineering continues to grow and expand its capabilities, the insights gained from this event will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future endeavors.
