Open automation – The inevitable future
More than 100 machine manufacturers, end users and partners from the People's Republic of China and Taiwan took part in the B&R User Meeting in Shanghai. The meeting focused on open automation technologies and how the manufacturing industry can respond to future challenges in a flexible manner.
A pioneer on the path to Industry 4.0
Dr. Xiao Weirong, managing director of B&R China, stressed how important open automation is for manufacturers of industrial production systems. During his presentation, Weirong highlighted five major advantages offered by open automation: open integration, long-lasting technology, interchangeability, the possibility for further development and flexibility. "Open automation promises machine and system manufacturers exciting opportunities on the market," he summarized. Franz Enhuber, director of the B&R Automation Academy, then presented an in-depth analysis of Industry 4.0. In addition to pointing out that the requirements of end users have changed, Enhuber also spoke about the opportunities and challenges that have resulted from advances in information technology. "B&R has taken over a leadership role when it comes to supporting machine manufacturers wishing to take on the challenges of Industry 4.0."
Candid perspectives from business executives
Executives from various industries also spoke of the importance of knowledge management, training, project management, company operations and energy efficiency. They also touched on current difficulties and challenges they are confronting. The candid exchanges between these managers was considered an extremely positive aspect by the audience. "Increasing the openness of automation technology could bring about great opportunities," said Weirong. It is therefore important to not lose sight of the big picture and to create the conditions for continuous innovation, he concluded.
About B&R
B&R is a privately owned company with headquarters in Austria and offices all around the world. As a global leader in industrial automation, B&R combines state-of-the-art technology with advanced engineering to provide customers in virtually every industry with complete solutions for machine and process automation, motion control, HMI and integrated safety technology. With industrial fieldbus communication standards like POWERLINK and openSAFETY as well as the powerful Automation Studio software development environment, B&R is constantly redefining the future of automation engineering. The innovative spirit that keeps B&R at the forefront of industrial automation is driven by a commitment to simplifying processes and exceeding customer expectations.
For more information, visit www.br-automation.com.
When reprinting this press release, please send a copy to:
Bernecker + Rainer Industrie-Elektronik Ges.m.b.H.
Corporate Communications
B&R Strasse 1
A-5142 Eggelsberg
Austria, Europe
