Narayan Kumar, Divisional Director, Industrial Devices Division (INDD), Panasonic Life Solutions India. 

What are the latest trends in motion control technologies, particularly in industrial applications?

Industrial applications help drive advancements for automation (industrial) and manufacturing processes enabling companies to improve productivity, quality, and competitiveness. Panasonic’s motion control devices and solutions have been designed to drive precision, efficiency and automation using new-age technologies.

Some of the key trends driving the industry are mentioned below:

·         Increased adoption of automation across industrial devices and solutions

·         Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced control algorithm

·         Rise in demand for smart factories driving further adoption

·         Growing demand for robotics, and

·         Advancement in motor technologies.

What are the key differences between traditional motion control systems and modern, digitally driven systems?

Traditional systems using analog signals and control are mostly hardware applications offering limited programmability. There is a constant need for manual tuning of motors and demand for high maintenance. More importantly, these systems face challenges with respect to scalability and flexibility which are necessary in the modern industrial ecosystem. Modern digital driven systems on the other hand use advanced, cutting-edge technologies such as IoT, Industry 4.0, AI, machine learning and smart sensors to name a few, helping industries advance rapidly to an advanced digital operation. Using new-age tech digitally driven systems can be scaled at a very rapid rate.

What role do emerging technologies, such as AI and machine learning, play in the development of motion control systems?

As mentioned earlier, new-age technologies help accelerate the digital transformation for enterprises advancing their digital transformation journey at the same time driving the larger Make-in-India agenda too. For instance:

Automated tuning enables AI-driven tuning, helping enterprises optimise their system’s performance and further, eliminate manual trial and error. Similarly, through predictive maintenance, organisations can leverage AI powered predictive analytics to detect potential issues thus reducing system downtime. Through real time optimisation technology and machine learning (ML) algorithms can adjust their motion control parameters for energy efficiencies.

At Panasonic Industrial Devices Division (INDD) we recently introduced servo system solutions that leverage some of these advanced technologies to automate the precise tuning process that was once only possible through expert human intervention. MINAS A7 equipped with precAIse TUNING (AI-based automated tuning) offers ultraprecise positioning accuracy through simple initial settings.

How do motion control solutions help promote energy efficiency and sustainability in industrial operations?

Motion control solutions play a key role in promoting energy efficiency and sustainability within industrial operations. By employing advanced motor control algorithms, energy consumption can be significantly minimised. Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) adjust the motor's speed to match changing load conditions, preventing unnecessary energy waste. Similarly, regenerative braking systems capture and reuse the energy generated during braking, further enhancing efficiency. Additionally, energy harvesting techniques can utilise the energy produced by motion to power auxiliary systems.

From a sustainability perspective, these solutions contribute to reducing carbon footprints by lowering energy consumption and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the extended equipment life and reduced maintenance requirements associated with efficient motion control systems contribute to a more sustainable industrial environment.

What are the common challenges companies face when adopting or upgrading motion control systems? Are there issues of compatibility with different protocols?

Some of the challenges faced by enterprises while adopting or upgrading motion control systems include compatibility issues with different communication protocols (e.g., EtherCAT, Profibus, CANbus), integration with existing hardware and software infrastructure, ensuring real-time performance and synchronisation, and managing data communication and networking. To address these challenges, enterprises should conduct thorough system assessments and feasibility studies to identify potential compatibility issues. Choosing open-architecture systems that support multiple protocols, such as EtherCAT, can enhance flexibility. Implementing a modular design allows for easier integration and upgrades. Finally, a comprehensive migration plan should be developed to minimise disruptions and ensure a smooth transition to the new motion control system. At our Industrial Devices Division (INDD), we provide end-to-end support to enterprises to enable them in their digital transformation journey through consulting, designing, and supplying a wide range of industrial technologies and solutions. Our industrial products and solutions are designed to enhance worker’s safety, drive productivity and deliver a better Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).

What role does real-time data and predictive analytics play in optimising motion control solutions?

Real-time data and predictive analytics play a crucial role in optimising motion control solutions. By leveraging real-time data, enterprises can increase uptime and reduce downtime through predictive maintenance strategies. This further leads to improved system reliability and availability. Additionally, predictive analytics can enhance performance and accuracy by identifying potential issues before they occur. By optimising system operations, energy consumption can be reduced, and equipment lifespan can be extended. Furthermore, real-time data can be used to improve safety by detecting potential hazards and taking corrective actions. Overall, data-driven decision-making enables companies to make informed choices and maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of their motion control systems.

How customisable are modern motion control systems, and how easily can they be adapted to different scales of operation?

Modern motion control systems offer a high degree of customisation to meet the specific needs of various applications. For instance, modular design allows for easy configuration and scalability, while software-defined motion control mechanisms provide flexibility in adapting to different requirements. Configurable hardware and scalable architecture enable systems to be tailored to different scales of operation. Regarding scalability, from single-axis control to multiple-axis control, and from low-speed to high-speed applications, these systems can be adapted to a wide range of requirements. Additionally, the flexibility to choose between local and distributed control architectures and cloud-based or edge computing solutions further enhances their adaptability to different operating environments. At Panasonic Industrial Devices Division, we offer a whole range of industrial solutions that can be customised as per enterprise’s need.

(The views expressed in interviews are personal, not necessarily of the organisations represented) 

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