Omron signs partnership deal with Visy

Omron has signed a new partnership agreement with Visy Automation to supply automation equipment over the next two years.

Under the new agreement, which took effect from mid-December last year, Omron will be given first consideration for upcoming projects requiring automation equipment. Omron’s single platform automation, Sysmac, will be the cornerstone of Visy’s Automation’s future automation direction. This includes advanced vision systems and the supply of Delta Robots - an efficient automation system for picking and placing products - and Omron’s new intelligent controllers.

Automation plays a vital role in its business, including the integration of robotic handling and packaging equipment solutions. Paul Gibb, Omron’s state manager for Queensland, who brokered the new deal, said the agreement is the culmination of 12 months of negotiation.

The two-year agreement opens up new opportunities for both organisations. Omron has worked extensively with Visy over the past two years on a broad range of automation projects. This includes the setting up of a new inspection system for Carlton and United Breweries (CUB) to be rolled out at sites across Australia.

Omron has also supplied Visy with inverters and safety equipment for a major upgrade of its conveyor system at its Queensland headquarters at Stapylton, south of Brisbane. Under the new agreement, Omron will expand its product offerings to Visy. Delta Robots are expected to replace the manual handling of products at Visy packaging sites across Australia over the next two years.

Unlike other systems, the high-speed Atom-based controller can drive up to eight robots. “And with the PLC platform advanced motion control embedded, it means you can basically control a whole plant - including the robots - with essentially one small controller. As part of the agreement, Omron will provide expert training for Visy management and staff.