IAR, a provider of software solutions for embedded development, announces its partnership with NexCOBOT.
As the Functional Safety solutions development partner for NexCOBOT, IAR will utilise the certified IAR Embedded Workbench for Arm to enhance the development of robots, propelling the future of smart manufacturing with collaborative robots forward.
NexCOBOT, a subsidiary of industrial computer manufacturer NEXCOM, specialises in providing robot controller solutions. Its focus is on delivering open and modular control solutions for robots and motion, encompassing a wide range of products from robot motion control systems and safety control boards to consulting services for robot design. It offers functional safety solutions utilising the Renesas Electronics’ RZ/T2M MPU series, enabling the creation of embedded robots and automation controllers with functional safety features.
In 2023, NexCOBOT achieved a milestone by incorporating German smart robot technology into its PC-based SIL2/3 robot functional safety control platform, aligning with the IEC 61508 standard. As the robotics industry grows, NexCOBOT leads with innovative robot safety function kits that integrate smoothly with current robotic systems, streamlining development processes and negating the need for extensive redesigns. This innovation is especially relevant as the industry prepares for the updated and more stringent ISO 10218-1 safety standard for industrial robots, set to take effect in the first quarter of 2024.
Weihan Wang, Product Director at NexCOBOT, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration: “NexCOBOT is among the few companies in Asia that offer customised EtherCAT functional safety software services. IAR’s broadly global industrial OEM customer base is not only the best partner for NexCOBOT to expand overseas business but also enable seamless integration on software development through its cooperation with leading MCU manufacturers.”
Kiyo Uemura, Area Vice President, APAC of IAR, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership’s potential impact: “IAR is delighted to contribute to more reliable industrial technology through its best-in-class functional safety solutions. Human-robot collaboration is a future trend in smart manufacturing. The robot control system developed by NexCOBOT offers the most suitable solution, in response to the increasing demand for safety, flexibility, and customised robotic solutions. IAR will continue collaborating with professional industry partners like NexCOBOT to create customised functional safety solutions for industrial automation. By developing innovative robot control solutions, we aspire to create safer and smarter production environments for humanity.”
This partnership between IAR and NexCOBOT, leveraging NexCOBOT’s modular robot functional safety kits and the Functional Safety edition of IAR Embedded Workbench for Arm, provides a streamlined, cost-effective route to meeting forthcoming ISO standards and achieving safety certifications. In an era where the integration of robotics into manufacturing demands high levels of interoperability, connectivity, and security, IAR’s commitment to superior code quality, enhanced productivity, and secure automation processes – endorsed by TÜV SÜD certification – equips businesses to thrive in this rapidly evolving sector.
