Alper Aktaş
Endüstri Vadisi
- Thread Author
- #1
🔒 Cybersecurity Priority in Manufacturing
For manufacturers, cybersecurity requirements and ransomware attacks are among the most significant concerns. Therefore, some companies are complying with upcoming regulations by adding integrated protections to their products.
🚀 Universal Robots' Gen 7 and Polyscope X
Universal Robots introduced its new technologies at PACK EXPO in Chicago last month. These technologies include the Gen 7 robotic platform, designed for physical AI deployment in factory environments, and the Polyscope X software platform, which features built-in cybersecurity elements. These platforms were specifically developed for manufacturing environments to be used by integrators, manufacturers, and OEMs.
🇪🇺 Compliance with the European Cyber Resilience Act
According to Silas Neale, regional sales manager for Teradyne Robotics, Universal Robots' owner, these products have integrated cybersecurity into their design. Neale stated, "The Polyscope X platform was built from the ground up to be compliant with the Cyber Resilience Act, which will come into effect in Europe in 2027, and we anticipate that will soon be followed here as well."
The European Union's Cyber Resilience Act, which came into force last year, brought a significant change in how manufacturers in the EU manage cybersecurity for connected products. As everything from industrial machinery to smart sensors incorporates digital components, the CRA establishes a consistent framework to ensure these products remain secure throughout their entire lifecycle.
✅ Safety and Certifications
The safety functions of the Universal Robots platform operate on a PLd Category 3 safety system and are TÜV certified according to ISO 10218 and UL 1740. Teradyne Robotics is certified according to IEC 62443‑4‑1 maturity levels, which evaluate how well a product manufacturer implements secure development lifecycle practices.
📈 Increasing Risks for Manufacturers
These features are being released at a time when manufacturers continue to grapple with ransomware and cyberattacks. Concerns are growing regarding supply chain risks, business ecosystems, the financial impact of attacks, and overall security issues when preparing for such incidents. According to one study, manufacturers were the sector most affected by ransomware attacks last year, experiencing a 58% annual increase in the number of victims.
⚙️ Features of the Gen 7 Platform
At PACK EXPO, Universal Robots demonstrated how the Gen 7 platform combines the company's CB7 Core controller, TP7 Core teach pendant, SP7 Smart Panel tool flange interface, and the PolyScope X software platform. The platform also utilizes Cognex 2D and 3D industrial vision systems that run directly on the Gen 7 platform, showcasing machine vision and robotic integration.
Other trends considered for the technologies include accessibility, connectivity, and physical AI deployment. For example, combining industrial vision systems with their platforms can help reduce complexity and accelerate the deployment of technologies.
Neale said, "When we talk about the physical AI piece, we're providing almost a seamless handshake with our equipment and theirs. That has evolved tremendously. Now that we have all the communication and the extra power, we can power and communicate with a lot more peripheral equipment."
From a broader trend perspective, Neale stated that the platform's design aims to enable seamless deployment of technology for manufacturers. "As a manufacturer, you can take ownership of this automation. It's quick to deploy and easy to own," he added.
