Rockwell Automation, FANUC FA America collaborate

FANUC FA America and Rockwell Automation recently announced a collaborative effort to offer closer integration between CNC and programmable automation controller (PAC) environments. The two companies will work together on connectivity between their respective controller platforms through open communication technologies, such as the EtherNet/IP and FL Net protocols. According to company sources, end users and OEMs will benefit from reduced integration costs, improved synchronization, and transparent data access across the manufacturing enterprise. Both companies cite customer demand for integrated products based on open platforms as a key driver in the collaborative effort. Initial emphasis will be on developing, deploying, and promoting integration technologies that improve industrial automation systems where both CNCs and PACs are used.