OMRON and NTT Docomo Enable Secure Catena-X Data

OMRON Corporation and NTT DOCOMO Business Inc. have launched a collaboration to provide a “Secure Data Linkage Solution” that connects manufacturing sites (OT) with external networks (IT). The initiative aims to enable safe and easy global data sharing in the supply chain through data spaces like Catena-X. Also, both companies will collaborate with the University of Tokyo on the Data Space Technology International Testbed. This effort will boost co-creation. It will build partnerships between industry and academia.

The collaboration addresses the growing complexity of global manufacturing supply chains. With Industry 4.0 technologies like IoT, AI, and robotics, companies must boost productivity. They also need to cut costs and strengthen supply chain resilience. Integrating OT and IT data is tough. Consider different data formats, equipment connections, and security needs. Traditional interconnection methods often don’t keep data secure. They also struggle with compliance. This makes it hard to use data effectively.

OMRON has been developing together since October 2022. OMRON offers its factory automation skills. NTT DOCOMO Business provides secure network and IT solutions. The resulting Secure Data Linkage Solution combines OMRON’s “Data Flow Controller,” an edge controller that collects, analyzes, and visualizes manufacturing data, with NTT DOCOMO Business’s secure network services, including “docomo business RINK® WAN Security” and “docomo business SIGN™.” This integration allows OT data from production sites to be securely and efficiently shared with cloud platforms or data spaces, supporting carbon neutrality and enhancing industrial competitiveness through digitalization.

Also Read: NTT East, Mitsubishi Electric, and CLPA Demonstrate Long-Distance Real-Time Industrial Network Communication via IOWN APN

OMRON provides edge controllers and data conversion capabilities to enable collaboration with IT networks. NTT DOCOMO Business provides a secure network. It includes built-in security and network-as-a-service features. This helps companies share data safely and connect easily.

Both companies will work together more closely. They want to create and implement solutions for global industrial challenges. This will boost sustainable manufacturing, smart industries, and connected ecosystems. Joining the University of Tokyo’s international testbed will help assess secure data linkage solutions. This will build a teamwork-focused space with industry and research partners worldwide. The initiative also aims to accelerate international joint experiments and implement “Manufacturing-X,” supporting autonomous data exchange between machines, devices, and AI in the cloud, and paving the way for “Factory-X” as the next stage of Industry 4.0.