OMRON and NTT Docomo Business Collaborate to Enable Secure Data Linkage for Catena-X Connections

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 focuses on safe and seamless global data sharing in the supply chain. It uses data spaces, such as Catena-X. Also, both companies will join the University of Tokyo’s Data Space Technology International Testbed. This will boost teamwork between industry and schools.

The collaboration tackles the increasing complexity of global manufacturing supply chains. Industry 4.0 technologies like IoT, AI, and robotics put pressure on companies. They need to improve productivity, lower costs, and make the supply chain stronger. Integrating OT and IT data is tough. Data formats, equipment connections, and security needs pose challenges. Traditional interconnection methods can struggle to keep data secure. They can also risk operational safety and compliance. This makes it hard to use data effectively.

OMRON has been working together since October 2022. They bring factory automation skills. NTT DOCOMO Business adds 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.

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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 setup allows companies to share data safely and connect easily.
Both companies will work closer together. They aim to create and deploy solutions for global industrial challenges. This supports sustainable manufacturing, smart industries, and connected ecosystems. Joining the University of Tokyo’s international testbed allows us to test secure data linkage solutions. This creates 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.