FANUC FA America has unveiled a new automotive architecture demonstrating connectivity to Rockwell Automation programmable automation controller (PAC) environments. “As a result of the release of EtherNet/IP field bus connectivity for its Series 3xi-B CNCs, FANUC furthers our commitment to open interconnectivity of our CNCs to factory automation solutions,” said a company spokesperson. To demonstrate the simplicity of EtherNet/IP integration and connectivity, FANUC FA America presented a newly integrated automotive machining cell architecture at imX in the FANUC booth in conjunction with Rockwell Automation. “The use of an EtherNet/IP network architecture is intended to allow customers to leverage common tools and technology for device configuration and maintenance across both CNC and PAC cell environments,” the spokesperson said. “By leveraging integrated CNC and PAC environments, end-users and machine tool builders will benefit from a simplified architecture, improved productivity and actionable information across the entire manufacturing enterprise.” “The release of EtherNet/IP positions FANUC FAAmerica to provide customerswith cost effective, simplified automation solutions,” said Tomoaki Ishibe, President, FANUC FA America. “And to demonstrate the simplicity of EtherNet/IP, FANUC FA America exhibited a new EtherNet/IP based automotive architecture in conjunction with Rockwell Automation at imX. This is a great example of how two independent automation companies can easily interface CNC and PAC products to provide optimized factory automation solutions using common tools and technology.” “We are excited to have demonstrated our PAC connectivity with FANUC CNCs at imX in the FANUC booth. This integrated automotive architecturewill provide real value to our mutual customers across the total life cycle of their automation assets,” said Joe Kann, Vice President of Global Business Development, Rockwell Automation. For more information contact: FANUC FAAmerica 1800 Lakewood Boulevard Hoffman Estates, IL60192 888-FANUC-US (888-326-8287) www.fanucfa.com