We initially introduced u-OS at the SPS 2022 and launched a Beta version. In March 2023, the full version of our innovative, user-friendly operating system then arrived in the IIoT and automation world. We could not have been happier with the launch.
The Industrial IoT and automation are essential components of a successful industrial transformation and integrated resource sustainability. To master the challenges of tomorrow, you need to be open to the future. And flexible. And preferably also completely independent. u-OS makes all of this possible, and more.
u-OS combines automation with the possibilities of the Industrial IoT on a single device. It is suitable for edge computing solutions and enables efficient data pre-processing and precise control directly at the machine. The associated hardware, such as the controllers from the u-control M series can be modularly expanded.
u-OS offers open interfaces at all levels and can be flexibly expanded with any desired applications – from Weidmüller, third-party providers or the user themselves. A future-proof, web-based operating system that is ready for the challenges of tomorrow and that creates genuine added value with automatically generated data. "From data to value" – reliable, automated and always available. The easy way to the IIoT.
Restrictions are toxic to innovations. That’s why we didn’t set ourselves any limits when designing u-OS. This open mindset allowed us to develop a practical operating system for engineering without limits.
The foundation based on open source technologies also means that the operating system is independent of individual providers and compatible with external software without time-consuming and costly retro-fitting requirements. If requirements or market conditions change, the user has the freedom to make specific adjustments - either independently or with the help of any provider, e.g. from our partner network of system integrators. Thus, u-OS focuses on the greatest possible open-mindedness compared to other solutions for the Industrial IoT and automation.
Thus, u-OS delivers the following innovative benefits:
Openness: With open interfaces at all levels, u-OS guarantees easy integration of individual applications, communication drivers, runtime environments and cloud connections. Docker technologies also allow any containers to be integrated into the system.
Flexibility:: u-OS is extensible and allows adaptation to individual needs. It covers the requirements of OT and IT applications for an OS in equal measure. An app manager facilitates the installation of tested applications with just a few clicks. Access to devices from different manufacturers is made possible with straightforward installation. This enables customised configuration without the need for in-depth IT know-how.
Independence: The use of established open standards such as Linux, container software or OPC UA makes u-OS independent and future-proof. The dependence on one provider is avoided.
“The path to the Industrial IoT could not be any easier than with u-OS; this goes for small and medium-sized enterprises as well. Even brownfield environments can flexibly and quickly be retrofitted with all the necessary IIoT components. All in combination with competitive automation solutions. The result is a highly innovative platform for the innovations of our customers.”
“u-OS is a bridge that allows industrial digitalisation and automation to effectively move from theory to practice. Only then can users make full use of the potential generated by the arrival of IT technologies in the industrial OT environment. The overall result is that we offer our customers the opportunity to extract added value from their application data, such as efficiency improvements and energy savings.”
“For instance, the operating system can improve the overall effectiveness of a plant and reduce the frequency of service technician deployments. In particular, the openness of the operating system also provides opportunities for third parties to integrate energy management solutions, for example. The integration of technical partner solutions and their engineering expertise is another great advantage of u-OS.”