In an era where sustainability is not just a goal but a necessity, STMicroelectronics continues to support its customers in developing automation control, safety, and energy efficiency solutions. Our commitment was on show at the 12th edition of SPS Italy, the Smart Production Solutions event held from May 28-30 in Parma, Italy. With over 40,000 visitors and 800 exhibitors, the event was a vibrant platform for discussing trends such as Industry 5.0’s sustainable and human-centric approach, green manufacturing initiatives, innovative business models, and the importance of upskilling and reskilling.
STMicroelectronics strengthened existing customer and partner relationships, while opening the door for new business opportunities. We showcased ST and partner technologies and solutions in 12 demos. This article provides an overview of some of them.
Innovations shaping the future of industrial automation
From low-power presence detection systems that redefine user interaction to advanced motor control platforms augmented with AI for predictive maintenance, our technologies not only enable our customers to enhance operational efficiency but also align with the principles of Industry 5.0 by integrating safety, sustainability, and human-centric design.
Our event featured an array of demonstrations, including our advanced integrated circuits, power monitoring systems, drivers with galvanic isolation, and IO-Link connectivity solutions. Moreover, we highlighted the fusion of edge AI with automation monitoring and control, and the introduction of innovative personal protective equipment designed for Industry 5.0 settings.
Presence Detection and Touchless Control in Low Power Applications
The STEVAL-PDETECT1 evaluation kit, combined with the STWIN.box, is redefining presence detection and touchless control in low-power applications. This demo showcased sensors for detecting both the presence and proximity of individuals, using an ambient light sensor, Time-of-Flight (ToF), and T-MOS technology. The ToF sensor measures distance based on light’s travel time, while T-MOS detects human heat using infrared.
Imagine a smart light and thermostat that automatically adjusts based on your presence and gestures. The demonstration showed how users can adjust lighting color and dimming through simple gestures—no touch required. Beyond home automation, the ability to detect static presence offers significant advantages in areas like safety, automation, and healthcare, all while minimizing energy consumption. The ability to offer camera-free presence detection, precise proximity sensing, and gesture recognition gives customers more options in designing intelligent control systems.
Edge AI enabled Smart actuation and Sensing
The STWIN.box industrial sensor node represents ST’s commitment to innovation in predictive maintenance and motor control in factory automation. The STWIN.box, paired with the EVLSPIN32G4-ACT reference design for next generation smart actuators, leverages machine learning algorithms from the NanoEdgeAI library. This combination allows the system to manage a three-phase brushless motor while simultaneously analyzing vibration data to detect and classify operational anomalies and determine normal operating behavior.
The demonstration showed a simulation of common motor faults, providing real-time insights into motor health. Such a solution streamlines development of smart actuators, simplifies condition monitoring, and empowers predictive maintenance strategies for maximized industrial efficiency. With the added benefit of open-source development in Python, it also democratizes access to AI tools, making it an invaluable asset for both power control experts and AI novices in the industrial sector.
22kW high-end servo drive with SIL2 assessment
The 22kW high-end servo drive can control repetitive operations and ensure motor synchronism with accuracy. Safety is a priority: this solution integrates a TĂśV SUD-certified functional safety system with Safe Torque Off (STO) and Safe Brake Control (SBC) mechanisms and combines two key reference designs, a high-power 22kW servo drive and a Safety Integrity Level (SIL) compliant PLC. The system’s SIL2 PLC and servo drive are interconnected via MODBUS, offering a fully isolated solution with a barrier between the control and high-power sections.
The servo drive features an STISO621 digital isolator, further enhancing safety and reliability. With on-board connectivity options like EtherCAT and CAN, the system offers versatile integration into various industrial networks. Power management is handled by a 1200V 50A stage, capable of managing 22kW at 800V, demonstrating the system’s ability to handle high-voltage applications with ease.
64-bit Microprocessor for industrial connected computer vision applications
The STM32MP25, our latest industrial microprocessor, features a dual-core Arm Cortex-A35 for efficient processing and a Cortex-M33 for real-time tasks, driving a network of four evaluation boards. Our demonstration at the event showcased edge AI-powered functions: object detection, pose estimation, and semantic segmentation, all utilizing the embedded Neural Processing Unit (NPU).
The triple MAC Ethernet capability enables a seamless loop of connectivity among the boards. One board transmits video, another processes images, and a third manages the Human-Machine Interface (HMI).
High-speed data transfer between boards is facilitated by the hardware Video Processing Unit (VPU) for data encoding and decoding. The integrated Graphic Processing Unit (GPU) delivers stunning Full HD resolution user interfaces at a smooth 60 frames per second.
In a nutshell, key features include robust connectivity, parallel computational capacity, and a fully equipped microprocessor integrating GPU and NPU. At trade fairs, visitors frequently inquire about cost-effectiveness, embedded algorithm capabilities, and Linux support, all areas where the STM32MP25 offers a competitive edge in the market.
STSPIN948
The EVSPIN948, a comprehensive evaluation environment for the STSPIN948 motor driver family, is a versatile powerhouse for brushed DC and Stepper Motors. It features a standard panel with an integrated evaluation board and can drive two brushed DC motors simultaneously.
With a supply voltage up to 58V, this driver is suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. Its integrated current-sensing Op-Amps simplify design, while multiple control methods offer unparalleled flexibility.
The STSPIN948 is part of our 15-year longevity program and therefore ensures long-term availability and support, making it a reliable choice for scalable, high-current motor control solutions. It streamlines development and empowers you to create high-performance motor control applications across a broad spectrum of industries.
Anomaly detection water circuits and pumps are smarter with STEVAL-PROTEUS1 and NANOEDGE AI Studio
The STEVAL-PROTEUS1 is an innovative smart sensor node for next-level condition monitoring in industrial settings. This compact device harnesses the power of vibration analysis to identify anomalies in water pump operations. Utilizing a pre-trained AI model from NanoEdge AI Studio, the sensor adapts to the expected behavior of fluid circuits, ensuring precise predictive maintenance.
Equipped with STM32WB5MMG and advanced sensors like ISM330DHCX, the device offers seamless integration through the ST BLESensor App for both learning and monitoring phases. With the capability to transfer learning across similar equipment, the STEVAL-PROTEUS exemplifies connectivity, ease of use, and secure data handling, making it an indispensable tool for IIoT applications.
