46 | MANUFACTURING Integrated Automation Ltd Ethernet - Factory Automation • Peer-to-Peer controller communication • Interface with Sysmac Studio, NA HMI or SCADA software • Database connection for Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, IBM DB2, MysQL and Firebird • FTP Server Powering industry forward IAL was established to bring high-level engineering and bespoke automation to New Zealand industries facing modern production challenges. T T Sue Russell Auckland-based company Integrated Automation Limited (IAL) is making a significant impact on industrial productivity by helping companies scale up and transform operations through advanced robotics, vision and automation solutions. Founder Donovan Ryan identified a gap in the Auckland market back in 2006 for advanced technology and bespoke solutions. When Donovan left the family manufacturing and automation business in Hamilton, he and his wife Debra decided to start Integrated Automation from the home office to provide a point of difference in the automation space. “There was a clear gap in the market for manufacturers to embrace high-end automation and leverage new technology effectively,” explains Donovan. For the first 4 years it was just Donovan at the wheel, then when the opportunity to grow presented itself along with a multi-million dollar automation project for the dairy sector, IAL quickly moved out of home and took on its first employee, Andrew Carpenter. “Andrew is our CTO and has been with us for 16 years now. Along with Debra who stepped into the business more from 2010, we have worked together to bring IAL into a position as an industry leader in the Automation, ITS and robotics industry.” Backed by an experienced team with a deep background in machinery, vision and systems design, IAL was established to bring high-level engineering and bespoke automation to New Zealand industries facing modern production challenges. “There is a massive opportunity for New Zealand industries to take advantage of robotics and utilize technology to be more efficient,” Donovan explains. While IAL operates with a specialised, agile team, they are adding significant value through projects that are quite substantial. They focus on developing unique bespoke solutions — from robotic assembly lines to intelligent transport infrastructure — customized to requirements that are suitable for any industry. For the dairy sector, Integrated Automation Ltd has been pivotal in delivering ground-up bespoke automation processing systems, for example in the trace ability and product tracking systems involved in the manufacture of infant formula. “We also designed, built and installed intelligent machines capable of scrutinising cheese quality using advanced machine vision through to assembling and packing into sealed packaging. On our website, viewers can see these machines in action. The challenge with that project was to design the machine so that the robots could work alongside each other in quite a confined area.” Another key milestone in Integrated Automation’s 20-year history was partnering with a New Zealand startup to develop a suite of automated machines for processing and packaging proteins such as meat and pork for the global market. The scope covered designing machines with our preferred partners, electrical installation and automation software, commissioning in Australia, Canada, China and the USA. The success of this product portfolio was driven by decades of IAL’s experience and expertise, and it proved so valuable that it was acquired by Amcor in recent years. In keeping with its focus on dynamic technology and close partnerships IAL has partnered with another local company to provide Intelligent Transport Solutions (ITS) to NZTA and councils around New Zealand. Andrew’s passion and expertise in this area has seen a unique offering being provided to agencies to solve a number of their safety and traffic related issues. In 2011, Integrated Automation Ltd became the sole supplier of world-leading Denso robotics in New Zealand and Australia. Denso is a Japanese business with a global footprint and has been involved in robotics since 1967. “We used Denso robotics in developing the robotic cheese tray packer system. When you have five robots working at speed and in absolute sync with each other, it’s very impressive to watch and we can be proud to say that we created this system for our valued clients.” Another important relationship is as a platinum partner with Omron in New Zealand. “This is of real value to us and something we’re very proud of. It means that there’s a strong level of collaboration often using Omron products in the automation systems we develop. We have used Omron products since day dot and this association has certainly been a strategic strength for our business. Our visions are aligned.” Asked what makes IAL tick and grow despite the competitive nature of the sector, Donovan says it’s the collaborative approach of the team. “My team collectively input significantly into projects given their extensive knowledge and experience. It’s a real team effort and I know it underpins why we achieve the successful outcomes we do.” In September this year Integrated Automation will be celebrating its 20th year in business having weathered a tumultuous era for business in New Zealand. “Twenty years is a huge milestone that I’m proud of. “I would like to thank all of our team members, past and present, for their commitment and contribution to the success of IAL. We also extend a special thank you to our partners and valued customers for their continued support.”
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