Japan’s Software PLC Upgrades: Why Factory AI Integration Is Avoiding Costly Hardware Rebuilds
I-L-C showcased new factory automation solutions at the Industrial Open Net Exhibition 2026, focusing on AI-integrated software PLCs and easy-to-deploy PLC-linked camera systems.
Dick Weisinger · September 27, 2026 · 2 min read · Source: ITmedia AI+ · Issue #109
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This story ran in Issue #109, alongside three other stories.
Robotics & Automation
I-L-C showcased new factory automation solutions at the Industrial Open Net Exhibition 2026, focusing on AI-integrated software PLCs and easy-to-deploy PLC-linked camera systems. The camera solution records video synchronized with PLC alarms without modifying existing PLC programs, while the software PLC, INTALOGIC5, enables real-time AI agent interaction for automated fault analysis and maintenance. These innovations aim to reduce manual effort and costs in manufacturing site operations.
For Western readers, this demonstrates Japan’s continued focus on practical, incremental advancements in industrial automation to address labor shortages and improve operational efficiency. The integration of AI into established PLC systems, rather than entirely new architectures, reflects a pragmatic approach common in Japanese manufacturing, emphasizing compatibility with existing infrastructure from major vendors like Mitsubishi Electric, Keyence, and OMRON.