For Pilz GmbH - a global player in automation technology, based in Ostfildern, Germany - the developments of the last few years have been a continuous success. Whether it's machines with a basic range of functions, machines with multiple axes or interlinked machines and systems, Pilz can always provide manufacturers and operators with a complete safety and automation solution since its core expertise places the company firmly at the heart of Industry 4.0. That might be reason for Pilz to bask in its own glory, but the company is not one for resting on its laurels. Under the banner "We automate. Safely.", Pilz is presenting a modular smart factory model at HANNOVER MESSE 2017 that uses distributed intelligence to perform control tasks in an efficient and user-friendly way.

At the center of the live demonstration is the Industry 4.0-ready PSS 4000 automation system, which Pilz has based on a modular and distributable approach. The PSS 4000 features a wide range of functions and permutations that ensure optimum interaction between hardware and software components, networked devices and the real-time Ethernet SafetyNET p. The PSS 4000 can be used as a multi-master or master-slave system. As well as the smart factory model, Pilz is also training the spotlight on "human-robot collaboration" at HANNOVER MESSE.