Automate 2025: Olis Robotics launches diagnostic tool that runs on any Android device

Seattle-based industrial robotics organization Olis Robotics will unveil its new mobile gateway application to remotely manage automation cells during Automate 2025 in Detroit.

The remote monitoring, diagnostic and error recovery app runs on any Android device, and doesn’t require any additional hardware installation on the automation cell.

Olis Robotics will present during Automate 2025 from May 12-15 at Detroit’s Huntington Place in Booth 3748. Automate attendees will be the first to experience a future in which their mobile device becomes the gateway to remotely managing an automation cell.

Complete picture of what went wrong

By connecting their mobile device to a PLC through the new app, Olis said Automate attendees can experience how easy it is to start with the platform. They will also be able to remotely control a robot arm and view live video of a remote robot with PLC/telemetry data overlaid, enabling users to diagnose automation issues instantly from anywhere in the world.

“We’re incredibly excited to show visitors how easy it is now to safely, inexpensively and securely connect their mobile phone or tablet directly to an industrial controller (PLC) without any additional hardware required,” said Fredrik Ryden, CEO of Olis Robotics.

The Olis app synchronizes real-time video with system logs, providing a complete picture of what went wrong.

“With remote access to the automation cell, engineers can resolve problems faster and keep production running smoothly without unnecessary guesswork and travel,” Ryden added.

Olis said full set-up takes less than five minutes - including an online purchase - making it an efficient retrofit for legacy automation systems. Users can download the Olis app onto an Android tablet or phone and connect to the controller via ethernet. From there, they can configure IP addresses and start collecting diagnostic data.

In addition to receiving synchronized telemetry and video in parallel, engineers can set up alerts regarding irregular activity before it escalates into a costly hard stop. The Olis app also supports screen-sharing functionality, enabling troubleshooting teams to collaborate in real time. 

Mid Atlantic Machinery among early Olis app adopters

Olis Robotics highlighted that Mid Atlantic Machinery Automation is one of the companies already using and benefiting from the new app.

“Deploying the Olis app on an Android tablet is the easiest way to add diagnostics capabilities to our machines,” said Josh Mayse, VP and co-founder of Mid Atlantic Machinery Automation. “This helps our service team manage our rapidly growing install base. At Mid Atlantic, the app is being used in press brake tending applications, where it continuously monitors performance and operational data. What's more, customers no longer need to invest in industrial PCs - they can now access the entire automation cell directly through a mobile device, making setup and support significantly more streamlined.”

For customized workflows, users can set up special tags and filters to customize Olis to their operational needs enabling system integrators to assess situations remotely, minimize travel and troubleshoot more efficiently. 

“Instead of reactive maintenance and lengthy troubleshooting cycles, the Olis app enables businesses to take a proactive, predictive approach to maintenance and tackle troubleshooting issues quickly, ensuring minimal disruption to production following unexpected downtime,” Ryden said.