Yokogawa and Shell Forge a New Era in Robotic Plant Monitoring
Date: June 19, 2025 | By Scott Jenkins
A Milestone Agreement Between Industry Leaders
In a significant move towards innovation in industrial automation, Yokogawa Electric Corporation, based in Tokyo, has formalized a long-term agreement with Shell Global Solutions International B.V. of The Hague, Netherlands. This collaboration aims to integrate and enhance technologies that utilize drones and robots for monitoring and maintaining industrial plants. By incorporating Shell’s advanced machine vision tool, Operator Round by Exception (ORE), into its OpreX™ Robot Management Core, Yokogawa is set to revolutionize its service offerings to clients in the energy and chemicals sectors.
Harnessing Cutting-Edge Technology
ORE is a groundbreaking digital solution leveraging machine vision and AI analytics to empower robots in executing essential operational tasks. These tasks include reading gauges, inspecting for leaks, and diagnosing machinery issues—all autonomously. This innovative system results from a meticulous two-year collaboration within Shell, merging its machine vision strategy with extensive expertise in areas like integrity management, remote site inspections, and corrosion management.
The Backbone of Yokogawa’s Robotics Solutions
The OpreX Robot Management Core stands as a pivotal component of Yokogawa’s robotic solutions. This advanced software significantly enhances operational efficiency and safety in facilities by integrating the management of various robotic systems that traditionally require human intervention. When seamlessly connected to a plant’s control and safety systems, the insights gained can instruct robots, marking a progressive step towards fully autonomous plant operations. The incorporation of Shell’s ORE technology will broaden the scope of applications available for customers using the OpreX Robot Management Core.
Pilot Projects Pave the Way
Looking ahead, Yokogawa is set to initiate robotic deployments at two Shell facilities, exploring how these technologies can augment efficiencies in monitoring and maintenance operations. These pilot projects serve as crucial demonstrations of how robotics and drones can deliver measurable value in industrial contexts.
Fostering Innovation in Energy Solutions
This collaboration marks a pivotal milestone for both companies within the collaborative ecosystem established at the Energy Transition Campus Amsterdam. Founded by Shell in 2022, the campus serves as a collaborative platform for businesses, government bodies, and universities to devise the energy solutions of tomorrow. The agreement also includes an aligned R&D roadmap aimed at refining and enhancing machine vision technologies, fostering continuous innovation and improvement in the sector.
Commitment to Safety and Efficiency
Masaharu Maeda, Yokogawa Electric’s Vice President and Executive Officer, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, asserting, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Shell in a transformative field of technology that significantly addresses the workforce challenges faced by plant operators.” Maeda emphasized the potential for enhancing safety and efficiency, looking forward to delivering these advancements to industrial facility owners worldwide.
Strengthening Partnerships in Automation
Gerben de Jong, CIO for Shell Integrated Gas, Upstream, and Projects & Technology, highlighted the rich history of collaboration between Shell and Yokogawa. He remarked, “With this agreement, our relationship has reached new heights. The synergy of robotic solutions and AI is set to catalyze a substantial shift in productivity and safety across our operations.”
Robotics for the Future of Industrial Operation
The integration of robotics into plant operations signals a pivotal shift towards more automated, efficient, and safer workplaces. With Yokogawa and Shell at the forefront of this movement, clients in the energy and industrial sectors can expect enhanced operational capabilities that significantly reduce human risk while maximizing productivity.
Unlocking New Use Cases
The introduction of Shell’s ORE technology into the OpreX Robot Management Core is vital. This enhancement will not only elevate the utility of Yokogawa’s existing offerings but also enable an expanded array of use cases, fostering greater adaptability and responsiveness in industrial applications.
Enhancing Decision-Making with AI Insights
With the assistance of AI analytics, operations teams can make informed decisions swiftly, based on real-time data gathered by robots. This dynamic will foster a more proactive maintenance culture, wherein potential issues are identified and addressed before escalating into larger concerns.
A Bright Future for Industrial Robotics
As advancements in robotics technology continue to burgeon, the collaboration between Yokogawa and Shell positions them to lead the charge in redefining how plants function. The emphasis on integrating robotics into everyday operations aligns perfectly with global trends aimed at sustainability and efficiency.
Driving Economic Growth with Innovation
The ongoing development of machine vision technologies provides both companies with the potential to unlock new markets while simultaneously augmenting their existing customer bases. Economic growth through innovation remains a key focus, aligning with the global push for smarter industrial solutions.
Collaboration Beyond Borders
The partnership is emblematic of a broader trend in the industrial sector, where cross-border collaborations yield technology that challenges conventional operational norms. By combining resources and expertise, Yokogawa and Shell are well-positioned to exploit new opportunities in the energy market.
Investing in a Sustainable Future
This agreement is not merely about technology; it represents a commitment to a sustainable future. As both companies invest in innovations that help reduce environmental impact, they position themselves as leaders in socially responsible industrial practices.
Navigating Industry Challenges Together
As the energy landscape faces exponential changes, innovations like those from Yokogawa and Shell offer substantial benefits in overcoming prevalent industry challenges. By leveraging robotics and AI, both companies can contribute to developing solutions that are not only efficient but environmentally sustainable.
The Road Ahead for Autonomous Operations
Looking toward the future, the continuous evolution of autonomous systems will undeniably transform the landscape of plant operations. The collaborative spirit that Yokogawa and Shell have demonstrated sets a strong foundation for future advancements in robotic technology.
Conclusion: A Vision for Tomorrow
In summary, the collaboration between Yokogawa Electric Corporation and Shell Global Solutions International B.V. marks a significant leap forward in the integration of robotics within industrial operations. This partnership promises to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in plant management, setting the stage for a more innovative future in the energy sector. By merging the strengths of both organizations, they are not only addressing current workforce challenges but also paving the way for groundbreaking advancements that could reshape the entire industry. This partnership epitomizes the spirit of innovation necessary for thriving in an increasingly automated and competitive world.
