Based on powerful, state-of-the-art Industrial PCs and EtherCAT as a universal fieldbus system, an all-in-one solution from the controller to the drive technology is available to the user in the Beckhoff automation platform. In addition, its openness and consistency permit the integration of, for example, parts tracking, operating and CAD/CAM interfaces, production data acquisition and local databases. All requirements of the furniture industry are met, with production lots down to a size of 1, and in addition, PC-based control offers sufficient potential for the future development of new machine functions.
TwinCAT 3: efficient engineering and maximum performance
The TwinCAT automation software integrates a uniform engineering tool for the software mapping of all control functions from safe drive technology to complex CNC functions.
TwinCAT combines all control and motion functions as well as the complete engineering tool chain on one software platform. The object-oriented extensions of IEC 61131-3 enable the perfect modularisation of the programming code, the software encapsulation of machine functions and, in conjunction with that, improved structuring, simpler maintenance, re-usability and expandability of the software. With support for multi-core and 64-bit operating systems, TwinCAT taps into new performance reserves for the integration of additional machine functions such as condition monitoring into the central controller.
TwinSAFE: using synergies from safety and drive technology
In TwinSAFE Beckhoff offers a universal safety solution from the controller, the I/O to the drive technology. All safety functions can be programmed or configured on the uniform TwinCAT engineering platform. The range of application of TwinSAFE is enlarged with the new all-in-one EK1960 safety controller. The TwinSAFE Controller integrates a complete safety controller including I/O level in a compact design. Safe data transfer is ensured by the TwinSAFE protocol in compliance with SIL 3 of IEC 61508 or the performance level of ISO 13849-1.
Multi-touch panel: simplifying machine operation
In the new multi-touch panel series Beckhoff offers a modern and user-friendly operating concept allowing intuitive machine operation á la iPhone; the elegant, contemporary device design visually upgrades the machine. Display sizes from 7 to 24 inches are available in the classic 4:3 as well as widescreen formats. Pushbutton extensions for electromechanical operating elements and customer-specific designs supplement the broadly diversified range.
One cable technology: strengthening competitive advantages
The AM8000 servomotor series with one cable technology (OCT) combines power and feedback system in a single standard cable, resulting in reduced hardware and commissioning costs. OCT is also supported by the new EL7201-0010 servo terminal. The servo terminal further extends the modular compact drive system. In addition to solutions for stepper and DC motors, the servo terminal is also designed for highly dynamic positioning tasks thanks to integrated, fast control technology. Extremely high performance is ensured by full EtherCAT integration.
Compact drive and control technology Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
When custom machine builder Lehnen Industrial Services introduced a filling machine for lip balm, the company was surprised by the amount of interest in this premium system. In order to meet this demand, they decided to standardise the machine. The necessary adaptability is provided by the scalable control technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...Industrial PCs with new processor generations and increased performance Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
PC-based control technology from Beckhoff has always benefited from the convergence of automation and the IT world. Current examples include the use of the latest industry-standard processor generations, high-quality and demand-optimised flash memory, and the long-term availability version of Windows 11.
Read more...New EtherCAT digital input and output terminals Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The new EL14xx and EL24xx EtherCAT Terminals from Beckhoff complement the company’s existing broad portfolio in the area of digital input/output, and combine proven functions with an optimised circuit architecture.
Read more...Monitoring system and motor status in real time with minimal Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Beckhoff’s AM8000, AM8300, AM8500, AM8700 and AM8800 series servomotors are available with the innovative Beckhoff Smart System Diagnosis. With B/SSD, it is possible to monitor motors and systems in real time with minimal effort and to implement effective predictive maintenance.
Read more...Safety controller for industrial PCs Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
With TwinSAFE, Beckhoff offers an extensive portfolio of software and hardware components for functional safety. This range is continuously being expanded and developed, as demonstrated by numerous new safety I/Os and the TwinCAT Safety PLC with EL6910 functionality.
Read more...Improving mining efficiency with wireless telemetry Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Industrial Computer Hardware
Wireless telemetry systems are a critical tool in the mining industry as they facilitate automation, data collection, communication and remote monitoring and control in challenging environments. Ian Loudon, international marketing manager at wireless telemetry specialist, Omniflex explains how wireless telemetry systems can automate water pump monitoring and control in the mining sector.
Read more...Planar motor system for quality assurance Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Achieving the shortest possible inspection times, even when working with different components, is paramount when it comes to series production. This is precisely what special machine builder, stoba Sondermaschinen set out to achieve with its InspectorONE optical inspection system, which is based on deep learning and features the Beckhoff XPlanar planar motor system at the conveyor system core.
Read more...EtherCAT Box modules for confined spaces Beckhoff Automation
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Users of EtherCAT and EtherCAT P Box modules from Beckhoff’s EP and EPP series benefit from 25 years of IP67 expertise in the I/O sector. The broad product range for decentralised distribution of the I/O level directly at the machine or system has been continuously expanded and further developed during this time.
Read more...EtherCAT power measurement terminal Beckhoff Automation
Electrical Power & Protection
Beckhoff’s EL3453-0090 EtherCAT power measurement terminal has voltage inputs for direct monitoring of powerful generators up to 690 V AC, such as those commonly used in the wind energy industry.