Fieldbus & Industrial Networking


Five key advantages of IO-Link

May 2017 Fieldbus & Industrial Networking

IO-Link (IEC61131-9) is an open standard serial communication protocol that allows for the bidirectional exchange of data from sensors and devices that support IO-Link and are connected to a master. The IO-Link master can transmit this data over various networks, fieldbuses, or backplane buses, making the data accessible for immediate action or long-term analysis via an industrial information system (PLC, HMI, etc.). Each IO-Link sensor has an IODD (IO de-vice description) file that describes the device and its IO-Link capabilities.

It should be noted that IO-Link is not another fieldbus, but rather, a point-to-point communication protocol between a compatible I/O system and a field device. Because IO-Link is an open standard, devices can be integrated in virtually any fieldbus or automation system.

Advantages of IO-Link

There are many advantages of an IO-Link system including standardised and reduced wiring, increased data availability, remote configuration and monitoring, simple device replacement, and advanced diagnostics. Together these capabilities result in:

• Overall reduced costs.

• Increased process efficiency.

• Improved machine availability.

• The benefits of IO-Link are especially significant in applications that experience frequent changeover and are severely impacted by extended or unplanned downtime.

1. Standardised and reduced wiring

A critical benefit of IO-Link for many industries is that it does not require any special or complicated wiring. Rather, IO-Link devices can be connected using the same standard unshielded 3-wire cables as conventional discrete I/O, which helps keep wiring simple. In addition, IO-Link also eliminates the need for analog sensors and reduces the variety of cord sets required, which saves inventory costs. IO-Link also supports a master-slave configuration with passive connection points, which further reduces wiring requirements.

2. Increased data availability

Data availability is a powerful advantage of IO-Link that has far-reaching implications. Access to sensor-level data helps ensure the smooth operation of system components, streamlines device replacement, and enables optimised machine maintenance schedules, all of which save costs and reduce the risk of machine downtime.

There are three primary data types made available via IO-Link communication, which are categorised as either cyclic data (data automatically transmitted on a regular basis) or acyclic data (data transmitted as needed or upon request):

• Process data refers to the information that the device reads and transmits to the master, such as the distance reading on a laser measurement sensor. Process data can also refer to information that is transmitted to the device from the master (such as messages sent to a tower light indicating which colour segments should be illuminated). Process data is transmitted cyclically in a defined data frame. In addition, value status data – indications of whether or not process data is valid – is transmitted along with process data.

• Service data refers to information about the sensor itself such as parameter values, model and serial numbers, device descriptions, etc. Service data can be both written to the device or read from the device.

• Event data refers to notifications such as error messages or maintenance warnings (e.g. device overheating, dirty lens) that are transmitted from the IO-Link device to the master whenever an event occurs.

This wealth of valuable data made available through IO-Link is integral for IIoT and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

3. Remote configuration and monitoring

With IO-Link, users can read and change device parameters through the control system software, enabling fast configuration and commissioning that saves time and resources. In addition, IO-Link allows operators to dynamically change the sensor parameters from the control system as needed, such as in the case of product changeover, which reduces downtime and allows machines to accommodate greater product diversity. This is especially important in consumer packaged goods applications where the demand for variety in packaging is continually increasing.

In addition, the ability to monitor sensor outputs, receive real-time status alerts, and adjust settings from virtually anywhere allows users to identify and resolve problems that arise on the sensor level in a timely manner. This also means that users can make decisions based on real-time data from the machine components themselves, which can reduce costly downtime and improve overall efficiencies.

4. Simple device replacement

In addition to the ability to adjust sensor settings, IO-Link’s data storage capability also allows for automated parameter reassignment in case of device replacement (this functionality is also known as auto-device replacement or ADR). Users can import existing sensor parameter values into a replacement sensor for seamless replacement, getting the new device up and running as quickly as possible.

5. Extended diagnostics

IO-Link provides visibility into errors and health status from each device. This means that users can see not only what the sensor is doing but also how well it is performing, a valuable insight into a machine’s efficiency. In addition, extended diagnostics allow users to identify when a sensor is malfunctioning and diagnose the problem without shutting down the line or machine.

The combination of both real-time and historic data made available via an IO-Link system not only reduces troubleshooting efforts as issues arise, but also allows for optimisation of machine maintenance schedules, saving costs and increasing efficiency in the long term.

For more information contact Brandon Topham, RET Automation, +27 (0)11 453 2468, [email protected], www.retautomation.com



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Fire and gas suppression solutions for mission-critical industries
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
By representing world-leading brands and focusing on fully integrated, certified systems, HMA South Africa is positioning itself as a trusted partner in fire detection, suppression and explosion-proof safety solutions across the continent.

Read more...
The future of manufacturing
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Industrial automation is evolving at an unprecedented pace. At the forefront of this transformation is the Siemens SIMATIC ET 200SP HA Distributed I/O system. This is a flexible and scalable distributed I/O system for modern signal transfer from the field to the control level.

Read more...
Time-sensitive networking
RJ Connect Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
In this article, we will explore what is driving the rise of time-sensitive networking, how it is reshaping industrial efficiency, the challenges when deploying this technology, and ways to tackle these challenges.

Read more...
Loop Signature 30: Nonlinearity in control loops (Part 1)
Michael Brown Control Engineering Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
If nonlinearity occurs it means that if one is to carry on controlling with the same response to changes in load or setpoint, then the tuning of the controller will also need to be adjusted to meet the new conditions.

Read more...
PC-based control regulates innovative dehumidifiers
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Swedish company, Airwatergreen is breaking new ground in the dehumidification of air in industrial buildings and warehouses. The patented CVP technology reduces energy requirements and ensures an indoor climate that prevents corrosion and mould growth. PC-based control from Beckhoff regulates this innovative process.

Read more...
Ethernet connectivity for embedded systems
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Delivering Ethernet connectivity for embedded systems, XPort ETH Click is a compact add-on board from MIKROE, the embedded solutions company that dramatically cuts development time by providing innovative hardware and software products based on proven standards.

Read more...
Compact mini PC
Vepac Electronics Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
AS AAEON’s first Intel Core-powered PICO-SEMI system capable of fanless operation, the PICO-MTU4-SEMI from Vepac Electronics is easily deployed as part of larger equipment setups or integrated as the central unit of smart robotics solutions such as AGVs, AMRs and drones requiring minimal maintenance.

Read more...
Future-ready I/O to redefine connectivity
Schneider Electric South Africa Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Schneider Electric South Africa has launched its state-of-the-art Modicon Edge I/O NTS. This future-ready I/O redefines connectivity, data aggregation and operational efficiency for industrial applications.

Read more...
Referro Systems delivers industrial connectivity
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
To meet the growing demand for secure, flexible and reliable remote access for industrial network connectivity for its clients, Referro Systems has added Rockwell Automation’s Stratix 4300 to its inventory of products.

Read more...
Case History 199: Another example of the effectiveness of cascade control
Michael Brown Control Engineering Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
In my last article I wrote about how cascade control systems can effectively overcome valve problems. This article gives another example of how a temperature control was able to perform well, in spite of really severe valve problems.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved