TwinCAT 3 – convenient embedding of CNC in the overall system.
The TwinCAT automation software forms the universal platform for the control of PLC, motion and CNC functionalities, visualisation, safety, measurement technology, condition monitoring and robotics. In version 3 of TwinCAT, the engineering is facilitated by the integration of all tools into one development environment based on Microsoft Visual Studio, into which the configuration and the programming environment for IEC 61131 are integrated. Further languages are available for programming in C and C++. Likewise, Matlab and Simulink can be used as a development platform for controllers and filters.
Microsoft Visual Studio offers the possibility to use modern tools for software engineering. This way, using Team Foundation Server, it is possible to track both changes in the source code or to manage software projects. An editor for the convenient configuration and programming of safety applications is also integrated. The safety programs can be written in function block language or in C; in addition, the safe drives can be configured here. Calculation tools for the new machine directive are integrated and facilitate the necessary calculations.
The PC and EtherCAT-based CNC solution from Beckhoff integrates all machine functions into one hardware and software platform, characterised by high performance, openness and flexibility. The universal TwinCAT automation software and the fast EtherCAT fieldbus system, Industrial PCs, control panels, I/O components and drive technology combine to offer a complete solution for CNC machining. This way, the productivity of manufacturing facilities can be increased, the controller design becomes ‘leaner’ and the costs for hardware, commissioning and maintenance are lowered. The Beckhoff CNC platform is suitable for all industries, processing technologies and machine kinematics: from compact dental machining centres and woodworking machines to complex plasma cutting and welding machines. The CNC solution from Beckhoff is scalable to meet the exact requirements of modular and multifunctional machine concepts.
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The introduction of TwinCAT in 1996 marked a decisive evolutionary step for PC-based control. Today, the TwinCAT platform combines all automation functions in a strictly deterministic real-time environment, from PLC and motion control through CNC and measurement technology and beyond, to vision, robotics and pioneering AI tools.
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