Beckhoff is enabling a real leap in automation technology performance with TwinCAT PLC++. Both engineering and runtime can be accelerated, while the well-known TwinCAT advantages of consistent integration, compatibility and openness continue to be delivered. In combination with easy switchover and the retention of existing TwinCAT functionality, this results in significant added value, a ‘plus-plus’ for the user.
TwinCAT PLC++ is a completely new development from Beckhoff that integrates seamlessly into the existing TwinCAT ecosystem. TwinCAT PLC++ is also based on the languages described in IEC 61131-3. Because of the latest compiler technology and the new architecture used, a significant leap in engineering and runtime performance can be achieved. Familiar and proven features have been retained, while key components of the development environment such as editors and compilers have been redeveloped based on IT models. Beckhoff has also placed particular emphasis on the possibility of using DevOps principles to implement continuous integration and continuous deployment, focusing particularly on the specific needs of users.
TwinCAT PLC++ offers significant performance advantages with regard to runtime. Compared to the previous TwinCAT PLC, the same control code can be executed up to a factor of 1,5 as fast during runtime with TwinCAT PLC++. As a highlight, the new compiler makes it possible to further optimise this control code in terms of execution time. This option, already familiar in the IT world, leads to a further significant increase in execution speed. This means that an industrial PC with less computing power may be sufficient for the previous machine control system, thereby reducing hardware costs. If the hardware platform remains unchanged, the freed-up computer resources can be used to implement more control functionality, or to increase the productivity of the machine by minimising cycle times.
From an engineering perspective, TwinCAT PLC++ achieves shorter throughput times all the way from control development and commissioning to the entire machine lifecycle. This is achieved by reducing operating times with the help of shorter project loading times, and an improved translation process. The minimised project lead times significantly reduce costs and also enable new machines and systems to be launched more quickly.
PC-based control for additive machine tools Beckhoff Automation
Motion Control & Drives
IRPD is a specialist in additive machine tools. Development is heavily focused on high system throughput and consistently high process quality. This goal was achieved with the help of PC- and EtherCAT-based control and drive technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...Robotic positioning system drastically reduces changeover times Beckhoff Automation
Motion Control & Drives
At the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in Menlo Park, California, an advanced robotic system by Square One Systems Design and Beckhoff speeds up high-energy physics experiments.
Read more...Beckhoff expands economy drive system Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Beckhoff’s new AM1000 servomotor joins the company’s economy drive system. The compact, powerful motor and the AX1000 servo drive provide users with a perfectly coordinated, cost-optimised drive system.
Read more...CC-Link IE Field supports egg carton production
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Huhtamaki’s Franeker plant in the Netherlands manufactures more than 11 million egg cartons every week using recycled paper. To support its highly automated lines, the site has begun upgrading its automation systems from older serial network standards to CC-Link IE Field, an open industrial Ethernet technology that offers faster performance due to gigabit bandwidth and better diagnostics.
Read more...Ultra-compact industrial PCs exploit advances in CPU technology Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Beckhoff’s C60xx scalable series of ultra-compact industrial PCs combines high computing power in an extremely compact format with a wide range of options for installation in the control cabinet.
Read more...Innovation award for Beckhoff’s XTS machine Beckhoff Automation
News
The Premio Innovazione award has confirmed that Tetra Pak’s Cap Applicator 40 Speed Hyper has achieved a machine solution that pushes the boundaries of conventional packaging lines with a highly dynamic mechatronic solution based on XTS technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...How to protect your industrial network RJ Connect
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Network security is no longer a matter of preventing hacking or data breaches. Traditional defence mechanisms for perimeter protection may not fully address internal threats or device-level vulnerabilities alone.
Read more...High-speed precision and simplified architecture for slicing systems
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
When KFT Food Machinery needed a way to support ultra-fast, multi-axis motion control in its slicer range, it turned to CC-Link IE TSN – the open industrial Ethernet technology from the CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA).
Read more...Hybrid connectors for distributed automation Beckhoff Automation
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Beckhoff’s ECP and ENP connector series combine power with signal and data communication by means of One Cable Automation (OCA) and thus significantly reduce cabling work.
Read more...Precise, synchronised control for automated steel mesh handling system
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Automation specialist Hambi Maschinenbau has developed a world-first system that automates the cutting, handling and stacking of heavy reinforcing steel mesh – a task that previously required up to six human operators.
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