IT in Manufacturing


Next-generation PLC technology with advanced chatbot functionality

May 2025 IT in Manufacturing

Beckhoff is taking automation technology to the next level with TwinCAT PLC++. Both engineering and runtime are noticeably faster, without compromising on TwinCAT’s signature strengths of seamless integration, compatibility and openness. Leveraging state-of-the-art compiler technology and a new system structure, the advanced chatbot function TwinCAT CoAgent is now fully embedded as an efficient programming assistant.

In TwinCAT PLC++ runtime, the same control code runs up to 1,5 times faster compared to the previous TwinCAT PLC version. A major highlight is the new TwinCAT PLC++ compiler, which further optimises control code execution time, delivering an overall performance boost of up to three times. The new TwinCAT PLC++ architecture also supports even deeper integration of TwinCAT functions. This allows TwinCAT CoAgent, the evolution of TwinCAT Chat, to be efficiently integrated as a programming assistant that supports both textual and graphical code generation.

TwinCAT CoAgent takes control engineering to the next level by seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology directly into TwinCAT projects. The agent provides effective support for a wide range of tasks, from precise code suggestions and smart code optimisation to automatic creation of comprehensive documentation. The content generated by TwinCAT CoAgent can be easily incorporated into established engineering projects once it has been checked by a user.

TwinCAT CoAgent also provides direct access to Beckhoff’s comprehensive documentation and supports the development of user-friendly HMI controls. This means that user interfaces can be designed and configured faster and more intuitively than ever before. The option is even available to create I/O topologies effortlessly via chat, including renaming terminals and configuring new I/O modules. In the future, it will be possible to adjust parameters individually while an intelligent assistant will provide support with the optimum configuration. This not only speeds up the I/O configuration, but also makes it particularly flexible for specific requirements. TwinCAT CoAgent’s comprehensive functionality positions it as a personal digital assistant with the potential to revolutionise engineering workflows.


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