Network-based control system for COTS solutions

July 2002 System Integration & Control Systems Design

To survive intensifying global competition, it has become a crucial task for the manufacturing industry to build a manufacturing system that can meet the requirements of lower costs and quick response to ever-changing demands. In line with this, Yokogawa has been striving to intensify the link of its DCS with the production management systems and to network field connections.

The range of Wenglor sensors, featuring a variety of functional principles, can now be supplied in a new style of housing, an option that significantly simplifies mounting requirements.

Retro-reflective laser light barriers for the recognition of small objects at great distances, energetic diffuse light sensors with infrared light and diffuse light sensors with background suppression, which function independent of the colour of the object to be recognised (with red light as well as laser light) sensors which operate with either glass or plastic fibre-optic cable, are all available in the new R-housing.

An example of a popular combination is a rectangular or square housing with a M18 threaded section that is easy to fit, compact and interchangeable, subject to requirements. This mounting allows for installation of the sensor in a mechanically protected way. Only minimal installation depth is required - which is enhanced further by the plug-in connector at the bottom of the housing.

The R-housing includes a user-friendly control panel, and a convenient user interface for the teach-in function. External teach-in is also possible. The integrated RS232 interface allows for digital configuration of all sensor setting via a PC, as well as the readout of values.

Wenglor's range of sensors is manufactured in Britain and distributed locally by ASSTech Process Electronics and Instrumentation, which also distributes: Gantner - data acquisition, controller and data-logger modules; Inducoder - shaft encoders; Rechner - capacitive and inductive sensors, opto-electronic, calorimetric flow sensors and magneto-resistive sensors; Jumo - professionals in process control; Burster - calibration and test equipment and Wöhrle - intelligent display systems.

For more information contact Anastas Schnippenkotter, ASSTech Process Electronics & Instrumentation, 011 794 7057, [email protected], www.asstech.co.za

Further reading:

Powering southern Africa’s industrial evolution for over five decades
Oilpower System Integration & Control Systems Design
Established in 1974, Oilpower is a recognised name in South Africa’s hydraulic and pneumatic sector. What started as a small, family-run business has matured into a highly structured operation with specialised teams, experienced engineers and a reputation for technical excellence and reliability. Oilpower is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year

Read more...

---

Metal plant automation upgrade
ABB South Africa System Integration & Control Systems Design
A combined compressor house (CCH) control system replacement project, undertaken by NJC, an ABB Authorised Value Provider (AVP), has won high praise from client ArcelorMittal.

Read more...

---

SIs - the channel’s conductors of light
Schneider Electric South Africa System Integration & Control Systems Design
Today’s original equipment manufacturers are innovators in the truest sense, driving the absolute newest in technological advancement. While they develop advanced and often groundbreaking solutions, it is the system integrators who bring these innovations to life.

Read more...

---

The state of the SI industry remains strong and is expanding
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The system integration (SI) industry is expanding with the adoption of AI, automation and data sharing, allowing companies to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness across diverse sectors.

Read more...

---

The symbiotic relationship between OEMs and SIs
Schneider Electric South Africa Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
While businesses tend to turn directly to original equipment manufacturers OEMs or vendors when embarking on IT projects, the role of the SI as a key facilitator and partner cannot be overstated.

Read more...

---

Flexible and precise dispensing technology
Beckhoff Automation System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Scheugenpflug ProcessModule axis system forms the basis of Atlas Copco’s dispensing and screwing cells and a flexible integration platform for general contractors and machine builders. Precise process sequences are ensured by TwinCAT CNC and servo drive technology from Beckhoff.

Read more...

---

The time is now for systems integrators
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
Integrators combine sophistication regarding technology innovation with practical, hands-on experience. Collaborating with systems integrators is the means to significant productivity improvement, powered by the convergence of automation and information and operations technology.

Read more...

---

System integrators are a diverse market
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
System integrators (SIs) combine expertise on emergent technologies with real world experience. Working with SIs, it’s inevitable that at some point someone will say, “We’re not a typical SI.” And in many ways, it’s true. SIs come in all shapes and sizes.

Read more...

---

Avoiding the pitfalls of PLC and scada control system integration
Iritron System Integration & Control Systems Design
Upgrading your control system by integrating PLCs with scada systems should be a simple seamless process. Regrettably, the industry is plagued with control system integration and upgrade myths and misconceptions that can lead to liability issues, project delays, cost overruns and decreased plant performance.

Read more...

---

EtherCAT measurement terminals for vehicle development at Mercedes-Benz
Beckhoff Automation System Integration & Control Systems Design
At the Mercedes Technology Centre plant in Sindelfingen, Germany, car axles are examined with the highest precision on four test benches, in parallel with road tests and simulations. All data is acquired using PC-based control from Beckhoff.

Read more...

---