Users can now design and run batch applications quicker than before after Rockwell Automation expanded the application development capabilities of its FactoryTalk Batch software.
Tightly integrated with its scalable PlantPAx Process Automation System, version 11 of the FactoryTalk Batch software provides solutions ranging from small, basic sequencing to large, complex batch applications.
“The need for greater agility and responsiveness is driving manufacturers away from custom engineered batch software applications to standardised, open technology,” said Sean Homan, business manager – control systems, Rockwell Automation. “FactoryTalk Batch software, based on ISA-88 standards, is designed to meet that demand, while providing batch operators with more control during runtime.”
The new features include:
Intelligent recipe features
Now recipe authors can reference system-wide data, such as previous ingredient feed or material properties to simplify recipe development. The use of expressions based on this historical data, rather than entering specific defined values, allows the system to adjust run-time setpoints to accommodate variable batch activity.
Improved run-time user control
Operators with security clearance are now able to advance a batch in the process whereas before, procedural flexibility had to be designed into the system. This latest software version gives operators more control to advance a batch based on real-time conditions without time-intensive system engineering.
Expanded data collection and reporting
The latest release continues to expand the system data logged into the electronic batch record. This includes information on shared equipment, like pumps and other processing equipment, to help manufacturers further meet track-and-trace compliance requirements.
Rockwell is also adding context to data within the batch system. System designers can now associate a material setpoint with the actual amount delivered without relying on naming conventions or other complex association methods. This simplifies data analysis and enables more sophisticated, global reporting.
Improved material management capability
FactoryTalk Batch Material Manager brings just-in-time material management to batch execution systems, allowing more effective management of materials and recipes. This latest software version helps increase flexibility by allowing late binding to material inventory. This is critical for batch applications where some materials are in transit, or not available at the start. In the past, batch applications required custom engineering to accommodate these situations.
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