Scientific automation: measurement and automation technology in one dynamic system
July 2008Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
The Beckhoff EtherCAT terminal has been extended with new I/O terminals that combine maximum performance with maximum accuracy. The EL3602 offers a new generation of high-precision analogue equipment. Measurement readings are sampled with a 24 bit resolution and accuracy within ±0,01%, providing an optimal basis for high-performance and high-precision measurement technology. This seamless integration of measurement technology into the automation solution makes separate specialised components unnecessary.
Beckhoff refers to the integration of engineering functions that reach beyond traditional PLC and motion technologies into the automation software as: ‘scientific automation’. It builds on the ever-increasing performance of PC-based control technology and an ultra fast communication system such as EtherCAT. A prime example of scientific automation is measurement technology, which up to now has been performed by specialised devices for many high performance applications. The EL3602 EtherCAT terminal enables measurement signals to be sampled directly in a standard I/O system. The analogue 2-channel EL3602 input terminal handles signals in the range -10 to +10 V. The voltage is directly digitised, enabling the execution of high-precision measuring tasks, in laboratory and analytical applications, for example.
With XFC terminals (eXtreme Fast Control Technology) for over-sampling and time stamp technology, Beckhoff already offers solutions for maximum performance requirements. The new terminal generation for high-precision measurement technology now offers maximum accuracy.
The high-performance EtherCAT terminal system consists of modular I/O in electronic terminal blocks. The EtherCAT protocol is maintained right down into the individual terminal. An I/O station consists of an EtherCAT Coupler and almost any number of terminals (up to 65 535 devices). Terminals are available for all common digital and analogue signal types encountered in the world of automation. Fieldbus devices, eg, for PROFIBUS, PROFINET, CANopen, DeviceNet, Interbus or Lightbus, can be integrated via local fieldbus master/slave terminals. Any Ethernet device can be integrated locally via switch terminals.
Integrating fire alarm systems into building management systems Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Fire alarm systems work independently of the building automation system. Schrack Seconet has developed a flexible gateway using ultra-compact industrial PCs and TwinCAT from Beckhoff, which can be used to flexibly convert a customer-specific communication protocol to a wide range of transmission standards.
Read more...PC-based control regulates innovative dehumidifiers Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Swedish company, Airwatergreen is breaking new ground in the dehumidification of air in industrial buildings and warehouses. The patented CVP technology reduces energy requirements and ensures an indoor climate that prevents corrosion and mould growth. PC-based control from Beckhoff regulates this innovative process.
Read more...PC-based control in window and door production Beckhoff Automation
Motion Control & Drives
Belgian machine builders CNC Solutions and Calvet are automating previously manual processes in aluminium window and door production. High-performance drive technology, motion control and electric cylinders from Beckhoff proved crucial in equipping the machine with the necessary finesse when pressing the window frames.
Read more...Verification using Heartbeat Technology is a breeze
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Heartbeat Technology reflects Endress+Hauser’s long-term commitment to enhancing measurement reliability and efficiency across a growing product portfolio.
Read more...PC-based control for advanced hydrogen storage technology Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Sufficient storage options for renewable energies are essential to use them as efficiently as possible. GKN Hydrogen offers a particularly compact and safe option, low-pressure metal hydride hydrogen storage systems with PC-based control from Beckhoff.
Read more...Clog-resistant nozzle for powerful stationary tank cleaning
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
As EXAIR and BETE continue to build on a strong partnership, EXAIR has recently added a selection of BETE products to the site, including the innovative BETE HydroClaw tank and vessel cleaning nozzle.
Read more...Prestigious award recognises inventiveness and entrepreneurial courage Beckhoff Automation
News
Hans Beckhoff, managing director, owner and founder of Beckhoff Automation, was recently honoured with the widely acclaimed Rudolf Diesel Medal 2025. This medal honours him as a visionary pioneer in automation technology.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version