C-based control technology for robotics in handling, production and assembly.
Gantry robots, SCARA, articulated or parallel kinematics can provide the right robot for any machining step using only one automation platform. PC-based control technology from Beckhoff enables the whole process chain for individual processing machines, or complete production lines, to be controlled and monitored, for example: feeding; joining; assembly; checking; handling and palletising.
Highly dynamic handling devices with accurate repeatability require a system that guarantees minimum delays for all sub-processes including physical signal sampling, processing in the motion controller and response at an output. Beckhoff offers the full range of required products and technologies, like: high-performance IPCs and embedded PCs; fast and compact I/O components in IP20 or IP67; EtherCAT as open ultra-fast communication system; versatile servo drive technology; cost-effective stepper motor technology and the TwinCAT PLC and motion control software.
The functional safety of the application is ensured through Beckhoff TwinSAFE technology. Safe I/O components and drive-integrated safety functions that are linked to a safe logic terminal ensure secure system operation.
Continuity with PC-based technology
With the PC-based control system, Beckhoff has created a coherent standard to cater for a wide range of requirements by providing a uniform and fully scalable open system. This openness, both in terms of the software and the hardware interfaces, helps machine manufactures to adapt their systems to diverse and changing requirements without repeatedly incurring high implementation costs and effort.
TwinCAT integrates PLC and motion control functions and controls the individual steps of the processing machines with high performance. Software PLC programming is based on the international IEC 61131-3 standard, with a wide range of software modules for different tasks such as synchronised and interpolating movements of several axes being available.
Solutions for different applications are easy to implement due to the combination options for master and slave axes and the high-performance motion functions. Powerful tools such as TwinCAT Cam Design Tool and TwinCAT ScopeView support system design and commissioning. PLC libraries with function blocks based on the PLCopen motion control standards simplify programming and enable the use of standardised components.
Maximum performance on multiple axes
The basis for the ultra-fast process communication is the EtherCAT Industrial Ethernet system, which is ideally suited for use in production machines. The fast communication between the controller and the I/O signals offers the machine manufacturer possibilities such as: motion control with multiple axes synchronised through distributed EtherCAT clocks with nanosecond accuracy.
With eXtreme Fast Control Technology, any programmer is able to realise very fast and highly precise control solutions for special production machines simply and elegantly based on standard components.
Solving common automation challenges with Festo’s servo drive and servo motor solutions Festo South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Automation projects face challenges that include limited installation space, the need for precise and repeatable linear motion, rising cycle-speed demands, and seamless integration with existing control architectures. Festo’s servo portfolio directly addresses these issues with compact, modular drive and motor solutions designed for specific applications.
Read more...Inside the Giant Magellan Telescope with mechanical engineering at astronomical scale
Motion Control & Drives
Construction of the Giant Magellan Telescope, set to become the world’s largest Gregorian optical infrared telescope, is well underway. While its scientific mission is to transform astronomy, its performance depends heavily on advanced mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic engineering.
Read more...Filtration as a reliability driver in motion control systems Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
This article highlights the importance of filtration in motion control systems, how contamination affects performance, and what fleet managers, operators and maintenance teams in southern Africa can do to reduce downtime, avoidable wear and costly repairs, aided by Baldwin Filters.
Read more...Supporting construction of next-gen floating offshore wind turbines
Motion Control & Drives
While windy locations naturally make ideal spots for offshore wind farms, they bring challenges when it comes to assembling wind turbines, particularly in ports. Mammoet was approached by Euroports to support with the marshalling and assembly of the components that make up the three turbines at Port-la-Nouvelle in France.
Read more...Rollers excel where profits balance on a knife edge igus
Motion Control & Drives
Polymer component specialist manufacturer, igus has developed a range of lubrication-free long-life knife edge rollers designed to improve the transfer of products between conveyor belts in high-speed production environments.
Read more...Bringing physical AI to the factory floor by deploying humanoids in industrial operations Siemens South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Siemens and Humanoid have marked a landmark milestone in the journey to bring physical AI from vision to industrial reality. Humanoid’s humanoid robothas been successfully tested in operations at Siemens’ electronics factory in Germany, performing autonomous logistics tasks.
Read more...Next-generation oil-free motor systems with active magnetic bearings WEG Africa
Motion Control & Drives
WEG and SpinDrive are collaborating to integrate SpinDrive’s AMBs and built-in IoT condition monitoring into WEG’s market-leading electric motor offering, creating an oil-free, maintenance-free drive solution.
Read more...Addressing cost, supply and disease pressures in Africa’s feed industry
Motion Control & Drives
Feed producers across Africa are operating in an increasingly complex and volatile environment. The pressures are forcing producers to rethink how they operate, balancing cost control, production efficiency and the need for greater flexibility in an unpredictable market.
Read more...A single platform for all automation functions Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The introduction of TwinCAT in 1996 marked a decisive evolutionary step for PC-based control. Today, the TwinCAT platform combines all automation functions in a strictly deterministic real-time environment, from PLC and motion control through CNC and measurement technology and beyond, to vision, robotics and pioneering AI tools.
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