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.
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