PC-based control: TwinCAT solar position algorithm software library optimise solar energy harvesting.
The TwinCAT solar position algorithm software library enables high-precision determination of sun angles and the times for sunrise, solar noon and sunset all year round. The calculation of the sun angles with the TwinCAT library simply requires the specification of the date, time and exact longitude and latitude of the location (eg, through a GPS system). Depending on the required precision the algorithm can take into account additional parameters such as the time zone, the height above mean sea level, the slope of the ground or the orientation of the object, the air temperature and pressure, which influence atmospheric refraction. The algorithm can achieve an impressive precision of ±0,001°.
Areas of application include parabolic mirror systems with focusing mirrors of several metres diameter, which track the sun with great accuracy in order to focus the sun’s rays in an ideal focal point. This requires high-precision measurement of the sun angles. Photovoltaic installations that track the sun position also operate on this basis. Another area of application is building automation, where sensors alone are no longer sufficient to adequately deal with shading of large building façades. The Beckhoff software can also be used for exact calculation of shadow flicker from wind turbines, which is to be avoided in populated areas. The results allow individual turbines to be switched off if necessary.
Dynamic control of industrial solar plants and energy storage systems Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice IT in Manufacturing
Spanish group, Power Electronics uses Beckhoff embedded PCs and TwinCAT software to achieve switching times of 110 ms across solar and battery storage systems, enabling the delivery of grid support services that command higher energy prices.
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Airbus and MTU Aero Engines are establishing a joint venture to industrialise hydrogen-electric propulsion systems for commercial aviation, combining liquid hydrogen expertise with fuel cell development to support the ZEROe programme’s 2035 target.
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Mammoet’s XXL monopile transport system and new MTC 1600 terminal crane are helping offshore wind developers safely marshal and install ever larger monopile foundations, as demonstrated on Van Oord’s Baltic Power project.
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Researchers at the University of Basel are using Beckhoff PC-based control technology to develop a miniature laser robot for minimally invasive bone surgery.
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Mid-sized South African manufacturers are turning to targeted, low-risk automation to solve specific bottlenecks rather than chasing full factory transformation, helped by retrofit-friendly robotics and advanced simulation software.
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KHK USA has introduced duplex worm gears that allow precise backlash adjustment through simple axial movement of the worm shaft, eliminating the need for gearbox housing alterations during assembly or maintenance.
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Osterwalder Technology has launched the MPneo 480, a 480 kN fully electric multi-plate powder press with up to six cross-pressing modules. Designed for hard metals, ceramics and advanced engineered materials, the press supports complex geometries and offers optional
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KHK USA has announced its ground helical rack series, engineered for smooth operation, high torque transmission and long-lasting performance in precision motion systems. The racks are designed for demanding environments such as machine tools, high-speed automation equipment and precision positioning systems.
Read more...SpinDrive launches Magma X100 active magnetic bearing controller
Motion Control & Drives
SpinDrive has launched the Magma X100, a new active magnetic bearing controller platform for applications up to 150 kW. The platform brings oil-free, frictionless bearing technology to mobile machinery, semiconductor equipment and other high-speed rotating equipment at a cost comparable to conventional bearing solutions.
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