Scientific automation enables the processor power to be fully utilised, particularly with multi-core support, so that conventional PC-based automation applications can be extended with new components. Not only measurement technology and condition monitoring, but also robotics can be integrated into the standard control system. Robotics and motion control functions can be combined and synchronised on a single platform for optimum performance.
Reduced engineering costs: configuration, parameterisation and diagnostics in one system
The TwinCAT Kinematic Transformation software integrates robot control into the TwinCAT automation suite. PLC, motion control, HMI, measurement technology and robotics functions can be executed on an Industrial PC. Configuration and programming take place entirely in TwinCAT, so that the engineering time and costs can be reduced significantly. So far, the following kinematic systems have been implemented: Cartesian gantry, shear kinematics, roller kinematics (H-Bot), SCARA, 2-D kinematics, 2-D parallel kinematics and 3-D delta kinematics. Further kinematic systems are planned for the future. In addition, TwinCAT Kinematic Transformation offers tracking functions. This means that the robot is synchronised with a moving object, so that it can pick up work pieces from conveyor belts or inclined turntables, for example.
eXtended Automation and scalable drive technology
With TwinCAT 3, the new software generation for PC-based control technology, C/C++ and Matlab/Simulink are available as programming languages in addition to IEC 61131-3. This makes integration of special robot kinematics quite straightforward. In cases where special controllers have to be used, they can simply be integrated as Matlab/Simulink models.
Particularly in applications with small robots there is demand for compact drive equipment for small outputs. The EL7201 servo terminal for the Beckhoff EtherCAT terminal system integrates a complete servo drive for motors up to 200 W in a standard terminal housing. Simple integration facilitates implementation of compact and cost-effective robotics applications.
The AX5000 EtherCAT drives in conjunction with servomotors are available for highly dynamic positioning tasks. The new AM8000 synchronous servomotor series in standard or stainless steel design is characterised by high dynamics and energy efficiency at low cost. One of the highlights is the new single-cable technology, with which the power and feedback system are combined in the standard motor cable. Material and commissioning costs are thus significantly lowered. The AM8800 stainless steel model with IP67 protection is particularly suitable for application in the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Efficient and safe robot control systems
EtherCAT, the real-time Ethernet fieldbus, offers maximum performance with very short update times. TwinSAFE guarantees safe data transmission. The integrated safety system from Beckhoff ensures safety from the I/Os up to the drives, which also includes programming and testing of the safety program in the TwinCAT system.
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...Hybrid DCS for an evolving industrial landscape Schneider Electric South Africa
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Today’s industrial automation continues to evolve at a blistering speed, which means traditional DCSs have to keep up to ensure continuous integration into modern, digital infrastructure.
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...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...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.
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