Bosch Rexroth introduces cabinet-free drive technology
November 2015
Motion Control & Drives
Reallocating control functions to the individual machine modules allows machine engineers and operators to make maximum use of valuable site space, enhancing their production capacities. The cabinet-free drive technology IndraDrive Mi from Bosch Rexroth is enabling this idea in automation applications across numerous industries and production sites.
The IndraDrive Mi merges its drive electronics and motor into an integral unit. This combination virtually eliminates drive electronics housed within a cabinet and drastically reduces the wiring required to connect the individual components. Drive functions, motion control and flow logic merge into an open automation platform, allowing complex motion tasks to be handled with a motion logic system designed in accordance with IEC 61131-3.
Central to the reallocation of drive control components are the Bosch Rexroth decentralised supply and mains modules. The mains module includes a mains filter, mains regulator and mains protection in a single unit. The supply module includes an energy-recovering power supply, control electronics and brake resistors. The connection of the machines or modules to the power supply is carried out directly and without deviation via the cabinet. A newly-developed hybrid plug for adjacent near-motor drives further reduces assembly work.
IndraDrive Mi supports all common Ethernet-based protocols, including ProfiNet, EtherNet/IP and EtherCAT, all on a single piece of hardware with the multi-Ethernet interface via the automation bus Sercos. A connection to Profibus can be created via a gateway.
The motor-integrated and near-motor drive modules are designed in accordance with IP65. Up to 20 IndraDrive Mi modules can be connected in series in a cable harness up to 200 m long.
For more information contact Georg Venter, Tectra Automation, +27 (0)11 971 9400, [email protected], www.tectra.co.za
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