News » Product News Machine controllers combine NC and PLC functions
Omron has announced a pair of integrated machine controllers that combine NC (numerical control) and PLC functions, and can synchronise NC processes with others at high speed, thus boosting machine productivity. The NJ501-5300 machine automation controller and NY532-5400 IPC (industrial PC) machine controller are claimed to cut the interlock time (the wait time during communications) between NC processes and others by up to 25% compared to using separate controllers. This can cut significantly the cycle times of machines that generate many interlocks.
SoftPLC runs on Linux platforms from Siemens and Wago
3S-Smart Software Solutions, the developer of the manufacturer-independent Codesys IEC 61131-3 automation software, has announced that its SoftPLC software is now available as a runtime environment for control systems based on the open Linux operating system, such as Wago’s PFC 100 and Siemens’ Simatic IOT2000.
CNC has built-in robot kinematics to simplify machining
Siemens has entered into a cooperative arrangement with the Italian robot-maker Comau to integrate robot kinematics with its CNC systems. At the 2017 Emo machine tool show in Hanover this month, the two companies are unveiling a jointly engineered product called Sinumerik Run MyRobot /DirectControl which, they say, will improve productivity, flexibility, dynamic responses and precision.
Controller is ‘first’ to bridge gap between DCS and PLC systems
Emerson has launched an industrial controller which, it claims, is the first to bridge small and large control applications, allowing manufacturers to scale its use up to DCS (distributed control system) applications, and down to PLC (programmable logic controller) applications. The DeltaV PK Controller offers scalable automation to process and discrete manufacturing users who have previously had to rely on complex, non-integrated PLCs with limited capabilities.
Automation system can run two operating systems at same time
B&R has released software for its automation systems that allows Windows or Linux to run alongside the company’s own real-time operating system. This allows users to combine control and HMI applications on one PC, for example, or to have an industrial PC double as both a real-time controller and an edge controller that sends pre-processed data to higher-level systems and the cloud via OPC UA.
RS adds rugged, easy-to-use drives to its own-brand line-up
RS Components has added a range of easy-to-install and use AC inverters to its RS Pro own-brand portfolio. The range consists of 17 AC inverter drives for single- and three-phase AC induction motors, most of them being IP65-protected for washdown duties, with two models being rated at IP50.
Integrated drive saves space, time, cabling costs and energy
Leroy-Somer has announced an integrated drive that can be used to control its IMfinity induction motors with ratings from 0.25–7.5kW. The Commander ID300 drive is said to deliver dynamic performance and high efficiency, while its decentralised configuration provides flexibility in machine and plant design, as well as saving the space normally needed for a cabinet. Eliminating the need for cables between drive and motor cuts costs and reduces power losses and emissions.
IPCs and thin clients support smart manufacturing
Rockwell Automation has announced a family of industrial computers, thin clients (the first from Rockwell) and monitors that, it says, will allow manufacturers to modernise standalone or distributed HMI applications to support smart manufacturing.
Medium voltage drives add sensorless vector control
EXCLUSIVE Rockwell Automation is expanding its family of medium-voltage variable-speed drives, adding sensorless vector control technology that will deliver improved performance compared to the previous V/Hz technology – including the ability to deliver 100% starting torque, compared to around 40% before.
IoT gateway links field devices to the cloud
Festo has announced an IoT gateway that connects components and modules from the field level to the Festo Cloud via OPC UA. Using the CPX-IoT gateway, it is possible to have preconfigured, customisable dashboards for each component.
Third wave of space-spacing automation parts is released
Omron has announced a third wave of factory automation (FA) devices that comply with its Common Design Platform, saving space in control panels, or allowing panel-builders to include more components in panels and increase their functions.
Dual-channel AC motor controller is ‘world’s first’
The US robot technology developer Roboteq has announced what it claims is world’s first dual-channel variable-frequency drive (VFD), capable of driving two AC induction motors simultaneously. Each motor can draw up to 60A at up to 60V, or 3.6kW per channel.
Dual-format motion controls can handle up to 128 axes
Omron and its US subsidiary, Delta Tau Data Systems (DT), have collaborated to develop a range of programmable multi-axis controllers (PMACs) in both standalone and PC-based formats. The PMACs, which can control up to 32 axes in the standalone format and 128 axes in the PC format, allow users to program their own motion algorithms and motion control functions – such as trajectory calculations and position compensation – in C and other programming languages.
Diagnostics tool simplifies pneumatic cushioning settings
The pneumatics manufacturer Aventics has developed a tool that, it claims, will simplify and speed the adjustment of cushioning systems for pneumatic cylinders. Optimal adjustment of cushioning is important to achieve high cycle frequencies, quiet running and trouble-free operation of cylinders.
Robot controller can supervise entire machines
Schneider Electric has announced a robot controller that can control multiple delta robots and Scara robots, as well as third-party six-axis robots. The PacDrive 3 controller also provides discrete and motion control functions, allowing synchronised control of production lines from a central point, as well as providing integrated safety and simplifying machine topologies.
