CimQuest INGEAR releases .NET class libraries for Allen-Bradley Logix Controller

CimQuest INGEAR (www.ingeardrivers.com), which publishes runtime-free software development solutions for several industrial applications, is proud to announce the release of Visual Studio.NET class libraries to be used with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix programmable automation controllers (PACs) (www.ab.com).

INGEAR NET.LOGIX version 3.0 software can be used by those who write automation and control applications in Visual Studio C# or Visual Basic.NET to communicate with Allen-Bradley controllers, design data acquisition applications and custom communications, and deploy them on several machines, without the need to pay additional license fees.

“The better the information plant personnel have regarding operations, the greater their ability to manage costs, output, quality and ultimately — profitability. Some of the most valuable data lies within the programmable logic controllers (PLCs) that automate assembly lines. Manufacturers typically deploy PLCs machine-by-machine, so accessing that data can be a real challenge. This new set of class libraries provides anyone who knows Visual Basic.NET or Visual Studio C# everything they need to communicate with some of the world’s most popular Allen-Bradley controllers,” said Chuck Karwoski, head of CimQuest INGEAR.

NET.LOGIX 3.0 has several advanced features, including a new PeerMessage class for Unsolicited Messages, which waits idle in a passive state to allow the Allen-Bradley controller to send data through MSG instructions. Upon receiving communication, the PeerMessage class sends a notification event with information for the user application to process it immediately. The PeerMessage class is designed to receive MSG instructions from CompactLogix, ControlLogix, ControlLogix Gateway, MicroLogix, as well as PLC-5E and SLC 5/05 family of controllers.

NET.LOGIX 3.0 also features the DTEncoding class, which helps read and write Pre-Defined Types (PDT’s) and User Defined Types (UDT’s) as objects with or without the need to read or write every atomic member individually.

New Quantum bridge saw simplifies complex motions

An all-in-one motion and machine controller is helping operators set new levels of cost-effective performance in the stone cutting sector.

Farnese Australia (www.farnese.com.au) has unveiled the new Quantum bridge saw that provides X, Y and rotational motion for the efficient and fast shaping of stone bathroom and kitchen surfaces. Compared to existing machines, it sets a new price/performance standard in the market sector.

“The biggest challenge with application development was to simplify the operation of the machine,” said Jason DeSouza, applications manager at Baldor Australia. “Farnese specified that the operator interface should not require any G-Code, or CAD/CAM software or special computer hardware.”

Its integrated Baldor controllers are programmed in a proprietary language known as MINT, which incorporates complicated interpolated motion into a simple command set. It gives the operator flexibility to make motion profiles easily and quickly by eliminating the need for additional software.

“Machine cutting paths are based on a range of pre-defined geometric shapes and dimensional information entered by the user,” DeSouza added. “These are used to calculate and pre-load motion commands which are executed in real time within the controller. Therefore, the machine does not experience any time delays associated with standard computer operating systems.”

Farnese’s one-of-kind interface makes selection of the proper shape-cutting process very simple, avoiding risk of operator error. Several pre-programmed shape-cutting sequences are also provided in the application to cover common requirements, without the need for skilled operator programming by the bathroom and kitchen surface suppliers that typically bought these machines.

With the new Quantum bridge saw, Farnese Australia switched to Baldor’s Ethernet-based NextMove e100 controller. It provides all of the resources needed for the real-time interpolated control of four servo motor axes, all of the machine’s I/O, as well as ActiveX interface to the unique Windows user interface that the company has developed to simplify stone masonry.

DEPRAG introduces control systems for top functionality

Almost 300 million people around the world suffer from bronchial asthma. However, the disease’s origin is still unclear. With a series of treatment methods, it is certain that the number of asthma cases can be reduced and the symptoms can be relieved. Among the most effective therapies for this disease is inhalation.

When assembling an inhaler, the user must first screw the top part to the bottom part of the case and then clip the mouth piece into the casing. Highest possible process reliability should be realized in the construction and development of the respective assembly system.

Thus, controllers of modern assembly systems have complex tasks to do. The latest DCOS (DEPRAG CONTROLLER SYSTEM) introduced by DEPRAG SCHULZ GMBH u. CO. (www.deprag.com) is a user friendly system with high functionality. DCOS, which controls, analyses, records and documents, is a new process and assembly control system for the highest possible industrial level.

The DCOS control system demonstrates the diversity of the PC world. DPU 100 (DEPRAG PROCESSING UNIT) is mainly based on an industrial PC which works with Windows CE system software. The control unit can also control very complex motion sequences with short cycle times (typically < 6ms). A 6.5″ color touchscreen with VGA resolution offers greatest operator comfort during operation as well as display of operating conditions. The DPU 100 can access the World Wide Web or the company network through a freely available EtherCat-Port.

Depending on the task, control cabinet DSEC (DEPRAG SAFETY EXTENSION CONTROLLER) 20 to 40 is utilized with DPU100. These control cabinets include 32 outputs and inputs through EtherCat fieldbus, security components and a 24VDC power supply with 10A. The additional integrated profibus master module permits non-problematic connection of all fieldbus devices.

The DSEC30 is the ideal solution for assembly stations and screwdriving that have higher security and power requirements. It can control up to three NC axles. With their respective power sections, three stepper motors are included as standard. Other applications with linear motors or servo motors are available on request. Screwdriving or other assembly systems along with axle systems are part of the DSEC40′s application range.

B&R introduces Power Panel 65 ideal for multi-axis applications

B&R Industrial Automation (www.br-automation.com) unveiled its latest unit that combines a high performance programmable logic controller (“PLC”) processor with Multi Axis Motion controller, the Power Panel 65. This unit is housed within a 5.7 inch or 3.5 inch HMI. This single tool is utilized for the integration of programming, safety systems, motion control, visualization and communication for all of programmable products from B&R.

This Power Panel 65 combines compact and high performance dimensions in a single central operating and control unit. Through the integration of control (“drive technology and visualization”), the operator profits from intelligent complete solutions, which are easily connected to a variety of automation infrastructures.

The Power Panel 65 with a powerful 500MHz Geode LX800 processor can handle a performance range which is important for multi-axis applications. Moreover, the unique combination of a compact design and high performance for calculations ensures optimal utilization of the space at the switching cabinet. Intuitive operator panel can be expanded as desired by the operator.

The new unit is available with a 3.5 inch touchscreen or 5.7 inch touchscreen and function keys. It also provides an optimal design for any system or machine type.

A Fast Ethernet port and two USB interfaces guarantee that the data can be exchanged quickly with higher level systems. Remote drives and I/O can be easily connected using modular fieldbus interfaces if expansions are required. The new PP65 is available with POWERLINK interface or integrated X2X. Also, the devices can be extended with CAN, Profibus DP slave and RS232/RS485 interfaces depending on the requirements. Through this, machine operators can profit from the highest level of freedom for the control topology.

ABB introduces new generation of process controller and indicator instruments

ABB (www.abb.com), a world leader in power and automation technologies, is proud to announce its new generation of process controller and indicator instrumentation, ControlMaster. The latest line-up includes four new models which are highly powerful and intuitive and is very east to operate. Its comprehensive portfolio of capabilities makes it ideal for a wide spectrum of industries. ControlMaster’s flexible I/O capabilities simplify model selection. Each ControlMaster model can be scaled suiting basic to advanced application requirements by adding plug-and-play function keys.

The new ControlMaster elevates process control and monitoring to a higher level.

The full-color thin-film-transistor (“TFT”) liquid crystal display of ControlMaster provides unsurpassed ease of use and it shows process information. Operator prompts and menus display in full text. ControlMaster’s formats include historical trending and dual-loop displays.

A sampling of the functionality in the controller includes totalization, dead-time compensation, delay timers, problem-solving diagnostics, cascade, ratio control and feedforward, predictive, adaptive and dual-loop control.

The latest units offer flexible communications: Modbus, Profibus and Ethernet protocols. Enclosures provide NEMA4X and IP66 environmental protection.

New EPSON six-axis robot with RC520 PC-based controller

EPSON Factory Automation/Robotics (www.robots.epson.com) is proud to announce the new EPSON Pro-Six PS3-AS00 with RC520 PC-based controller, which caters the overwhelming requests from customers for a new manipulator to connect to extremely powerful, yet easy to use EPSON RC+ software and RC520 PC-based controller.

While the automation market is full of six-axis type applications, it became clear to the company what the market actually needed was a great control platform with a six-axis arm.

The latest EPSON Pro-Six PS3-AS00 utilizes the same EPSON RC520 PC-based controller that controls EPSON EZ Modules (“Linear Modules”) and E2 Series Robots (“SCARA”) thus allowing machine users to take advantage of a single control solution for the entire factory. With a 791-millimeter (“701-millimeter at the wrist center”) reach, high performance Sigma III-AC servo motors, the famous servo control from EPSON, and EPSON RC520 PC-based controller, the Pro-Six can solve even the most demanding six-axis type applications.

The EPSON Pro-Six PS3-AS00 high points features the same easy to use PC-based controls utilized with all EPSON Robots, a rigid design for smooth, high-speed motion with precise position settling and high-performance absolute encoders

Its compact design requires only minimal installation space and has ceiling, wall and floor mounting configurations. It has outstanding path control capabilities with two Pro-Six (“six-axis”) robots controllable from one RC520 controller and one Pro-Six (“six-axis”) robot plus two EPSON E2 SCARA Robots (“or 8 EZ modules axes”) controllable from one RC520 controller.

Also, the new EPSON Pro-Six PS3-AS00 high points features a high-performance EPSON Robots Servo Control which provides maximum performance, and has fully integrated EPSON RC+ Options (“Profibus, DeviceNet, Force Sensing, VB Guide, Vision Guide, etc.”). It meets the ANSI/RIA 15.06-1999 safety standard, as well as CE mark.

Motoman’s SDA-series lineup with new SDA5D Dual-Arm robot model provides next-generation speed and application flexibility

Motoman (www.motoman.com) is proud to announce the expanded SDA-series (“slim, dual-arm”) family of robots with the new SDA5D model. Agile and quick, with human-like flexibility, these robots provide the payload, flexibility, performance, speed and reach requirements to perform a variety of part transfer, machine tending packaging, handling and assembly applications that could only be performed by people. The new SDA-series feature 15 axes of motion (“seven axes per arm, plus one single-axis for base rotation”). Internally routed hoses and cables reduce maintenance and interference, and make programming easier as well.

Both robotic arms can work together on a single task to double the payload requirement or handle heavy, unwieldy pallets, parts or trays. The ability to use two independent robotic arms to process parts cuts down the need for costly custom fixturing and permits end-of-arm tooling to be less costly and simple. Motoman’s SDA-series dual-arm robots can hold one part as one of the arm is operating on the part with the other arm and it can transfer one part from one arm to another, no need to set the part down.

SDA-series robots’ actuator-based design means that the brake, reducer, encoder and motor for each robot axis that are combined in a small, lightweight but powerful package which is smaller compared with a traditional AC servomotor drive. The advantages include high-wrist moment and inertia ratings, a slim arm profile and lightweight robot body.

SDA-series robots from Motoman are controlled by the Motoman DX100 robot and a system-level controller which uses patented multiple-robot-control technology to handle multiple tasks like control of up to eight robots (“72 axes”) and I/O devices, as well as communication protocols easily. Featuring a strong PC hardware architecture, Motoman’s DX100 controller uses a Windows CE programming pendant with colored touch screen.

Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the Diagnostics Add-On Instruction for Allen-Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix Controllers

TWINSBURG, OH – Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the Diagnostics Add-On Instruction for Allen-Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix Controllers.  Available as a free download, this Add-On Instruction enables PLC programmers to retrieve detailed diagnostic data from an AS-Interface SafetyMonitor with just three instructions.

“Pepperl+Fuchs developed this innovative add-on software to further simplify the already flexible and powerful AS-Interface Safety at Work technology,” says Tim Cicerchi, Product Manager, Industrial Bus and ID Systems.  “Additionally, because we want every AS-Interface user to have the best experience possible this Add-On Instruction is compatible with competitive AS-Interface Safety at Work SafetyMonitors, not just Pepperl+Fuchs SafetyMonitors.”

Pepperl+Fuchs
www.pepperl-fuchs.us

The new compact, multi-channel CMC-99 controller from Impress Sensors & Systems Ltd

Impress Sensors & Systems Ltd (www.impress-sensors.co.uk) announced its latest multi-channel controller with touch screen display. The new controller is ideal for simultaneous control and measurement of various process manufacturing applications.

The CMC-99 controller provides various output and input combinations to suit each customer requirements. The controller’s three card slots each have 16 I/O pin options that enable the operator to select any combination of outputs and inputs to suit the application. For instance, up to 48 voltage inputs or analogue current could be used; 24 thermocouple inputs; up to 16 relay/SSR outputs; or 12RTD inputs; or a combination of these. Also, the unit incorporates a 24 V DC digital input, enabling triggers and relays to be set up.

The CMC-99 controller is ideal for process applications and minimizes cost compared with existing alternatives on the market such as centralized temperature control and measurement, spraying and heating control for greenhouses, control of industrial furnaces, intermediate pumping station control, multi-zone heating control, and for engine test cell measurements.

The controller measures 96mmx96mmx100mm, its housing is very compact, which means that it can be set up in restricted spaces. The CMC-99 has a 3.5-in backlit color TFT display and it is according to the Linux operating system, with touch screen menu navigation, offering familiarity and ease of use to the user. On the front of the device, a USB interface is provided enabling the operator to download or upload software programs easily and quickly through a USB memory stick.

The CMC-99 has two power supply versions, 230 V or 24 V AC/DC. The 24 V DC/200mA supply output at the back of the unit enables external actuators and sensors to be powered and connected by the controller. Also, the controller acts as a proportional–integral–derivative (“PID “) process controller which provides a control loop feedback mechanism for various pressure control and process temperature applications.

Also, the CMC-99 has a number of communications interfaces such as an Ethernet connection, a second USB Host, two RS232 and two RS485 ports, allowing it to easily integrate with the user’s existing fieldbuses and process control networks.

The controller’s integral software gives the user with visualization, printing and archiving options. For recorded measurements, various visual presentation display options are available such as needle gauge display, bar graph or numerical display.

The CMC-99 controller also has a lockable door to IP42. Also, it has an IP65 version with additional fitted molded frame.

The latest HEC-4000-E-R with analog current sensing of PWM outputs from Divelbiss

Divelbiss Corporation (www.divelbiss.com) announced its latest Programmable logic controller (“PLC”) in addition to the Harsh Environment Controllers family on a ChipT technology, the HEC-4000-E-R.

It is based on PLC-on-a-ChipT technology that allows programmable intelligence in less than ideal conditions because of its sealed and watertight enclosure with pluggable connectors. Its standard enclosure is submersible to 3-feet and is sub-plate and screw mountable. The HEC-4000 is programmed by using Divelbiss EZ Ladder software supporting the ladder diagram, which has a function block programming.

The HEC-4000-E-R features 8 to 32 Virtual Design and Construction (“VDC”) input power and an extended operating temperature ranging from -40 degrees to 80 degrees Celsius. Its I/O includes four 8 to 32 VDC inputs (“two are 40 kHz high-speed counters”); six digital outputs rated to four amps, including a programmable status monitoring and an automatic over-current safety. The four outputs are selectable as pulse-width modulation (“PWM”) with internal analog current sensing variables allowing closed loop control of the output loads. Also, there are four analog inputs factory set to 0 to 5 VDC or 0 to 20ma when recorded. Network communication is done by using a second serial communication port or via CAN port. Expansion I/O includes both analog and digital with required allowance for custom modules in the future.

Typical industrial use such as improved proportional valve control via marine application, conveyor systems, oil field equipment or intelligent mining, mobile asset tracking and management, closed loop, control for engine compressors and driven pumps. The wide operating temperature range (“-40 degrees to +80 degrees Celsius”) and 8 to 32 VDC input power gives ease particularly in utilization by marine platforms and off-highway.

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