Beckhoff’s new EPX module series offers a compact option for Ex i signal acquisition from zones 0/20, 1/21 and Div. 1 as an addition to the wide range of EtherCAT Box modules. With robust IP67 protection, they enable direct and decentralized installation on machines and systems, even in harsh environments. This results in numerous advantages […]
Networking + IoT
ABB launches new app for rapid, remote tech support
ABB has launched the ABB Ability Mobile Connect for drives. This cloud-based software service, accessible through the ABB Drivetune mobile app, enables ABB Drives partners to easily commission and troubleshoot local drives remotely. Mobile Connect features live chat and end user-controlled access that can be used to pull backup files, change parameters, capture site and […]
Speed sensor optimizes main spindle on milling/turning machines
The new WMK 3010S rotational speed sensor from AMO is now available, and provides users of milling and turning machines a better option for operation of their main spindle. Besides providing speed data, the WMK 3010S also supports the capturing of operating status data of that spindle, thus optimizing many costs related to the operation […]
What is Machine as a Service (MaaS) and what are its benefits?
Most of us are familiar with the software as a service (SaaS) business model, in which users pay a fee to access software over the internet, without requiring an application or download to a local machine. The software as a service model made complex software, such as CRM (customer relationship management) systems, more accessible to […]
What are digital twins and how are they used in industrial manufacturing?
Manufacturing even the simplest product requires expertise in materials, equipment, operations, and process flow. And the interdependencies of these elements make it extremely difficult — if not impossible — to “get it right the first time” when setting up a new manufacturing line or modifying an existing process. Every element, from the product design to the […]
What are latency and jitter and why are they important to industrial networks?
Applications that use closed-loop control often require communication networks that provide deterministic, real-time control of data transmission. This means the network guarantees that a message will be transmitted, or an event will be responded to, in a specified, predictable period of time — not faster or slower (deterministic) — and that the message will be transmitted […]
Five ways to drive ROI from personnel and cobot investments
In this article, we detail how assembly, packaging, and machine-tool OEMs can keep senior plant personnel in charge of the most demanding and intricate tasks — and relegate everything else to pre-programmed work routines and automated workcells. Such approaches make copious use of cobots and augmented reality (AR) tools. By Tim LeCrone • Director of […]
KEB America adds Modbus TCP/IP communication to S6 and F6 drives
KEB America, Inc. announces that the KEB F6 VFD and S6 Servo Drive now supports Modbus TCP/IP communication protocol. In addition to Modbus TCP/IP, the other supported Ethernet-based network communication protocols include EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, ProfiNet, and Powerlink. “The variety of supported communication protocols in our drives give machine builders a lot of flexibility,” said Jonathan […]
NORD’s PROFIsafe module adds functional safety to drive systems
Functional safety is a fundamental component in drive systems. The SK TU4-PNS, known as the PROFIsafe module, provides comprehensive safety for the reliable operation of NORD drive systems. This PROFIsafe module is a drive-integrated solution for decentralized variable frequency drives that implements functional safety within the system to stop operation and avoid potential injuries or […]
What is cyclic synchronous control (position, velocity, and torque)?
Cyclic synchronous control modes — cyclic synchronous position, cyclic synchronous velocity, and cyclic synchronous torque — are standardized operation modes of drives, defined in the CiA 402 profile specification, CANopen device profile for drives and motion control and included in the IEC 61800-7 standard, Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems — Part 7: Generic interface and use of […]
