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.