Rockwell Automation (www.rockwellautomation.com) proudly offers a fully integrated motion solution that operates on similar high-level communications protocol such as those running on other parent automation systems.

With the enhancements on its programmable automation controllers (PACs) portfolio, the company now offers Integrated Motion over EtherNet/IP technology. This new technology helps companies optimize their machine design flexibility, reduce overall system costs and improve their systems performance.

“This really is an important evolution in machine control; what we have done is close the loop,” said Haïthem Mansouri, European Product Manager, Motion Control, Rockwell Automation.

“By introducing motion over EtherNet/IP we have given engineers the ability to side step their reliance on specialist motion protocols, such as SERCOS. This has removed the final remaining barrier that was preventing the adoption of a complete, single, integrated network that is already capable of undertaking safety, process and discrete control.”

“EtherNet/IP is, to all intents and purposes, identical to standard Ethernet; the only change being in the Application Layer,” explained Mansouri. “It uses standard, unmodified Ethernet, and allows users to effectively manage real-time control and information flow for improved plant-wide optimization; ultimately resulting in more informed decision-making and better business performance.”

He added that although other vendors use Ethernet “but they just use the first physical layer – the actual protocol is proprietary and specialist. This means that although they can claim ‘Ethernet compatibility’, it is, in fact, just as closed as any other proprietary protocol.”

With this latest innovation, machine builders can now program, commission, configure and maintain PowerFlex 755 AC drives and Kinetix 6500 servo drives with the outstanding processing capabilities of Allen-Bradley ControlLogix 557X PACs – all over EtherNet/IP.