Beckhoff - Motion Control Tips

Beckhoff Automation offers OPC UA integration in TwinCAT Scope software

April 30, 2019 By Miles Budimir Leave a Comment

Beckhoff Automation announces greater integration of OPC UA communication technology into TwinCAT Scope software. In the context of Industry 4.0 and big data applications, machine data acquisition via OPC UA and analytics tools are becoming increasingly important. The information must be presented in clearly and efficiently, and the machine control system also has to cover a wide range of other smart components. TwinCAT Scope software provides optimum support for integrated data acquisition across heterogeneous system environments. A standardized OPC UA communication channel enables this charting tool to analyze data from diverse sources such as TwinCAT controllers and third-party components.

TwinCAT 3 Scope consists of Scope View for the graphical display of signal curves and Scope Server for the actual data logging. The Scope Server can be installed on a target device for autonomous logging (without the View component if desired) or on the corresponding engineering system together with Scope View for remote logging. The latter solution offers the advantage that no additional software has to be installed on the target device. As a result, no updates to TwinCAT controllers are required, and devices without TwinCAT software do not require modification to display their data graphically in Scope View.

For logging measured signals, the Scope Server now not only features a TwinCAT-specific ADS channel, but it also offers support for another standardized communication channel in the form of an OPC UA client. The widespread use of OPC UA in automation technology enables TwinCAT Scope to acquire and display measured data in a vendor-independent way. OPC UA achieves this reliably and securely, especially if certificates are used.

The TwinCAT Target Browser, which is used to manage connected data sources in TwinCAT Engineering, has also been expanded with OPC UA support. It enables browsing in the namespaces of connected OPC UA servers. This feature can be used to select the desired variables for logging by the Scope Server with configuration options for certificate-protected access.

A TwinCAT 3 Engineering installation always includes a Scope View tool and a local Scope Server. Both software components are included free of charge in the basic version, which enables testing of the OPC UA communication. With a rich set of features including multi-core support, triggers, chart synchronization and numerous zoom functions, the tried and tested charting tool is now perfectly suited for an even larger group of users and even more diverse application scenarios with these newest communication enhancements.

For more information, visit www.beckhoffautomation.com.

New supply module from Beckhoff accommodates cabinet-free servo drive installation

April 26, 2019 By Miles Budimir Leave a Comment

To reduce cabinet and enclosure requirements for machine builders and manufacturers, Beckhoff Automation has announced the new AMP8620 supply module. The AMP8000 Distributed Servo Drive system provides optimal support for the implementation of modular machine concepts. With the AMP8620 supply module’s IP 65 protection rating and consistent decentralization, the entire motion system can now be mounted directly on the machine. This means drive technology can now be implemented entirely without control cabinets, resulting in maximum possible savings in terms of cost, materials, space and installation work.

While coupling modules already reduced the requirements for connecting distributed AMP8000 drives to the control cabinet to just one cable, the cabinets can now be completely eliminated when using the AMP8620 supply module. Eliminating the need for a control cabinet further reduces the footprint and cabling requirements for the entire machine. Costly air conditioning equipment, which would otherwise be necessary to cool control cabinets, can also be eliminated.

The AMP8620 module connects directly to the mains supply. It contains all circuitry required for that purpose, such as mains filters, rectifiers and charging circuits for the integrated DC link capacitors. The supply module enables the optional connection of additional distribution modules or distributed AMP8000 Servo Drives. It is also equipped with two EtherCAT P outputs, which can either supply EtherCAT P modules or connect to additional supply modules that may be required for motion system expansions. The safe 24-V power supply unit integrated in the supply module ensures that the logic power supply does not exceed the permissible level. The DC link capacitors integrated in the supply module store the regenerative energy of the entire system and then make it available again for acceleration processes. This ensures the most efficient usage of the energy supply.

For more information, visit www.beckhoffautomation.com.

Beckhoff expands compact industrial PC line with C6032

April 25, 2019 By Lisa Eitel Leave a Comment

To boost connectivity options in ultra-compact PC Control hardware, Beckhoff Automation has introduced the new C6032 Industrial PC (IPC). With dimensions of only 129 x 133 x 104 mm, the C6032 IPC enhances the scalability of the PC-based controller portfolio from Beckhoff. A high-performance device in a modular design, the C6032 adds two slots for PCIe Compact modules to the C6030 single-board IPC, which is comparable regarding computing power, to accommodate modular interfaces and functional extensions. With the use of compact PCIe modules, the C6032 can be optimally adapted to the unique requirements of individual applications.

Equipped with powerful Intel Core i processors of the 6^th and 7^th generation — up to the Core i7 with four 3.6 GHz cores — the C6032 is suitable to support extensive multi-axis motion control, complex HMI applications, extremely short cycle times and handling of large data volumes.

The compact motherboard and the die-cast zinc and robust aluminum housing were newly developed according to the high standards Beckhoff is known for – such as industrial-grade assembly, Made in Germany quality, high reliability and a premium look and feel. Other features include the exceptionally compact design typical of the ultra-compact C60xx IPC series and the flexible installation options with vertical or horizontal mounting at the rear of the enclosure – and a totally free orientation of the connection area.

High flexibility through PCIe modules

The C6032 features two PCIe compact module slots that enable flexible expansion of the connection area on the front of the device. The first available PCIe modules are the following:

2 x Gbit Ethernet
2 x USB 3.0
2 x RS232
1 x CP-Link 4 (for connection to Beckhoff industrial displays)

The use of an extremely durable, speed-monitored and controlled fan makes the C6032 suitable for an operating temperature range of up to 55° Celsius. Available options include Windows 7 or Windows 10 operating systems as well as a second M.2 SSD in RAID configuration. The C6032 also offers storage capacity of 40 GB M.2 SSD, 3D flash even in the basic configuration.

A device generation designed for universal use

The Microsoft Azure -certified devices in the ultra-compact C60xx IPC series are suitable to meet current requirements in machine building, such as increasing modularity, reduced space requirements in control cabinets and increased computing power at an affordable price point. Designed exactly with all these requirements in mind, the new device generation is suitable for use in a broad range of application scenarios, including distributed architectures and current Internet of Things (IoT) or Industrie 4.0 concepts. The exact computing power is flexibly scalable to suit nearly all medium to high-end machine performance levels:

C6015 and C6017 for medium performance requirements with Intel Atom CPUs (up to four cores)
C6030 and C6032 as high-end devices with Core i processors with up to 3.9 GHz per core (for dual core processors)

Kevin Barker selected as new president of Beckhoff Automation LLC

February 14, 2019 By Danielle Collins Leave a Comment

Barker to manage operations of US Beckhoff subsidiary

Kevin Barker (pictured) becomes the new president of Beckhoff USA, succeeding Aurelio Banda.

Beckhoff Automation is pleased to announce that Kevin Barker has been appointed the new president of Beckhoff Automation LLC to manage Beckhoff business operations across the US. Barker takes over the leadership role that Aurelio Banda has held for four years. Banda led Beckhoff Automation LLC revenue growth and business developments to new heights, finishing fiscal year 2018 with nearly $80 million in US sales, new field offices and more employees than ever.

As the new president, Barker will oversee all sales, engineering, marketing and administrative operations from the headquarters of Beckhoff Automation LLC in Savage, Minn. (Minneapolis area). This location also houses the main technical support hub and warehouse for Beckhoff customers in the US. Prior to joining Beckhoff, Barker worked at Yaskawa America, Inc. as the director of sales in the company’s motion division.

“As a proven manager of large, cross-functional teams, and an esteemed expert on motion control, EtherCAT and general automation technologies, Kevin Barker is well prepared to guide Beckhoff Automation LLC to the next phase of business development,” said Hans Beckhoff, managing director and founder of Beckhoff Automation. “Kevin’s expertise and abilities align very well with our philosophy to implement leading automation technology based on Beckhoff’s PC Control principles, in close collaboration with customers. As the leadership hand-off from Aurelio Banda is completed, Beckhoff Automation LLC operates on its strongest foundation ever with significant revenue growth, major investments in new regional offices and the hiring of numerous skilled employees across the US.”

Over an eight-year tenure at Yaskawa, Barker led multi-national sales teams with the responsibility to develop complex industrial markets, large sales channels and advanced motion control offerings, including the company’s lineup of EtherCAT servo drives. Barker, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Illinois Wesleyan University, also held director-level positions at Mitsubishi Electric Automation and Omron Electronics earlier in his career.

According to Barker, the prospects for developing the market in general automation technology and a rapidly evolving portfolio of motion control solutions were major factors in his decision to join Beckhoff Automation and lead the subsidiary into a new era.

“I have dedicated my entire career to helping machine builders, manufacturers and other high-tech companies succeed on a global scale with leading-edge automation technologies. Beckhoff Automation is the logical progression of my journey and an exciting new chapter,” Barker said. “I am honored to lead the US subsidiary of such a profoundly innovative automation company. Further, I am ready to take charge with a strategic vision that empowers all US-based employees, lifting the high bar set at Beckhoff Automation, the inventor of EtherCAT and pioneer in PC-based control technology.”

Barker succeeds Aurelio Banda who has served as CEO and president of Beckhoff in North America for four years and guided the company to consecutive double-digit profit growth. Banda was a driving force behind the Beckhoff growth across the US, Canada and Mexico. During his tenure, Beckhoff became the preferred automation partner for many highly recognizable Fortune 500 companies across numerous industries, such as packaging, entertainment, semiconductors, metal cutting and material handling/logistics. This has proven to be the catalyst for business success and a key point in Banda’s legacy at Beckhoff as he leaves on the best of terms.

“I have had the privilege to lead Beckhoff in North America, starting with a vision to expand our market, which has been shaped into the reality today of deeply entrenched market penetration with even more well-established US manufacturers and machine builders. My time with Beckhoff Automation has been an immensely rewarding experience that I will never forget,” Banda said. “I am excited now to pursue new endeavors, and envision Kevin Barker continuing to drive the momentum Beckhoff has built to date in numerous high-tech industries throughout the United States.”

Beckhoff Automation

New entry-level PC-based controller from Beckhoff

December 6, 2018 By Miles Budimir Leave a Comment

The new CX7000 Embedded PC from Beckhoff opens up the convenience and efficiency of the TwinCAT 3 software environment to highly compact, DIN rail-mounted controllers. This further enhances the scalability of PC-based control technology from Beckhoff – ranging from mini-PLCs to many-core Industrial PCs. An advanced 400 MHz processor and built-in configurable I/Os mean this Embedded PC delivers an ideal price/performance ratio.

Equipped with an ARM Cortex-M7 processor (32 bit, 400 MHz), the CX7000 Embedded PC makes considerably higher processing power available in the low-cost, compact controller segment. Plus, all the advantages of the TwinCAT 3 software generation can be used. The compact design of the CX7000, with dimensions of just 49 x 100 x 72 mm, ensures optimum scalability of PC-based control for small controller applications that typically require minimum footprint.

With multi-functional I/O channels directly integrated, the CX7000 features eight digital inputs, 24 Vdc, 3 msec filter, type 3, and four digital outputs, 24 Vdc, 0.5 A, 1-wire technology. These integrated multi-functional I/Os can be configured for other operating modes via TwinCAT 3, including the option to use fast counting or processing of analog values:

Counter mode: 1 x 100 kHz digital counter input, 1 x digital input as up/down counter, 2 x digital counter outputs
Incremental encoder mode: 2 x digital inputs for 100 kHz encoder signal, 2 x digital encoder outputs
Analog signal mode: 2 x digital inputs configured as analog inputs 0…10 V, 12 bit
PWM signal mode: 2 x digital outputs configured for PWM signal

If additional electrical signal types need to be processed, the CX7000 can be expanded easily on demand by adding EtherCAT Terminals or Bus Terminals to the integrated I/Os. Additional I/O terminals can attach directly to the CX7000.

The Embedded PC is equipped with 512 MB MicroSD flash memory (with the option to upgrade to 1, 2, 4 or 8 GB) and is suitable for operating temperatures between -25 and +60 °C. An Ethernet interface (10/100 Mbit/sec, RJ45) serves as the programming interface. This makes the CX7000 suitable for use as a cost-effective, stand-alone compact controller. In the CX7080 version, peripheral devices such as displays, scanners or weighing systems can be connected via an additional serial interface (RS232/RS485).

For more information, visit www.beckhoffautomation.com.

Beckhoff intros EtherCAT G for next-level gigabit performance

November 30, 2018 By Miles Budimir Leave a Comment

Beckhoff Automation’s new EtherCAT G gigabit communication technology takes EtherCAT performance to the next level by delivering the Gbit Ethernet speeds needed to support highly data-intensive applications. The latest industrial Ethernet technology expansion is not only compatible with the globally established 100 Mbit/sec EtherCAT standard, but also provides the same familiar ease of use. In addition, the new branch controller model for EtherCAT G enables efficient operation of multiple network segments in parallel.

EtherCAT G supports standard Ethernet transmission rates of 1 Gbit/sec; its EtherCAT G10 counterpart, already introduced as a proof-of-concept technology study, is even faster with data rates of 10 Gbit/sec. The sharp increase in transmission rates beyond the standard 100 Mbit/sec provided by EtherCAT significantly increases the possible data throughput. With propagation delay times through devices as a limiting factor on the one hand, but boosted by the newly introduced branch model on the other, EtherCAT G can deliver a two-to-sevenfold performance increase, depending on the application.

Though it’s not a substitute for standard EtherCAT, EtherCAT G shares the same characteristics, yet achieves even higher transmission speeds without changes to the protocol or the EtherCAT master software. Fully compatible with the globally established EtherCAT standard, EtherCAT G provides the same field-proven capabilities, including built-in diagnostics, high-precision synchronization and, most importantly, unrivalled telegram processing on the fly. It also conforms to the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard.

The high performance offered by standard EtherCAT remains more than sufficient for the majority of today’s applications. EtherCAT G has been developed specifically in anticipation of extremely large-scale applications and greater use of highly data-intensive equipment, such as machine vision cameras, complex motion control systems and measurement equipment operating with high sampling rates.

Branch controller model enhances variety of supported devices and minimizes propagation delay
EtherCAT and EtherCAT G can be combined within a heterogeneous network. This means that EtherCAT G slaves can operate in a 100 Mbit/sec EtherCAT network, and vice versa. In both instances, EtherCAT G equipment falls back to the 100 Mbit/sec rate. With the new EtherCAT G branch controller model, though, EtherCAT branches can be set up to enable the parallel operation of 100 Mbit/sec segments within a 1 Gbit/sec network through a conversion of transmission rates. For instance, the upcoming EK1400 EtherCAT G Coupler can create a branch that steps the data rate down from 1 Gbit/sec to 100 Mbit/sec, making available the wide range of standard EtherCAT Terminals for use as I/Os on an EtherCAT G network. Based on the branch controller capabilities of the EK1400, the 1 Gbit/sec data rate on the EtherCAT G trunk remains unaffected.

Another advantage of the EtherCAT G branch controller system is that it minimizes propagation delays. The new CU14xx branch controller series is designed specifically to interconnect EtherCAT and EtherCAT G segments and enable parallel operation. This setup significantly reduces signal propagation times and, thus, shortens communication and cycle times, because telegrams coming back from a given segment travel straight from the branch controller to the master at the higher transmission rate of 1 Gbit/sec, independent of other network segments.

For more information, visit www.beckhoffautomation.com.

Beckhoff opens new office in Laval, Quebec

August 31, 2018 By Miles Budimir Leave a Comment

Beckhoff Automation has increased its direct sales and support presence in Canada by opening a new office in Greater Montreal, located in Laval, Quebec. As the second Beckhoff Automation Ltd. office in Canada, the 2,223-square-foot facility sits within the country’s second largest metropolitan area, boosting the ability for Beckhoff to supply and support manufacturers, machine builders and tech companies throughout the region.

The Laval office establishes an automation solution center for Beckhoff customers in Quebec, located conveniently within driving distance from downtown Montreal and Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. The facility boasts collaborative space for Beckhoff customers and employees to develop innovative automation and control projects. A dedicated training room is available for customers to increase their engineering knowledge of Beckhoff PC-based control solutions and to enhance programming expertise in areas such as PLC, motion control, safety technology, IoT connectivity and more.

“Beckhoff strives to meet customers where they are to provide expert service on an individual level,” said Calvin Wallace, managing director of Beckhoff Canada Ltd. “The strong legacy of manufacturing in Greater Montreal, and Quebec in general, spans a number of industries that increasingly rely on PC- and EtherCAT-based control technologies. Flexible, high performance solutions from Beckhoff are perfectly suited for all manufacturers in the region, from machine building, to automotive assembly, consumer products and more.”

Ted Sarazin, regional sales manager for Quebec and eastern Canada, runs day-to-day activities at the Laval facility. “We are excited about all the new opportunities that the Laval office now makes possible,” said Sarazin. “Customers across Canada, and regionally here in Quebec, have recognized the benefits of control systems that feature PC-based hardware, EtherCAT networking and TwinCAT software technology. This office location makes direct interactions with customers more efficient as we provide local product support and application engineering to help their business operations grow.”

The Laval office opening is just the most recent step in an ongoing expansion of Beckhoff facilities across North America. “Beckhoff will continue to increase its regional office footprint into 2019 with additional new North American facilities planned in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Florida and in the Mexico City area,” said Aurelio Banda, CEO and president, Beckhoff Automation LLC.

www.beckhoff.com

Beckhoff touch panels with 10.1-in. widescreen displays

March 16, 2018 By Mike Santora Leave a Comment

Beckhoff Automation has announced the release of the CP6x00 Control Panels and Panel PCs with 10.1-in. widescreen displays. The expanded line of entry-level panels from Beckhoff, first launched with 7-in. displays, has been expanded by three new cabinet-mounted devices, each with a 10.1-in. widescreen display. PC-based control technology in the cost-sensitive, lower to middle performance range can now be scaled even more precisely in line with individual application requirements.

The new widescreen variants have a Thin Film Transistor (TFT) touch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 WSVGA, which paves the way for comprehensive operator interface and visualization options. Added to this is superior display quality with 16.7 million available colors on the 10.1-inch diagonal screen. The latest additions to the entry-level class from Beckhoff include two fanless Panel PCs and a purely passive Control Panel. These devices permit the cost-effective implementation of control and visualization tasks for small and medium-sized machines, production systems and buildings.

The three new widescreen TFT touch Panel PCs from Beckhoff are:
˗ CP6600 Panel PC with 1 GHz ARM Cortex A8 CPU and 1 GB DDR3 RAM memory
˗ CP6700 Panel PC with Intel Atom processor (up to 1.91 GHz, four cores) and 2 GB DDR3L RAM (optionally extended up to 8 GB)
˗ CP6900 Control Panel with DVI/USB Extended technology for operation at a distance of up to 50 m from the Industrial PC or Embedded PC

Equipped with a robust metal housing consisting of an aluminum front bezel and a sheet steel rear cover, the panels offer higher quality and durability than the plastic panels typically offered in the low-cost, entry-level segment. In addition, the high-quality materials and a rounded front bezel lend a modern and appealing look to the panels, which can be used in the most diverse production and building environments at operating temperatures from 0 to 55 °C.

Beckhoff
www.beckhoff.com

New space-saving AMP8000 distributed servo drive system from Beckhoff

December 7, 2017 By Miles Budimir Leave a Comment

Beckhoff Automation’s new AMP8000 distributed servo drive system breaks new ground for modular machine concepts. The space-saving AMP8000 integrates a servo drive directly into a servomotor and features an ultra-compact design. By relocating the power electronics directly into the machine, a control cabinet only needs to house a single coupling module in order to supply power to multiple servo drives with a single cable via the distribution module. This results in significant savings in terms of cost, space, materials and installation effort.

With the AMP8000, space requirements for drive technology inside of electrical cabinets are reduced to a single coupling module. Via EtherCAT P technology, which provides EtherCAT signals and power over one cable, such a coupling module can control up to five distributed AMP8000 Servo Drives via an IP 67 protected AMP8805 distribution module. Because the entire AMP8000 system is cascadable, even complex motion systems can be implemented with a remarkably simple topology. Beckhoff also offers preassembled cables that simplify logistics considerably and minimize wiring errors. Fewer and smaller cable routes to the motors significantly reduce installation efforts.

The drive integration concept of the AMP8000 features an exceptionally compact design. Since the power module is conveniently located at the back end of the motor shaft, the attachment dimensions of the new distributed servo drives are identical to those of the proven standard AM8000 series servomotors. The only dimensional change is to the overall servomotor length, which is extended by approximately 7 cm. For the machine builder, this means that only a little additional space is needed at the motor end, so adjusting the overall motion control concept is easy, and existing machine designs do not need to be otherwise altered.

The AMP8000 distributed Servo Drive system is available in flange sizes F4 and F5. Various models are available with power ratings from 0.61 to 1.23 kW and standstill torque ratings from 2.00 to 4.8 Nm (F4) or power ratings from 1.02 to 1.78 kW and standstill torque ratings from 4.10 to 9.7 Nm (F5). STO and SS1 safety functions are integrated into the AMP8000 series by default, and a range of additional safe motion functions are in preparation.

For more information, visit www.beckhoff.com.

More Beckhoff PC-based controllers earn Microsoft Azure certification

July 5, 2017 By Miles Budimir Leave a Comment

To provide plants, factories and machine builders with even more system-integrated solutions for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Beckhoff Automation has announced Microsoft Azure™ certification for the C6015 Industrial PC (IPC) and CX5140 Embedded PC. All certified devices from Beckhoff can be found in the Microsoft “Azure Certified for IoT” device catalog, providing customers with an easy-to-reference guide for Azure-compatible devices. Both the C6015 IPC and CX5140 Embedded PC offer a powerful set of features and can help implement cloud connectivity in a wide range of industries.

The compact C6015 IPC opens up new application areas for PC-based control technology, especially those with pronounced cost or space restraints. Fully suited to industrial applications, the cabinet-mounted IPC with Intel Atom processor options (1-, 2- or 4-cores) is compact, measuring just 82 x 82 x 40 mm. The larger CX5140 Embedded PCs are equipped with 4-core Intel Atom processors and feature a direct backplane connection to the Beckhoff I/O system (EtherCAT Terminals or Bus Terminals).

TwinCAT automation software from Beckhoff establishes the IoT connectivity for these PC-based control devices. When running TwinCAT, the same hardware device used for IoT can handle all aspects of machine automation – from PLC and motion control, to visualization and HMI functionality – all in a compact format for cabinet mounting or DIN rail mounting.

Beckhoff has maintained a long-standing development partnership with Microsoft. This began with the company’s early commitment to deploy standard Windows operating systems for industrial applications across all product lines. With the rise of IoT, IIoT and Industrie 4.0 concepts, Beckhoff continues to work closely with Microsoft to certify PC-based control devices for use with Azure cloud services.

The recent inclusion of these two additional Beckhoff devices in the Azure Certified for IoT device catalog assures Azure cloud connectivity and eliminates the need for compatibility testing on the part of end users. Users will know immediately that their Beckhoff devices will seamlessly connect to Azure cloud systems and deliver the required functionality.

For more information, visit www.beckhoffautomation.com.