Nov 29 2010
Beckhoff Automation has released TwinCAT automation software to offer high-end automation solutions for blow and injection moulding systems.
Plastics moulding equipment are widely delivered in the form of manufacture cells featuring operating systems. Beckhoff’s PC control technology offers process automation by means of a common software suite.
The TwinCAT software can handle multifarious robotic concepts including cartesian handling devices and complicated kinematics like delta robots. Motion controls, PLC, HMI and all robotic operations can be controlled by a single industrial PC.
Further, TwinCAT Kinematic Transformation can be incorporated into the current motion control environment in which both motion and robotic controls are effectively coordinated with TwinCAT NC. All the movement features can be merged on a shared software and hardware platform.
The Ethernet fieldbus EtherCAT virtually coordinates the motion of the handling axes and clamping units without any hindrance.
The benefits of the TwinCAT automation software are well revealed in applications like in-mould labeling, which require high positioning precision and reduced cycle times.
Programming of TwinCAT occurs in compliance with DIN 66025 or with the support of client- desired movement editors. For handling complicated production cells and grouped assembly machinery, Beckhoff’s TwinSAFE technology reduces operation times and enables subsequent plant adjustments.
The optimized interaction and control architecture of XFC features innovative industrial PC, high-speed I/O terminals with comprehensive real-time features, the TwinCAT automation software suite and the EtherCAT ultra-speed Ethernet system.
Source: http://www.beckhoff.com