![PC-based control for production cells With EtherCAT as the communication platform, robot movements can be coordinated with the machine processes such that delays are virtually eliminated. © Beckhoff](/media/pictures/stages/branches/plastic-machines/plastic-machines_handling_machines.jpg)
PC-based control for production cells
![PC-based control for fully automated plasma cells © Plasmatreat](/media/pictures/stages/branches/plastic-machines/plastic-machines_plasmatreat.jpg)
Headquarters United Kingdom
Beckhoff Automation Ltd.
+44 1491 4105-39
info@beckhoff.co.uk
www.beckhoff.com/en-gb/
As the efficiency of plastics machines increases, the integration of production cells and the independent communication between individual machines and plant components are becoming increasingly important. In order to ensure a secure and reliable data exchange between heterogeneous production installations, the components must communicate via an interoperability standard based on OPC UA, in accordance with the Euromap Companion Specifications. In TwinCAT, Beckhoff integrates a powerful OPC UA engineering tool for the implementation of Euromap-compatible interfaces of all types.
Automation devices and sensors from different manufacturers are linked in production cells. The particular strength of Beckhoff's open automation technology is shown in this environment. Different fieldbus systems can be integrated into a hardware and software family with the help of the large interface portfolio and the elegant integration into TwinCAT. The efficient design of production cells follows a basic concept with which a large variance can be realized. This requires flexible, easily adaptable technology for safety devices. Beckhoff's modular safety hardware and software offers distributed I/O components close to the safety devices as well as application-specific software adaptation within the framework of the safety regulations.
In the manufacture of injection-molded parts, plastics processors are increasingly relying on production cells to produce complex parts with high output in perfect quality and with minimal personnel costs. In cleanroom applications, production cells are often mandatory for meeting hygiene standards. Thanks to their modular design, the engineering effort and the variety of parts of production cells are reduced. The extensive Beckhoff portfolio includes a wide range of software and hardware solutions to meet the typical requirements of production cells:
The Beckhoff control portfolio provides the basis for innovative automation concepts in extrusion. In addition to the control technology for extruders, there are numerous fields of application for the downstream devices for tube and profile extruders as well as for film extrusion. As a specialist for various fieldbus variants based on EtherCAT, Beckhoff provides extensive options for the integration of subsystems.
In the manufacture of blow-molded articles, plastics processors are increasingly relying on production cells to produce complex articles with high output in perfect quality and with minimal personnel costs. The modular design of the production cell reduces the engineering effort and limits the variety of parts. The extensive Beckhoff component portfolio includes a wide range of solutions to meet the typical requirements of production cells: