AI in automation technology

Beckhoff offers a machine learning (ML) solution that is seamlessly integrated into TwinCAT 3.

The TwinCAT 3 Machine Learning Creator automatically creates AI models based on data sets. These AI models can be optimized in terms of their accuracy and latency to ensure they run efficiently on Beckhoff Industrial PCs with TwinCAT products. The generated models can also still be used as standardized ONNX models beyond the Beckhoff product range. For use with TwinCAT products, a PLCopen XML with IEC 61131-3 code is created in addition to the ONNX file, which describes the complete AI pipeline and can be imported seamlessly into TwinCAT.

The TF3810 TwinCAT 3 Function is a high-performance execution module (inference engine) for trained neural networks.

The TF3820 TwinCAT 3 Machine Learning Server is a high-performance service for executing trained AI models with the option of using hardware accelerators.

The TF3800 TwinCAT 3 Function is a high-performance execution module (inference engine) for trained, conventional machine learning algorithms.

The TwinCAT 3 Machine Learning Server includes a connection to a local client as standard (local TwinCAT runtime). If (possibly further) TwinCAT runtimes need remote access to a TwinCAT 3 Machine Learning Server, these runtimes must each be equipped with a license for the TF3830 TwinCAT 3 Machine Learning Client.

The TF3810 TwinCAT 3 Function is a high-performance execution module (inference engine) for trained neural networks.

TwinCAT 3 Vision Machine Learning provides an integrated machine learning (ML) solution for vision-specific use cases. Both the training and the implementation of the machine learning models take place in real time, and they even help machines to learn sophisticated data analyses automatically. This can be used to replace complex, manually created program constructs.

The C6043 extends the series of ultra-compact industrial PCs to include a high-performance device with a built-in slot for powerful graphics cards. With the latest Intel^® Core™ processors and highly parallelizing NVIDIA^® graphics processors, the PC becomes the perfect central control unit for ultra-sophisticated applications. These include applications with high demands on 3D graphics or deeply integrated Vision and AI program blocks with minimal cycle times. The Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 control software is capable of mapping this as a fully integrated solution – without any additional software or interfaces. With the additional freely assignable PCIe compact module slot, the C6043 can be flexibly expanded with supplementary functions.