High-precision control for superconducting electron linear accelerator
European XFEL, Germany
Sede centrale Italia
Beckhoff Automation S.r.l.
European XFEL, Germany
A wide range of products and solutions is required to react flexibly and precisely to rapidly changing requirements in the automation of machines and plants in the scientific environment. In large scientific research facilities, for example, a measurement setup must be able to change at any time and at short notice. At the same time, the next setup should be quickly available and meet the highest requirements with regard to precision and resolution. This can only be achieved with a flexible control platform, such as Beckhoff has been offering with PC-based control for 40 years now. As a technology-driven company, Beckhoff continuously surprises its customers with innovations that represent a qualitative leap in automation, enabling them to benefit from this technological advantage.
With PC-based control, all functions run in software, from the classic PLC and motion control to measurement and safety technology. As a result, the controller can quickly be adapted to changing requirements. TwinCAT is not only the software and engineering platform for all automation processes, but also supports the programming of high-level language parts. The extensive range of EtherCAT Terminals, which includes various I/O signals, interfaces, fieldbus masters/slaves, measuring options and motor controllers, is also ideally suited for applications in scientific systems and devices. Due to its modularity, the I/O system supports a lean and flexibly expandable control architecture; the retrofitting of functions by directly connecting additional terminals is possible at any time. The scalability of all Beckhoff components in terms of performance, design and price also allows a controller design that is precisely tailored to the application.