Packaging machines technology enhanced
09 July 2007
Rexroth has introduced a new control product and safe drive systems, which they believe expands the benefits associated with GenNext technology for packaging machines. Rexroth IndraMotion, the PLC/motion control system for packaging, offers full motion Logic integration in one piece of hardware. Pre-configured technological functions provide adequate room for specific implementation as well as simultaneously guaranteeing optimal know-how protection.
The high-speed, scalable automation offering from Rexroth, both in the areas of hard and software, covers on a modular basis all stages of automation ranging from field level to visualisation. The three versions - Basic, Enhanced and Advanced - aim to simplify task-oriented automation, with the intelligent IndraDrive drive generation conveying certified safety functions direct to the spot where motion takes place.
Packaging machines featuring GenNext automation technology combine open interfaces and programming standards with the required know-how protection for the machine manufacturer. This is proven by the new control system IndraMotion for Packaging from Rexroth. In this case, the drive and control manufacturers place their confidence, in connection with the new generation of automating systems, in internationally recognised standards such as PackProfile from SERCOS, Ethernet, the PLC IndraLogic in accordance with IEC 61131-3 as well as PLCopen motion libraries. Rexroth is simplifying task-oriented automation through the introduction of three high-performance versions: Basic, Enhanced and Advanced.
The drive-based IndraMotion for Packaging covers applications involving up to eight axes in distributed mode. The compact, controller-based version synchronises up to 16 axes. By employing leading-axis cross communications up to 64 controls can be grouped together to form a composite control system. As controller or PC version IndraMotion for Packaging already controls up to 40 axes in real-time in the form of a stand-alone unit. By employing leading-axis cross communication, users are able to network up to 1,280 axes for total-line automation through multi-control solutions. Pre-configured technological functions, ready for operation, such as print mark, tensioning or temperature controls, “No Gap No Seal”, “No Product No Bag” or “Unwinder” all serve to simplify automation.
Since the automation package includes Rexroth IndraDrive servo-drives, the user is also able to take advantage of the benefits offered by certified Safety technology for economic automation. The Safety functions incorporated in IndraDrive and certified in accordance with EN 954-1, Category 3 provide, amongst others, reliable movement with no complete power shut-off. With the Safety-on-board drives from Rexroth, the additional hardware components required in the past, as well as indirect routing via the master control, are dispensed with. Shorter changeover times and lower start-up costs, especially in connection with small batches, are the result. Through online dynamics, not incurring operational interruption, IndraDrive enhances the effective service life of the machines.
In addition, engineering tools employing dialogue-supported and on-line aids simplify planning and start-up of the complete system also for the inexperienced user. Besides the full language support supplied by IEC 61131-3, the off-line simulation as well as a variety of on-line functions such as monitoring, debugging and forcing on an intuitive operating surface are available for programming. Further tools, including the integrated cam editor CamBuilder, serve to supplement the engineering suite embraced by IndraMotion for Packaging.
GenNext technology combines scalable controls and intelligent servo drives with motion products of various technologies in an effort to make packaging machines faster, enhance their productivity and safe operation.
Contact Details and Archive...