December 13, 2016 - Balluff introduced a bidirectional data memory module for tight mounting spaces. The memory module with IP 67 protection is 34 x 16 x 8 mm in size and can be used as a memory storage device on interchangeable units such as milling heads on gantry type machining centers.
This means the assemblies can carry their actual operating data along with them. With the following advantage: When a machine is changed, all the data such as the number of use cycles, shock and vibration values or lubrication and oil change intervals are directly loaded.
The work required to install and parameterize the module is minimal. Only a single standard cable is required for stable, fault-free, bidirectional data transmission between the milling head and controller. The cable is connected to the milling head interface in the system ring. Data transmission is noise-immune as well as resistant to EMC effects. The module can hold a total of 14 segments of 64 bytes each.
Machine operators will profit from the fact that when a milling head is switched from one machine to another, all the identifying and usage data will be automatically copied and loaded from the milling head memory into the NC controller through a cable. When maintenance or repair work is needed, the service personnel can read out all the data from the memory chip on a PC or laptop and update it as needed. This gives the plant operator continual and transparent information about the current status of the milling head.
