MINNEAPOLIS, February 23rd, 2006 – Beckhoff, Bosch Rexroth, and Siemens today introduced a packaging-specific machine software library to support the PackAL standard. Designed for their respective control platforms, this new packaging application library for PackAL will be available for download in the next few weeks from the companies’ websites.PackAL is an application library developed by PackSoft, the OMAC technical subcommittee working toward the standardization of software for the packaging industry. PackAL was created to assist in the design, programming, debugging and maintenance of packaging machines.
Leading the technical subcommittee for PackSoft, Gerd Hoppe, Beckhoff Automation CTO said, “The PackAL standard creates a common look and feel in software elements for functionality and communication in packaging machinery. The benefits are considerable for both machine builders and end-users. They are freed from unnecessary programming efforts and more of their valuable time can become available for process-specific solutions.” PackAL has three main segments – the first contains machine code for functions such as winding, web handling, flying synchronization between master and slave controllers, dancer control, etc. In the second – machine-to-machine communication function blocks facilitate communication in a network-independent way for machine applications.
As an application link layer, PackAL abstracts from the network layer and provides a connection between machines in addition to the fieldbus. The third segment is a software template to standardize the programming of the PackML machine state model, streamlining the programming process while saving time. Beckhoff Automation provides advanced, open automation products based upon proven technologies so that customers can implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC based control, industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interface, I/O, servo drives and motors.
With representation in 50 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved to provide faster response and improved communications. Visit www.beckhoffautomation.com .
Under the brand name of Rexroth, the Bosch Rexroth Corporation offers all relevant drive, control and motion technologies: from mechanics, hydraulics and pneumatics to electronics and associated services. Rexroth has 500,000 customers in over 80 countries and is an extensive supplier of components and systems for industrial and factory automation and mobile applications.
For more information, visit www.boschrexroth-us.com .Siemens AG (NYSE:SI) is a leading global electronics and engineering company with reported worldwide sales of $80.5 billion in fiscal 2003.
With its United States corporate headquarters in New York City, Siemens in the U.S. has sales of $16.6 billion and employs 65,000 people throughout all 50 states and Puerto Rico. With its global headquarters in Munich, Siemens AG and its subsidiaries employ 417,000 people in 192 countries.
For more information on Siemens in the U.S.: www.usa.siemens.com .Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. is one of Siemens’ operating companies in the U.S.
Headquartered in the Atlanta suburb of Alpharetta, Ga., Siemens Energy & Automation manufactures and markets one of the world’s broadest ranges of electrical and electronic products, systems and services to industrial and construction market customers. Siemens technologies include complete integrated motion control and machine control solutions, as well as Totally Integrated Automation and a complete drives and servo offering. The company also has expertise in systems integration, technical services and turnkey industrial systems.
For more information: www.sea.siemens.com .
