Nuremberg. Reducing the complexity of automation solutions, simplifying software updating and maintenance, significantly reducing the cost of software initialization, updating and maintenance and having an extremely short time-to-market are the demands that machine manufacturers make of their automation partners.The Baumüller group meets these demands with the ProMaster Engineering Framework, which is based upon Microsoft’s .NET technology. In a ProMaster project, the entire machine structure is topologically depicted in machine modules that consist of devices and components. The communication topology of the machine modules and the individual components is also displayed, e.g. via real-time Ethernet EtherCAT or field bus systems such as CANopen. The data and programs of the individual devices and components exist in an XML structure in a project-oriented (and therefore machine-oriented) way. The ProMaster Engineering Framework has a library concept that simplifies the configuration of the machine. The devices, components and entire machine modules are available in catalogues and libraries. Devices, components and entire machine modules belonging to the user can be stored in self-created libraries, including configurations, IEC programs and entire applications.ProMaster is used in all areas of industry. It is an open concept and can be expanded accordingly. Each field bus is managed independently, and ProMaster has export and import functions for external devices.Continuous field bus communication is achieved using real-time Ethernet EtherCAT, for example. The system extends to all levels of the automation platform, drives, displays and sensors, right through to the inputs and outputs. Data throughput with real-time capability provides reliable cross-communication between individual machine elements. The field bus is no longer a communication bottleneck. The openness of real-time Ethernet EtherCAT is an important factor. The protocol has a completely open design and the slave controller is available to any user, making the system compatible.The ProMaster Engineering Framework reduces the time-to-market by speeding up continuous engineering considerably by making it extremely easy to create machine structures, and because of its partially automated configuration and programming facilities. The use of catalogues, libraries and motion control also makes life considerably easier for the user.For more information, visit www.baumueller.de. The Baumüller Group with its headquarters located in Nuremberg is one of the leading manufacturers of innovative electric drive and automation systems. About 1,700 employees plan, develop, produce and install complete and intelligent system solutions for mechanical engineering at more than 40 locations spread all over the world: From control cabinets to electric drives, from converters to controllers, also including software modules, Motion Control software as per PLCopen as well as operation and visualization tools.The Baumüller Reparaturwerk and Nürmont Installations GmbH & Co. KG add to the group’s after-sales service in the area of service and installations. Baumüller is worldwide one of the leading partners in automation in the printing, plastics, packaging and textile industry as well as in general motion.
Did you enjoy this great article?
Check out our free e-newsletters to read more great articles..
