Posted to News on 6th Mar 2008, 10:46
IndraMotion for packaging gains enhanced safety
Rexroth claims that the new version of IndraMotion for packaging gives engineers even more flexibility during product and size changeover. Rexroth's FlexProfile function simplifies engineering development of motion sequences in highly versatile packaging machines. Other new features include automatic program code generation and enhanced safety functions.
FlexProfile is claimed to enable engineers to deploy single-axis or synchronised motion devices with minimal software effort. A library containing more than 30 motion rules or a conventional ECAM table can be used to define the individual motion sequence for each axis. Every motion segment can be referenced to a leading axis position or time segment.
In order to ensure that the pre-defined dependencies are retained when parameters are changed, FlexProfile establishes a relationship between motion segments on multiple axes. As a result, no software or programming effort is needed for product or size changeover. Engineers enter key parameters at the start of a new project and the system then generates the basic programme code. Engineers can then concentrate on the implementation of the process functionality without having to worry about the basic functions.
Drive-, controller- and PC-based versions of IndraMotion for packaging are suitable for pharmaceutical, food and packaging machines. All the hardware versions share the same software architecture and the same engineering tool. IndraMotion fully supports the new Ethernet-based SERCOS III that offers improved performance and enhanced communications between the controller and field devices.
