Posted to News on 20th Nov 2014, 13:19
New safe motion monitoring modules for configurable controller
Pilz is launching two new safe motion monitoring modules to expand the safety functions available when using the versatile yet cost-effective PNOZmulti 2 software-configurable control system. The two new modules provide safe monitoring of one or two drive axes and can be used in any industry; they will be particularly advantageous in applications such as machine tools and factory automation.
The main features of the new modules are the universal diagnostics and the safe motion monitoring functions. As a result, monitoring of the drives is undertaken by the safety system and does not need to be carried out onboard the drive. This means that all the information relating to safety is combined in one system and responsibilities are clearly structured. The PNOZmulti 2 configurable control system can be connected to Ethernet, Profibus-DP, Powerlink, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP or even CANopen networks and can therefore be connected to all common higher-level plant control systems. As a result, the communication connection for the safety functions can easily be implemented on any automation system.
Pilz says its new PNOZmulti 2 motion monitoring modules bridge the gap between single-axis monitoring and the implementation of drive-integrated safety systems. This development for safe drive monitoring is based on reading the increments from the motor's integral rotary encoder or a separate encoder - and is therefore very precise. Users can readily define position limits within which an axis can still move when in a safe state. The necessary requirements of the safety functions can be found in the drive standard EN 61800-5-2, Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems. Safety requirements. Functional.
Safe motion monitoring functions
Safety functions available with the new motion monitoring modules include 'Safe Operating Stop' (SOS) and 'Safe Speed Range' (SSR), which defines an interval within which the axis is permitted to move without causing a faulty shutdown. Other functions include 'Monitoring of a maximum speed' (SSM) and 'Safe Direction' (SDI), which distinguishes between clockwise/anti-clockwise rotation. All common incremental encoders can be connected using the appropriate cable. The modules themselves are equipped with the 'Mini I/O' industrial interface, which ensures stable data transfer even in harsh environmental conditions.
The motion monitoring modules are configured by means of certified software blocks using the PNOZmulti Configurator. The software tool can be used universally for all control systems in the PNOZmulti range. Users can store their own functions as a macro in the Configurator. It is also straightforward for users to set limit values for the new motion monitoring modules. This is not performed on the module itself using a screwdriver but via the software tool, making it tamper-proof. This saves time and expense at the planning stage and during configuration, diagnostics and maintenance.
The new PNOZmulti 2 motion monitoring modules from Pilz monitor drives as part of a safety system, offering an extensive range of safe monitoring functions, scalability, open communication and high flexibility. Follow the link for more information about the PNOZmulti 2 configurable control system and associated I/O and communication modules. To watch a video about the PNOZmulti 2 motion monitoring modules and see how easy they are to configure, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-GtVTIAvm8.
