EC: A3200 MotionPAC software-based PLC and motion controller
Machine and embedded control – PLCs: The A3200 MotionPAC from Aerotech is a software-based PLC integrated with the A3200 motion controller. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.
The A3200 MotionPAC is a software-based PLC that is completely integrated with Aerotech's A3200 motion controller. The MotionPAC can be used independently for full machine control or in conjunction with AeroBasic programs. MotionPAC complies with IEC61131-3 and PLCopen. Users can program in ladder diagrams (LD), function block diagrams (FBD), or structured text (ST). The MotionPAC's tight integration with the A3200 motion controller allows users to command asynchronous, coordinated, blended, geared, or cammed motion directly from LD, FBD, or ST, or directly start, stop, or share Tags with AeroBasic programs. Programmers can create shared variables and tags that are referenced by Name in all of the A3200 tools, operator interface and existing AeroBasic programs, as well as in .NET programs. MotionPAC tools like user definable libraries (LD, FBD, ST, or .NET), integrated axis manager for readout and manual control, global Tag database, automatic memory management, and virtual execution of the PLC dramatically increase programming efficiency and quality, and can reduce programming and commissioning time by 30% to 50%.
Standard fieldbuses, drive I/O, and high-end data acquisition are integrated into the MotionPAC and can be shared among all applications by Name. The development environment includes an axis manager for axis readout and manual control during the development of LD, FBD, or ST, eliminating the need for separate readout and development applications. All of the usual hardware associations, task assignments, and programs are organized in an easy-to-use tree structure.
www.aerotech.com/products/controllers/A3200/MotionPAC.cfm
Aerotech Inc.
Return to the list of the 2012 Engineers' Choice honorable mentions.
View the list of the 2012 Engineers' Choice winners.
View the complete list of the 2012 Engineers' Choice finalists.
Integrator Guide
| Search the online Automation Integrator Guide |
|
|
|
|
Visit the System Integrators page to view past winners of Control Engineering's System Integrator of the Year Award and learn how to enter the competition. You will also find more information on system integrators and Control System Integrators Association.
Case Study Database
Get more exposure for your case study by uploading it to the Control Engineering case study database, where end-users can identify relevant solutions and explore what the experts are doing to effectively implement a variety of technology and productivity related projects.
These case studies provide examples of how knowledgeable solution providers have used technology, processes and people to create effective and successful implementations in real-world situations. Case studies can be completed by filling out a simple online form where you can outline the project title, abstract, and full story in 1500 words or less; upload photos, videos and a logo.
Click here to visit the Case Study Database and upload your case study.