Ethernet IO modules: Rugged, on-machine, high-speed, synchronized

Rockwell Automation EtherNet/IP-based on-machine distributed I/O has CIP Sync technology, an industry first, the company said. Allen-Bradley Slim ArmorBlock I/O modules have Sequence of Events (SOE) and Scheduled Output capability to improve response time and overall machine performance.

June 15, 2012

Rockwell Automation expanded its Allen Bradley ArmorBlock I/O line to help users deploy distributed I/O in high-speed applications. The new 1732E Slim ArmorBlock digital Scheduled Output module can schedule an output in 1 microsecond increments and trigger multiple outputs at high-speed intervals of 100 microseconds. This is useful in motion applications where higher resolution of outputs is required for more precise control and synchronization. By using CIP Sync distributed time synchronization, the new 1732E Slim ArmorBlock digital SOE input module can register any axis position within the system accurately with a single time-stamp input. It reduces wiring costs and installation time, compared with the conventional method.

“As synchronization is required to achieve precise coordination and control of high speed applications, the performance of the machine is often dependent on the controller’s scan time,” said Eddy Lek, distributed I/O product manager, Rockwell Automation. “Switching to a time-based I/O solution allows users to do predictive events and schedule outputs, which improves the coordinated response and overall manufacturing performance.”

The I/O offer a sealed housing rated for IP65/67/69K environments, which eliminates the need for a protective enclosure. Ideally suited for automotive, material handling and semiconductor applications, users can connect it directly to sensors and actuators using plug-and-play connectors, reducing wiring, labor costs and errors associated with long wiring runs.

The new 1732E Slim ArmorBlock I/O blocks include the 1732E-8CFGM8R, 1732E-IB8M8SOER and 1732E-OB8M8SR modules. Each ArmorBlock module is equipped with dual-port Ethernet for linear topology, as well as dual-port auxiliary power connectors for daisy chain of 24 V dc power.

https://ab.rockwellautomation.com/IO/On-Machine-Block-IO/1732-ArmorBlock-IO 

– Edited by Mark T. Hoske, content manager CFE Media, Control Engineering, Plant Engineering, and Consulting-Specifying Engineermhoske@cfemedia.com.