Exclusive: Delta Systems combining real-time automation, motion control

Rogers, AR—Delta Systems Inc. reports that its subsidiary, Delta Controls, Inc., is introducing an upgraded software solution, SoftFlow 4.0, for enterprise-connected, real-time industrial control.

By Control Engineering Staff January 11, 2005

Rogers, AR— Delta Systems Inc. reports that its subsidiary, Delta Controls, Inc., is introducing an upgraded software solution, SoftFlow 4.0, for enterprise-connected, real-time industrial control. SoftFlow’s first installation is scheduled for February 2005, and it will begin shipping shortly afterward. Delta Systems produces automation and motion control solutions for the consumer products industry.

SoftFlow is based on Microsoft Windows XP and RTX, which is a real-time extension from VenturCom. The result is one platform that Delta says delivers reliable, secure, real-time machine control, and robust enterprise connectivity. The product reportedly supports seamless communication between plant-level equipment and business-level systems to enable better-informed, real-time decision-making that improves operating efficiencies. This information exchange is becoming increasingly critical as companies seek to manage product tracking, product recall, and compliance to FDA food safety regulations. SoftFlow 4.0 also gives users real-time diagnostic tools and built-in network functionality to improve equipment troubleshooting and plant-floor data collection.

Delta states that SoftFlow’s integrated architecture provides an advanced factory automation and motion control software solution that helps users increase productivity, reduce operational costs, and improve quality. The firm adds SoftFlow is so different from others in its market because it integrates the programmable logic controller (PLC), motion controller (MC), and human-machine interface (HMI) systems into a standard, one-box PC platform.

‘SoftFlow 4.0 is our most significant software upgrade to date in terms of end-user functionality and benefits. Enabling users to seamlessly connect plant-floor systems to enterprise networks, while performing mission-critical machine control, represents a tremendous value proposition, says Steven Martin, Delta Controls’ VP. ‘In addition to the enhanced enterprise connectivity and many diagnostic tools that a Windows-based platform provides, customers will benefit from improved technical support because Delta’s field service engineers will be able to troubleshoot remotely via a virtual private network (VPN) connection. We believe SoftFlow 4.0 further demonstrates our commitment to providing our customers with best-in-class automation and motion control solutions to help them excel in their respective markets.’

Control Engineering Daily News DeskJim Montague, news editorjmontague@reedbusiness.com