Mechatrolink motion network gains new supporter

By Control Engineering Staff May 25, 2006

Recently, Phoenix Contact has joined the ranks of the Mechatrolink Members Association (MMA), the Japan-based user organization dedicated to developing and promoting

Founded by Yaskawa Electric Corp. —a global manufacturer variable-frequency drives, servo control systems, and robotic technology—MMA membership currently comprises 140 industrial companies. In joining MMA, Phoenix Contact is working with Yaskawa to develop and extend a modular I/O bus coupler product line with Mechatrolink interface based on Phoenix’s Inline system.

When used with Yaskawa drives and controls, the new I/O bus coupler will allow system engineers to integrate motion control and machine control by working with one network that links drives, I/O modules, and controllers into an overall system. ‘Besides providing a high-performance, cost-effective machine control solution, use of the Mechatrolink network can also shorten development, installation, and start-up times,’ says Phoenix Contact.

—Frank J. Bartos, Control Engineering,
executive editor, fbartos@reedbusiness.com