The Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture system features the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix families of programmable automation controllers. The ControlLogix controller is ideal for applications with up to 10,000 I/O points and 100 axes, while the CompactLogix family is ideal for applications with fewer than 200 I/O points and up to 16 axes. Both offer high-performance capabilities such as integrated motion control, safety features, EtherNet/IP connectivity, and reusable development tools.
At this year's Automation Fair in Philadelphia, Aagard—a Rockwell Automation partner machine manufacturer—unveiled a new robotic module, part of Aagard's "all-in-one" machine that combines cartoning, packaging, and palletizing. The mid-range system, based on the CompactLogix 5370 controller, allows Aagard to build a high-performance, modular machine in a very small footprint. The machine was on display at the Integrated Architecture Booth #915.
Rockwell Automation's expanded portfolio of mid-range integrated architecture systems has the following features:
Unified Engineering and Design Environment: Rockwell Software Studio 5000.
The Studio 5000 environment provides a framework for engineering collaboration. The initial release of Studio 5000 includes the Logix Designer for programming and configuring the ControlLogix 5570 and CompactLogix 5370 programmable automation controllers. Later versions will support additional plug-ins for specific engineering tasks such as HMI development, code library management, sizing for motion applications, and more.
Allen-Bradley Kinetix 5500 Servodrive and VPL Servomotor over EtherNet/IP.
The Kinetix 5500 servodrive and low-inertia VPL servomotor with smart cable technology is a more compact, user-friendly, and integrated motion solution over EtherNet/IP that simplifies system wiring. Ideal for packaging, material handling, or converting systems with more than six axes, the Kinetix 5500 servodrive and VPL servomotor system requires no additional racks or accessories, so machines can be expanded as needed. Optimally matched drive and motor characteristics consume half the power of comparable solutions while still delivering a 125-microsecond position control loop for maximum performance. A common external AC/DC bus reduces hardware requirements and enables easy scalability for single-axis or multi-axis systems using a single platform. The solution's advanced power density allows for a 50% reduction in cabinet space requirements. Finally, power transmission and feedback over a single cable eliminates hardware and cable terminations, resulting in lower wiring costs.
Allen-Bradley Stratix 5700 Layer 2 Managed Industrial Ethernet Switch.
Developed with the best of Rockwell Automation and Cisco technology, the highly scalable, compact Stratix 5700 switch brings together a wide range of switching capabilities – from entry-level applications to machine builder applications and IT-ready, integrated user solutions. Powered by Cisco IOS, the world-leading network infrastructure software, the Stratix 5700 switch delivers secure integration of business-critical services and support from the shop floor to the enterprise. The Stratix 5700 managed switch also simplifies machine-level network design and development through configuration and monitoring tools. These tools facilitate easy configuration and diagnostics from within the Integrated Architecture system – bridging the gap between IT and the automation engineer.
Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 525 AC Drive:
The first in a new generation of compact, full-featured drives, the PowerFlex 525 AC drive features a modular design with power ranges from 0.5 to 30 horsepower or 0.4 to 22 kilowatts, operating on 100 to 600 volts. It includes integrated EtherNet/IP, safety features, USB programming, energy savings, and a variety of motor control options. The PowerFlex 525 AC drive is designed to help customers save money, maximize system performance, and reduce machine design and delivery times.
's Integrated Architecture Simplification Tools
offer several free tools to assist at every stage of the project lifecycle. These simplification tools help machine and equipment manufacturers and systems integrators design, develop, and deliver their automation control systems. From Quick Start Guides to Acceleration Toolkits, there are all kinds of tools that can help significantly increase your productivity. Visit the Integrated Architecture Tools website to see the full suite of free tools that will help you quickly and easily create machines that do more throughout the project lifecycle.
