Rockwell Automation is focusing on scale and modularization of its Integrated Architecture platform to help deliver multidisciplinary control and high performance on a "right-sized" system. On display at this week's Automation Fair are three recently introduced programmable automation controllers (PACs) based on the Allen-Bradley CompactLogix form factor, including the Allen-Bradley Compact GuardLogix, CompactLogix L2 and CompactLogix L4 controllers.
In 2011, Rockwell Automation will continue its focus on scale by delivering the Allen-Bradley CompactLogix L1 and additions to the L3 PAC family, along with an expanded suite of complementary products ideally suited for applications with less than 200 I/O points and up to 16 axes of motion. This expanded suite can all be configured in the common design environment of Rockwell Software RSLogix 5000. Using the PanelView Plus 6 or the PanelView Plus Compact operator interface fulfills the need for visualization and information in mid-range machine applications.
The CompactLogix PAC brings the benefits of the Rockwell Automation Logix Control Platform—common configuration, networking and visualization environment—to smaller, machine-level control applications. Combined with Compact I/O, the CompactLogix platform is designed for customers looking for high-performance, multidisciplinary control in a small footprint.
Rockwell Automation Logix-based control solutions are designed for the OEM and end user looking to meet tomorrow's machine requirements cost-effectively. Through features such as integrated safety and standard control, information-enabled software, integrated motion control on the EtherNet/IP network and reusable development tools, Rockwell Automation helps deliver machines on time, cost-effectively and beyond customer expectations.
"With its new scaled offerings, Rockwell Automation leverages the company's core Integrated Architecture strength in multidisciplined control," according to Craig Resnick, research director, ARC Advisory Group. "Using the combination of control, networking, visualization and information technologies, the Logix Control Platform addresses a full range of production applications, integrating discrete, motion, process, batch and safety applications, while providing information integration with the rest of the site. Rockwell Automation's continued focus on scale and modularization will help OEMs and midrange applications leverage the benefits of a single multidiscipline control platform, including reduced total cost of ownership."
The Rockwell Automation portfolio expansion in 2011 for midrange applications will include the PanelView Plus 6 human-machine interface (HMI), offering users increased memory, a factory default option for significantly faster refresh rates, and the ability to store more data and machine instructions directly on the HMI. The portfolio will also feature two new controllers: The CompactLogix L1 controller is designed for standalone applications requiring up to two axes of motion, while the enhanced CompactLogix L3 controller handles up to 16 axes of motion using an embedded dual EtherNet/IP port. Also on EtherNet/IP, the new Kinetix 350 servo drive will provide cost-efficient integrated motion control capabilities, and is ideally suited for packaging, material handling and assembly machines.
