Image

Free guide explores plantwide Ethernet, motion control integration

Oct. 1, 2011
For applications requiring highly integrated motion control, such as packaging, pick-and-place, converting, assembly, and robotics, the network infrastructure

For applications requiring highly integrated motion control, such as packaging, pick-and-place, converting, assembly, and robotics, the network infrastructure must be capable of managing time-synchronization services and delivering data between devices in a timely manner. It's a tall order, but a free guidebook may help.

Rockwell Automation, Milwaukee, announces a 75-page addition to the Converged Plantwide Ethernet Design and Implementation Guide to help machine builders and manufacturers deploy integrated motion using EtherNet/IP networking technology. The new chapter — developed in collaboration with Cisco Systems — provides detailed design guidance, recommendations, and best practices to help control system engineers tightly synchronize motion applications within the plantwide architecture.

Traditionally, manufacturers have used a dedicated motion network, a strategy that requires specialized hardware and often results in a more isolated design in which information is inaccessible. EtherNet/IP is designed to connect from the device level to the end-user's IT infrastructure and across applications, including discrete, process, safety, motion, and drive control. By moving from dedicated networks to a single, integrated architecture for the plantwide network, users can reduce engineering time and total cost of ownership.

According to the new guide, by harnessing the IEEE-1588 Precision Time Protocol, the EtherNet/IP network delivers the deterministic control required for closed-loop position, speed, and torque regulation within a drive. Other industrial protocols use a time-slotted approach in which each device on the wire is given a specific time band for communications, requiring the end user to reschedule the entire network whenever a device is added or removed from the system. With EtherNet/IP, end-device clocks are tightly synchronized and information in the message is time-stamped with an accuracy of 100 nsec — so across any given control system, hundreds of axes can be coordinated for synchronized motion control.

To download a free copy of the guide, visit literature.rockwellautomation.com/idc/groups/literature/documents/td/enet-td001_-en-p.pdf.

Sponsored Recommendations

June 27, 2025
Ensure workplace safety and compliance with our comprehensive Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Safety Training course. Learn critical procedures to prevent serious injuries.
June 27, 2025
Join our expert webinar to discover essential safety control measures and best practices for engineering a truly safe and compliant industrial environment.
June 25, 2025
An innovative aircraft with electric drives combines the best of both worlds. The cross between drone and helicopter could mean significantly faster and more efficient air emergency...
June 25, 2025
Effective when other materials fail, ceramics are particularly suitable for applications requiring wear and chemical resistance, sliding characteristics or biocompatibility. Discover...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!