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Measurement technology as an integrated component of a software PLC

Wednesday, October 15, 2008: Beckhoff Automation (Pty) Ltd

The new TwinCAT Scope as a tool for Scientific Automation

Graphic display of curves is essential for optimising controllers and setting drive axes. In order to be able to utilise the extended graphics features of new PC generations, including DirectX, Beckhoff redesigned the Scope software for the TwinCAT automation suite, which was originally developed several years ago: Simple configuration, advanced graphics and functional extensions offer a robust basis for measuring tasks. The new TwinCAT Scope is thus well equipped for Scientific Automation.

The new TwinCAT Scope features separate Logger and Viewer: The Logger, which can also be installed in a Windows CE control system, records the data from different channels with time stamps and saves them intermediately. The data can come from different PCs and different software devices, including PLC and Motion Control. The Viewer fetches the data from the Logger by means of ADS and displays it.

The configuration of the Scope is also carried out in the Viewer. An assistant supports the search for variables to be recorded. Following selection of the controller, it is possible to browse inside the corresponding PLC. Individual variables can simply be selected.

The modular approach of new TwinCAT Scope makes extension with new features easy. Various defined interfaces are already integrated, e.g. for alternative axes (logarithmic) or special output formats (Microsoft Excel). The data can be processed before they are graphically displayed, e.g. through a fast Fourier transformation.

Scientific Automation from Beckhoff includes integration of additional functions in the software PLC. In addition to sequential control, Motion Control and control technology, the software PLC also includes measurement technology and other components. PC Control technology with high-performance CPUs offers an ideal platform. The new TwinCAT Scope is part of the Beckhoff Scientific Automation initiative.