Axis Controllers utilize decentralized intelligence.
Press Release Summary:
Integrated Axis Controllers are based on proportional directional and high-response valves and communicate with control via field buses. Axis control functions include pressure, pQ, force, position and alternating control. Valves can be adjusted to changing process or load conditions during operation via callable closed-loop control algorithms. IACs signal error messages through field bus to higher-level machine control where they can be evaluated.
Original Press Release:
Integrated Axis Controllers by Rexroth: Decentralized Intelligence in the Hydraulic Valve
Rexroth utilizes the advantages of decentralized intelligence for hydraulic drive technology with the integrated axis controller functionality of the new IAC product family (Integrated Axis Controller). These compact, pre-tested assemblies are based on Rexroth's tried-and-tested proportional directional and high-response valves and communicate with the control vie field buses. Apart from simple integration in control concepts, they offer a variety of axis control functions such as pressure, pQ, force, position and alternating control.
The integrated axis controllers are compatible with the communication standard "Profile Fluid Power Technology". The valves are parameterized, the controller adapted to the system and the process data of the axis controllers transmitted via the field bus interfaces CANopen or Profibus DP. Analog command value feedforward is possible as well. The valves can be adjusted to changing process or load conditions during operation via callable closed-loop control algorithms.
Due to the integration of the IACs in the existing control structure, the required cabling is considerably reduced, since an additional controller assembly is no longer required. The intelligent axis controllers signal error messages via the field bus to the higher-level machine control. Here, they can be quickly evaluated - also by remote diagnosis. In addition, a user-friendly PC commissioning tool is available.
The IAC family is available in two variants: As IAC-R on the basis of high-response valves and as IAC-P on the basis of proportional directional valves. Both valve lines offer axis controller functionalities that are adapted to the specific requirements of electrohydraulic drive technology.
IAC-P valves feature pQ function, closed-loop force control and closed-loop flow control (electronic pressure compensator). IAC-Rs offer closed-loop pressure control, pQ control, closed-loop force control, alternating control as well as a restricted NC functionality in line with DIN 66025. Up to 4 analog sensors for pressure and position, an incremental position measuring system (1Vss or EnDat) and 2 analog sensors or an SSI position measuring system and 2 analog sensors can be connected to IACs.
Bosch Rexroth AG, a one-hundred-percent owned subsidiary of Robert Bosch GmbH, achieved sales of 3.62 billion Euro in 2002 with approximately 25,500 employees. The company was formed in May 2001 by the merger of Bosch Automationstechnik and Mannesmann Rexroth and now combines under the brand name of Rexroth the range of products and services of the former brands of Bosch Automation, Brueninghaus Hydromatik, Indramat, Lohmann + Stolterfoht, Mecman, Refu, Rexroth Hydraulics and Star. Rexroth offers all relevant drive, control and motion technologies: from mechanics, hydraulics and pneumatics through to electronics as well as the associated services - and in around 80 countries worldwide.
