PC-Based Software offers CNC control.
Press Release Summary:
TwinCAT CNC combines PC-based control software with multi-axis interpolated motion CNC control for complex applications with up to 32 axes across 10 channels. Equipped with Pentium 4, 2.4 GHz processor, product requires 260 µsec to handle one application with 5 interpolating axes and 1 spindle. Software enables integration of I/O sequencing as part of CNC program and provides required axis and spindle, interpolation and feed, and tool and help functions.
Original Press Release:
Beckhoff adds PC-based CNC to TwinCAT
With the addition of TwinCAT CNC, Beckhoff expands on their proven TwinCAT PC based control software with multi-axis interpolated motion CNC control. Beckhoff has a proven track record, since the late 80's, of providing PC based control and implementing the latest technologies in keeping with their New Automation Technology emphasis. Now Beckhoff can provide a PC based solution for complex applications with up to 32 axes across 10 CNC channels. With a Pentium 4, 2.4GHz processor, TwinCAT CNC only needs 260 microseconds to handle an application with 5 interpolating axes and 1 spindle. For less complex machines, customers can choose from TwinCAT PTP for point to point positioning and TwinCAT NC I for 3 axis interpolation. TwinCAT CNC combined with a Beckhoff's Industrial PC, TFT Control Panel, I/O and Servos provides a highly integrated machine control system with minimum hardware
TwinCAT CNC is based on TwinCAT PLC, the IEC 61131-3 software PLC. This allows customers to integrate their I/O sequencing as part of the CNC program which reduces overall engineering efforts. TwinCAT supports most of the I/O networks along with many of the motion networks; Profibus, SERCOS, Devicenet, Canopen, Ethernet, and Interbus to name a few. TwinCAT CNC provides the required axis and spindle functions, interpolation and feed functions, tool and help functions according to DIN 66025. Additional information can be found at www.beckhoffautomation.com
All Beckhoff hardware is programmed within the same TwinCAT and System Manager programming and configuration environments to simplify and reduce engineering effort. TwinCAT software runs on Windows 2000, NT and XP operating systems and is Service Pack independent due to its unique real-time kernel design.
Beckhoff facts
Beckhoff Automation provides advanced, open automation products based upon proven technologies so that customers can implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and Motion Control systems. Beckhoff's "New Automation Technology" Product range includes PC based Control, Industrial PC's, Automation Controllers, Operator Interface, I/O, Servo Drives, and Motors. With representation in 35 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide sales & service to its customers. Sales and service is handled directly, no intermediates involved, to provide faster response and easier communications.
