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CPX-AP-I (shown) is Festo’s decentralized I/O where modules are connected via cable at distances of up to 50 meters (164 ft) between modules. AP modules, whether on-terminal or individual, are IP65/67 rated and can be located in cabinets, in clusters around the cell, individually placed, or separated at great distances.
AP provides the maximum in topology flexibility. It gives machine builders the freedom to optimize the machine or cell by adding I/O where they need it, and in ways that will best boost performance and diagnostics capabilities. The AP ecosystem makes it efficient for end-user customers to add functionality as needs arise.
Whether physically attached on-terminal or connected via cable, all components such as PLCs, valves, motors, drives, and I/O appear to the programmer to be incorporated within one smart terminal under a single IP address. Having the entire distributed and decentralized I/O topology under a single IP address significantly reduces hardware and installation costs while lowering system complexity. Since many PLCs come with a limited number of IP addresses, the Festo solution means more capabilities are possible per PLC. The AP platform easily integrates electric and pneumatic automation directly into the higher-level control architectures – architectures from all major control suppliers.
Other products featured at Festo’s booth will include:
• Simplified Motion Series (SMS) of integrated servo drives and linear and rotary actuators.
• Multi-axis solutions shown will include a portfolio of rotary and linear single axes, multi-axis design tools, and cable management.
• The new CMMT MP family of multi-protocol servo drives. Every drive in this family is configurable as EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, PROFINET, and Modbus TCP.
Also, the latest mechatronic learning modules will be on display. In mid-2022, PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (the organization behind PACK EXPO), and Didactic, the training arm of Festo, joined forces to provide PMMI members and education partners with advanced technical education and hands-on training aligned with the industry’s highest standards. For the first time at PACK EXPO, Didactic will showcase its latest hands-on learning modules within the Festo exhibit. The MecLab integrated-packaging line learning modules consist of a conveyor, stack magazine, and handling station. Didactic also showcases its industry leading robotic safety learning system developed in collaboration with SICK, the technology and market leader in sensor intelligence.
