Did you know that IO-Link can be integrated into any fieldbus system? One of the most important features of IO-Link is its fieldbus neutrality. It allows the IO-Link functionality to be connected to nearly any fieldbus. Either the standardized mappings in fieldbuses, e.g. for PROFIBUS, PROFINET, EtherCat, and Sercos, or manufacturer-specific mappings for EtherNet/IP, CANopen, Modbus, CC-Link, and AS-Interface can be used for this.
The IO-Link Community has launched a service that offers significant value for members and technology users. It is a central database for all IO Device Descriptions. It is free for both members and users.
The intelligence and complexity of sensors and actuators is constantly increasing. Today, even the smallest sensors have a powerful microcontroller and several thousand lines of software code. Firmware updates may occasionally be necessary to enable new functionalities or to add newly supported profiles. To meet these needs, the IO-Link community has specified a firmware update profile.
When the foundry machinery manufacturer Laempe Mössner Sinto planned the new LHL machine series, it decided to implement the entire automation for this with IO-Link. This produces several benefits: Besides costs, the manufacturer also saves the time required for the installation, wiring and electrical planning, while customers benefit from a more dynamic and faster machine.
A renowned manufacturer of sophisticated mechatronic products relies on RFID technology integrated into production processes via IO-Link. The manufacturer utilizes this technology in the final assembly of the power electronics units for premium electric cars. The mobile data storage devices are suitable for the increased temperatures encountered during casting.
Ten companies present 15 new IO-Link products: Aventis, Balluff, Belden, Comtrol, Festo, GERMBEDDED, Leuze, M&M Systems, Schmalz, and Turck.
At the beginning of the year it’s a time to reflect a bit on the year gone by and look ahead to the new year. In 2016 we watched the continuing evolution of the concepts of Industrie 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)… and PROFINET’s place in them (we call that the PROFINET of Things).
