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without overloading the components
involved. In this scenario, using
a smart device ensures reliable
operation and increased availability,
while supporting the maximum
workload.
Creating a CPS from
components both in the
control cabinet and in
the field
The use of the intelligent wiring
and communication system is not
limited to just the control cabinet. It
can even be extended to peripherals
using IP67 protection type I/O
modules. Intelligent wiring offers
clear benefits, as up to 99 devices
can be simply and quickly configured
as smart devices on a cable up to
600m in length. Motor starters, soft
starters, variable frequency drives,
circuit breakers, miniature and
residual current circuit breakers as
well as push-buttons, situated in a
high protection class or a suitable
small enclosure, can be installed in
the exact location in the field where
they will form a CPS along with the
motor.
The real strength is demonstrated
by machines with a distributed
structure (especially if they conform
to the Industry 4.0 system) when
expansions are carried out. This
is true irrespective of whether
expansion occurs when the machine
is first being commissioned, when it
is already up and running. Problems
caused by a lack of space in the
control cabinet are a thing of the
past, as all the key sensors and
actuators are installed in the field.
Additional I/O modules for a central
PLC are not required.
engineering sector with support in
making their machines IoT-ready.
The power management company
is developing components, systems
and solutions that enable all
customers to implement the basic
principles of Industry 4.0 in their
products, regardless of whether
they are small, compact machines
or complex, sprawling systems.
One of the company’s core tasks
is to help specifically medium-
sized mechanical engineering
firms to make their products IoT-
ready. Within its “Authorised Lean
Solution Partner” programme,
Eaton collaborates with a network
of application specialists to be able
to offer customers solutions going
beyond the components and wiring
solutions.
Conclusion
One basic principle is to consistently
follow the distributed model. Many
industries, mechanical engineering
in particular, companies are at an
early stage in using this approach,
as until now the right technologies
have not been available. Obviously
conventional, centrally-controlled
machines do offer opportunities for
connecting to the world of Industry
4.0. However, the lack of seamless
connectivity means that these
solutions remain workarounds, and
the numerous benefits that the
Internet of Things could provide for
machine design are still untapped.
Those companies just beginning
to use CPSs and work in terms of
a distributed approach will enjoy
these benefits sooner rather than
later.
Eaton has set itself the objective
of providing the mechanical
Figure 3:
Smart Data. CPSs are controlling the processes autonomously
between themselves.
New-Tech Magazine Europe l 63