Electricity + Control February 2017

23 / 44

take note
Figure 4: The ID tag chip is installed at the bottom of the workpiece
carrier. The chip can store up to 224 bits.
The ID tag is available in different versions and offers
flexible mounting options for workpiece carriers,
tanks, etc. Using simple insulation displacement
technology, the AS-I module can be connected
with the yellowAS-i flat cable. To do so, the cable
can be laid transversely or lengthwise through
the module. The AS-i module is mounted
without tools – for removing it you only need a
screwdriver.
Not only RFID read / write heads, but other sen-
sors, such as light barriers or inductive sensors can be
connected via AS-i modules with the controller. This reduces
even more wiring.
Being the head-end, the AS-i master collects all data for all com-
mon superior fieldbuses. Because of the integrated PLC functionality
it can pre-process the data, supporting the plant controller.
Figure 5: Sensors can be connected to any spot of the
AS-i cable via a flat cable insulation displacement con-
nector.
Conclusion
Gerhard Feyerabend, control engineer at Wessel-Werk
remarks on the simplicity of the AS-i RFID system: ‘Setting
up the system is much simpler than expected because the read
heads immediately send the data to the PLC after installation and
addressing. A further configuration is not necessary!’ For ifm, RFID
in combination with AS-i is ideal for identification tasks in assembly
technology which are easy to implement.
Andreas Biniasch studied electrical engineering at the
University of Applied Sciences in Bochum, Germany, from
1989 to 1994. From 1994 to 2000 he worked as a journal-
ist in the IT sector and since 2000 he has been the senior
editor and photographer for ifm electronic, marketing and
communication.
Enquiries: Email or
SENSORS + SWITCHES + TRANSDUCERS
Figure 2: Assembly
machine for the
production of vacuum
cleaner nozzles.
• Nozzle production is complicated.
• The AS-i- based RFID system described is used for a
problem-free process flow.
• This system is ideal for identification tasks in assembly
technology.
21 February ‘17 Electricity+Control