Beckhoff Automation LLC

To revolutionize packaging machine flexibility, scalability and energy efficiency, Beckhoff Automation will launch the eXtended Transport System (XTS) into the U.S. market at Pack Expo 2019 in Las Vegas. Visitors to booth LS-6149 in the Las Vegas Convention Center’s lower south hall will also experience the North American debut of TwinCAT Vision software, which introduces system-integrated vision technology for packaging machines. Beckhoff will showcase a full lineup of updated automation hardware, software and Gigabit communication via EtherCAT G for packaging machinery.

XTS: the American packaging industry’s next step forward

Now available in the U.S., XTS combines the advantages of rotary and linear drive principles into a best-of-breed linear transport system that provides paradigm-shifting capabilities for packaging machines and smart factories. The mechatronic solution enables intelligent material flow, exceptional precision, real-time robotics integration and efficient self-reconfiguration based on lot, recipe or other product specifications. Highly customizable and durable motor modules, mechanical guide rails and wireless movers integrate the necessary power electronics, EtherCAT communication and position measurement in a compact form factor, reducing machine footprint up to 50%.

TwinCAT sets its sight on machine vision

Beckhoff will also showcase new TwinCAT Vision software, which adds comprehensive image processing into the range of machine control programming and runtime in TwinCAT 3. Machine vision is becoming indispensable in packaging operations for implementing Industrie 4.0 concepts, real-time synchronization, track-and-trace and quality optimization. TwinCAT Vision simplifies design of these functions; it enables users to harness the benefits of GigE Cameras on diverse machines and lines without requirements for separate, third-party vision systems or programming by outside experts.

Complete automation platform for today’s packaging challenges

Visitors to the Beckhoff booth will also get updates on new EtherCAT solutions, including EtherCAT G and G10, TSN-ready I/O, ELM measurement modules and updates in TÜV-certified TwinSAFE hardware for integrated machine safety architectures. EtherCAT G and EtherCAT G10 will provide communication at 1 and 10 Gbit/s, respectively, in conformance with the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard. An innovative branch controller model supports parallel operation of standard 100 Mbit/s segments with EtherCAT G or G10 as the main trunk, or vice versa. With incredible flexibility, transmission speeds and bandwidth, EtherCAT G enables packaging operations to implement smart factory concepts with high degrees of machine learning, vision or high-end motion control, including XTS.