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The open approach in the development of the switch technology of HARTING was aimed at the global market without a clear-cut specification of any one of the larger controller suppliers. The FTS 3100 and mCon 3080 ranges of Ethernet switches from HARTING allowed the robot manufacturer to support both requirement profiles with one single switch technology (Fig 2). This enabled, for example, the test and release overhead for a number of switches to be reduced considerably to two switches. This concentration on just two switches gave the manufac- turer the ability to closely integrate this technology into robot’s controller system. As a result, the manufacturer can offer its customers comprehensive diagnostics and configuration options, regardless of the communication proto- col used.
Signal integration
possible to implement the electrical requirements with smaller connector sizes. This applies to both the interfaces within the robot systems and those that link the robot to the outside world of the robot customer’s application.
Communications
Robots are at work around the world, and have to work with a diverse range of fieldbus systems as well as the pre- ferred systems that have emerged for Ethernet communication in the respec- tive regions. For example, the United States is synonymous with Ethernet IP, while PROFINET is the clear favourite in Europe. The switching functionality of the HARTING Technology Group can support both systems as one base communication platform without swapping the hardware. This issue of openness will play an important role in the future for the communication systems used against the backdrop of global markets.
Recent years have seen the develop- ment of fieldbus communication in automation – from the classic field- buses such as Interbus, PROFIBUS and DeviceNet previously used through to Ethernet-based protocols. Development has concentrated on two ‘dialects’: PROFINET and Ethernet/IP, which are dominating the automation market to an increasingly greater extent. The two communication protocols make differ- ent demands of the switch technology. In collaboration with a major robotics manufacturer, HARTING has devel- oped a joint solution for both ‘dialects’.
Automation FEBRUARY 2013
The reliable transmission of power, signals and data in all performance ranges is one of the basic requirements for connectivity in industrial robotics applications. The new HARTING PushPull Signal connector consis- tently satisfies these requirements in one uniform connector system (Fig 3). The new connector has evolved from the Han PushPull Variant 14, which is the preferred connector for decentralised automation in the field for data transmission and power supply according to the guidelines of the PROFIBUS User Organisation and the Automatisierungs Initiative Deutscher Automobilhersteller (AIDA – Automation Initiative of German Automobile Manufacturers). An extensive range of tool applica- tions, such as joining techniques, han- dling applications and sensor or imaging elements, is used in the man- ufacturing robots in highly automated automotive welding and assembly lines.
Individual signal and data commu- nication processes are required in spite of all the defined standards aimed at the data area. In addition to power and standard communication, the transmission of analogue, digital, bus and low voltage signals must be guaranteed to ensure accurate and reli- able control (Fig 4).
The HARTING PushPull Signal transmits nominal currents of 5 A on 10 contacts with wire cross-sections up to 0.75mm². To ensure EMC inter- ference immunity, the contact inserts are fully shielded as RJ45 data connec- tors, and it is possible to connect shielded cables. The PushPull locking ensures reliable and intuitive connec- tor insertion. An audible signal (click) indicates proper locking.
PushPull signal connectors can also handle hybrid applications. For exam-
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Fig 4. HARTING PushPull Signal connectors in an industrial robot application
Fig 3. The HARTING PushPull Signal connector provides reliable
transmission of power, signals and data over all performance ranges
ple, a part of the mating face can be used to transmit power while other contacts are available for communica- tion. PushPull Signal connectors are available in the PushPull Variant 14 and Variant 4 series as defined by IEC 61076-6-107.
Use in the field
Simple wire termination in the field is pivotal. The PushPull Signal connec- tor is already preassembled when delivered, which minimises the number of separate parts for the user. The connector is installed by inserting individual crimp contacts into the pre- assembled insulation inserts. Simply pressing down on the insulation insert causes it to lock into its final position and fix the crimp contacts in place. Users can easily correct any mistakes that show up after the insulation insert has been installed.
The use of factory-prefabricated cable assemblies that are available in different lengths reduces the process- ing effort in the field.
HARTING
www.harting.co.uk T: 01604 827 500
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