GDevCON, a high-level technical event for LabVIEW architects, is not your typical conference. Over two days at the iconic Glasgow Science Centre, it provides a unique forum for collaboration and idea-sharing, unfettered by corporate oversight or control. Chris Knight, Technical Support Engineer at automation and control technology specialist Beckhoff UK, highlights the key takeaways and the crucial role that Inputs and Outputs (I/O) communication play in system connectivity, data exchange, and efficient automation.
GDevCON differentiates itself by focusing on knowledge exchange and fostering a developer community amongst LabVIEW experts, requiring exhibitors to have a direct connection to at least one attendee involved with LabVIEW.
It was noteworthy that GDevCON 2023 attracted around 200 attendees, including representatives from organisations such as SpaceX, CERN, nuclear research facilities, and significant National Instruments (NI) systems integrators, drawing participants from 23 countries, including the USA and India, alongside five NI employees.
Discussions revealed a common theme: many manufacturers faced gaps in their production capabilities, particularly lacking cost-effective solutions for motion control, fieldbus communications, and an extensive I/O range.
Motion control
Motion control is essential for precise movement within machinery, often achieved through actuators. This precision is vital for maintaining quality and consistency, yet it demands a careful balance with energy consumption and production speed. Achieving this balance is crucial, as motion control systems significantly enhance efficiency and competitiveness across various sectors.
Fieldbus communications
Fieldbus communications play a pivotal role in manufacturing efficiency and precision. By allowing a network of input and output devices to communicate without direct connections to a central control system, fieldbus reduces wiring complexity and enables integrated, scalable, and reliable industrial automation.
About the I/O
Fieldbus serves as the communication backbone, allowing efficient data sharing among I/O devices. This integration is vital for extensive I/O applications, but limited I/O ranges can hinder scalability and the ability to meet diverse customer needs, thus limiting market reach.
EtherCAT as a solution
EtherCAT, a protocol designed for swift data exchange in industrial automation, supports scalability and the integration of numerous devices. Beckhoff’s TwinCAT automation software utilises EtherCAT, enabling straightforward configuration, management, and control of EtherCAT-based systems and providing Master functionality. This capability facilitates precise coordination within the assembly process, such as synchronised movement and quality control, addressing a need identified at GDevCON for software solutions to bridge production line gaps.
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