Pepperl+Fuchs SE
In order to supplement manufacturing processes with new digital value-added processes, automation components are required that meet industrial requirements and support simple integration. This is where the interoperability-oriented sensors and modules from Pepperl+Fuchs form an ideal symbiosis with the equally open Linux operating system ctrlX OS.
IO-Link master: Shop floor meets office floor
The connectivity of components is a crucial element in unleashing the full potential of ctrlX OS-based devices and implementing genuine smart factory and smart production solutions. To achieve this, the intelligence of sensors and actuators must be exploited and both process and status data must be made available. The IO-Link masters from Pepperl+Fuchs are precisely designed for this purpose: As an interface, they create access to sensors and actuators and combine deterministic real-time communication via industrial Ethernet fieldbuses such as EtherCAT or PROFINET with supplementary communication channels such as MQTT, OPC UA, or REST API for connection to cloud platforms in just a single component. This makes it easy to overcome system boundaries between the OT and IT worlds and merge classic principles of I&C technology with future-oriented IoT concepts. An integrated IODD interpreter allows complete configuration and handling of the master, including all connected devices, via a web browser, while the master's multiprotocol capability significantly reduces storage costs and device management costs.
Industrial sensors: Everything from a single source
The future-oriented automation of industrial environments with ctrlX OS-based devices requires reliable yet variable sensor technology. As a pioneer in the field of industrial sensor technology with decades of experience, Pepperl+Fuchs has a broad portfolio of different functional principles. This ranges from classic binary proximity sensors, photoelectric sensors, and positioning systems to extremely robust ultrasonic and radar sensors for challenging outdoor applications. A wide range of variants with different interfaces (including IO-Link, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS, CANopen) ensures that the Pepperl+Fuchs sensor portfolio can be used to successfully solve virtually any automation task within the framework of ctrlX OS-based devices from a single source. In addition, a wide range of connection technology (including sensor-actuator cables, connectors, splitters, and distributors) is available, allowing users to benefit from cost- and time-saving "one-stop shopping".
RFID systems: Key technology for Industry 4.0
RFID is a key technology for the factory organized in line with Industry 4.0. It brings dynamism and flexibility to all areas of production and logistics. This enables seamless transparency and traceability along production and supply chains. Pepperl+Fuchs offers a comprehensive range of components (read/write devices, tags, evaluation units, cables) for the realization of complete system solutions within all common frequency ranges (LF, HF, UHF). Mixed operation of different frequencies can also be realized on one evaluation unit. The modules also support the EtherCAT communication commonly used for ctrlX OS-based devices as well as other Industrial Ethernet protocols. Simple integration via IO-Link is also possible, while interfaces such as OPC UA and REST API open up the option of vertical communication.
Advantages
- Multiprotocol and MultiLink™-capable, high-performance IO-Link masters as an ideal addition to the open operating system ctrlX OS
- Integrated MQTT, OPC UA, and REST API interfaces enable platform-independent, interoperable and manufacturer-independent machine communication
- Broad sensor portfolio for the realization of virtually all automation applications
- RFID system solutions in all frequency ranges for greater transparency and traceability
- Reduced effort due to genuine one-stop shopping - from sensors and interface components to custom-fit connection technology and integration expertise
Target Groups
- Machine Builder
- System Integrator
Topology
- Industrial sensors - broad sensor portfolio for the realization of virtually all automation applications. Everything from a single source.
- RFID systems - key technology for Industry 4.0.
- IO-Link master - shop floor meets office floor.
About Pepperl+Fuchs
Pepperl+Fuchs – Innovations for the Future of Automation.
As one of the leading companies in the automation industry, Pepperl+Fuchs is a global pioneer in its markets with groundbreaking technologies. For conventional and future applications, the Mannheim-based company offers a comprehensive portfolio for factory and process automation. At the same time, Pepperl+Fuchs continues to drive forward pioneering technologies, paving the way for its customers to meet the upcoming challenges of Industry 4.0.