Beckhoff Automation UK is bringing vision system image processing into familiar PLC environments with its new TwinCAT Vision software.

A safety module option is now available for Mitsubishi Electric’s MELSEC iQ-R PLC which is said to provide the performance and integrity of a separate safety PLC but without the added cabinet space. 

Mitsubishi Electric has introduced its smallest and most powerful compact PLC to date. The aim of the FX5UC series Micro PLC is to give more machine builders and manufacturers more functionality in a smaller space - while also providing web access and network connectivity.

RS Components (RS) has introduced two PLC starter packs from Allen-Bradley, part of the Rockwell Automation group.

Unitronics has introduced the UniStream PLC, a new multi-function controller which introduces a new concept in virtual HMIs.

Yokogawa Electric Corporation has released a new version of its CENTUM VP – R6.07 – which is the core product in its OpreX Control and Safety System family of solutions.

The new FactoryTalk Analytics LogixAI module from Rockwell Automation – formerly known as Project Sherlock – uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect production anomalies and alert workers so they can investigate or intervene, as necessary.

Siemens has extended the functionality of its Sinamics IOP-2 for Sinamics G series converters to include the FW V2.3 SP1 firmware update. This improves local setup, operation, monitoring, diagnostics and service of all Sinamics G series converters.

A new PCU series of controllers from AW-Lake are designed to connect with thermal mass flow meters or controllers to provide a local display of flow output.

Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and PLCs are increasingly converging. PLC systems have acquired more extensive visualisation systems, similar to those traditionally used by process engineers to manage complex processing workflows.

Opto 22 has released the groov serial I/O module, GRV-CSERI-4 module which plugs into a groov EPIC chassis alongside Opto 22’s new groov Edge Programmable Industrial Controller (EPIC) and discrete and analogue I/O modules, to provide the mix of analogue, discrete, and serial signals.

Traditionally Bachmann controllers have been partly programmed via the Codesys-based M-PLC user interface. The company is now in the process of replacing this programming interface with the PLC Developer which has been created to support the system programmer in all phases of software development.

Yokogawa Electric Corporation has developed a software platform that enables software packages to run on general-purpose computers in a redundant configuration, and has added this to its OpreX Control and Safety System family.

The new INOX-F15C-ULT3 15in Panel PC from BVM is housed in a monolithic 304 stainless steel enclosure that is sealed to IP69k.

HARTING has expanded its MICA industrial computer family with the addition of dedicated wireless and energy versions as well as a range of kits which can be equipped and assembled by the customer with their own function boards.

The human body has evolved into what could be called a system of perfectly harmonised functional units. The same applies in a figurative sense for an automation system, which combines the functions of intelligence, sensors, motion control and vision in perfect harmony. Now with the introduction of TwinCAT Speech software, automation systems can also learn to hear and speak.

Mitsubishi Electric’s modular PLC series MELSEC iQ-R is now available as a fully redundant pair of controllers for high performance and extra reliability. To help reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO), the system also integrates various features into the PLC for monitoring and managing safety.

The latest release of the PlantPAx distributed control system (DCS) from Rockwell Automation is said to enable smarter, more productive and protected operations. New system capabilities include a more intuitive design and the ability to see contextualised information from plant assets.

The new FP-XH from Panasonic combines a compact PLC with a motion controller. The CPU has 16 digital inputs/outputs and is equipped with four high-speed inputs. The PLC can be expanded with Panasonic's expansion units from the FP0R and FP-X series.

Nanotec has introduced the NP5, a PCI Express plug-in motor controller, which is suitable for brushless DC motors as well as for stepper motors.