Schneider Electric launches PacDrive 3 integrated solution for automated machine control.

Based on proven logic motion technology, PacDrive 3 unifies PLC, motion, and robotics control functionality on a single hardware platform. Its centralised system architecture, is specifically designed to control a wide range of servo-driven production and packaging machines, as well as material handling equipment and robotics, using fully integrated, IEC 61131-3-compliant program structures.

Many automated production lines use a combination of mechatronic solutions: discrete and synchronised motion control, Delta, SCARA and 6 axis robots. Each of the mechatronic elements having a controller, PLC or safety system linked through the production process with a combination of hardwired signals, splitters, fieldbuses, Industrial Ethernet and gateways. This introduces delays in intercommunication, resulting in a lack of synchronism that is not conducive to the high-performance demands of a modern production line.

In addition, remote connectivity for diagnostics and control, integration to MRP and plant supervisory systems becomes a cumbersome, costly process with many different interfaces and programming environments.

PacDrive 3 is different.

Its control and complementary delta robotics solution provides a totally integrated and coordinated solution for the production process.  One controller to control multiple Schneider Delta robots, SCARA robots, discrete/ synchronised motion control and thirdparty 6 axis robots.  This enables optimum synchronised control of the line from one central point, integrated safety, simplification of the machine topology and one point of access with a single programming environment.  This optimises the production process and connectivity required for modern Industry 4.0 ready machines.

Many of today’s existing solutions are assembled from multi-vendor components. Schneider Electric’s PacDrive 3 provides users with a single point of contact for build, assembly and support. It simplifies the introduction of robotics in the production environment and ensuring compatibility of the various components that make up the solution.

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