Beckhoff reported Oct. 29 that its TwinCAT 3 Weighing Library has added a fast, precise, load-cell-based “scale” for integrating weight measurement directly into a standard machine control environment. This new PLC supports manual and automatic triggering, and is reported to be effective when implemented with Beckhoff’s measurement I/O modules, particularly ELM35xx and EL3356 EtherCAT terminals.
Equipped with signal filtering, the PLC and weighing function accelerates process sequences in diverse applications. This eliminates the need for many standalone, single-purpose measurement and sensing devices that would require more engineering time and effort to integrate with automation and controls equipment.
TwinCAT Weighing Library (TF3685) mostly focuses on dynamic weighing processes. These tasks present unique signal-filtering challenges because weighing time influences machine processing time. High-speed signal filtering with consistently high precision provides weighing results faster, which optimizes machine processing.
Beckhoff acknowledges that a load cell and measured value acquisition via corresponding EtherCAT terminals don’t constitute a physical scale. This is where TF3685 PLC library comes in. It can connect several load cells to form a complete scale, while adopting scaling of measured values. Functions such as zeroing and taring are also covered by the new PLC’s function blocks.
In addition to manually triggering weight measurements, TwinCAT Weighing Library supports automatic measurement. by detecting the products, parts or materials, and then directly taking measurements. This eliminates the need for previously required external triggers, such as photoelectric sensors and initiators, which further reduces costs and complexity.
