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Distributed control architectures rely on industrial networks as the communication bridge between automation controllers. Distributed controls allowed machine builders in packaging, metal working, and material handling to offer customers modular and flexible machinery. In tandem, distributed controls reduced the internal engineering costs as the modularity of distributed architectures led to less complexity in the design. Production machinery continues to evolve as manufacturers are seeking smaller footprints.
To design machinery with smaller footprints the goal has been to move the electrics cabinet into the machine envelope. To achieve this, vendors have introduced families of automation components that can reside outside of a ventilated electrics cabinet. I/O modules, sensors, and power electronics are now entering the market to provide machine builders with greater freedom on where to locate automation. In particular, the decentralization of servo drives has moved large banks of servo drives typically installed in the central control cabinet into the machine bed. Along with distributing the servo hardware, the intelligence (e.g. motion control algorithms) has also been distributed. Intelligence has moved from a central automation controller (e.g. PC, PLC) into the individual servo-drives. We expect an increasing number of automation devices to be mounted directly to the machine or even within the machine envelope. Reduced cabinet space, modularity, faster reaction times, and enabling Industrial IoT or I4.0 solutions are all potential benefits of further distribution of the control architecture.
To get a better understanding of the trend towards decentralized control technologies, ARC conducts an online web-survey about the decentralization of servo-drives. We ask OEMs, End Users, and Suppliers alike about their experiences and expectations of the future development of decentralized servo-drives. If you want to take part in this survey, please follow this link:
Trends to Decentralize Servo Technology in Machine Building Survey