Connector Provides Shop-Floor Connectivity to SAP

Mitsubishi Electric has announced the C Connector PLC module, developed in partnership with Ubigrate, which delivers real-time data directly to a user's SAP system. The module is said to simplify making the essential link between automation systems and higher-level databases, ERP applications and MES applications, such as SAP. Production data can therefore be easily monitored and recorded, and higher-level production decisions more easily implemented, helping to increase plant visibility and boost productivity.

The C Connector is said to be intuitively operable for automation engineers, while for enterprise and logistics personnel the information is presented in a manner that is readily usable and understandable. It facilitates direct, bidirectional exchange of data between a PLC and the higher-level systems, simplifying the collecting, storage and monitoring of field data within the business application, and the sending of instructions directly to the plant floor.

The C Connector is said to eliminate the need for intermediate PC hardware and its inherent infrastructure and IT vulnerabilities, such as: virus scanner maintenance; OS upgrades and incompatibilities; hardware failures; and operator abuse. The industrial-proven C Connector runs directly on Mitsubishi Electric's IQ controller, where it has direct access to live process data and all connected I/O. Here, it can also be used to collect data from other automation devices in the field, such as RFID sensors, barcode reader, weighing systems or vision systems (cameras).

Setting up bidirectional communications is as simple as selecting an integration template for the target system from the library of pre-configured templates. These cover many different SAP solutions including direct BAPI interfacing, MII connection, web services and even Pco connection is planned. Data can also be output as standard CSV, Excel or XML files. This eliminates the need for detailed knowledge of the target system and its interfaces, simplifying integration overhead.

Thomas Lantermann, AMD development manager at Mitsubishi Electric, said: 'The ability to make correct production decisions to enhance quality and to ensure full traceability depends on making plant-floor data readily available to higher-level systems. 'Traditionally, connectivity to ERP systems such as SAP was fragmented but the C Controller simplifies and strengthens the link making it reliable, robust and secure.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is Class I Division 2?

Image
A Class I Division 2 is a location: (1) In which volatile flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are handled, processed, or used, but in which the liquids, vapors, or gases will normally be confined within closed containers or closed systems from which they can escape only in case of accidental rupture or breakdown of such containers or systems or in case of abnormal operation of equipment, or (2) In which ignitable concentrations of flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are normally prevented by positive mechanical ventilation, and which might become hazardous through failure or abnormal operation of the ventilating equipment. Class I Division 2 Classification Class I Division 2 refers to the ANSI/ISA 12.12.01 standard. This standard was previously UL1604 until UL recommended the newer ANSI/ISA standard be used and that all hazardous location products be certified under this standa
Read more

FUSE SIZING CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGHER EFFICIENCY MOTORS

Image
When selecting the proper fuse for short circuit protection in motor starting applications, it is important to not only ensure that the fuse will not nuisance open during motor start up times, but also that the fuse will coordinate as required with overload relays. When sizing fuses between 125% and 150% of the motor nameplate current, several advantages, including ease of coordination with an overload device, a smaller disconnect, and increased short circuit protection from a lower fuse rating, can be achieved. However, if sizing at this level prevents the motor from starting, it may then be necessary to increase the fuse ampere rating and it then becomes important to know the NEC sizing limitations. As of June 1, 2016, the US Department of Energy has mandated that newly manufactured electric motors will need to meet NEMA Premium® efficiency standards. As motor efficiencies increase, motor locked rotor currents can also be expected to increase. In addition to this, with across-the-lin
Read more

7/8 16UN Connectors that Provide 600 Volts and 15 Amps

TURCK announces new A-Size 3 and 4-pin 7/8 16UN powerfast™ connectors that provide up to 600 Volts and 15 Amps of power. These IP67 rated connectors provide a modular wiring system designed to handle high current applications for machine power distribution, while providing resistance to vibration commonly associated with conveyors, motors and material handling applications. The cordsets are available with a tray rated, exposed run PVC flexlife ® cable, with or without STOOW rating, and 14 AWG wires that allow you to replace hard wiring with a robust, quick disconnect system that saves the time and money spent installing a conduit system. The A-Size powerfast line offers male and female, straight connectors, standard and custom lengths, and pigtails or extensions. To make the system complete, fully encapsulated mating receptacles, with 1/2”-14 NPT mounting threads are available.
Read more