By Bradley McEwan, business development manager at automation and control technology specialist Beckhoff UK, discusses how software and modular hardware enables easy integration of technologies, like robotics and vision, that were once considered 'standalone'.

The EL6821 EtherCAT Terminal from Beckhoff allows up to 64 DALI/DALI-2 slaves and 64 DALI-2 input devices to be connected. The TwinCAT 3 System Manager makes it easy to configure and parameterize DALI devices flexibly.

Ideal for adaptive manufacturing, machine learning, vision and other complex applications, the IPC combines an ATX motherboard and GPU in one powerhouse device.

The CX5600 series offers expandable interfaces, operating system options and a familiar, rugged design for wide-ranging automation applications.

Over the past year and a half, supply chain challenges have been significant, with lead times for advanced components like drives, PLCs, and HMIs often exceeding 52 weeks. However, improvements in lead times and inventory levels have been observed.

With 12th Gen Intel^® Core™ processors, the controllers help engineers tackle tough applications, such as multi-axis motion, machine learning and vision, with reduced space requirements.

Integrated PC-based control technology from Beckhoff facilitates the implementation of a modular system architecture at LJ Welding Automation.

New camera, lighting and lensing hardware complements TwinCAT automation software for a comprehensive, integrated image processing solution – backed by iF and Red Dot awards.

By Stephen Hayes, managing director of Beckhoff UK, discusses the transformative power of digital twin technology, highlighting its instant ROI for manufacturers, enabling innovation and competitive edge in the fast-paced market.

Article by Stephen Hayes, managing director at automation and control technology specialist, Beckhoff UK, discusses how manufacturers can increase supply chain stability.