January 2021

TECHNOLOGY n 19 www.drivesncontrols.com January 2021 SIEMENS HAS LAUNCHED its first edge application for drives, claiming that it will add intelligence to its Sinamics drive systems and pave the way for new business models. The company has also announced an AI-based module for optimising the maintenance efficiency of motor-based systems. The Analyze MyDrives Edge application has similar functions to the existing Mindsphere Analyze MyDrives app, but includes intelligent functions based on high-frequency data exchange that allow users to perform complex analyses of data already collected in drives. Machine learning and AI algorithms identify patterns and detect anomalies and their causes, thus revealing when maintenance is needed, and reducing downtime and the consumption of resources. Siemens’Drive System Framework allows users to connect Sinamics drive systems to the industrial edge, and can be used to manage them. For example, machine-builders and users can change parameters or perform firmware updates. In future, it should also be possible to configure simulation models – digital twins of the drive systems. Siemens says that connecting drives to the edge will also pave the way for new business models. Machine-builders, for example, could offer user-specific applications and digital services, or guarantee the availability of their machines. The new AI (artificial intelligence) module for the Predictive Service Assistance Mindsphere application identifies fault patterns in motors – such as misalignments or defective bearings – at an early stage. It can help to cut downtime and improve spare parts and maintenance processes. The module uses a neural network to solve what was previously implemented using a defined KPI (key performance indicator) limit value. This enables it to detect anomalies before the limit value is reached, and to indicate the type and severity of faults and their development. As soon as the application spots signs of a problem, it warns the user, indicating when the error should be corrected, and recommending corrective action to avoid downtime. The module is offered as part of the Predictive Service Assessment app and the package also includes a customised configuration service that optimises the Mindsphere application to meet a user’s needs. The app is part of Siemens’ Predictive Services for Drive Systems, an extension to its local service contracts. It is said to result in more efficient maintenance of Sinamics and Simotics drive systems, and offers transparency on spare parts and maintenance activities to minimise risks through weak-point analysis. www.siemens.com/digital-drives www.siemens.com/drivesystemservices Edge app makes drives smarter and opens up new business models BECKHOFF HAS announced a series of servodrives built into EtherCat terminals with output currents of up to 16A at 48V DC. The ELM72xx drives have metal housings that dissipate heat, even at high output powers, as well as shielding the drives against electrical interference. The drives can connect via front- panel connectors to motors, feedback and brakes using a single-cable technology. They can also connect directly to other EtherCat terminals, while additional I/Os allow the latching of position values. There are currently five different ELM72xx models available, in one- or two-channel versions with RMS output currents from 4.5A to 16A (or 2 x 8A). Integrated brake chopper controls allow braking resistors to be connected directly. Programmable TwinSafe Logic is built in for implementing safety applications in the terminals and safe drive technology, either as STO/SS1 via FSoE (functional safety over EtherCat) or as a package of Safe Motion functions for safety-relevant drive technology via TwinSafe. Compared to Beckhoff’s earlier EL series, the new drives are said to offer enhanced performance and functions, as well as supporting pluggable wiring. Designs are carried out using the TwinCat 3 Motion Designer software. An electronic nameplate and the TwinCat 3 Drive Manager 2 software simplify commissioning. www.beckhoff.co.uk Siemens’Predictive Service Assistance app uses AI to detect anomalies in drive systems n Servodrives are built into EtherCat I/O terminals Connecting drives to the edge will pave the way for new business models and digital services. Beckhoff’s ELM72xx servodrives are built into metal-housed EtherCat I/O terminals