Bosch Rexroth and HMS Networks Enhance Connectivity with Anybus Communicator

In this article, we will explore Bosch Rexroth’s integration of HMS Industrial Networks’s Anybus Communicator and another case study highlighting the protocol converter’s use to help enhance a customer’s quay crane intelligent monitoring system. The Anybus Communicator allows users to connect EtherCAT devices to PROFINET, PROFIBUS, EtherNET/IP, Modbus TCP control systems, and industrial Ethernet networks.

The ability to convert various types of network data into a readable format for industrial computer control systems enables businesses to enhance process control, continued monitoring, swift deployment, and optimization of automated robotic systems to maintain operational efficiency.

A schematic demonstrating the connectivity afforded by integrating Anybus Communicator. Image used courtesy of HMS Networks

Integrating the Smart Flex Effector with Anybus

Expanding on information briefly covered in a previous article from Control Automation, the Smart Flex Effector is Bosch Rexroth’s smart compensation module that acts as the interface between the robot arm and gripper. The Smart Flex Effector employs sensor technology to provide passive compensation in six degrees of freedom. The sensors confer object and position detection, anomaly detection, and locking for high-travel dynamics. Continuous position monitoring and process feedback allow for optimum adjustment for robotic applications, providing consistent quality control.

Bosch Rexroth experienced a challenge in helping customers connect the Smart Flex Effector with robot controllers in a timely and cost-effective manner. Their solution was to leverage the expertise of industrial information and communication technology provider HMS Networks and its Anybus Communicator protocol converter solution.

Bosch Rexroth’s Smart Flex Effector provides object detection, precise positioning, and continual monitoring for robotic applications. Image used courtesy of Bosch Rexroth

The primary benefit of the Anybus Communicator common Ethernet is its adaptability; it can be customized via firmware upgrades and connects to all primary Ethernet protocols via a single device. The Anybus Communicator features an intuitive graphical user interface, which has been welcomed by application engineers. Furthermore, Bosch and their clients appreciate that the Communicator may be installed via a web browser and doesn't require any additional software, as this reduces security risks and streamlines the installation procedure.

Bosch Rexroth now sells the Smart Flex Effector and Anybus Communicator together as a full solution because of its successful integration. With this combination, Bosch Rexroth's market reach has been significantly broadened as they can effortlessly connect to all main industrial Ethernet protocols. The company has expressed that they have yet to come across a robot whose interface isn't compatible with the Anybus converter.

Automated Port Operations

In another case study, an unnamed client selected the Anybus Communicator to facilitate data conversion and transmission between the Online Monitoring Station and port main control PLC systems. The client offers smart maintenance and operation solutions to support industrial production lines and heavy machinery across several industries. In this case, the client required the Anybus Communicator to enhance its quay crane intelligent monitoring system. The major barrier to improving port operations was the presence of a connection-limiting 485-communication interface and differing main control PLC systems based on location and port users.

Serving as important hubs for both local and international logistics, port terminals and machinery are essential to the nation's infrastructure and economic activity. Harsh working conditions can cause critical equipment, such as automated stacking systems and container cranes, to underperform, which increases the risk of failures that could disrupt operations and have a severe economic impact.

Several quay cranes lined up at a port. Precise sensing and accurate monitoring are critical to avoiding accidents and maximizing efficiency. Image used courtesy of harlequin9

Creating a robust predictive maintenance system is crucial to averting such disruptions. Such a system tracks port machinery operation and status, including vibration and temperature. Protocol conversion gateways such as Anybus improve performance and data security by facilitating seamless transfer of information and device integration. These gateways are essential to the smooth operation of ports, which in turn relies on proper functioning equipment and overall efficiency.