ESX CONTROL UNITS (SAFETY / NON SAFETY)
The ESX control device family includes robust and efficient safety and non-safety control units.
In addition to control units with flexible adaptation possibilities regarding the connector pins via expansion boards (e.g. ESX.3xl or ESX.3xm), compact control units with fixed pin assignments (e.g. ESX.4cs-gw, ESX.3cm or ESX.3cs) are available.
For the realization of safety applications, the control units are either equipped with a multicore processor (fourth generation) or with a second, additional processor (third generation). In both cases, different system voltages and the program sequence are internally monitored. If required, all outputs are switched off via a second shut-down method or the main controller is reset. Digital and analog feedback for almost all signal branches permits comprehensive diagnostics for the system including the inputs and outputs.
In order to separate safety and non-safety application sections, in fourth-generation control units one processor in the multicore processor is used purely for the safety application. In third-generation control units, a memory protection unit is provided for the separation of safety and non-safety (feedback-free) application sections.
The application software for the ESX control units can be highly efficiently created either in “C” or also acc. IEC61131 (using CODESYS or logi.CAD). In addition, depending on the control unit, Matlab support packages are available. In the programming interface, numerous convenient functions such as current controllers and ramp functions for outputs or frequency averaging for inputs are integrated. Various supplementary libraries, for example for CANopen, J1939 or error handling simplify the system integration.
CASE STUDIES
While we are proud of our products and solutions, it is through our customers’ applications that the power in the innovative technology is unleashed. Whether fully networked, highly automated, or operating fully autonomously, an effective mobile machine represents first class interdisciplinary engineering. Robust and safe integration into the system architecture of the machine and its work processes, while remaining convenient and user friendly, is the main focus. With thanks to our customers, here we would like to present a small selection of example applications.
STW USPs
We support our customers as a partner for the digitization and automation of mobile machines and the related work processes. Our comprehensive and highly interoperable STW modular system of high quality sensing, control and software products ensures a problem free integration in the final application.
As experts in all aspects of functional safety, we offer services in high level automation in the field of mobile machines, including autonomous functions and driving. Our STW ecosystem includes a comprehensive partner network of system integrators and distributors to ensure an optimal solution for every application, worldwide.