Festo Brings to Assembly 2021 Automation Solutions that Enable Faster, Nimbler Production and Predictive Analytics

Summary

Oct. 26, 2021 - Festo showcases at Assembly 2021 automation solutions that shorten time to market, lower engineering overhead, and enable predictive analytics.

A must see at the Festo booth is the company’s Ethernet-based CPX-AP-I decentralized I/O. OEMs, integrators, and end users can network up to 500 I/O modules on a single bus node and mix and match both electrics and pneumatics on the same I/O network for greater flexibility and opportunity for developing unique solutions. A free online configuration tool speeds design while plug-and-play performance reduces wiring and shortens installation time.

CPX-AP-I comes standard with IO-Link functionality facilitating cloud-based predictive analytics. This I/O system features machine mountable IP65/IP67 rated modules, which eliminates the time, expense, and footprint of control panels in a host of applications. A maximum distance of 50 meters between modules makes CPX-AP-I ideal for large scale systems.

Festo also features the Simplified Motion Series (SMS) of electric actuators. This new series combines the simplicity and cost effectiveness of pneumatics with the benefits of low energy consumption and precision positioning of electrics. SMS actuators now also deliver infinitely variable three-position motion for an economical all-in-one servo-motion solution. The SMS series includes ball screw, toothed belt, mini slide, electric cylinder, piston rod, and rotary actuator styles for an extensive range of applications. Setup for two or three positions is simple, allowing for fast startup and nimble changeover.

The Festo exhibit includes a range of electric actuators for multi-axis motion. Utilizing Handling Guide Online, a free online configuration tool, single or multiple-axes motion systems can be specified in less than 30 minutes. Configuration only requires plugging into the online tool basic operational parameters such as speed, load, and torque. There are no equations to work.

At the end of the session, Handling Guide Online users receive a quote for the system they just configured as well as 2D and 3D models. Having quotes and models immediately available means that internal design and manufacture can continue in the interval between placing the order and axes delivery for faster time to market. Furthermore, Festo electric axes can be specified for third party motors, which gives customers the freedom to choose the best actuator/motor combinations for their project. Axes can be ordered as easy to assemble kits or as ready to install subassemblies.

Another featured product is the YJKP servo press for electric press-fitting applications. Because it is offered in kit form, The YJKP requires less effort to integrate into a larger system compared to assembled presses. The capabilities and ease of setup of its software are important factors in the decision to purchase the YJKP.

Festo showcases the VTEM Motion Terminal, the world’s first intelligent valve terminal. The VTEM features the latest available downloadable apps. Because the downloadable apps are changed for new capabilities, not the hardware, a single motional terminal can replace up to 50 different hardware components. This gives OEMs, integrators, and end users the ability to lower inventory and to standardize on fewer components.

The issues of faster time to market and lower engineering costs will be discussed in a Learning Theater presentation on Tuesday, Oct. 27 from 11:45-12:15. Sandro Quintero, Electric Automation Business Development Manager, Festo, will describe how activities that harmonize pre-sales, design engineering, purchasing, controls engineering, and after sales functions can dramatically improve a company’s competitiveness.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.