Configurable small controller PNOZmulti 2 from Pilz now with FSoE (= FailSafe over EtherCAT) connection - Safe data transfer combined with flexible architectures

For efficient production, it should be possible to seamlessly integrate safety concepts into machine concepts. That is why the configurable safe small controller PNOZmulti 2 from Pilz supports the open communication system EtherCAT in combination with the safe protocol Safety-over-EtherCAT FSoE (= FailSafe over EtherCAT). As a result, PNOZmulti 2 enables the transfer of both control and safety-related information, thereby achieving efficiency in production. So PNOZmulti 2 now offers flexible, economical expansion options when connecting safety-related plant structures.

Safety-over-EtherCAT for EtherCAT communication: From Version 11.3 of the software tool PNOZmulti Configurator, the safe small controller PNOZmulti 2 can easily be configured as FSoE Master, FSoE Slave and also EtherCAT-Slave. Up to four Master-Master and up to 60 Master-Slave connections are possible with the EtherCAT FSoE communication module, in conjunction with the base unit PNOZ m B1. This way it is simple to implement and expand flexible plant structures with a “one-cable solution” at fieldbus level. As a result, the certified safety system not only provides a high degree of safety but also efficiency for plant and machinery.

Radar and drive masterfully intertwined
With PNOZmulti 2 as FSoE Master, it is easy to implement safety-related networking with the safe radar sensor PSENradar from Pilz and safe drive technology PMC (Pilz Motion Control) – both with FSoE functionality. The “one-cable solution” is also used here to incorporate FSoE-capable actuators and sensors flexibly into the network. As FSoE Master, PNOZmulti 2 combines monitoring of all of an application’s safety functions in one device – from E-STOP and safety gate to light curtains – and establishes connections to safe Slaves in the network. This minimises the wiring effort and saves costs. Comprehensive diagnostic options also ensure minimal downtimes, making production economical.

The protocol Safety-over-EtherCAT (FSoE) was defined in order to implement safe data transfer for EtherCAT. FSoE enables the transfer of safety and non-safety-related information in the EtherCAT communication system. As a result, in accordance with IEC 61508, FSoE is suitable for safety applications up to SIL 3.

More information about the products is available at: www.pilz.com/com