April 2020

n TECHNOLOGY April 2020 www.drivesncontrols.com 24 SIEMENSHAS announced a“paradigm-shifting” new version of its Logo! logic module that connects directly to the cloud, opening up a range of new control and monitoring possibilities – such as energy management and predictive maintenance – and simplifying networking. The new version (8.3) was due to be launched at this month’s Hannover Fair, and is planned to be available in late 2020. Siemens launched its first Logo! modules in 1996 to perform limited switching and control tasks in control cabinets, machines and buildings. They were intended to save space and take on the duties of devices such as time- delay switches, time relays, counters and auxiliary relays. Since then, the range of functions has been expanded continuously, and performance improved. Whereas the first-generation modules had a 30-block memory limit, the latest versions support more than 400 blocks as well as handling Ethernet communications via up to 16 connections. They also offer extended functions such as PI (proportional integral) control and data-logging. But all previous versions the Logo! have had to be interrupted to acquire or handle their data. Now, with real-time access in the cloud, it will be possible to access all of their data while they are operating. The Logo! Soft Comfort engineering software is being updated to activate and configure the new cloud connections, using a guided set-up procedure to simplify the process. And a free Logo! Web editor will allow users to createWeb sites and dashboards in the cloud. They can also design automation projects and operate them from the cloud via a smartphone, tablet or PC. TheWeb server can be hosted in the cloud, allowing automation systems to be controlled and visualised remotely, regardless of their location. Initially, Logo! 8.3 will support AmazonWeb Services (AWS) connections to the cloud. There are plans to support other services including Siemens’MindSphere open IoT operating system, and Alibaba. Multiple interfacing options, such as Modbus TCP/IP, Konnex bus (KNX) and Ethernet, will allow the modules to be used as cloud gateways for existing systems. If, for example, memory space in a controller is limited, it will be possible to export data to the cloud. In this way, all of the data from smaller automation projects will be available in the cloud for further processing and analysis, resulting in new possibilities, such as recording and evaluating energy data, carrying out predictive maintenance, or implementing flexible service concepts. Links between the Logo! modules and the cloud will be encrypted using the TLS protocol, allowing data to be transferred securely in both directions – and supporting both reading and writing. www.siemens.com/logo Cloud-connected logic module is ‘a paradigm shifter’ BY REDESIGNING the internal layout of its micro planetary gearheads, maxon motor says it has boosted their efficiencies by around 30%, as well as increasing their torque outputs, improving their feedback, and extending their service lives by up to 11 times compared to some rivals. Traditionally, planetary wheels run on plain bearings on the carrying axle. In maxon’s new GPX planetary gearheads, the wheels are located above ball or needle bearings, changing the type of friction involved from sliding to rolling. This means that with the three-stage GPX32 UP gearheads, for example, efficiencies of up to 90% are possible, compared to 70%with conventional miniature gearheads. For the same input power – using the same motor and control system – the new gearheads can deliver up to 30%more torque. Alternatively, to achieve the same output power requires 23% less input power. In applications driven by rechargeable batteries, for example, this will result in longer periods between charges. One consequence of reducing the required input power is that the drive motor can run at a more favourable operating point, improving its efficiency and that of the whole system. Alternatively, smaller and/or lighter motors and controls can be used, cutting weight and costs. The reduced friction in the planetary wheel-axle system results in less heat being generated. In applications such as medical power tools where temperatures need to be restricted, this can result in an increase in output power. The lower temperatures are also said to prolong lubricant lives and to reduce the risk of abrasion particles breaking down the lubricating action. Maxon claims that the GPX UP gearheads will achieve service lives five times longer than its traditional gearheads, and up to 11 times longer than some rivals. Alternatively, the improvements in the gearheads’torque-to-diameter ratios (power densities) can allow the use of much smaller and lighter gearheads. In force-feedback applications, the use of mounted planetary wheels makes smooth reverse rotation of the gearheads possible, and this can be used to provide feedback. The reversible gearheads allow changes to the torque on the output side to be conveyed proportionally through to the drive side. Customisable planetary gearheads using the new design are now available in GPX22 UP and GPX32 UP diameters. A GPX42 UP version will follow. Customisable gearheads in maxon’s Ultra Performance series are also available in diameters from 8–58mm. www.maxongroup.co.uk Siemens says that the cloud connections of its new logic modules represent a paradigm shift. n Revamped micro gearheads boost efficiencies by 30% and operating lives by 11 times