What is IO-Link?

Many contemporary sensors and actuators are already integrated with microprocessors, enabling them to perform tasks such as parameterization, configuration data storage, and indication control. However, there is a growing need to move beyond the limitations of traditional binary standard interfaces and provide a means to centrally access additional functions within the automation system.

Technology

IO-Link operates on a point-to-point connection model, connecting sensors or actuators directly to an interface module. Historically, this binary connection was primarily used for transmitting simple switching information. However, IO-Link has advanced this capability by introducing a combined switching status and data channel that can transfer two bytes of data in a 2 ms cycle. This expanded functionality now enables the exchange of various types of information beyond just process values. Parameters and diagnostic messages, for instance, can also be communicated. This enhancement allows for universal communication with sensors and actuators, extending the reach of communication down to the very last meter of the automation system.

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Integration in Profinet systems

Until recently, the integration of IO-Link devices into Profinet projects posed challenges for users. They often had to manually input device properties like device class or manufacturer ID, and parameters such as measuring ranges and output signals required additional programming or configuration using separate software tools.

Amissiontech?has introduced a solution to streamline this process with a new feature called SIDI (Simple IO-Link Device Integration). SIDI allows IO-Link devices to be seamlessly integrated directly into Profinet engineering software, such as the TIA Portal. In this approach, IO-Link devices are treated as Profinet submodules within the GSDML (Generic Station Description Markup Language) of the IO-Link masters. Amissiontech?has made this integration even more accessible by including all of its proprietary IO-Link devices, as well as devices from its strategic partner for optical sensors.

When the connected device is listed in the SIDI GSDML, PLC programmers gain the convenience of selecting it directly from the device catalog within their programming environment. This selection grants them access to a comprehensive overview of all pertinent IO-Link properties associated with these devices. Moreover, they have the ability to modify parameters like measuring ranges, output signals, or pulse rates using a straightforward plain text field. This streamlined process facilitates offline engineering with IO-Link devices, allowing for efficient configuration even when not connected to the physical equipment.

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What’s the advantages of IO link from Amissiontech:

1/Exact, interference-proof ?

Traditional sensors typically undergo multiple conversions into both digital and analog data before the final evaluation within the PLC, which can lead to a loss of precision in the measured values. In contrast, IO-Link transmits data exclusively in a purely digital format using a 24 V signal, ensuring that the data remains conversion-free and preserves the exactness of the measured values.

Furthermore, signal transmission remains highly resilient to external influences, eliminating the need for shielded cables and associated grounding, as data can now be transmitted through industry-standard cables. Additionally, the adoption of this new technology renders costly analogue input cards obsolete.

Amissiontech's hygienic pressure sensors now offer continuous level detection in pressure tanks. Previously, inaccuracies were introduced due to conversion losses and electromagnetic interference during the analogue signal transmission of the level. With IO-Link's purely digital transmission of measured values, the controller now receives the precise, unaltered measurements, resolving these issues.

2/Independent

Through the utilization of IO-Link masters, the seamless integration of IO-Link devices becomes achievable within a wide spectrum of fieldbus and control system infrastructures, extending compatibility to interfaces like PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, or AS-i, among others. The programming process is made more straightforward through the incorporation of function blocks within the PLC.

IO-Link, conceived as an open standard, has evolved continuously through collaborative efforts by prominent manufacturers in the automation industry. Furthermore, it enables the connection of actuators like valve terminals to IO-Link masters. The outcome is a notably more adaptable and streamlined plant infrastructure.

?3/Integrated

In applications like cooling circuits, it's common to monitor multiple process variables to ensure precise process control. Typically, a traditional measuring point involves the use of multiple sensors, each responsible for detecting specific parameters such as flow rate, total quantity, and temperature. However, IO-Link sensors are capable of measuring and digitally transmitting multiple process values within a single unit. For instance, an IO-Link flow sensor can accurately capture all three of these values and transmit them digitally using a standard 3-wire cable. This streamlined approach substantially cuts down on costs related to configuration, installation, and the inventory of spare sensors.

?4/Remotenbsp;

IO-Link device parameters can be conveniently modified using dedicated parameter setting software like moneo configure. This capability facilitates swift adjustments and minimizes downtime in industrial processes. IO-Link sensors offer the option to be locked either using the sensor's operating keys or remotely through the software. This locking feature ensures that parameter changes cannot be altered without access to the software, preventing inadvertent or deliberate adjustments to the sensor's settings. Additionally, the moneo configure software enables users to save device configurations and generate detailed setting protocols for documentation and reference purposes.

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5/Monitoring / diagnostics

IO-Link enables the concurrent transmission of both process and service data. This includes the retrieval of diagnostic information, such as minimum and maximum values, or the detection of issues like wire breaks or short circuits. These acyclically accessible diagnostic data provide the foundation for condition-based maintenance practices, ultimately leading to increased operational uptime. Crucially, this diagnostic data remains accessible even during system operation.

For example, in a cooling circuit, the precise monitoring of flow rates is accomplished using magnetic-inductive inline volumetric flow sensors from the SM series. In the event of an error, the master device communicates the diagnostic data to the controller, allowing for the unequivocal identification of the malfunctioning sensor. This streamlined process enhances system reliability and simplifies maintenance procedures.

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