„SCS open link“ is the name of a new, non-proprietary motor feedback interface for powerful bidirectional data exchange between servo drives and motors. It was initiated in a joint initiative by the encoder manufacturers Baumer, Kübler and Hengstler. The aim is to create a network of certified providers of „SCS open link“ solutions. Developers of packaging machines can also benefit from this.
With the new, open, non-proprietary standard „SCS open link“ want the Rotary encoder-Manufacturer Baumer, Kübler and Hengstler drive manufacturers and machine builders more flexibility in the selection of suitable encoders. Described as an open, secure one-cable solution, the system is optimised for high-performance, bidirectional data exchange between servo drives and motors. The new standard is future-proof for applications in the „Internet of things“ (IoT) and meets modern requirements for Functional safety, emphasised the initiators of „SCS open link“ at a joint press conference in October 2017.
„SCS open link“ is designed as an open network of sensor manufacturers who are working on a standardised, high-performance sensor system. Motor feedback interface are interested in. The interface is implemented simply via a Microcontroller. Manufacturers can have their products certified in accordance with the open standard. All the necessary information is provided on a joint website. Karsten Just, Managing Director of Sales and Marketing at the Baumer Group, emphasises that the three initiating companies are aiming for more product diversity on the market: „The range of ‚SCS open link‘-capable Sensors and market development is driven forward separately by each individual member.“
The abbreviation „SCS“ stands for „Single Cable Solution“. The single-cable solution for motor feedback systems exchanges data bidirectionally on two wires between the rotary or linear motor feedback encoder and the drive controller. Four-wire solutions can also be implemented. Previous solutions required several cables for the same task. The new interface enables cable lengths of up to 100 metres, transmission rates of up to 10 MBaud and controller cycles of up to 32 kilohertz. With „SCS open link“, applications up to safety level „SiL3/PLe“ can be realised. Condition monitoring applications and the integration of additional sensors are also possible. The interface is non-proprietary. Compliance with the standard is certified by the network.
http://www.scs-open-link.org[/infotext]
Baumer, Hengstler and Kübler are convinced that the use of encoders according to the „SCS open link“ standard is worthwhile. For Encoder-In future, only one type of cable will need to be used for all applications, making the connection simpler and correspondingly cheaper. Space will also be saved in the machines because the second Motor feedback cable as well as the Connector plug would be saved for the motor feedback encoder. Thanks to an extremely fast Data transmission SCS open link„ ensures extremely high resolution and accuracy in drive systems as well as smooth running and good concentricity properties.
Baumer, which, like the other companies involved, also offers specialised encoder solutions for Packaging machines is planning an in-house exhibition to present the new standard. Connector and cable manufacturers who have already joined the „SCS open link“ network will be represented at the event. These include the companies Helukabel, Igus, Lapp-Kabel, Phoenix Contact, SAB Bröckskes, Tecni-Kabel and TE connectivity.
