Connected Components Offering From Rockwell Automation Delivers a Simple, Affordable Control Solution for Machine Builders

Free program provides engineers with tools for more efficient machine design

MILWAUKEE.— Rockwell Automation has extended its control offering for machine builders with the launch of the Connected Components program, helping to meet today’s requirements for sophisticated control on stand-alone machines in an affordable, easier-to-implement solution.

Combining a simple, yet powerful controller with a full suite of compatible components and a dedicated set of class-leading application development tools, Connected Components from Rockwell Automation speed the time it takes for machine builders to identify the right control products needed for their specific applications.

“We recognize that machine builders are under pressure from their customers to reduce costs and shorten time to market. At the same time, they want to add sophistication to their machines,” said Paul Gieschen, marketing director for Components Products at Rockwell Automation. “Connected Components allows them to improve their machine design and performance, and spend less time engineering the control solution.”

The Connected Components program is built around a core of Allen-Bradley MicroLogix programmable logic controllers (PLCs), Allen-Bradley PowerFlex drives and the newly developed Allen-Bradley PanelView Component human-machine interface (HMI). The Connected Components Building Blocks make it quicker and easier to implement common control tasks as part of the machine design.

These Building Blocks include prewritten software code for the PLC that can be modified to help meet the precise needs of a given machine. Prewritten HMI programs also make setting up the operator interface easier, and preconfigured drive-parameter files can take the strain out of implementing speed-control tasks. The Building Blocks also help with product selection, panel layout and wiring diagrams written in CAD format, and generating a complete bill of materials for the project.

Complementing the controller, the Connected Components offering extends to a complete suite of Allen-Bradley starters, motors, pushbuttons, sensors, safety products, power supplies and other essential control components. Freed from the need to source different components from a number of companies to help meet their precise control requirements, machine builders can take advantage of a single-source supply of Allen-Bradley products from Rockwell Automation.

Rockwell Automation Inc. (NYSE: ROK) is a leading global provider of industrial automation power, control and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. The company brings together leading global brands in industrial automation that includes Allen-Bradley controls and services, and Rockwell Software factory management software. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., the company employs about 20,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.