With the FlexiMod, WEST Elektronik has created a simple concept for creating application-oriented solutions with standard modules.
Under the guiding principle of “parameterization instead of programming”, the W.E.St. Electronics Ltd. the introduction to the implementation of customer-specific functions based on a standard device series for which the script-based “FlexiMod” concept was developed. This supplements a fixed core of the control application and the hardware-related functions with a flexible shell that is extremely easy to use and requires hardly any programming knowledge.
This means that both old control solutions that are no longer available and new control and regulation functions can be implemented easily, quickly and individually.
In the basic configuration, all process and setpoint signals are read in and, depending on the version, output to the driver stage or analog outputs. The actual function for meaningful processing of the signals can be freely defined in the script. No programming knowledge or experience with common PLC programming languages is required. The script editor is clearly divided into rows and columns, whereby each row basically shows the result of an operation and the individual columns define the input signals of the operation. These are then processed cyclically line by line from top to bottom.
All logic operators, time functions and mathematical operators as well as some special functions are available to the script. This can be used, for example, to generate a simple sawtooth signal or to implement more complex tasks such as oscillating drives for cylinders.
The “WestScript” scripting environment is available as a free download and allows online and offline configuration. The integrated oscilloscope, in which signal curves of the various operations can be simulated during implementation in order to validate and, if necessary, adjust the desired behavior before commissioning, is very convenient.
The hardware architecture of the new series offers higher computing power so that the cycle time is no longer than 1 ms, even for script-based applications. It is platform-based and uses existing expansion modules, so that the derivatives with FlexiMod are also available from stock in various versions, e.g. with or without power output stage or network connections. Analog and digital inputs/outputs are available in the basic module, which can be used flexibly for process and setpoint signals via the configuration in the script, making additional controllers or I/O units superfluous in many cases.
Customized and individual with WEST Elektronik
Individual solutions are often ordered from component manufacturers or have to be laboriously programmed in a PLC. In both cases, the costs and time involved as well as the demands on the developers’ expertise are not insignificant and usually take months. In contrast, the time and effort involved in script development is reduced to days or a few weeks. The W.E.St. Elektronik offers the service of developing scripts according to customer-specific applications or providing support during development. It is also possible to obtain your own OEM version, which already has the individual configuration on board when delivered.
One solution for many hydraulic applications
Specific use cases or questions about the product?
Feel free to contact us! lars.benk@schuhmacher-tech.de or 07424-9495-663Lars Benk: Profile of a field-tested expert
Basic training: Tool mechanic, specializing in stamping and forming technology.
Further training: State-certified technician with a focus on mechanical engineering.
Additional qualification: Degree in technical business administration, combining technical know-how with business expertise.
Professional experience: More than a decade of active work in the field of hydraulics.
Specialization: Certified specialist in oil analysis (MLA II – Machine Lubrication Specialist), with a specific focus on the maintenance and optimization of machines through professional lubricant analysis. Certified specialist for hydraulic fluids – specialist knowledge for optimal hydraulic systems.