Sensor device manufacturer Pepperl+Fuchs has launched a new push button box, which it claims can be easily connected to IO-Link networks via an M12 connector without the need for complex wiring.
As well as data storage during configuration, IO-Link enables the transmission of diagnostic data for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance. The communication standard therefore ensures increased plant availability.
An IO-Link system comprises the IO-Link master and one or more IO-Link devices, and is used within industrial automation to enable communication with sensors and actuators. It provides point-to-point communication between a master device, such as a PLC or controller, and individual sensors or actuators.
IO-Link systems are often deployed to enable greater flexibility and intelligence within automated industrial processes.
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In this context, push button boxes are used for controlling machinery or equipment and are often found in industrial settings to help operators manage systems with multiple components or aspects.
Generally, they are designed to provide a straightforward interface for performing specific actions or signalling different modes of a piece of machinery.
Other benefits of the new box, as highlighted by the manufacturer, include the fact that the IO-Link allows users to flexibly configure numerous colours, night and flashing modes.
This, it has said, includes five standard colours and three additional freely selectable colours from the RGB space are available for illuminating the push buttons.
What’s more, four different flashing modes, as well as the night mode with adjustable brightness levels, are also available.
Users can likewise configure the push buttons to suit ‘any application’ and set symbols such as arrows, according to Pepperl+Fuchs.
In addition to this, the push button box was developed to provide clear visibility of the buttons, with its compact housing design of 123.2 x 40 x 35.6mm intended to support simple integration directly onto the machine.
Pepperl+Fuchs will be exhibiting at Stand 750 at Robotics & Automation Exhibition 2024. The latest developments in robotics and automated technologies will be on show at this event, which will be held on 19-20 March 2024 at the NEC Birmingham. Register now to attend the UK’s biggest exhibition dedicated to robotics and automation!
