Converting from a Toolbox

15 February 2008



Siemens claims its Converting Toolbox simplifies applications for web processing and gives machine designers greater flexibility


The Converting Toolbox from Siemens is said to offer precise drive functions in a single package - suited for all converting applications and completely scalable. The individual functions take the form of blocks and can be used directly in the user program. Sample applications demonstrate how the necessary technological function can be implemented efficiently and effectively with a single module such as a rotary knife with print mark correction or a dancer controlled winder with individual winding hardness characteristics.

These sample applications are ready to use after only minor modifications and are already equipped with some basic HMI functionality. The machine function can therefore be remotely tested and optimized within a short time. The relevant code of the sample application is then transferred to the project by copy and paste.

The Simotion motion control system is said to be ideally suited as a system platform for the Converting Toolbox. Applications can be operated directly on an intelligent drive - compactly and without the need for an additional PLC. Controller based topologies and PC controlled automation are also available. With the current Masterdrives products, all Converting Toolbox function components can be used on all Simotion hardware platforms.

Engineering, programming, commissioning and documentation is said to be greatly reduced through the use of these standardized systems. A company using the Converting Toolbox can reduce the time to market considerably, says Siemens.

In more than 80 per cent of all cases, the required functionality of a converting line can be covered by one or more of the Converting Toolbox components.

The function blocks also do more than their name implies. The 'rotary knife', for example, can be used equally well for rotational perforation, punching and embossing. In rare cases, the functionality of a component will need to be modified, extended or changed. Here, since the source code is completely open, the Converting Toolbox functions are said to provide a wide and solid basis with which even special functions can be implemented efficiently and smoothly.

Because Siemens automation systems are open, machine designer and operator independence is said to be ensured from the

in-house diagnosis through to modifications, extensions and adaptations. The owner of a machine that has been automated using the Toolbox also enjoys the integrated diagnostics, maintenance and service functions typical of Totally Integrated Automation. Tele-maintenance through networks - and worldwide support - are also basic properties of this system. In addition, rapid global Siemens service team response is said to ensure continuous high level availability and productivity, while minimizing spare part stocks.

The winder application covers all the usual closed loop control types. It is freely selectable from the following parameterizable modes: closed loop dancer roll control with speed correction, closed loop tension control with torque limiting, closed loop tension control with speed correction and open loop torque control.

The splice control application includes all modules needed to implement an automatic roll change at full web speed. Separate hardware is unnecessary: if required, a closed loop register control can be superimposed. The rotary motion of the roll changing mechanisms can be optionally controlled from the application itself.

Depending on the tool used, this software application can be used to implement procedures such as drilling and embossing. Highlights include synchronizing at a precise position, cutting at print marks, cutting to length and immediate cutting, as well as generating a gap.

According to Siemens, the traversing drive functions are easily integrated into existing winder applications. All relevant data needed for traversing is entered through an appropriate interface already provided on board. All traversing arm data can be changed in operation. Motion algorithms and synchronous commands are calculated in the application. Homing, jogging and free positioning can also be entered independently of one another using axis commands.


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