Festo Motion Terminal
Redefining pneumatic automation technology
In the world of manufacturing industry there is a lot of talk about digitalisation and Industry 4.0. Meanwhile, the changes are already clearly noticeable in our daily lives. We are increasingly seeing personalised or customized consumer products, and it is proving relatively easy to get the network from production, through the right logistics channels, all the way to the end consumer.
Thanks to digitalisation, proven and easily deployable technologies are also becoming simpler, more versatile and more flexible in use. The Festo Motion Terminal is an example of how digitisation can revolutionise proven automation technologies. The Motion Terminal has a strict separation between hardware and functionality. This gives an enormous range of advantages when automating, during all phases of the life cycle of a production facility.
We all know the smartphone as an example, where individual functions can be assigned to the same hardware platform by installing apps. This, for example, completely disconnects the hardware from the final function. This is also how it works for the Motion Terminal, the automation function is decoupled from the hardware and assigned to it as desired. Different functions can be implemented on one hardware platform with the help of motion apps. Therefore, only one type of hardware needs to be kept in stock.
Here are a few advantages:
- Increased energy efficiency
- Reduced complexity in engineering, operation and maintenance
- Shorter time to market
- Lower maintenance costs
- Self-adjusting functions during operation
The Motion Terminal also offers qualitative advantages:
- Protection of the intellectual property of the OEM or end user
- Securing production facilities against manipulation and sabotage
- Condition monitoring
- Process transparency
The platform
Piezo technology, integrated pressure sensors, position sensors, together with control by motion apps offer completely new perspectives for machine builders. The integrated smart and self-learning sensors for control and analysis make additional components superfluous. The strict separation of the mechanical system, the electronic system and the software allows the assignment of more than 50 different functions, which are individually activated by means of apps. One hardware platform that can be used for many different functions not only means a huge reduction in engineering, procurement and inventory costs, but also much easier service and maintenance. In addition, flexible production and adjustments in the factory are much easier to realise: The hardware remains the same, but with the help of new apps, other functions can be assigned to it.
Motion app
Ten functions are available for the Festo Motion Terminal via motion apps. They range from basic modification functions of speed control valves to energy-efficient motion and from proportional behaviour to leakage diagnosis. This means that machine builders can now design and build a basic machine and even factory. The basic functions can be expanded in a second phase with other and additional functions by selecting and installing apps that suit the specific applications or needs. Festo is also continuously expanding the range of apps, partly based on discussions with end users. It will even be possible to deliver application-specific customised apps in the future. 
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