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Packaging/Material handling

Bus-box kit simplifies

pneumatics control
System brings DeviceNet capability to
stand-alone in-line valves
and vacuum
generators.

anufacturers of packaging and

handling machinery are turning to fieldbus networks to
simplify designs and add functionality. A recently introduced Valve Bus Box offers control of standalone, in-line pneumatic valves and vacuum
generators using DeviceNet protocol, which
is growing in popularity in conveyor, handling, and packaging applications.
The system is from Festo Corp., Hauppauge, N.Y., which previously offered products in the mid to upper range of DeviceNet
compatible pneumatics. Festos introduction of the Valve Bus Box (VBB) adds a diverse group of low-cost solutions for singleunit DeviceNet-controlled pneumatics
where applications require directional
valves and/or vacuum generators.
The VBB kit includes a universal electronic module packaged to mechanically attach to a wide array of Festo CPE, Midi,
and Tiger 2000, 5/2 and 5/3 single and double-acting valves, and various configurations of vacuum generators. Assembly involves mounting the electronics module to
one side of the pneumatic component using
DIN rail technology with standard, supplied hardware.
The bus box represents a breakthrough
in pneumatics, since it marks the first time
that a single vacuum generator, under the

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MACHINE DESIGN

control of a DeviceNet protocol, has been

commercially available. The kit design provides flexibility when integrating the companys DeviceNet-compatible electronics
with standard valves and vacuum devices,
forming a compact and space-efficient single assembly.
Another advantage is that the modular
design permits isolation of the pneumatic
section (including solenoids) from the controlling electronics, thus making replacement of either fast, easy, and cost effective.
All electrical connections are made with
IP-65 compatible plugs and connectors, and
the VBB units are completely hardware
configurable. No software is required.
The VBB is CE compliant and meets
DeviceNet Specification (Version 2.0). The
inputs and outputs (type pnp) are optically
isolated for protection from overcurrent and
short circuit. The output is designed with
an electronic fuse (1.5-A trigger after
350 msec) which resets automatically when
a fault condition is removed. Supply voltage
is 24 Vdc, and the normal operating temperature range is 5 to 50C.
The Valve Bus Box is currently operating
in air-conveyor systems and pharmaceutical applications.
Information for this story provided by Festo
Corp., Hauppauge, N.Y.
FEBRUARY 8, 2001

www.machinedesign.com

The Valve Bus

Box is the first
commercially
available system
that permits
DeviceNet
control of a
single vacuum
generator.