With the new b maXX softdrivePLC, Baumüller has made separate control hardware unnecessary for specific applications. By combining motion control and PLC functions in the controller, Baumüller has created a decentralized control architecture for programming in accordance with IEC 61131, which makes the design of distributed intelligence in the machine extremely simple. Without complicated tools for control programming, control tasks ranging from simple allocation of digital inputs to complex control algorithms can easily be performed locally in the controller by using the ProDrive parametrization tool.

The b maXX softdrivePLC runs as part of the firmware in the b maXX 5000, b maXX 3300 and the decentralized b maXX 2500 Baumüller drive concepts, and is suitable for single and double axis applications.

With softdrivePLC, programs run in the controller and are highly synchronized with the controller clock at cycle times of up to 125 µs. Simple, specialized filters can also be programmed, in addition to many other benefits:

• Cost savings due to elimination of control hardware
• Fieldbus communication between two axes is eliminated
• Easy implementation of master-slave functionality
• Multi-axis access to parameters is possible

Programming via ProDrive for basic version

Using softdrivePLC means you no longer need elaborate tools for control programming. Control tasks can easily be implemented locally in the controller via the ProDrive parametrization tool — from simple invoicing to highly complex control algorithms.

Integrated into ProMaster and programmable with PROPROG as an extended version

The extended version of softdrivePLC is fully integrated into the ProMaster Engineering Framework. There you will find all the applications required for the creation of the machine and system topology, the fieldbus and I/O configurators as well as applications such as the PROPROG 5 programming environment, the ProCAM cam editor and much more.