Beckhoff’s MX-System revolutionizes control cabinets by replacing wiring with a baseplate for the automatic interconnection of electronic modules, including integrated pneumatic valves. This innovative concept simplifies control systems, enhances flexibility, and streamlines maintenance in industrial automation.
In a groundbreaking move, Beckhoff unveiled the MX-System in November 2021, a revolutionary concept aimed at eliminating control cabinets. This innovative approach replaces traditional control cabinet wiring with a versatile baseplate that enables the automatic interconnection of various electronic modules through standardized interfaces. Notably, the MX-System now integrates pneumatic valves from Festo and SMC with the help of two new modules, further expanding its capabilities.
The MX-System modules, housed in durable metal casings, offer a simple plug-and-screw mechanism for effortless assembly on the baseplate. This unique design creates a waterproof and dustproof housing unit, allowing direct utilization on machines or systems without additional protective enclosures. Currently, the MX-System provides comprehensive coverage of typical control cabinet activities, including reading electrical sensor signals, controlling various actuators and motors across power classes, generating multiple voltages, and facilitating power distribution. With the latest additions, Festo and SMC pneumatic valves can seamlessly integrate into the MX-System.
Beckhoff has introduced two socket modules, MO2414 for Festo and MO2424 for SMC, featuring the standard MX-System interface for the respective valve types. These modules enable convenient air supply connection for up to two Festo VUVG or SMC JSY3000 valves, which can be directly mounted on the modules. Furthermore, different valve variants such as 3/2-, 5/2-, or 5/3-way valves can be combined, providing flexibility and adaptability.
The MX-System socket module handles the valve air supply and control signals, while the outgoing hoses connect directly to the respective valves. The introduction of the MO2414 and MO2424 pneumatic modules signifies a significant expansion of the MX-System’s functional capabilities, solidifying its integrated approach to automating machines and plants. The notion of establishing the control cabinet as a distributed system and locating the control system for actuators and sensors in close proximity is now an available option for pneumatics as well.
This approach proves particularly advantageous for machine parts with only a few pneumatic functions, as the MX-System assembly offers a remarkably simple control solution. Moreover, the MX-System enables control of valve terminals with various interfaces, enhancing versatility. Additionally, the MX-System leverages simplified project planning and component reduction advantages for pneumatics, while eliminating the need for extra installation space on the machine to accommodate the valves.
Notably, the Beckhoff Service App, specifically developed for the MX-System, now minimizes maintenance efforts for pneumatics. Beckhoff’s MX-System is poised to revolutionize the control cabinet landscape, providing a holistic and streamlined solution for industrial automation. With its innovative design and expanded functionality, this groundbreaking concept presents significant advantages in terms of efficiency, flexibility, and maintenance, offering a glimpse into the future of control systems.
