LED2WORK and IO-Link
IO-Link: Communication standard of the present and future
IO-Link is a manufacturer-independent communication technology for connecting sensors and actuators to higher-level controllers in automation.
IO-Link enables bidirectional communication between lower field level devices, namely sensors and actuators in automation, and higher-level control systems such as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC).
IO-Link was developed to compensate for the weaknesses of fieldbus installations or parallel installations for controlling sensors and actuators in automated systems.
What is the decisive advantage of IO-Link?
In short: IO-Link makes automation easier!
What is the decisive advantage of IO-Link?
In short: IO-Link makes automating easier!
Why?
Compared to previous automation solutions, the installation effort for sensors and actuators has become significantly easier.
Furthermore, the use of sensors and actuators with IO-Link offers improved diagnostic capabilities, easier parameterization, high flexibility, and - what is very good - the simple integration of devices from various manufacturers into a system.
LED2WORK sets the standard for LED luminaires for automation with IO-Link
Advantages of the IO-Link-capable LED lights from LED2WORK
Intelligent control and configuration
The integrated IO-Link circuit board enables intelligent control of the LED2WORK LED light. It is possible to adjust the brightness, light change from white light to signal colours, RGB colour change, flashing frequency and set other parameters.
Easy integration into automated systems or other installations
The configuration and control of lighting and signals are managed through the higher-level controller, which increases the flexibility and adaptability of the system. The system does not have to be an automated facility. Controls from machine tools or similar are also suitable, provided the IO-Link Master is compatible, i.e., speaks the same language.
Diagnostic capability
With extensive diagnostic capabilities, potential problems or failures can be diagnosed in real time, significantly easing maintenance and troubleshooting compared to conventional systems.
Parameter changes during operation
The IO-Link capability allows the parameters of LED2WORK's LED lights to be changed during operation, quickly adapting to changing requirements. Even the replacement of LED lights in an ongoing process is easily possible.
Reduced installation effort
LED2WORK IO-Link capable LED lights can be used with standard connections and wiring systems, reducing the wiring effort. The minimum requirement is a simple, three-wire sensor cable. Bidirectional communication occurs over the same line that also provides power supply.
High flexibility and scalability
LED2WORK IO-Link capable LED lights offer high flexibility and scalability of the system. The number of connected lights can be easily reduced or expanded without the need for major changes to the wiring or configuration.
Energy efficient
LED2WORK LED lights are already very energy-efficient by design. By precisely controlling the IO-Link capable LED lights, efficiency can be further increased, as brightness and operational state can be adjusted according to needs.
The integration of LED2WORK IO-Link-capable LED lights is a smart, flexible, and efficient solution for lighting and signaling in automated environments.
What is needed for the clean installation of IO-Link capable LED lights?
To perform an installation and operate our LED lights with IO-Link, at least the following components are needed:
LED light with IO-Link:
Referred to are LED lights such as the TUBELED_25 RGB-W IO-Link and upcoming LED lights from LED2WORK that support the IO-Link communication standard.
When the LED light is integrated into an IO-Link installation, it becomes an actuator (translated: agent). The LED light can then transmit various parameters via the IO-Link protocol and, in return, execute commands from the controller.
IO-Link master:
The IO-Link Master is the interface between the IO-Link capable LED light and the higher-level controller.
The IO-Link Master acts as a kind of interpreter, translating and facilitating communication between the connected LED light on one side and the controller on the other.
IO-Link Masters have one or more ports for IO-Link Devices. If the number of ports is insufficient, an IO-Link Hub can be added to provide additional ports.
Connection cable:
To connect the IO-Link capable LED light with the IO-Link Master, connection cables are required. The cables and fitted connectors must meet the requirements for transmitting digital signals and power.
For connecting the IO-Link capable LED light to the IO-Link Master, the minimum standard is a three-pole sensor cable, which should not be longer than 20 m per connected device as a guideline.
The connection from the IO-Link Master to the controller, however, must be adapted to the specific conditions to enable clean communication over a fieldbus, TCP/IP, or another communication protocol specified by the controller.
Power supply:
Both the IO-Link capable LED light and the IO-Link Master require power.
Typically, the IO-Link Master is connected to the standard supply voltage of 24 V DC used in industrial automation. The LED light is then powered by the IO-Link Master.
control system:
To process the information from IO-Link devices and perform control tasks, a higher-level controller, such as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) or a Distributed Control System (DCS), is required. It is also possible to parameterize the connected IO-Link devices here.
Configuration tool:
To configure the IO-Link Master at the control level and to parameterize the connected LED light, an IO-Link configuration tool is required.
This tool can be hardware- or software-based and is usually included with the IO-Link Master.
Newer controls that are already designated as IO-Link capable may provide integrated configuration tools for IO-Link applications.
Infrastructure:
For safe installation, both the LED light and the IO-Link Master require a suitable infrastructure such as cable trays and mounting devices.
“He who understands but does not act, has not understood.” Wang Yangming