Pilz has been working hard to convert its SafetyBUS p safety fieldbus to Ethernet technology, and the result is SafetyNET p, a combined system for safety-related, standard control and motion control applications. SafetyNET p has real-time capability, it is totally flexible it is open for integration with other networks and utilities such as Ethernet/IP and Profinet/IO.
With real-time capability, SafetyNET p satisfies even the highest requirements, such as those for controlling drives on multi-axis systems. A further benefit is that it is possible to scan the topology of the overall architecture, which makes it easier to identify the network structure and access status diagnostics on plant and machinery, as well as additional information relating to the communication links.
SafetyNET p provides flexible topologies and structures, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications. Another feature is the high level of decentralisation. Controller intelligence is transferred locally to field level, which increases performance and adds to the flexibility of the overall system. In other words, SafetyNET p meets the requirement for the decentralisation of control functions, while still retaining a centralised perspective.