ZPA and AS-Interface: A smart solution for controlled material flow
ZPA – pre-programmed, freely parameterizable
Achieve strictly defined distances between the conveyed unit loads with ZPA (Zero Pressure Accumulation). Thanks to a controlled material flow you can thus prevent unintentional collisions. ZPA is also energy-efficient because energy is only consumed when conveyed goods are actually being transported in the system.
Our pre-programmed ZPA solution allows you to implement zero pressure accumulation easily and cost-effectively. You benefit from autonomous and control-independent material handling. This is because there is no longer any need for centralized wiring and programming with the PLC. Other advantages include convenient, software-assisted configuration and detailed, fieldbus-independent diagnostic options.
Moreover, ZPA is compatible with all Bihl+Wiedemann ASi drive solutions – and thus with drive systems from a wide range of manufacturers.
ZPA (Zero Pressure Accumulation) witht Bihl+Wiedemann – Connection to almost all PLCs
Bihl+Wiedemann’s ZPA solution works independently of the control and drive solutions used in the system.
Via PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, EtherCAT or POWERLINK, the ZPA solution can be connected to almost all common PLCs. All diagnostic information via ZPA is available for the PLC. Likewise, commands such as start/stop, change of directionof rotation or a global adjustment of the speed can be transmitted to the conveyor line. Switching, infeed/outfeed, barcode scanner as well as all specialties are solved with the help of the controllers on the same ASi circuit.
Individual commissioning with PC Software
You can easily implement our ZPA solution (BWU4921) with the Bihl+Wiedemann Software Suite (ASIMON360 and ASi Control Tools360) in three steps:
1. Select hardware
ZPA-Controller (Gateway), drive modules, additional I/O modules
2. Assign parameters using the user-friendly graphical interface
Individually adjustable parameters such as speed, ramps, conveying direction, deceleration times and sensor settings; additional functions such as block removal can be activated.
3. Import and start
ZPA configuration for all hardware can be imported via a single button; Live view provides diagnostic information for the running system.
What is Zero Pressure Accumulation (ZPA)
Accumulation management is implemented within defined zones of the conveyor line that communicate with each other. In this process, a conveyed good is held back within a zone until the following section of the line is identified as being “free” by the logic. If the conveyed good accumulates, a signal is sent to the upstream zone, causing the material to be held back.
Zero Pressure Accumulation…
- coordinates the flow of conveyed objects between infeed and discharge points including accumulation sections and buffer zones
- guarantees that there are no “expensive” collisions or pressure on individual conveyed goods
- is energy-efficient, as drives can be temporarily switched off in conveyor lines and accumulation sections of the conveyor where there are no conveyed goods.
- ensures the highest possible and uniform utilization of conveyor lines and stations
- enables targeted accumulation of objects in the event of a temporary system fault
- ensures easier handling by creating gaps between objects
