Control Systems knowledge base
Answers to the questions machine builders and manufacturers ask us most often about PLC software, control panels and automation.
- Division
- Control Systems
- Location
- Oudewater
- Main platform
- CODESYS
- Remote access
- eWON and VPN
Featured
- PLC software in CODESYS and SiemensWhy CODESYS, how we build software and why we simulate first.
- Your machine talks to your business softwareImport orders automatically and send production data back to your records.
- Service and maintenanceMaintenance, modifications and remote support, for existing installations too.
PLC software
Why do you program in CODESYS?
CODESYS is a development environment based on the IEC 61131-3 standard that runs on hardware from many different manufacturers. This means you are not tied to a single brand: if a component is no longer available, you choose an alternative without reprogramming everything. Read why we choose CODESYS.
Do you also work with Siemens?
Yes. We program Siemens S7 PLCs in TIA Portal, LOGO! for smaller control systems and Siemens operator panels. If your machine runs on Schneider, Wago or Beckhoff TwinCAT, we build on that.
Can you test a control system before the machine is in place?
Yes. We simulate tricky parts in advance in Python or JavaScript, and CODESYS can run the software without a PLC. This lets us test sequences, alarms and exceptions at the office, so your machine is down for less time.
How do you keep the software maintainable?
Every station and every drive gets its own function block with fixed inputs, outputs and alarms. We reuse proven function blocks, and we manage the software with git, so every change can be traced.
Control panels and safety
Do you build the control panel yourselves?
Yes. We draw the electrical schematics in EPLAN and build switchgear and control panels in our own workshop in Oudewater, from one-offs to series. We supply the documentation with every installation.
To which standards do you build control panels?
We build our switchgear and control panels to NEN-EN-IEC 61439. For machines, we follow NEN-EN-IEC 60204-1, the standard for the electrical equipment of machines, and the connection to the installation is made in accordance with NEN 1010.
How do you handle machine safety?
With safety relays, safety switches and emergency stop circuits, from manufacturers including Euchner and Pilz. We also modify existing machines for CE compliance and machine safety.
Service and remote support
Can you provide remote support?
Yes. With eWON and VPN, we can look into the running software remotely. This often lets us handle a modification or fault without anyone having to visit you. With cameras along the line, we can also see into the hall.
Do you also modify installations from other suppliers?
Yes. We also modernise, maintain and extend installations that we did not build, and work with the platform that is already running.
Do you also carry out mechanical maintenance?
Yes. Because AVASTO also has its own metal workshop, we maintain your machine fleet both electrically and mechanically.
Data, integrations and electronics
Can my machine fetch orders from our ERP system?
Yes. Orders arrive as a file or via a database, and are checked and scheduled by the PLC. Production data such as quantities, times and faults goes back to your records per order. More about integrations.
Which standards do you use for integrations?
XML and CSV files, SQL and MySQL databases, OPC UA and MQTT. Where needed, we write a small piece of our own software in Python to sit in between. On the machine itself, we use fieldbuses such as Profinet, Modbus, CANopen and EtherCAT.
What can image recognition do in a production line?
Cameras along the line can detect situations automatically, such as a person in a zone, a skewed or missing board or a full stack. The PLC turns this into an alarm or a notification for the operator.
Do you also develop your own electronics?
Yes. If a standard component does not fit, we develop the circuit board ourselves: from design and prototype to series production. More about our in-house electronics.
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