Hilscher has set out to simplify the development of EtherCAT-based drives by adding support for the CiA 402 drive profile to its multiprotocol communication processor, the netX 90. This strategy aims to reduce development time and implementation burdens for industrial equipment manufacturers by enabling communication and motion control to be handled on a single chip.

Hilscher announced on March 17 that it has expanded the support range of the netX 90 by adding the CiA 402 drive profile for EtherCAT networks. By including EtherCAT-based drive control in addition to the previously supported PROFIdrive, the company has broadened its motion control portfolio.

CiA 402 is a standard profile that defines a common interface and control structure for drives and motors. Applying it enables the implementation of standardized motion modes in an EtherCAT environment and makes it easier to interconnect equipment from different manufacturers within the same control system. Hilscher believes that this allows device manufacturers to add drive functionality without significantly redesigning existing products.

A key feature of the netX 90 is that it combines industrial real-time communication and motor control into a single SoC. This chip is designed to reduce the need for separate control configurations by including field-oriented control functions for PMSMs and BLDC motors along with communication capabilities. Consequently, it is explained that this allows for the simultaneous pursuit of miniaturization, cost reduction, and shortened development time.

In addition, the netX 90 supports PROFIdrive AC1 and AC4 for PROFINET as well as EtherCAT. From a manufacturer's perspective, this allows for support of various network and motion specifications based on a common hardware and software platform, thereby simplifying product strategies for each market. The ability to reduce dependence on specific vendors and ensure interoperability is also cited as a reason for the introduction of standard profiles.

Application areas presented include high-rise warehouses, conveyors, sorting systems, fans, pumps, and compressors, as well as multi-axis systems for robots. Hilscher plans to support initial verification and the commencement of development by providing the netMOTION evaluation board, development tools, and example software. As network compatibility and development speed become increasingly important in the industrial automation market, Hilscher intends to meet the demand for drive development with a single-chip integrated platform.