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Automotive technology provider Festo has added the first edge device, CEPE, to its range of AX Controllers. CEPE is a high-performance industrial PC and control unit designed for industrial motion and IoT applications. It uses the Festo AX operating system (OS), which is based on PLCnext technology from Phoenix Contact, and offers an open ecosystem for modular automation and easy programming.
CEPE is designed to control and automate assembly lines, machines, and production processes. Highly configurable, CEPE enables the programming and monitoring of production processes, including motion applications such as pick and place, palletizing, and servo presses. It can also support machine visualization and IoT data acquisition and analysis.
Festo AX Controls combines many software modules, such as the operating system, motion, visualization, high-level languages, and low-code development tools through to commissioning software, with a scalable hardware platform. The AX suite consists of the Festo AX OS, Festo AX Motion control software, Festo AX Machine Visualization software, and now the CEPE edge controller.
CEPE combines high processing power with a wide range of interfaces and software functions. It can gather and analyze local data, program its own applications, and install third-party applications via various app stores. The Linux-based operating system allows users to develop their own applications using familiar platforms like C++, C#, Python, or the IEC 61131 family.
Equipped as standard with an Intel i3 processor and a wide range of communication interfaces such as Profinet, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, OPC UA, and Festo's own AP network, the CEPE edge controller can be connected to different control architectures. Festo's entire electrical and pneumatic portfolio can also be seamlessly integrated using this device.
Festo AX OS is based on PLCnext technology from Phoenix Contact. Developed specifically for industrial environments, it enables real-time applications, programming with modern programming languages, and seamless cloud connectivity. The containerized runtime environment enables an open and modular software architecture and the integration of modern AI-based software, as well as robust cybersecurity, creating the basis for accessing, evaluating, archiving, and reusing valuable process data.
Festo AX Controls amplifies these benefits, enabling users to develop individual solutions and integrate existing systems to meet the requirements of various industrial applications. Development cycle efficiency can also be increased through the use of open-source software and apps, with no limits to future extensions.
Festo already provides a wide selection of apps, including CODESYS, multi-axis motion, Python, Node-RED, and the proprietary Festo AX Industrial Intelligence, an AI predictive maintenance tool. All these software apps and licenses will be available via the Festo online catalogue or for purchase via the PLCnext Store.
Find out more about Digital Transformation at the Industrial Edge and Industrial PCs.