After an initial discussion about the use of CAN and CANopen for the connection of customer specific devices, on the SPS/IPC/DRIVES trade fair, an appointment for a detailed consultation was agreed with the customer. At the second meeting, right after the fair, the basic parameters for a low-cost CANopen-compatible I/O module where defined and IXXAT was commissioned to make an estimation about the hardware and software development costs.
Key data:
- Intelligent I/O module with 32 bit microcontroller
- High-speed CAN with two parallel RJ45 connectors
- 6 inputs, 2 outputs, 24V, short circuit protection
Special requirements:
- Low power consumption, since the module has to be battery supplied during power outage
- Extremely price sensitive
- Very short time frame of only six weeks
Only a few days after reception of the order for the effort and cost estimation, IXXAT provided these data to the customer, which then directly ordered the actual specification as well as the development of the hardware and software.
Due to the short time frame, IXXAT started the development in parallel to the specification which had to be released by the customer.
Additional required features, like an integrated temperature measurement and the possibility to manually set the node ID, where integrated during the running development without any problems.
First prototypes of the modul, which, later were also be used without change for field tests in larger series, could be delivered to the customer already six weeks after reception of the order for the specification and development.
Through a very close contact with the customer and a trustfully cooperation as well as a highly motivated and experienced IXXAT development and production team, this project could be brought to a successful end.