Linux-based real-time control – now also available as a virtual PLC for integrating a virtualised engineering system.

December 2024 – Working on the basis of TwinCAT for Linux®, Beckhoff is opening up more application possibilities that enable resource-efficient, virtualised distribution of TwinCAT applications. Both the TwinCAT PLC runtime and TwinCAT functions in the form of containers can be operated not only locally on the controller, but also in a data center. Communication with decentralised I/Os can take place via the EK1000 EtherCAT Coupler in this case.

Not only does TwinCAT for Linux® allow the TwinCAT automation software to be executed on the basis of the Linux® operating system, but it also enables TwinCAT to be distributed and operated in the form of containers. Thanks to the modular structure of TwinCAT, the individual TwinCAT applications can also be distributed across several containers. ADS-over-MQTT technology, which has been established on the market for many years and is familiar to users, is available for cross-network communication and can also be used for integrating a virtualised engineering system.

This implementation of a virtual PLC means that the application options can be extended to the local data center as well, allowing certain control or simulation and test tasks to be outsourced from the machine or its control PC. This operating mode holds particular appeal for applications with lower real-time requirements. Communication with the decentralised I/Os can take place via the EK1000 EtherCAT Coupler, which supports the integration of the I/Os via a switched and routed IP network. This simplifies the distribution of various TwinCAT applications and enables the central integration of I/Os located at different points in the company via the IT system.

The advantages of virtual control technology with TwinCAT and Beckhoff hardware:

– increased flexibility: virtual control systems can be easily scaled and adapted to different requirements

– lower costs: there is less need for physical hardware in the field, reducing the associated costs, and

– simplified maintenance: maintenance and software upgrades are easier to carry out as no physical hardware is affected. 

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