LonWorks module simplifies controls for ABB drives

ABB Automation has launched an adaptor module that allows its variable speed drives to be monitored and controlled remotely via Echelon`s LonWorks network. As well as allowing a drive`s speed or torque reference to be set remotely, the module can exploit the "intelligence" of the LonWorks technology to implement simpler, cheaper control networks.

For example, the module can receive and transmit parameter values to and from other LonWorks nodes, such as smart sensors. This would allow a Lonworks-based temperature transducer to send an air temperature measurement to the module which would then instruct the drive`s PID controller to raise the speed of ventilation fans until the temperature reaches the setpoint value. An installation of this sort avoids the need for a conventional central control system to interpret the signals from transducers and send command signals to the drive.

The ABB NLON-01 adaptor module can also serve as a remote station using a drive`s own analogue or digital I/O, saving the expense of additional I/O nodes.