Vacuum components with integrated intelligence

IO-Link is a point-to-point communications standard for automation technology. It permits integrated communication at all levels, from sensors and actuators through superordinated controllers (PLCs) and beyond to the control level. This interface transmits data about states, energy consumption, and processes.

Industrial Ethernet describes a series of protocols based on Ethernet as a communication medium. Industrial Ethernet systems such as PROFINET, EtherCAT and Ethernet/IP are designed for high real-time performance and robustness in order to satisfy the demands of industrial production.

Via NFC, data can be exchanged contactlessly over short distances. Two NFC-capable devices are connected via point-to-point contact, e.g. a mobile terminal device such as a smartphone and a Schmalz component. Process data is then displayed on the smartphone together with maintenance and service information. This interface can be used for parameterization of the component as well.