Motion library gets an extension

The PLCopen organisation has published an almost-complete version of extensions to its library of motion control function blocks, which it released in 2001. It has also published user guidelines for the library, which includes function blocks for single-axis control and co-ordinated multi-axis control.

The new extensions - part 2 of the standard - are known as "Version 0.99, release for comments". PLCopen wants users and suppliers who have not participated in drawing up the extensions to provide feedback, which will be incorporated in the final version.

• PLCopen has changed its tagline to "efficiency in automation" to reflect the changes in its activities since it was formed ten years ago to promote openness in PLC programming. It now covers fields such as safety, XML and motion control.