Digitisation is transforming industrial automation. However, machine builders face a major challenge when different components, communication protocols, and control systems must work together.
Festo provides a flexible answer with the CPX-AP-I Remote I/O system. Designed as a decentralised IP65/67 I/O platform, it helps machine builders create scalable automation architectures without redesigning complete machines.
As a result, businesses can simplify connectivity, reduce hardware requirements, and prepare machinery for Industry 4.0.
What is Festo CPX-AP-I Remote I/O?
The Festo CPX-AP-I is a decentralised I/O system designed to connect valve terminals and electrical I/O modules directly in the field.
Therefore, machine builders can position automation components closer to where they are required. This can reduce cabling, tubing, installation time, and unnecessary complexity.
Moreover, CPX-AP-I supports integration with major PLC systems through commonly used industrial networks. IO-Link devices can also be incorporated, providing additional flexibility for sensors and other intelligent components.
Consequently, both pneumatic and electrical automation can form part of one integrated architecture.
The Advantages of Decentralised Automation
Traditional machines often use centralised control architectures. However, this can mean long cable runs and pneumatic tubing when actuators are located far from the control cabinet.
Festo CPX-AP-I enables a decentralised approach.
For example, proportional pressure regulators can be positioned much closer to pneumatic actuators. Consequently, shorter connections can improve response while reducing installation materials and costs.
This approach was demonstrated on a machine used to finish plastic sheet components. Eight proportional pressure regulators were originally installed in one central valve terminal.
However, four punching stations were located 10 to 12 metres away.
By switching to CPX-AP-I, the pressure regulators could be divided into two groups. Therefore, four regulators were positioned much closer to the remote punching stations.
The result was better control, reduced installation requirements, and hardware savings of around 5% across four machines.
Flexible and Scalable Remote I/O
Manufacturing requirements rarely remain static. Therefore, automation platforms must allow machinery to evolve without requiring extensive redesign.
CPX-AP-I provides a modular architecture that can be expanded as production requirements change. Functions and modules can be added or removed while retaining the core machine topology.
Furthermore, changing the higher-level bus system can require only a change to the bus interface. The underlying architecture and Bill of Materials can largely remain unchanged.
Up to 500 modules can also be connected using line, star, and tree topologies. As a result, machine builders gain considerable freedom when developing both compact and complex automation systems.
High-Speed Communication for Modern Machines
Digital automation also depends on fast communication.
CPX-AP-I provides communication speeds of up to 200 MBaud, with cycle times down to 250 microseconds. Consequently, machine builders can achieve rapid data exchange between connected automation components.
Separate communication and power cables also provide additional flexibility. For example, different voltage zones can be created when the application requires them.
Ready for Industry 4.0
The benefits of Remote I/O extend beyond machine control.
CPX-AP-I can provide access to valuable operating and diagnostic information. This can include temperature, voltage, operating hours, switching cycles, IO-Link events, and cable quality.
Therefore, manufacturers can use machine data to understand how their equipment is performing.
Furthermore, this information can support condition monitoring and more efficient maintenance planning. Over time, manufacturers can also use data to develop predictive maintenance strategies.
Build Future-Ready Machines with Festo
Festo CPX-AP-I provides machine builders with a practical route towards smarter and more connected automation.
By combining decentralised I/O, flexible architecture, high-speed communication, and Industry 4.0 capabilities, it simplifies the journey towards digitisation.
Most importantly, manufacturers do not need to redesign their entire automation architecture to benefit.
For machine builders seeking faster installation, reduced complexity, improved connectivity, and greater scalability, Festo CPX-AP-I Remote I/O provides a powerful foundation for the machines of the future.
We are your Festo partner!
Pneumatics & Sensors Ireland are official distributors in Ireland for all Festo products and components. We have in-depth knowledge of all Festo products and their applications, and can advise on any installation or replacement. To learn more, contact us today.