New servo motion control platforms are making it easier to implement multi-axis systems utilizing Ethernet and software standards such as IEC 61131 to create new options for machine control. The trend is to maintain high levels of motion performance while also providing users the ability to use a wide range of I/O, network communications and motor types. New products offering support for Ethernet, multiple networking protocols and standards such as CANopen are creating connectivity with a variety of devices and a diverse set of automation control tasks.
NEW INTELLIGENT POSITIONING CONTROLLER
The second generation EPOS controllers from Maxon are a line of digital positioning controllers designed to control brush and brushless dc motors with encoders in applications that require decentralized drive intelligence.
The controllers are based on the CANopen standard and cover a performance range from 1 to 700W. They operate in position, speed and current control mode and can be configured to operate with both dc and ec motors, depending on software commands.
The new EPOS2, with 32-bit digital signal processor technology, supports complex mathematical algorithms and offers excellent security and effective protection against electromagnetic interference as a result of potential-separated digital inputs and outputs.
MOTION CONTROLLER SUPPORTS 64 AXES
The Motion Coordinator MC464 from Trio Motion Control supports up to 64 axes of motion with 64-bit integer position registers for ultra-precise axis resolution. With support for networked digital drives and programming with Trio BASIC or IEC61131, the MC464 saves interconnection time, increases flexibility and provides processing power for high-performance motion applications.
The unit's unique modular design supports a wide range of drive, motor and feedback types. Users can select the technology that best fits the particular product and control it using only the hardware needed. The MC464 allows up to seven half-height expansion modules or three full-height expansion modules to be added to the controller.
I/O expansion is provided via a built-in CANbus interface. More fieldbus networks supporting common factory protocols are supported via the HMS AnyBus® adapter module.
STAND-ALONE MULTI-AXIS MOTION CONTROLLER
The Ensemble™ is Aerotech's next-generation, multi-axis controller for moderate to high-performance applications with high-speed communication through 10/100 Base T Ethernet or USB interfaces. The Ensemble™ can control a wide variety of the company's brushless, brush, stepper motors or stages in any combination and both PWM and linear drives are available. It offers easy-to-use multi-axis motion programming for lab environments, production testing or advanced OEM automated manufacturing systems.
The Ensemble™ product family offers three methods for stand-alone, multi-axis control. For desktop or rack-mount applications, the Ensemble™ Epaq with integrated drives can be used to control up to six axes. A distributed network of panel-mounted Ensemble™ CP/MP/CL drives can be utilized for up to 10 axes of synchronized motion.
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