NET-based automation simplifies integration
An
Aerotech product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Nov 7, 2006
Aerotech offers a range of NET enabled motion and machine control solutions.
Aerotech offers a range of NET enabled motion and machine control solutions that help to reduce application development timescales, facilitate integration of third party automation devices and simplify information exchange processes for OEMs and builders of innovative production machinery and automated test equipment.
Aerotech's A3200 Digital Automation Platform for distributed multi-axis motion and machine control, the Ensemble Epaq multi-axis stand-alone packaged drive system and the single-axis Soloist integrated drive with large-axis networking capability, all share the Microsoft NET development environment and also offer Active-X programming objects, C++ class libraries and LabView virtual instrument integration.
The A3200 is an award winning, software based motion and machine control system that uses the processing power of the PC to combine a powerful 32-axis motion engine with optional modules for essential machine control functions such as PLC, HMI and vision systems.
It uses the PC to calculate complex multi-axis trajectories and I/O functions and communicates fully deterministic axis and I/O commands over its high-speed industry standard Firewire (IEEE1394) network to Aerotech's Ndrive digital amplifiers.
With 20kHz servo loop closure rates for current, velocity, and position, with availability with PWM or Linear power stages, and featuring onboard I/O and Ethernet for additional devices, the Ndrive provides smooth speed control, high precision and excellent in-position stability for brushless, brushed DC and stepper motors.
The A3200's Ncontrol SDK software development kit empowers the A3200 with a collection of Active-X programming objects that provide drag and drop programming in visual programming environments and C++ and NET class libraries provide an object level programming interface that greatly reduces the programming effort required for custom automation applications.
Program management, data collection, event management, parameter display and editing are all easily realised and the programming tools allow third party devices such as test and measurement analysis tools to be readily and easily integrated into the automation system.
Aerotech's Ensemble Epaq is a stand-alone integrated, six-axis desktop or 19in rack mounted motion control and drive system for applications as diverse as laboratory research through to advanced OEM systems.
With integral 10A peak digital amplifiers with PID loop, up to 20kHz servo update rate plus feedforward and four user-configurable digital filters, it is capable of driving and controlling linear and rotary brushless, brushed dc and micro-stepping motors.
The Epaq may be expanded to control a further three external drives offering 9 axes of completely co-ordinated motion and machine control from a single unit.
The Epaq features an integrated development environment (IDE), Windows based, HMI software that is simple to operate and adapt but is also able handle the most complex motion control tasks.
Using the processing power of a 225MHz double precision, floating-point DSP it offers exceptional performance with application-specific features including multi-axis contouring, electronic gearing, position latching and velocity profiling with integrated I/O control and five-task multitasking.
Programming is available a multitude of languages and formats including AeroBasic, Microsoft NET including C#, VB.NET, Managed C++, or LabView over Ethernet or USB from Windows 2000 or Windows XP.
Aerotech's Soloist is single-axis digital servo controller with advanced.NET software architecture combined with an integrated amplifier with an option AC or DC power supplies.
Available in models up to 30A peak rating and with Ethernet, USB or RS232 connectivity, the Soloist provides single axis or networked multi axis control for brushless, DC brush, or stepping motors.
Programming options include AeroBasic, C#, VB.Net, C++, or LabView and an integrated HMI provides a smart editor, system diagnostics, axis control, and program management.
As with all Aerotech motion controllers, advanced diagnostics are available with autotuning to speed and simplify installation.
A host-mode operation allows the customer's PC to send commands via Ethernet or USB for immediate execution.
All Aerotech NET enabled motion control solutions are comprehensively backed up with application training, manuals and full customer support.
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Contact Aerotech
Tel +44 118 940 9400
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