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Positioning controllers feature CANopen interface

A Maxon Motor UK product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jan 18, 2007

A new range of intelligent positioning controllers offers the flexibility to work with any component, system or application.

A new range of intelligent positioning controllers, offering the flexibility to work with any component, system or application, has been introduced by Maxon Motor.

Known as EPOS (easy-to-use positioning system), they feature the very latest technology in a compact package and at an attractive price.

As well as combining well with other Maxon components to form low-cost, modular solutions, they communicate effectively with other manufacturers' products.

Key to this is their inbuilt, standardised CANopen interface, through which several drives can be networked and co-ordinated.

The EPOS controller operates in position, speed or current mode and has command via the CANopen interface or, alternatively, via RS232 serial communication.

It will drive both mechanically commutated (with brushes) and electronically commutated (brushless) DC motors.

In the latter case, sinusoidal commutation of current and space vector modulation (SVM) is used to improve motor efficiency as well as minimising moment ripple and noise.

Signal processing is rapid, and built-in chokes ensure smooth operation even for low-impedance motors.

To add to its versatility, EPOS has six digital as well as two analogue inputs, together with digital outputs, enabling connection of, for example, peripheral drive equipment or limit switches.

A Windows-based user interface simplifies configuring, setting up and autotuning control parameters.

This is supplied, together with comprehensive operating instructions, on a CD.

The CD also contains various software examples and libraries for network operation with PC or SPS and CANopen, including all the standard operating programmes.

The same instructions and software can be downloaded, free of charge, from Maxon's website.

"At present we are offering two versions of the EPOS controller", says Keith Ellenden, CEO of Maxon Motor UK.

"The midi-EPOS operates at 24V and 5A continuous current; the micro-EPOS at 24V and 1A.

Thanks to their small dimensions and high specifications, highly dynamic precision drive and control systems can now be squeezed into the tightest of spaces".

Find out more about this article. Request a brochure, download technical specifications and request samples here.

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