Product category:
Linear Position Sensors
News Release from: Penny + Giles | Subject: Joystick PWM Amplifier
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 07 August 2000
Joystick now programmable through
Windows
To further enhance the functionality and flexibility of JC600 joystick/handle combinations Penny and Giles are offering a Windows based PWM controller
Rugged environments require rugged solutions, which is why Penny and Giles Controls have designed their JC600 specifically for rugged control applications The JC600 has also been designed for use with an expanding range of the company's customised handle options, to provide an unrivalled combination of flexibility, functionality, ergonomics and ruggedness
Now, to further enhance the functionality and flexibility of JC600 joystick/handle combinations Penny and Giles are offering a Windows based PWM controller.
The Joystick PWM Amplifier is a fully featured constant current Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) amplifier.
It features high side switching with current measurement over the whole pulse width cycle, giving true RMS current control.
The compact unit is a single PCB with the 'joystick tracks' mounted directly onto the PCB, which is in turn mounted on a Penny and Giles JC600 joystick.
The joystick mounted electronic modules in their most basic form will control two full (doubled-ended) proportional valves from the joystick X and Y axes.
This is expandable with the addition of a daughter board that is joystick mounted and will provide control to either two extra full (double-ended) proportional valves from handle mounted proportional rockers, or four black/white valves driven from the handle switches.
Programming the PWM controller can be as simple or as complex as an electro hydraulic control system demands, with programming options ranging from the use of a simple 'teach' function built into the joystick mounted electronic module, to the use of the PC and serial interface to the module.
The user-friendly Windows based PC package allows advanced calibration functions to be accessed and detailed diagnostics to be performed.
The toolbar and main Windows commands allow users to set up project titles and project notes in the Comments window.
In the Properties window, users can set up the amplifier configuration, solenoid type and PWM frequency; and identify the drive names for the number of axes of control.
Secondary set names and drive set sources for specific applications can also be identified and major valve characteristics, i.e start currents and maximum currents, can be set in the main Drive window.
Other options are almost endless and include up to three set values for each drive that can be used for auxiliary functions and operated by auxiliary switches; non-linear functions, end of travel electronic detents etc.
Additionally, the software has various security layers, fault-finding functions and history files.
The system security is further enhanced with joystick mounted directional switches and series resistors for error sensing.
The Amplifier also constantly monitors various operational parameters to ensure they are within set tolerances, and uses drive indicators to display error codes.
Commenting on the new option, business development manager Mike Iles says that for OEMs and end users, the combination of joystick options, handle options and electronic modules provides a total design package that is rugged, flexible and user friendly. Request a free brochure from Penny + Giles ...
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