Modern motion control systems incorporate sophisticated motor control algorithms,
with some systems even including limited PLC type functions.
These are generally configured using a portable computer connected by a serial
link. This is no problem where a system only performs a single repeated task, or
where several tasks can be selected using the inputs built into the motion
controller. The system can be configured and the portable PC removed
Whilst motor speed can usually be selected by external contacts, adjustments to
acceleration times or to the indexing distance for positioning systems, generally
require connection of the portable computer. This can be a major problem when
frequent changes are required due to short product runs. Such systems can be
complicated to implement and difficult for the operator to use.
Quercus Computer Systems has developed a number of intelligent front-ends
for such systems. These have used a small real-time control computer to act as
intermediary between the operator and the motion control system; thus providing
an interface customised to the particular application, with safe limits imposed on
the allowed motion parameters.
As well as providing a clear and informative operator interface for the setting of
control parameters, using a text or a graphical display screen, it can also provide
unambiguous interpretation of error messages from the controller.
A recent system supervised a number of bobbin winding stations using a multi-drop
serial link.
Front-End for Motion Control System.
Such a front-end can also perform ancillary control functions and can interact
with existing PLCs thus providing an extremely cost effective, overall system,
which is easy to use..
Other applications have acted as a translator between the communication
protocols used by equipment from different manufactures.