Motion Controllers
The Aerotech controller family offers high performance and
flexibility that is easy to set up and use. Applications requiring
coordinated motion (up to 32 axes) for both nano stages and
other support axes, as well as single-axis nano motion
controllers, are easily satisfied. The software-based A3200
combines PC technologies with the latest in real-time motion
control for easy integration of other applications such as
vision, data processing, and custom HMIs. Aerotech’s stand-alone
platforms, Ensemble and Soloist, offer the same high-performance
motion and tools without requiring a Windows® PC. All of the controllers will run brushless, brush, voice coil, or
stepper motors as well as using both PWM and/or linear
drive technology. For the A3200 controller, the processing
power is distributed across each of the axis controllers and the
PC with a serial motion bus to minimize cable management design and cost while providing consistent synchronization of
each axis regardless of axis count. This distributed architecture
also allows each axis to be optimally configured for drive
technology, bus voltage, current, multiplier hardware, encoder
technology, and I/O required – all configured through
calculators for easy setup.
In addition to the 30-plus standard control features required
by high-performance controllers, each of the controllers has
advanced controller algorithms and hardware that minimize
disturbance errors, increase tracking capabilities, and provide
superior in-position stability. For instance, Harmonic
Cancellation will learn the magnitude and frequency of
repetitive motions and minimize the tracking error caused by
the disturbances. Iterative Learning Control can be used to
optimize repeating move sequences. The Enhanced
Throughput Module (ETM) will increase machine throughput
by measuring base motion and appropriately combining this
with the servo loop. State-based Gain Scheduling and/or
Friction Compensation can be used to increase servo
performance with complex mechanical systems that change
with load orientation. Position Synchronized Output (PSO)
can trigger outputs based on the actual calibrated encoder
position of 1, 2, or 3 axes during motion, even while
accelerating, which increases machine throughput. Multi-axis
firing with 200 ns latency at a rate of up to 10 MHz means
more accurate measurements or processing of the associated
laser, camera, and data acquisition. This advanced controls
toolkit in conjunction with the other advanced Aerotech
technologies can be combined to achieve true nanomotion,
one nanometer at a time. |
