Tag: motion control
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Basic Features of Numerical Control
Numerical control is a form of digital control that is employed on machine tools such as milling machines and lathes to automatically cut and shape the work-piece without a human operator. Each machine has its own set of axes or parameters that must be controlled; case in point is a milling machine as illustrated in…
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How X-Y Tables are used in Position Control Applications
X-Y tables are utilized as components in many systems where reprogrammable position control is desired. The X-Y table is two servo-controlled linear actuators (often servomotors and ball screws) with their linear axes perpendicular to each other. The X-Y table may move the table under a stationary tool such as a glue dispenser or may move…
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AC to AC Power Converters with Intermediate DC Link: Types, Features & Applications
This category of AC drives that is often referred to as “Variable Frequency Inverters” is one of the most extensively used drives in industrial motor control applications. Generally, the concept of these inverter drives can be summarized into three parts: We have two main classifications of these AC drives that are based on the aforementioned…
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DC to DC Power Converters: Function, Types, Operation & Applications
DC to DC power converters also referred to as choppers provide the means to change one DC voltage to another. Normally the conversion is to a lower voltage however, we also have step-up converters. DC to DC power converters are fed from a DC supply usually comprising an uncontrolled AC to DC converter or alternatively…
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How to Connect Discrete Sensors to PLC Inputs
Discrete Sensor Outputs Basically sensor outputs can be categorized into two types: discrete also referred to discrete or logic and proportional also called analog. Discrete sensors supply a single logical output (1 or 0) e.g. a flow switch used to detect the fluid flow through a pipe whereas proportional/analog sensors provide an analog electronic…
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The General Principle of using a Servo Motor for Position Control
Servo motors are typically employed in closed-loop position control; for example let us consider the following application, where the angular position of the output shaft is intended to follow the reference voltage (ϴref). The potentiometer mounted on the output shaft provides a feedback voltage proportional to the actual position of the output shaft. The voltage…
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What is Motion Control?
Motion control generally refers to an open loop or closed loop electromechanical system in which things are moving. A motion control typically consists of a motor, mechanical parts that move and often feedback sensor(s). Typical examples of motion control applications are: Servomechanisms Numerical control machines Industrial robots Variable speed drills Digital torque wrenches Hard-drive head-positioning…