New Motion Controller Increases Machine Flexibility and Machine Cycle Rates
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – July 2, 2004 – GE Fanuc Automation Americas, Inc., a unit of GE Infrastructure, has launched the PACSystems™ DSM314 motion controller – which expands machine options and increases machine builder flexibility for a broad range of motion applications. GE Fanuc has integrated a wide selection of I/O and connectivity options with powerful CPU performance to help OEMs optimize their motion control system for flexible end user applications. “High performance servo motion solutions such as the PACSystems DSM314 can dramatically improve machine cycle rate and yield (accuracy) compared to mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or stepper solutions,” said Paul Derstine, motion solutions manager for GE Fanuc Automation.
“Changeover time between product runs can be reduced from hours to minutes. Additionally, the separate load-mounted position feedback option minimizes positioning errors due to machine compliance slip and gearing backlash.”The PACSystems DSM314 can control up to four axes and is capable of solving complex single- and multi-axis motion control applications, in combination with GE Fanuc’s PACSystems RX3i Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) and Series 90™-30 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The new motion module can control up to four analog servos or two FANUC digital servos plus one analog servo, providing the machine builder options and flexible control architecture.
Improved Machine Dependability
To improve machine productivity, the PACSystems DSM314 features extensive built-in diagnostics, which can boost maintenance utility. Absolute feedback on the FANUC servos eliminates the need to find a home-position at each start up or when machine recovers from a power loss. This new motion controller supports a broad servo power and size range, incremental or absolute feedback and the scalable I/O and communication flexibility of a PLC-based control system. Users can deploy the PACSystems DSM314 in a centralized or distributed architecture – based on individual application requirements – without needing to learn or support multiple motion solutions. Additionally, multiple DSM modules may be installed in a single system to provide multiple axes of motion in a single application.
Higher Reliability and Long-Term Support
For increased uptime, industry-leading FANUC servos offer exceptional reliability while the global network of GE ensures long-term technical support and component availability. “Changing a motion solution impacts machine performance, ease of use, mechanical design and spare parts inventory, so OEMs need to choose their solution carefully,” Derstine explained. “However, with the backing of GE, OEMs can cover a broad range of end user applications, supported by ensured long-term availability of the motion solution to minimize costly learning curves and redesigns due to obsolescence.”
Greater Flexibility
For increased flexibility, the new PACSystems DSM314 motion controller supports high-speed Local Logic – which allows the device to perform limited logical decisions and math synchronous with the position loop update rate. Local Logic capabilities also support high-speed digital output control synchronous to axis motion. The two high-speed strobe position capture inputs per axis are excellent for applications that require registration control. The PACSystems DSM314 also includes powerful electronic CAM functionality. An electronic CAM is analogous to a mechanical CAM but will never mechanically wear out.
Electronic CAMs are used in the machine industry to perform complex movements that require tight coordination between each axis. In the PACSystems DSM314, the CAM profile can follow a master encoder mounted on the machine, another controlled axis or a time-based master source within the same controller module. This functionally minimizes operator manual adjustments and simplifies the engineering effort to design the machine. Some examples of applications that can benefit from CAM profiling are rotary cutoff, flying shear, profiled container filling, and material handling.
Easy Configuration
The PACSystems DSM314 achieves single point of programming using GE Fanuc’s universal programming environment, Proficy™ Machine Edition software, removing the need to learn a separate software package. Proficy Machine Edition provides powerful diagnostic tools and a common tag database, greatly simplifying system engineering.
About GE Fanuc Automation
GE Fanuc Automation, a joint venture between GE and FANUC LTD of Japan, delivers automation hardware and software designed to help users reduce costs, increase efficiency and enhance profitability. With solutions and services catering to virtually every industrial segment, GE Fanuc Automation provides a diverse array of capabilities and products, including controllers, embedded systems, advanced software, motion control, CNCs, operator interfaces, industrial computers, and lasers. Headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, GE Fanuc Automation is a part of GE Infrastructure and combines the diverse global strengths of the GE family with the local presence customers need to design, develop and maintain their automation investments.
For more information, visit www.gefanuc.com or contact: GE Fanuc Information CenterP.O.
Box 8106Charlottesville, VA 22906Phone: (800) GE FANUCFax: 434-978-5205e-mail: [email protected] .
