May 21, 2009 - Nol-Tec's ABICS product provides complete position control functionality to all axes on virtually any crane or industrial vehicle. ABICS uses commercially available position feedback devices along with new or existing motor drives. Feedback choices include a a wide range of devices such as Laser, Infra-red, Stahl encoder track or rotary encoders interfaced by discrete connection, or by virtually any AB supported industrial network. Motor drives may be connected by an analog -10 to +10 VDC velocity command signal, or by an industrial network. ABICS is a drop-in, plug-and-play replacement for the aging Geotronics TCS-4000 and the Trimble ICS-5000 products.
In RS232 applications, the system transparently replaces an existing positioning system. DeviceNet, Profibus, Ethernet and other networks are also available. ABICS is implemented in an Allen-Bradley PLC, and uses commercially available distance meters. By design, the retrofit is a simple process. Installation and characterization can be completed in a few hours.
Performance improvements can be dramatic. Position error rates for the legacy systems can be as high as 10-30 or greater per 24 hour period. After installation of the ABICS product, position error rates drop to near-zero. The net result for the customer is modern equipment, higher reliability, greater accuracy, and improved serviceability.
