Machines have been around since ancient times, but they were not really considered “automated” until the Industrial Revolution brought about new technologies that allowed for mass production and high volume output. Today, machines are automated in various ways – from computer numerical controls (CNC) for precision cutting machinery to robotic arms used for assembly line jobs.
In addition, newer machines may incorporate sensors that monitor speed, position, force, temperature, and humidity. These sensors allow an operator to program a machine to perform specific tasks automatically. Motion control systems are also becoming increasingly important in industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, automotive, aerospace, semiconductor fabrication, packaging, and material handling. There are various Motion Control Training Certification Courses In Hyderabad for students who are interested in pursuing these courses.
The motion control system consists of a wide variety of components designed to control motion sequences. These components can be utilised to automate processes, allowing engineers to create machines with specific motions that would otherwise require human intervention. There are various Motion Control Training Certification Courses In Mumbai for students who are interested in pursuing these courses. This system allows engineers to precisely control the speed, position, and force applied by the machine.
Components of Motion Control
Motor Drive
The motor drive serves an intermediary role between the controller and the motor. It takes the command signals from the controller and converts them into the appropriate amount of power needed to move the motor shaft.
Controller
A controller is just what it says it is – a device that receives instructions from the main computer and then takes action to carry out those instructions. In a manufacturing environment, there may be many controllers working together to perform various tasks. One example might be where one controller would send signals to another controller, telling it to move into position so that a tool can do work. Another controller might be moving the part being worked on around. These two examples show how a single controller can accomplish multiple functions.
Motor
Motors used in motion control systems can take many different forms and serve many different purposes. Their primary function, however, is to receive input from the motor drive and convert it into motion. The following motors are commonly used in motion control systems:
- Stepper
Stepper motors are similar to regular electric motors in their operation. However, because of the unique arrangement of magnets within them, each shaft rotation can be broken down into individual “steps.” Per shaft rotation, an average stepper motor may have 200 steps of 1.8 degrees each. This enables the highly precise positioning of production line components.
- Linear Actuator
Linear actuators convert a motor’s rotational motion into linear motion, much like a pneumatic cylinder.
- Servo
A servo motor is a highly accurate and powerful means of controlling angular motion.