When choosing a new motion control solution, the primary rule is to prioritize problem-solving over design. To ensure a successful outcome, follow a disciplined approach. Begin by thoroughly understanding the problem and the local environment, as neglecting this step often leads to suboptimal solutions or complete failures.
Next, evaluate existing motion control solutions to inform your design. Assess your team’s skills and expertise to choose the right options and accurately estimate development time and resources.
Before selecting any motion control products, establish guiding principles based on seven key lessons encapsulated in the SHAIRED paradigm:
- Simplicity: Opt for a simple design to reduce complexity and cost.
- Homework: Calculate torque, inertia, duty cycle, and other crucial parameters.
- Analysis: Thoroughly examine the application and available alternatives.
- Integration: Ensure seamless integration with existing factory automation.
- Redundancy: Build redundancy into the system to exceed performance expectations and handle unexpected changes.
- Economy: Seek economical solutions for both short and long-term benefits.
- Development Time: Accurately estimate development time.
Following these guidelines during system design and product selection enhances the chances of application success.
Selecting the right vendor is equally vital. Look for a local vendor with timely technical support, a strong focus on motion control products, and sufficient product inventory for emergencies.
Once you’ve defined your problem and established design principles, focus on choosing system components, whether for closed or open-loop motion control systems. Address six key variables:
- Torque: Determine required torque, considering dynamics, statics, and torque ripple.
- Velocity: Define minimum and maximum speed requirements.
- Acceleration: Specify minimum and maximum acceleration and deceleration rates.
- Precision: Decide on accuracy, repeatability, and resolution requirements.
- Motion Profile: Determine the number of motion axes and the required motion profile.
- Load Analysis: Analyze dynamic versus static loads, moment loads, overhung loads, inertia, and duty cycle.
Consider additional criteria such as environmental conditions, ease of use, form factor, maintenance, budget, programming, and installation timeline.
After defining operating parameters, consider various solutions. Ask essential questions that can significantly impact cost, development time, and solution effectiveness:
- Custom vs. standard products?
- Turnkey vs. mix/match components?
- Make vs. buy?
- Motion controller vs. PLC?
Finally, give careful consideration to the operating environment. Analyze and anticipate potential disruptive environmental effects during the planning phase to ensure system reliability, longevity, and performance.
If you’re embarking on a motion control project or in the planning phase, keep these considerations in mind. You can also schedule a consultation with our experts to review your concept or project.
For more information Contact Electromate Inc. or Visit https://www.electromate.com/
