Eden Prarie, MN – ACS Motion Control has developed a fully integrated machine control solution that provides superior performance while reducing the footprint and cost when compared to many network-based multi-axis solutions. Optimized for machine automation, the MC4U includes the motion controller, drives, power supplies and high speed PLC in 9-, 11- and 19-in. units.

The MC4U can directly drive up to eight highly coordinated axes with network extension capability of 64 additional network nodes for a total of up to 72 axes. The integrated universal amplifiers can directly drive any stepper (in open-loop or as closed-loop servo with sinusoidal commutation), DC brushless, DC brush, or AC induction motor (as closed-loop servo with sinusoidal commutation) from 100W to 5kW with standard digital quadrature or Analog Sin/Cos encoder. The MC4U’s integrated architecture uses dedicated servo processors on the controller board to provide real-time servo control of each axis including position, velocity, current servo loops, and sinusoidal commutation.

The dedicated motion programming language (ACSPL+) that runs on the MC4U controller provides a simple environment for users to program motion. Some of the standard motions available include 3rd order vector point-to-point moves (one to eight axis), two- and three-dimensional geometric shapes, electronic multi-axis camming, non-Cartesian kinematic structures (hexapod, delta robots, SCARA robots), complex eight-dimensional paths and splines, multi-axis master/slave and much more.

In addition, the standard software package features a full motion controller simulator that allows users to develop application code and a host front end, all from the PC, without hardware. The MC4U also supports the five standard IEC-61131-3 languages running on a high speed virtual PLC, allowing
programmers who are familiar with this environment to easily develop PLC programs. Full transparency between the PLC and ACSPL+ environments provide users with the opportunity to utilize the strengths of both languages to develop an entire machine control application quickly and efficiently.

Applications involving demanding requirements for multi-axis motion coordination and servo control, as well as high speed PLC functionality can benefit from the integrated MC4U architecture. Applications include large-format gantry inspection systems (flat panel display, solar, Inkjet, Web handling), small to large scale imaging machines (nuclear, magnetic, interferometric, and ultrasonic), semiconductor and PCB assembly (printed circuit boards, wire-bonding, wire-EDM, pick and place robots), biomedical laboratory stations (DNA handling/sequencing, surface patterning, molecular printing) and general industrial automation (load-cell testers, food packaging, document sorters, etc.)

Typically available with a lead time of two to four weeks, please contact ACS for pricing information. A free motion simulator can be downloaded at www.acsmotioncontrol.com.

For more information about the MC4U fully integrated machine control solution, contact ACS at 763-559-7669,  or visit www.acsmotioncontrol.com.