Haydon Kerk Motion Solutions’ newest addition to its IDEA drive line of motor controllers is the PBL4850E programmable 3-phase brushless motor drive. With the PBL 4850E, Haydon Kerk replicates the functionality of stepper-based drives for its brushless counterparts as the two drive types now share a common graphical user interface.

Among the unique features of the graphical user interface is automatic population of motion profile parameters based on entry of just a few motor characteristics. Complex parameter calculations or in-depth motor knowledge are completely unnecessary.

The PBL4850E is a 4-quadrant brushless controller that uses sinusoidal commutation to produce smooth motion. The smooth torque produced by sinusoidal commutation minimizes torque ripple. The drive further refines motion by incorporating two motion profiles: trapezoidal and s-curve. The latter may be used to eliminate jerk due to rapid changes in velocity rates during motion. 

The drive offers programmable current control of up to 5.6A peak with an optional current boost during ramping of up to 6.5A peak. With an input voltage of 12 to 48 VDC, the drive can accommodate a wide range of brushless motors.

Hall cell signals are used for phase initialization, and an encoder provides positional feedback. Other features include 8 opto-isolated general purpose inputs and outputs. Each input is rated for 5 to 24 VDC, 8 mA maximum per input. The outputs are open collector, 5 to 24 VDC, 200 mA maximum per output. The PBL4850E IDEA drive communicates via a USB to mini USB.

The IDEA software is configurable with numerous programming units to provide versatility in creating programs with the PBL4850E drive. Selecting units of revolutions creates a platform for users to generate complex velocity motion profiles geared towards rotary-based applications.

Selecting units of inches or millimeters simplifies programming within a linear-based setup by allowing users to program with native units within the system to generate motion profiles.

With the addition of the ECO series of brushless motors offered by PITTMAN Motors, another brand of AMETEK Precision Motion Control, users can more easily integrate brushless motors into linear-based systems. The PITTMAN motors are optimized for integration with Haydon Kerk lead screw assemblies and linear rail and guide systems.

For more information, visit www.haydonkerk.com to view the manuals for in-depth descriptions of the hardware, software functionality, and the command structure.