Delta launches three Codesys-based motion controllers

Delta has recently launched the AX-304EL, AX-316E and AX-364EL motion controllers to complement the existing AX-308E motion controller. AX-3 series motion controllers offer a Codesys development environment to enable intelligent industrial automation applications.

Compatibility with Delta AS Series IO products and support for major industrial communication protocols including EtherCAT and MODBUS.

Delta released the AX-308E as the first Codesys-based motion controller in the AX-3 series, which was an immediate success. To fulfil the need for controllers that could handle more than 8 axes as well as a more cost-efficient model beneath it, the new AX-3 series models are now being introduced. Alongside the AX-8 series, Delta now offers extremely cost-competitive solutions across a broad range of automation scenarios.

The new controllers expand Delta’s motion portfolio and enable single-axis movements as well as synchronous multi-axis motion such as gearing, ECAMs, and interpolation. IO capabilities are integrated into the motion controller but can also be implemented using external Delta AS-series modules for remote input/output setups.

The AX-304EL, AX-316E and AX-364EL support up to 4, 16 and 64 axes respectively and offer an EtherCAT master, two Ethernet ports, serial ports, 16 built-in digital inputs, and eight digital outputs. The AX-3 series motion controllers are compatible with the common communication protocols OPC UA, Modbus and Ethernet/IP. As the Codesys AX-3 Series is an evolving and growing product series, the goal is to offer more communication protocols as well as more advanced product.

DIADesigner-AX software integrates Codesys into Delta’s DIAStudio software platform. The environment provides support from the planning stage through execution and commissioning, easing the implementation of both simple and complex motion control, including single- and multi-axis movements, gearing, ECAMs and interpolation. It also helps ensure compliance with international standards such as IEC 61131-3 and PLCopen. Software developers will benefit from integrated tools including an oscilloscope, simulator and CAM design editor.