Ensemble gives deterministic networking for up to ten axes

The Ensemble features the new AeroNet serial communications bus with two ports on each drive for daisy-chaining up to ten drives per network using standard CAT 6 cabling. Each drive also includes a standard 10/100 Base-T Ethernet port to communicate with a PC or other Ethernet device.

To monitor and administer all aspects of the network, a Windows-based Integrated Development Environment software package is supplied, which is also used for autotuning and system setup. The Ensemble may be programmed using Microsoft .NET tools for C#, VB.NET and managed C++, with LabVIEW VIs or with AeroBASIC.

No need for an integrated hub

According to Aerotech, unlike other motion control systems using panel-mounted, single-axis, networked drives for tightly co-ordinated motion, there is no requirement for an integrated hub; any Ensemble may be programmed to assume a master or slave role in the AeroNet network with slaves configured in remote command execution mode taking instructions via ASCII strings - deterministic co-ordinate motion for up to five independent multitasking programs across all axes plus local I/O synchronisation is executed.

Command execution process time estimates are 1000 lines of code in less than a millisecond - fast enough for multi-axis synchronisation, electronic gearing and velocity profiling when taking all amplifier and feedback transfer functions into account. The 10/100 Base-T Ethernet interface may also used for multi-axis system setup, embedded commands and Modbus-over-TCP. Non-Windows programming (including Linux) is also supported.

For larger automation systems, 10/100 Base-T Ethernet control can be linked via a router to include HMI, Remote I/O, PLCs and other Ensemble machine networks. Each Ensemble also includes USE and serial ports that may also be used for system setup, application networking or a Windows control interface.

Two versions

The Ensemble CP/MP/CL range covers two versions with 20kHz PWM amplifier stages that can be configured for brushed, brushless and stepper motors; the CP version is direct-on-line powered and has three models with 10, 20 and 30A peak currents, while the MP version requires a separate DC power supply with up to 10A peak current. A third version, the CL, includes a 10A ultra-low-noise linear amplifier stage, which is said to be essential for the highest precision performance. It is possible to mix-and-match all motor technologies within the same machine, thereby considerably reducing potential costs and, as each drive stage may be freely reconfigured, easing spares inventory expenditure.

The range is planned to expand to 150A peak current ratings in the near future. The CP and CL models are equipped with a small complement of digital and analogue I/O and optional expanded I/O versions are available for all models. All Ensemble drives feature main position encoder inputs with 32kHz data rates and x1024 multiplication options are available for ultra-high-resolution systems. Second auxiliary feedback encoder inputs are available as options on selected models.

Included in the Ensemble family is the multi-axis standalone Epaq, a motion control and integrated drive system in a choice of desktop or 19inch rack-mounted formats. The range is available in 3, 4, 5 or 6-axis versions with a complement of I/O and integral 10A peak linear and PWM amplifiers, capable of driving and controlling linear and rotary brushless, brushed and micro-stepping motors. With 10/100 Base-T Ethernet, the Epaq may also be expanded to control a further three external drives from the Ensemble panel-mount range to provide nine axes of completely co-ordinated motion and machine control from a single competitively priced unit.