sequences , microprocessor system software code development is also required , taking up to six months .
Like the approach to the amplifier , alternatively an off-the-shelf motion control chip can be integrated into a customdesigned PCB controller to save time . This would give the OEM control over attributes including the PCB ’ s form factor , while still providing motion capabilities such as profile generation and field oriented control .
Progressing to the PCB schematic , this stage requires research , selection , and testing of components to achieve the circuit . Integrating the control chip and amplifier , the latter would also require a dedicated circuit . In total , at least 12 months should be allowed for PCB schematic development .
The final aspect of the software development process is application and motion parameter development . The timespan depends on previous application development experience but can take from 12 to 16 months . However , whether the motion controller is an in-house build , a buy-in , or a hybrid design , this stage of motion control
Balancing specification requirements with cost , an OEM faces the decision of procuring an established controller or developing their own .
development is a prerequisite .
With an estimated total of 34-58 months ’ work , divided into a threeperson team this project could take up to 18 months or more . Notwithstanding the design effort , for some OEMs , the long-term advantages may be worth it .
BUYING-IN A MOTION CONTROLLER
All of these steps , except for the application and motion parameter development , can instead be removed by using a readyto-go PCBbased motion controller . This effectively reduces development time to a little over a year and doesn ’ t necessarily mean a sacrifice in motion control features . As well as functionality such as profile and servo position control , integrating user downloadable code written with C language libraries also extends their control flexibility .
An advantage of buying-in an off-the-shelf motion controller is that it can also be more cost-effective if a lower volume is required . Perhaps up to approximately 1,000 units , integrating a pre-developed controller could be the less expensive option . If your organisation doesn ’ t have the existing development know-how in house , this approach could also save significant cost in hiring the required expertise .
Quicker development also means faster time to market . Demands of end users and the competitive landscape , might make this the preferable approach , even for higher volume projects .
HYBRID PCB-MOTION CONTROL DEVELOPMENT
Now , it ’ s possible for OEMs to use a hybrid approach that features PCBmounted motion control modules . These single-axis modules can handle up to 1kW and can execute user-written application software , extending control flexibility .
Just like an off-the-shelf controller , these modules include advanced motion functions such as profiling , field oriented control , and safety . The advantage though is the ease and speed of integration . Mounted on a user designed , application-specific interconnect board , these modules require much simplified wiring , needing just connectors and capacitors .
Like the buy-in option , the engineering resources required are significantly lower . Following simplified hardware integration , engineers can move directly to application development . This approach however still lets the OEM create a controller within their own form factor . Given the right volume , procurement cost of the hybrid approach can also return a lower rate than the buy-in option .
MAKING THE CHOICE
To navigate priorities in design , INMOCO ’ s engineers can interface with OEM development teams , providing insights to clarify the right approach . INMOCO works alongside Performance Motion Devices , a motion control manufacturer that has innovated the embedded PCB motion control concept . Whether the application requires a build-from-scratch , buy-in , or hybrid approach , INMOCO and Performance Motion Devices can provide the optimal control solution .
For further information , please visit https :// inmoco . co . uk
Issue 60 PECM 71