Burhans Research Motor Control Systems

Master Line Speed Command

In percent (100% = Full Speed)

Follower (Slave) Cut Length 

               Enter length between 1 to 100.

                 Forward Speed

                  Follow Feedback

                 Digital I/O #1

                  Master Feedback
                 Digital I/O #2                   Master Pulse Out

Status

Directions:

  Enter a master speed command in percent, as whole numbers. Maximum speed is 100%.

  Click "Master Line Speed" to enter the command. 

  Enter cut length, between 1 and 100 as whole numbers.

  Click "Enter Cut Length" to store your entry.

 

System Basics

This system uses two digital speed controls for a cut-to-length process. A continuous process such as extruding pipe is an example. Using the above design, the follower drive will synchronize its speed with the master drive for enough time for a cut to be performed. After the cut operation, the follower rapidly moves back to be in position to make the next cut. Speed command outputs to each drive or entered via a keypad, and the usual parameters of speed signal level, and scaling can be displayed. Speed sensing feedback from each motor (or driven machine shaft) provides position references. The key feature in this system is the ability to parallel connect the master speed feedback to the follower control as an "auxiliary" feedback. Digital outputs can be used to clamp and unclamp, or simply start and stop a saw, drill, ink printer, etc.

 

Benefits of this system
  • Drives can be mixed ie DC, eddy current or AC.

  • Entering the cut length is easy and flexible.

  • The follower cut speed is automatically adjusted when the master line speed is set.

  • Very flexible. Can be used to paint parts, drill holes, cut off operations, fill containers, etc.

Drawbacks and Pitfalls of this system
  • Product slippage or misalignment is not accommodated in this design.

  • Scaling of each drive speed can require running product for a considerable time.

  • The programming of the controllers on startup can be complicated.

  • Troubleshooting speed control of each drive can be difficult.

  • Dwell, advace and retard functions can take time to set up. (Not shown in demo).

Basic Bill of Materials for the system shown (excluding power transmission, etc.)
  • 2 vsd's

  • 2 motors

  • 2 Digital Speed Controllers

  • 2 speed sensing feedback devices (motor shaft mount or machine shaft mount)

                                                                                   Quick Reference Design Considerations

 

Easy

     

Difficult

  1 2 3 4 5
Set up Complexity         X
Troubleshoot Complexity         X
System Operation Flexibility       X  

Speed regulation is often a factor in product quality.

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