At Fachpack 2007, Siemens Automation and Drives (A&D) presented an interpolation method for handling processes which is integrated in the Simotion motion control system. Introduced for the first time, the 'path interpolation' technology object substantially reduces the load on the system and, as a result, increases the performance of a machine. Only one controller is needed for all machine functions. The technology object can be used in conjunction with the 'Simotion Top Loading' software library. This represents a further improvement in respect of the engineering effort required.
The path interpolation technology module object can be used in conjunction with the 'Simotion Top Loading' software library
Handling modules are being integrated in modern production and packaging machines more and more frequently. Previously, path movements necessary in the handling system were implemented by means of cams in the motion control system. This required a great deal of computation and led to restrictions on productivity, especially in the case of machines with a high degree of automation and short cycle times. The new path interpolation technology object renders cyclical calculation of cams superfluous and thus enhances the performance capability of machines.
This technology object supports linear, circular and polynomial interpolation on a plane (2D) and in space (3D). The path movement is directly controlled and monitored by the Simotion controller. This helps to achieve cycle times of over 180 picks per minute in the case of Delta 2 and Delta 3 kinematics.
If such extreme cycle times are not needed, the CPU power thus released can be utilised for other functions. This can include the automation of several handling modules with one CPU. A consequence of the object-oriented approach is that several instances of the path interpolation technology object can be used simultaneously.
In conjunction with the 'Simotion Top Loading' standard library, the integrated interpolation method considerably reduces the effort required for engineering and programming. The software library enables programming and configuration of top loading cells with different kinematics in combination with other software modules on one or more controllers. This means that synchronisation with proprietary control architectures or incorporation in special programming languages for robot controllers can be dispensed with. All functions which have been programmed in accordance with IEC 61131 are supported.
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