DMC-31x3 Flexible-Distributed controllers have been designed for machines requiring multi-axis controllers operating in a distributed network. In addition to lowering the controller cost per axis, they boast other advantages over typical distributed systems that consist of single-axis controllers. For example, they have the ability to free the host computer from the complex task of motion coordination. Additionally, they are Ethernet-based to ensure low-cost communications between various controllers, I/O, cameras, and other such devices.
The DMC-31x3 Series can be specified for one to eight axes and is not restricted to single-axis motion controllers. As a result, users have the flexibility to mix-and-match controllers according to their machine requirements. For example, an eight-axis machine may be comprised of two DMC-3143 four-axis controllers, four DMC-3123 two-axis controllers, two DMC-3133 three-axis, and one DMC-3123 two-axis controller – or any other combination that totals eight axes.
To lessen the burden on the host, each local multi-axis DMC-31x3 is fully capable of handling the complex tasks of motion coordination including linear and circular interpolation. The burden on the host is further reduced when one DMC-31x3 acts as the master controller that receives all the high-level motion commands directly from the host. It then disperses these commands to all the other DMC-31x3 controllers in the network.
As an Ethernet-based distributed control solution, the DMC-31x3 provides several benefits over other networks including the ability to mix network components and lowering their cost. It is also an intelligent motion controller that only needs to receive high-level commands periodically and at rates slower than 1 msec. This eliminates any problems associated with non-determinism.
The series is said to provide a lower cost per axis when compared to distributed control systems that are based on single-axis controllers. For example, the DMC-3143 four-axis controller costs $795 each in 100-unit quantities, which comes to less than $200 per axis.
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