Automation for the Future 2008

Absolute encoders in a drive system
The advantage of absolute – rather than incremental – encoders is that they instantly ‘know’ where they are: there is no need for them to ‘restart’ in the case of a power failure, for example. They are routinely used in safety critical applications, but could be put to more general use says Heidenhain’s Stuart Jenkins. Its workshop will explain when – and when not – to use absolute encoders, and show them in action within a drive system. “We’ll look at the type of data that comes out – and the difference between linear and rotary,” says Jenkins.

Integrating intelligence within drives
In the Control Techniques workshop, delegates will break into small groups and use a demonstration kit – comprising a laptop, a motor and Digitax indexer – to program a motion exercise. The company will take delegates through the issue of where to put the intelligence in an automated system – locally or centrally – and when each approach is appropriate. “Motion is seen as a black art,” says the company’s Gareth Jones. “In our workshop, we will try to demystify it and make it accessible.”

Matching torque with inertia
Festo’s workshop will be a hands-on session to help design engineers cut the time needed to design automation systems. It uses a readily available – and free – software tool called Positioning Drives to make this process quicker and easier. “With this piece of software, you can quickly size the mechanical axis, linear bearing system, motor, controller and power supply,” says Nigel Dawson, Festo’s handling and position product manager. “It helps you match inertia with torque much more quickly.” Two different applications – one simple, one complex – will show delegates how to filter down from many answers to the best one.

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