EC: Ensemble LAB Motion Control Platform

Motion Control - Motors: The Ensemble LAB motion control platform is designed to provide full capability motion control for laboratory automation and light industrial manufacturing applications in an easy to use and intuitive package. This is a Control Engineering 2014 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

By Control Engineering October 17, 2013

The Ensemble LAB control platform makes automation of laboratory and light industrial manufacturing applications easy for even novice motion control users. The color touch-screen display enables quick access to all core functionality, while the intuitive tabbed interface provides single-press access to all setup and operation screens. An integral rubberized front-panel interface provides immediate tactile feedback for jogging and manual positioning operations. A front-panel USB port is available for connection of a keyboard and other peripherals to assist in the creation of complex program sequences.

Ensemble LAB is designed for applications where ease of operation is desired without sacrificing system capability. The front-panel interface allows quick execution of simple operations like jogging, homing and moving to fixed positions. For more complex operations, on-board memory stores programs that can be accessed from the front panel or through remote control.

Ensemble LAB is compatible with both EPICS and TANGO distributed control protocols, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into applications at all major research institutions.

Ensemble LAB is programmed in an easily readable BASIC-like syntax. It is programmed off-line with a graphical user interface in Windows, featuring an intuitive program editor, variable output window, compiler output window and task state monitor. After the programs are developed and tested they can be downloaded and stored on the controller for future use.

Aerotech’s MPS series stages support Ensemble LAB’s FlashConfig feature which stores all parametric information required to operate the stage on the stage itself. The stage is automatically identified and all operational parameters including axis calibration data are uploaded into the Ensemble LAB ensuring safe, accurate and true plug-and-play operation. FlashConfig provides maximum flexibility for laboratory environments where systems are often reconfigured to meet changing application requirements. Ensemble LAB can control up to four axes of brush, stepper or brushless ac motors.

www.aerotech.com 

www.aerotech.com/product-catalog/drives-and-drive-racks/ensemble-lab.aspx 

Aerotech Inc.