MOTION SYSTEM APPLICATIONS
Integrated motors
pack more punch Well established by now, integrated motors (also referred to as smart motors) are a more common option in many motion control and automation system designs. Basically, an integrated motor is a combination of a motor and a number of other components combined together into one physical unit. Common configurations include a motor and drive, but can also consist of integrated encoders and controllers as well as cabling and communication ports. Communication options can include serial communication links such as RS232 or RS485 and advanced network topologies for complex motion control tasks—CANopen, DeviceNet, or Ethernet protocols. For machine builders, integrated motors help reduce machine size and complexity. That’s because smart motors significantly reduce the amount of space required for a machine by consolidating components, eliminating cabling, and possibly the need for entire enclosures. Integrated motors can also in some cases eliminate external controllers such as PLCs. With the increased use of decentralized motion-control architectures, applications using integrated motors have only proliferated. As an alternative to centralized motion control, decentralized architectures distribute motion control to a number of individual motion axes (in this case, to individual integrated motors), eliminating the need for a central controller. This means that individual motors can execute the control closer to the actual axis of motion or load, thereby taking the computational burden off of a central controller and distributing it to individual integrated motors. Adding to their appeal, new integrated motor products featuring improved networking capabilities are making them even more attractive for applications where space is at a premium or for uses in remote locations. For instance, a new
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DESIGN WORLD — MOTION
Motors - Integrated - MC 11-19.indd 68
11 • 2019
StepSERVO motors from Applied Motion Products are IP65 rated to handle challenging wet or dusty environments such as in factories or food and beverage applications.
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11/18/19 3:23 PM
