THINFILM
necessary for solar-scribing applications, they typically do not have a full suite of tools necessary to optimize that motion for both quality and throughput.
For example, development of the optimum motion profiles must be simple and effective. To that end Aerotech employs technologies like Motion Designer which provides a way to graphically generate needed trajectories as well as provide users with a full suite of data analysis capabilities. Motion Designer’s standard toolkit allows trajectories to be generated using predefined building blocks that provide rapid motion prototyping. Once the motion profile has been generated the user can perform data analysis (such as FFT, max, min, average, rms, and standard deviation) from an existing trajectory to diagnose system performance. In throughput- dependent applications like scribing, motion profile optimization is absolutely critical.
Another key feature is the controller’s ability to trigger and control the laser (in the case of laser scribing) based on position. Aerotech’s motion control platform utilizes Position Synchronized Output (PSO) which uses a combination of both hardware and software to trigger the output based on the actual position of the axis. Triggering on the actual position eliminates effects that external disturbances may have on the process. For example, velocity regulation and settle values
become unimportant since the process is not affected by their uncertainty. Also, the latency between when the axis is at the target position and the actual triggering of the output is very low, in the sub-microsecond range. This allows for much higher speeds than traditional high-latency tracking methods because the chance of missed or overlapping events is avoided. Combined with the low latency of PSO is its ability to trigger multiple pulses in close succession. Trigger rates can be up to 10 MHz, allowing not only high-speed tracking but also the ability to directly control the output pulses of a laser or perform high-speed data acquisition. PSO is an extremely versatile tool, offering a number of tracking and firing options, as well as easy programming.
Other supporting technologies also help to maximize system throughput and reliability. In particular, Aerotech’s Dynamic Controls Toolbox includes performance enhancing options like Iterative Learning Control and Enhanced Throughput Module (ETM) that enable the highest level of system performance from the hardware investment.
The ETM helps improve the positioning performance by directly measuring the unwanted motion of the machine base and communicating it back to the controller. By working in concert with the Dynamic Controls Toolbox and Aerotech controllers, the ETM significantly improves move- and-settle time and contouring performance, increases throughput of existing and new machines, and greatly reduces the effects of frame motion on the servo system.
Conclusion
Lowering manufacturing costs of photovoltaic panels is absolutely critical in the push for grid parity. To make this a reality, PV
manufacturers must seek out technologies and capable partners that can provide the highest throughput, most reliable motion platforms. The right partner can provide the system-level knowledge as well as the mechatronic platform that will maximize system performance and provide reliable operation well into the future. Understanding the issues as well as the solutions presented will provide manufacturers with the tools necessary to develop the best possible scribing platform.
By working in concert with the Dynamic Controls
Toolbox and Aerotech controllers, the ETM significantly improves move-and- settle
time and contouring performance ,
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www.solar-pv-management.com Issue III 2010
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