FEATURE u Machine Building
Build or buy a three-axis
motion controller? Three-axis embedded PCB motion controllers are integral for applications such as robotic arm control. While high volume and specific development needs might drive towards an in- house build, minimising development time and lowering cost for smaller volumes is an advantage of buying-in a controller. Comparing these approaches, a hybrid option can also offer the best of both worlds. Gerard Bush of motion specialist, INMOCO, compares the build versus buy approach for PCB-motion controllers.
P
rinted Circuit Board (PCB)-based motion controllers are frequently integrated within applications such as laboratory
automation, mobile robotics, test equipment, packaging machines, and robot arm control. Typically controlling three axes of brushless DC and/or stepper motors up to around 350W, the
16 November 2022 Irish Manufacturing
increasing trend is to embed a microchip-based controller within the machine itself. The close proximity this provides enables faster response times, less noise, and a more compact footprint, plus a reduced cabling. Balancing specification requirements with cost, an OEM faces the decision of procuring an
established controller or developing their own. Assuming an off-the-shelf controller can meet needs, development volume that impacts the total procurement cost might be the deciding factor. Alternatively, an exacting specification might drive internal development. While examining the pros and cons of both approaches, a hybrid option can combine the best of both worlds.
BUILDING A CONTROLLER The advantages of developing in-house are two-fold. Firstly, this approach gives a controller that is entirely tailored to the application in terms of connectors and form factor, as well as dedicated functionality. Unique design can also be a selling point, providing it includes features that the market is willing to pay for. The other main advantage is cost. Assuming the production run is high enough, talking in the region of 1,000 units or more, a custom designed controller might be a more cost-effective procurement option. The clear requirement, however, is the need
for expertise and time in development. While cost can be saved compared to high-volume procurement, the design effort for developing a three-axis motion controller PCB is significant. Selecting connectors and the wiring scheme
is a preliminary step, and this stage can take up to three months. Next, a pivotal decision is the approach to the motor amplifier. A designed- from-the-ground up amplifier offers the greatest flexibility in specification and control.
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