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The Linear Actuator Controller’s Graph Feature

For industries that require precision and reliability, the Linear Actuator Controller and its enhanced HMI offer a future-ready solution. With a focus on ease of use, versatility, and performance, the new graphing feature in Magnetic Innovations’ Controller HMI software is a valuable addition for engineers and technicians. This functionality allows users to visualize key actuator variables in real-time, providing essential insights into system performance.

A Brief Overview of the Linear Actuator Controller

The Linear Actuator Controller is specifically designed to control Magnetic Innovations’ range of Moving Magnet Actuators. These actuators, known for their reliability and high precision, are used in applications ranging from industrial automation to high-precision manufacturing.

The controller is built with user convenience in mind, featuring HMI software that allows for easy configuration and monitoring. It supports sensorless position control, eliminating the need for an external encoder. Engineers can easily program custom motion patterns directly into the motor controller using the intuitive PC-based HMI.

For added functionality, the HMI includes a very useful graph feature.

Controller

What Can Be Measured with the Graph Feature?

The graph tool displays a variety of variables, including forces during motion, resistance, current levels, temperature changes, position, and speed. It updates at 10-15 timestamps per second, depending on the platform, giving a detailed view of actuator behaviour. Users can adjust the graph’s buffer size to focus on specific details or get a broader overview of trends.

Visualizing these variables is essential for understanding the behaviour of the system during operation. For instance:

  • Force Analysis: See what forces are required for specific movements.
  • Power Monitoring: Track resistance and current usage to prevent overloading.
  • Thermal Management: Monitor temperatures, including ambient, actuator, MCU, and power electronics NTC, to ensure safe operation.

Video: Controller data logging and visualisation

How to use the Data?

This tool is invaluable for diagnosing issues, optimizing system performance, and logging data for deeper analysis. For example, in the event of an alarm, users can examine logged data to pinpoint the root cause and address it effectively.

Data captured by the graph feature can be exported in .csv format, making it easy to analyse using external tools and fingerprint operation while the application was tuned. Whether it’s troubleshooting an issue, fine-tuning performance, or planning maintenance, the graph feature helps to give you a clearer picture of what’s happening.

The Benefits for Engineers and Operators

This Graph function within the HMI, provides many practical benefits for professionals working with the MMA system:

  1. Enhanced Troubleshooting: Quickly identify and fix issues with real-time data.
  2. Improved Productivity: Minimize downtime with actionable insights.
  3. Data-Driven Optimization: Allows for in-depth analysis, enabling long-term improvements in system performance.
  4. Ease of Use: Integrated directly into the HMI software, the graphing tool is intuitive and requires no additional setup.

For more information, watch our videos to see the MMA Controller in action or contact us directly.

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