Aerotech's (Pittsburgh, PA; www.aerotech.com) Enhanced Throughput Module (ETM) improves positioning performance of high-dynamic motion systems by directly measuring unwanted motion of the machine base and communicating it back to the controller for compensation. By working in concert with Aerotech controllers, the ETM allows the servo system to compensate for dynamic motion artifacts and to do a superior job of executing the desired motion path.
Unwanted base motion typically occurs because the force applied to accelerate the stage reacts against the machine frame. The machine frame responds with an oscillation that can extend over hundreds of milliseconds. Fine positioning or accurate high-dynamic motion requires that the controller wait for this oscillation to subside before continuing with the process. This forces the controller to wait or causes inaccurate motion, either of which reduces productivity. The most appropriate solution is an optimized frame and machine-base design, but in many circumstances this isn't practical or is prohibitively expensive.
The Aerotech ETM provides a low-cost solution for improving the productivity of new and existing equipment with easy installation and no changes to existing mechanical hardware.