EtherCAT servo controller for synchronised motion with PLC integrated machine control

Recently launched by Trio Motion and available with full support from Mclennan, the new Motion-PLC series offers a powerful solution as an EtherCAT servo controller for synchronised motion with PLC integrated machine control. As a perfect fit for Mclennan’s motion system design and build service the new Motion-PLC is offered in three model configurations with feature enabled codes (FECs) that competitively address low- to medium-axis count requirements for applications from simple point-to-point positioning systems to complex, tightly synchronised multi-axis stand-alone machines. An integrated slice interface and dedicated expandable digital and analogue I/O slice modules complete the system with programming via IEC61131-3 or TrioBASIC and Trio’s Function Blocks software.

Trio’s Motion-PLC range combines MCS series motion controllers and MS series I/O slice modules. The MCS-30 offers up to 4 motion axes with simple control for point-to-point positioning whilst the MCS 40, along with the higher-performance MCS 50, are ‘Flexible Machine Controllers’ that will address more complex axis-and machine-synchronised tasks. With the capability for rapid machine development, all MCS series servo controllers feature a slice interface that facilitates seamless integration of Trio’s MS I/O system which supports up to 16 variously configured slice modules of 16 digital inputs or outputs, or blocks of 4 analogue inputs or outputs. Trio’s MS I/O slice modules can also connect to an EtherCAT coupler for flexible integration. The DIN-rail front mounted system features spring clamp connectors with push-button removal that make wiring fast, facilitating quick and flexible machine set-up.

MCS series motion controllers are based on the ARM Cortex A55 processor with a 600MHz clock frequency and 64-bit position register precision for exceptional motion and machine synchronisation, and motion cycle times to 1 ms. The multitasking operating system includes a comprehensive motion library, offering capabilities such as electronic gearbox, axis to axis interpolation, mathematical functions and I/O interaction. Programming is efficiently accomplished using the TrioBASIC motion language or IEC61131 standards. Setup and diagnostics are facilitated through Trio’s Motion Perfect software. The MCS-40 and -50 also supports Uniplay, Modbus TCP, PROFINET IO, and Ethernet/IP protocols. Software tools are available for cam profile generation, robotic kinematic transformations and CAD path conversion, further supporting minimum application development timescales.

This motion control system ensures seamless integration with Trio’s DX series distributed servo drives covering power ranges from 50W to 7.5kW in a choice of three model variants. Complete standalone machine operation can also be realised with Trio’s UNIPLAY HMI 7-in and 10-in colour touch screen displays.