Some want a standard model off the lot. Some want a custom-built baby with all the options. And some want to compromise and take a standard model and soup it up a bit. Sounds like your average range of car buyers, but the folks we're talking about here are buying machining centers. This growing trend stems out of the fact that many of the technologies that go into building a machine have matured, giving buyers the option of getting a machine that provides more "oomph" than standard, but doesn't carry the hefty price tag of a custom machine. Here's a quick look at just a few of the possibilities...—CDJ

Motional Issues

Working almost as an association of motion/motion control companies, Automation Solutions International (ASI, Kirtland, OH) offers a cross section of some of the automation and motion control technologies machine builders use to keep machines moving according to plan. ASI uses its affiliation to provide advanced motion control solutions complete with engineering and post-installation services. Recently, the conglomeration conducted a day-long seminar giving attendees a good idea of what technologies and services it can provide. Here are just a few of the technologies seen.

Industrial Devices Corp. (IDC, Petaluma, CA) offers positioning systems for applications where space is a premium or precision is essential. Like what? Like electronic component manufacturing and handling. The PB4 positioning system can be used for both tool and part placement, and features bi-directional repeatability to 0.0001 in. and linear speed to 10 in/sec. PB4 models are available in numerous configurations.

The DMC-2000 series motion control from Galil Motion Control, Inc. (Mountain View, CA) is a digital control designed within the boundaries of universal serial bus (USB) standards. The control automatically configures itself into the PC's system without having to reboot. The one- to eight-axis unit provides multitasking capability, automatic servo tuning, and interface with ActiveX tools.

Used more for automatic toolchanger and material handling-type applications, the VLT line of adjustable frequency drives from Danfoss Electronic Drives (Rockford, IL) offers several mounting options. Enhanced software provides programmable stop alternatives, diagnostics, and automatic motor tuning.

The idea behind the Twin Line of motion control and positioning drives from Sig Positec Automation (Plymouth, MI) is to be able to operate both stepping motors and AC servo motors at the same time and on the same system. The modular system lets users opt for the motor technology best suited to a particular application. The detachable interface can store several setup parameters to accommodate different applications.