OMRON Corporation announced the global release in August of its new CK3M-series Programmable Multi Axis Controller that achieves nanoscale motion control for future manufacturing in the digital and automotive industries.

OMRON Corporation announced the global release in August of its new CK3M-series Programmable Multi Axis Controller that achieves nanoscale motion control for future manufacturing in the digital and automotive industries.

OMRON has developed this compact motion controller by combining world-beating (*1) motion control capability of the Programmable Multi Axis Controller (PMAC) originally created by Delta Tau Data Systems with advanced design technologies that OMRON has refined over many years.

Semiconductor devices are now being increasingly miniaturized and 3D-structured. In the automotive industry, the shapes of internal and external components are becoming more complex, and more diverse materials are being used. In these circumstances, manufacturing machines require more precise positioning and path control that can be achieved through synchronized control of high-resolution encoders, motors, and other devices. However, with conventional controllers that can connect with only specified devices, fully synchronized control is difficult because separate controllers are used to control each device. Therefore, machine builders develop their own controller boards for machines and control machines by incorporating their own control algorithms, but design change due to discontinuation of used parts is a huge cost burden.

The CK3M Series can solve this problem by providing connectivity to virtually any type of motors and encoders using EtherCAT (R) and encoder communication protocols. This means only one controller is needed for high-speed synchronous control. Moreover, ANSI C or original programming language allows machine builders to create their own control algorithms.

Features

- Optimize system configuration

The CK3M Series can interface with various encoders and motors, providing high-precision synchronous control and increasing machine performance.

- World-beating output speeds

The CK3M delivers world-beating output speeds: 50 microseconds/5 axes. High-speed feedback control enables precise path control in precision machining.

- Incorporate own advanced control

ANSI C or original programming language allows users to create complex and advanced algorithms. Full closed loop control (*2) by servo drives can be incorporated into the controller. Users can customize machine control such as vibration suppression optimized for the machine mechanism.

The functionality of this CK3M Series has been enhanced after its limited release for specific customers on April 1, 2018. OMRON set forth a strategic concept called "innovative-Automation!" (*3). By using the advanced and compact CK3M-series Controller that provides nano-level control, OMRON will contribute to next-generation manufacturing that supports development of the digital and automotive industries through this concept.


(*1) Motion control performance of 16.6 microseconds/1 axis or 50 microseconds/5 axes. (OMRON survey as of July 2018)

(*2) The control target position is fed back to perform high-precision position control.

(*3) "innovative-Automation!" Recently, OMRON has developed a manufacturing innovation concept, called "innovative-Automation!" With this concept, OMRON is currently committed to bringing innovation to manufacturing sites through three key innovations, or three "i's." Through these innovations in the area of automation, OMRON aims to enable significant productivity improvements in manufacturing sites in order to achieve high-value-added manufacturing. With the first "i," "integrated" (control evolution), OMRON will seek to advance automated control technology so that virtually any operator, even inexperienced operators, can effortlessly perform work that previously required the expert skills of experienced workers. With the second "i," "intelligent" (development of intelligence by ICT), OMRON seeks to create constantly evolving equipment and production lines. By adopting a wide range of control devices and artificial intelligence (AI), machines can learn through experience and maintain themselves in optimal condition. For the third "i," "interactive" (new harmonization between people and machines), OMRON pursues the development of a new harmonious relationship between human operators and machines. Working together in the same workspace, machines will be able to assist human operators by recognizing human thoughts and behavior.

About OMRON Corporation

OMRON Corporation is a global leader in the field of automation based on its core technology of "Sensing & Control + Think." OMRON's business fields cover a broad spectrum, ranging from industrial automation and electronic components to automotive electronic components, social infrastructure systems, healthcare, and environmental solutions. Established in 1933, OMRON has over 36,000 employees worldwide, working to provide products and services in 117 countries. In the field of industrial automation, OMRON supports manufacturing innovation by providing advanced automation technologies and products, as well as through extensive customer support, in order to help create a better society. For more information, visit OMRON's website at: http://www.omron.com/

- EtherCAT (R) is a registered trademark and patented technology, licensed by Beckhoff Automation GmbH, Germany.

- PMAC is an abbreviation for Programmable Multi Axis Controller.