M-SHAFT

Cyclically recurring production sequences mostly includes several associated motion axes. These actuators are operated here in a precisely defined sequence. Mechanical cams were previously used for synchronization tasks. M-SHAFT makes it possible to create a virtual form of this rigid coupling. The production of an individual workpiece corresponds here to a rotation of the virtual shaft. The positioning of the individual motion axes is linked to this rotation. This transformation of the motion sequence from a time base to a rotation angle base offers an essential benefit: Even with a varying production speed, the set motion sequence is always performed automatically. The tedious work involved in manually changing the motion profiles thus becomes a thing of the past.

• Software module for coordinating cyclically recurring motion sequences
• A shaft controller synchronizes up to 32 motion axes
• Position profile is set individually for each axis
• Production speed (speed of the shaft controller) can be changed during operation
• Configuration and diagnostic via the SolutionCenter
• Commissioning user interface (SHAFT-Monitor)
• Library for IEC 61131-3 PLC programs

Synchronized motion sequence despite changing production speed 

A virtual shaft is the core of M-SHAFT. It rotates precisely 360° for the production of a workpiece. All the associated motion axes therefore complete their set profile exactly once during this cycle. Attaching these profiles relatively to the shaft position offers an inherently key benefit: The sequence maintains even with a changing production speed. Higher quantities per time unit automatically lead to axes motion in shorter time frames. Thus, even complex applications can be designed and implemented in shortest possible time. 

Motion paths individually designed 

Characteristic positions of the individual axes are defined by means of individual support locations distributed over the 360°. M-SHAFT interpolates between these points and forms a continuous motion path. The provided interpolation types make it possible to focus on high production performance or keeping any jerks to a minimum. The system can also be automatically optimized to maximum production speed. Therefore, M-SHAFT Table Interpreter calculates the optimum distribution of the defined support locations over the 360° and relieves engineers of this task. 

Creating applications easily 

A high-level sequence program mostly takes over the coordination of M-SHAFT and the loading and removal systems. M-SHAFT is integrated directly in this application via the IEC 61131-3 library. This enables starting a plant up to required production speed from one central location. 

The »SHAFT Monitor« commissioning user interface enables the complete parameter assignment and manual operation of the M-SHAFT. Highly dynamic processes are recorded directly on the controller by the Scope 3 software oscilloscope and fully visualized on the PC. In this way, a complete overview is always ensured. This not only shortens the time required for the initial commissioning, but also enables fast troubleshooting during operation.