Using SMAC controllers all of our products are programmable using 3 different
modes independently controlling position, velocity, and force, allowing
their performance characteristics to be tightly monitored. Pass/fail windows
for any of these parameters can be set - useful for error reporting and
testing applications.
Position mode
Position mode will allow the actuator to be moved to any position along
the stroke using a given acceleration, velocity and force. It is possible
to make absolute, relative and "learned position" moves. The force necessary
to hold a given position can also be measured - this is called "holding
force" and is used in applications such as switch testing.
Velocity mode
Velocity mode allows the actuator to be moved with a given velocity,
acceleration, force and direction. Velocity (i.e. position vs. time) is
closed-loop using feedback from the encoder, giving precise velocity control.
Position and position error (the difference between actual position and
desired position at a given time) can be interrogated in real time during
motion. Typically used for constant speed scanning applications and "softland"
routines.
Force mode
In Force mode, current in the coil is controlled to give a programmed
force output. Position and velocity are open loop, using no feedback from
the encoder, but actual position can still monitored in real time. Used
in applications such as tensile and compression testing.
