14 October 2004

Quin Systems, a leading exponent of innovative distributed control systems, is showing its latest development in motion control programming at this year's Drives & Controls exhibition. Quin Logic Control (or QLC) radically augments the company's powerful PTS motion control programming language, with many built-in functions, and integrates PLC functionality that meets the IEC 61131-3 standard. This provides a very cost-effective solution to the machine-builder's task by avoiding the need for an external PLC for local machine sequential control.

In keeping with Quin's design philosophy of true distributed control, functions are located locally within each axis rather than in a central controller. This allows for virtually unlimited expansibility without the need to add ever faster central processors that need ever-higher network bandwidth to each drive.

In application every motion controller requires some sequential control functions; Quin has succeeded in fully integrating soft-PLC functionality to their distributed design philosophy. This has been done in a manner that enables increased usability above the basic IEC standard by encompassing interactive motion control.

Interactivity is provided through an intuitive graphical display of the controller's functions in real-time, this being of crucial benefit when commissioning or maintaining machines, and also for testing new programmes for new products. All these interactive functions can be remotely accessed for efficient and effective support.

This new Motion PLC regime has also been deployed by Quin directly in its unique pick & place handling system, the R-Theta ³. R-Theta ³ is on the Quin stand as hard evidence that its motion control expertise delivers what it promises. R-Theta ³ uses Quin's technology to provide high-speed motion in 3 axes that is constantly synchronised with the other automation controllers on an automated line. It is fast and yet holds tight synchronisation avoiding all accumulating delays in machine motion that can have a significant effect upon Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE). R-Theta ³ is a highly mechanically-tuned and control-optimised solution that provides a cost-saving solution for automating production and should be seen as tangible evidence of Quin's leading technology and the company's know-how.

Quin places strong emphasis on its experience and expertise in the motion control user's world of problems and requirements. The company's focussed solution is derived from many years of delivering easy-to-use solutions to even the most mathematically complex motion control requirements of modern high speed machinery.

Quin's full product range is on display, including Q-Drives, Mini Q-Drives, and Q-Manager, allowing a single source solution for Machine Builders, Motion-Control VAR's and end-users. Visitors should look at Quin's technology for fast solution providing and excellent performance and reliability.