FAULHABER Unveils “World’s Smallest” Integrated Motion Controller
FAULHABER recently announced the latest addition to its product line, a new family of brushless motors with an integrated controller and encoder, all in an impressively small form factor.
FAULHABER, a leader in precision and drive systems for motion control, has recently unveiled the Integrated Motion Controller 22xx...BX4 IMC series. The company’s claim to the title of “world's smallest” integrated motion controller certainly seems credible as the entire control system is fitted to the end of the FAULHABER 22xx...BX4 brushless motor family in a way that adds a mere 18 mm to the motor length.
Featured in the new FAULHABER BX4 IMC's compact design is a high-resolution 12-bit encoder and a full servo controller.
The new IMC motors with integrated controllers and encoders. Image used courtesy of FAULHABER
The New FAULHABER BX4 IMC
Available in both RS-232 for use with embedded master or PC integration and CANopen for industrial automation networks, the FAULHABER BX4 IMC can be seamlessly integrated into various systems. The new CO CANopen CiA 402 servo drive version supports typical PLCs, while the RS version can be controlled using a single master port for multiple drives. In "stand-alone" mode, both versions can easily run without the need for a master, and using its versatile digital and analog I/O interfaces, local control tasks like homing the drive can be implemented and managing specific set points and actual values.
Using Motion Manager 7.1, FAULHABER's PC software, the BX4 IMC series can be easily set up and configured with the availability of diagnostics functions that simplify troubleshooting and commissioning. Available as accessories are the programming adapters for CANopen, USB, and RS232, which further accelerate the setup and configuration of new drives.
Designed for Efficiency and Performance
A diagnostic function, together with built-in current control for overload protection, enhances the efficiency and performance of the FAULHABER BX4 IMC. As per the servo drive standards, the position control, velocity, and torque are also supported by the IMC. The new solution boasts a low electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) emission and bears the required CE label that ensures compliance and efficiency.
A render that illustrates the new BX4 IMC brushless motor, encoder, and controller in one compact unit. Image used courtesy of FAULHABER
Applications and Market Segments
Designed for small space and resource optimization, the BX4 IMC has a 22mm diameter-compliant design that offers flexibility in its use. With a first-class volume-to-design ratio, the new drive by FAULHABER also comes in two lengths and can be used together with a range of product lines like the 22L geared line actuators or the GPT gearheads also provided by the company. This makes the motor control solution suitable for market segments like automation technology, from the design of electrical grippers to conveyor systems. The BX4 IMC can also be used in special machinery construction, robotics, and segments like medical and laboratory technology for tasks like XYZ liquid handling.
As motor drive technology keeps improving, engineers seek new motion control solutions that offer a balance of performance and efficiency, all while being compact in design. The new FAULHABER BX4 IMC brushless motor's compact design with integrated motion controller promises control performance that will make it the top choice for engineers seeking the impressive features it offers.
