Multi-Axis Feed-Forward Control for Automated Parameter Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual parameterization of pilot control units in multi-axis systems is time-consuming and prone to errors, lacking automation, which affects the control behavior and precision of mechanical systems like gantry systems and injection molding machines.

Innovation Solution

Automated identification and parameterization of pilot control parameters using identification units that determine pilot control values based on target variables and actual variables, allowing for optimized pilot control unit operation and improved tracking error behavior.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual parameterization of pilot control units is used, then control behavior can be adjusted, but the process is time-consuming and prone to errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidparameterization time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-parameterization through automated identification processes. The control unit automatically determines pilot control parameters by evaluating actual system behavior during identification routines, eliminating the need for manual parameterization while ensuring accurate control precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary identification routines before normal operation to automatically determine optimal pilot control parameters. This preliminary automated parameterization prepares the system for precise control without requiring time-consuming manual adjustment during setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If automated parameterization is implemented, then time consumption is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameterization speedVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated parameterization uses feedback from actual system measurements during identification routines. The control unit monitors actual variables, compares them with target values, and automatically adjusts pilot control parameters based on this feedback, achieving fast parameterization without excessive complexity increase.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual parameterization processes with automated electronic identification routines. This substitution of manual mechanical adjustment with automated electronic determination reduces time consumption while keeping the added complexity manageable through software-based solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If manual parameterization is used, then system setup is simple, but tracking error behavior is not optimized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontour fidelityVSAvoidparameterization ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically optimizes its own pilot control parameters through identification routines that evaluate actual system performance. This self-service approach achieves optimal contour fidelity and tracking error behavior without requiring complex manual tuning procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary automated identification to determine optimal parameters before production operation. This preliminary action ensures that tracking error behavior is optimized from the start, achieving high contour fidelity without the need for complex manual parameterization during setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4252087B1Operation of a multi-axis system
Publication Date: 2024.02.21 B&R IND AUTOMATION GMBH
  • EP4252087B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

In order to provide an optimized multi-axis system having mechanically coupled axes, a feed-forward control identification process is established, during which identification actual values (x1', x2') arising at the respective motors (M1, M2) are specified to respective identification units (I1, I2) associated with respective feed-forward control units (V1, V2), wherein by means of said identification actual values (x1', x2') feed-forward control parameters (P1, P2) are identified, and said feed-forward control parameters (P1, P2) are used to parameterize closed-loop control units (R1, R2).