New SoftMotion Development Module for LabVIEW - National Instruments

NI announced new version of the SoftMotion Development Module for LabVIEW. Machine builders can use a range of pre-built motion functions and algorithms to quickly create motion controllers to fulfill the requirements and performance of the products. NI SoftMotion Development Module 2.0 expands this flexible environment to stepper motor control. It’s compatible with NI’s CompactRIO controllers and compatible with Windows Vista.

National Instruments SoftMotion Development Module is ideal for applications that require high-speed or custom control such as MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System) processes, semiconductor processes, and drilling. Machine builders can easily create custom motion controllers with advanced control algorithms such as model-based control or fuzzy logic for better machine performance. Combined with the LabVIEW FPGA technology in CompactRIO modules, researchers able to gain more accurate control.

SoftMotion Development Module can be used for fast development and prototype of new control design algorithms for motion control. Functions in software including: spline interpolation, trajectory generation, encoder implementation and position/velocity PID control on the LabVIEW Real-Time and/or FPGA Module. Developer can experiment with available algorithms to lift up the performance of their applications. Developer  can also create custom motion controllers using the platform of their choice, including the CompactRIO embedded platform, plug-in data acquisition devices (M Series and R Series).

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About National Instruments (NI). NI empowers customers with off-the-shelf software such as LabVIEW and modular hardware. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, NI has more than 4,000 employees and direct operations in nearly 40 countries. For the past eight years, NI has been listed by FORTUNE magazine as one of the 100 best companies to work for in America…

The latest version of the NI SoftMotion supports spline engine function to generate step data output, giving machine builders the ability to choose the motor best suited for their applications. It also comes  with two new data types, fixed point and floating point (for spline data). These data types give machine builders the flexibility to choose more loop rate combinations when using servo motors.

Pricing of National Instruments SoftMotion Development Module 2.0 is $2,899; €2,749; ¥387,000
 

Source: National Instruments