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The MotionDesigner provides support in the selection and design of linear units and imparts specialist knowledge of linear technology. © Item

Which drive technology is the right one for my transportation task? How high should the repeat accuracy be and what does the travel profile look like? Automation systems usually have to meet complex requirements. These can be easily defined and fulfilled with item MotionDesigner. This is because the online software supports the selection and design of linear units. The tool imparts important specialist knowledge of linear technology and provides clear answers to fundamental questions. The methodical approach with logically sequenced steps makes the software easy to use, making it ideal as an introduction to linear technology and for training purposes.

Step by step to the result

The user can call up information on repeat accuracy, drive technology, the encoder system and technical parameters when defining the framework conditions. © Item

The item MotionDesigner guides the user through the configuration process like a red thread. At the beginning, the user decides whether they want to select a product or carry out a detailed configuration. In the first case, the user selects the desired motors, gearboxes and control units from a range of matching components after entering a few details. In the case of detailed configuration, on the other hand, the item MotionDesigner guides the user through all the configuration steps and asks for specific general conditions, installation position, load and carriage movement. The item MotionDesigner recommends the most suitable item linear motion unit. The result is the optimum combination of linear unit, drive and control unit. But how does the step-by-step design work? Once the user has decided on the detailed design, they can choose between a single linear unit, cantilever axis or synchronous axis. The general conditions are then defined. The intelligent software asks for the required repeat accuracy, the desired drive technology and the electrical supply at the place of use.

In addition, the user must provide information on the encoder system, the contamination of the environment and the technical parameters of service life and duty cycle. The next step is to define the installation position and alignment of the carriage. The user then defines the travel profile. The item MotionDesigner then provides recommendations for an item linear motion unit based on the specified motion and load profile and exact calculations. This is followed by the definition of the mounting position. Here, the user specifies the position of the drive components and the alignment of the gearbox and motor and specifies whether the control unit should be pre-parameterized. In the last section, the user has the option of specifying the desired basic components and selecting additional control accessories and necessary cables. If required, the program creates detailed project documentation, provides the CAD data and generates a configuration file for later transfer to the item MotionSoft commissioning software. In the next step, the shopping cart can be selected to order the configured products directly.

Configuration with maximum learning effect

The user benefits from the methodical approach to configuration and the numerous details and help functions in the tool. This provides them with important information to help them interpret data and facts correctly. Informative illustrations and graphics contribute to an understanding of the subject matter. If specific values are to be entered, the software limits the data range to ensure real data. For example, the stroke length must be between 0 and 5,820 mm. Such default settings also mean that incorrect data is a thing of the past. Oversizing the task is prevented and the risk of incorrect design is minimized. If individual parameters are changed, different scenarios are created within seconds. "Compared to item MotionDesigner, other commercially available systems take considerably longer to calculate after a value has been changed," says Uwe Schmitz. "Users tend to shy away from making changes, whereas with our software, testing, trying out and comparing is quick and easy." Created application examples and learning content can be saved and called up again as often as required.

Quickly create curricula and exercises

The item MotionDesigner is a free browser application. The user's IT system does not need to meet any special requirements to operate and use it. The intelligent selection and design tool is always up to date and can be used directly online without downloading. It can be easily integrated into webinars and video conferences. This allows participants to follow the individual steps in the configuration of linear units from any location. "item MotionDesigner is not just software that makes designing linear systems much easier and faster," says Uwe Schmitz. "The online tool is also perfect for training purposes."

For example, teachers and lecturers in training workshops, vocational schools or in-house training courses can make perfect use of the tool to teach the basics of linear technology. Curricula can be optimally aligned with the didactic structure, starting with the definition of the linear unit, through the general conditions and basic principles of technology and the description of individual components, to the accessories and final documentation in accordance with mechanical engineering guidelines. The direct practical relevance helps to deepen and consolidate teaching content. By using item MotionDesigner, the teacher does not need any additional materials to design the lesson, for example to explain the drive and guidance technologies or influence static and dynamic aspects. Students also benefit, as they can use the training tool at any time from home or other locations to deepen their knowledge.