SimplexMotionTool
The SimplexMotionTool software runs on a PC computer in the Windows environment and allows the user to configure and test the SimplexMotion motor units.
The first part of the software establishes a connection to the motor unit using the USB of RS485 communication interface.
REGISTERS
The functionality of the motor unit is entirely controlled by registers that can be read and written. The next part of the software allows the user to inspect and change these registers. The registers are updated in real time and form the parameters and settings of the motor system. The current register values can also be saved to a memory to be loaded at the next startup.
RECORDER
To facilitate performance validation and optimization it is necessary to be able to measure parameters in the motor device. To accomplish this there is a recorder feature within the SimplexMotion device. This part allows direct access to this recorder feature. Up to 4 channels can be recorded simultaneously, and can be triggered from different events.
The following screenshot shows a recording of some registers when the motor changes direction from positive to negative direction of rotation. In this case it takes about 0.15s to change the speed from +2300rpm to -2300rpm.
RUN
To make it simple to quickly test the motor we have the following screen. It allows running the motor in speed, position or torque mode. A few common motor data values are shown, and other can be selected for inspection in the rolling graph. These data can also be logged to a file. Graphing and logging is running even if the motor is controlled from another interface, allowing this to be a convenient debugging mode.
POSITION
Typical use for the SimplexMotion devices is in position control with rapid transfers from one position to another. To accomplish this with high performance and a minimum of mechanical vibrations it is important to use ramping where the acceleration and maximum speed are controlled.
To further improve performance when dealing with high inertia loads it is common to use feed forward control in addition to the PID feedback regulator.
The last screen is used to tune the relevant parameters and inspect performance for point to point moves.
DOWNLOAD SOFTWARE
SimplexMotionTool software
To install on PC Windows platform. With bootloader feature to allow firmware upgrade.
InstallSimplexMotionTool v036.msiChangelog file:
Earlier versions
Download as .msi file:
InstallSimplexMotionTool v035.msiDownload as .rar file and extract to desired location:
SimplexMotionTool documentation
SimplexMotionTool spreadsheet to define events
Spreadsheet to create events for motor customization.
