Direct Motion CNC 5.0 is scheduled for release in December 2002. The newer version will be a vast improvement which builds on existing, proven Direct Motion technology. 100% of the Direct Motion Windows software, the proven servo amplifier technology, and the patented single processor motion control technology all remain the same. Click Here for a larger photo of Direct Motion CNC 5.0.

The most noticeable improvement is the change in the programming station. A USB 2 equipped portable PC which completes servo loops, handles motion coordination and I/O, and is the user interface will be used. All previous designs had put the PC and a 17” CRT on a bench near the machine. The PC on a bench is very unconventional, the use of a portable PC will be much more convenient.

Our new system will also include use of encoder index pulses for absolute machine home and dynamic motor position sanity checks.

Our new system will consist of two boxes with electronics. The Programming Station described above and a remote termination panel. The remote panel will house the servo amplifiers (much like the existing system). It will also accommodate virtually unlimited auxiliary I/O. This I/O will include digital and analog with convenient screw down terminal blocks. The I/O capability supports many advanced featured including tool changers, limit switches, probes, coolant,spindles, as well as non machine tool automation applications which combine motion control with I/O. In the diagram, the USB 2 I/O card is shown outside of the remote panel. This is for viewing purposes only, and the card will be placed inside the remote panel.

The expanded I/O allows more complete self monitoring and fault diagnostics.

Direct Motion control systems have always been user servicable, Direct Motion CNC 5.0 will be as well. The Programming station uses an off the shelf Portable PC and can be serviced by any PC repair shop. The Remote terminal operates on a slot based backplane. The I/O and Amplifier cards will be modestly priced stock items available from Direct Motion. The PC and remote terminal are connected by a single high speed digital link.

The first release of Direct Motion CNC 5.0 will support only DC servos. We are planning Brushless Servo support over the next year or so. Direct Motion servo technology is all digital, using a PWM signal into the amplifiers. We can not drive analog servo amps. When retrofitting a machine using the Direct Motion system, everything must br replaced, ncluding the amplifiers and servos.

Not only is Direct Motion CNC 5.0 loaded with more features, it will actually cost less than our current system, which  sells to end users for between $10,000 and $12,000 depending on motor size. Exact pricing has not yet been decided on, however it will be in the $7500 range.

The Direct Motion system is a complete single source end to end system. We are always responsible for making the complete system work for you.

Direct Motion is working hard to bring the reality of true PC based automation to you and the world.