Aerotech ETM Enhanced Throughput Module

The Enhanced Throughput Module (ETM) improves the positioning

performance of high-dynamic motion systems by directly measuring

the unwanted motion of the machine base and communicating it back

to the controller. By working in concert with the Dynamic Controls

Toolbox and the Aerotech controllers, ETM allows the servo system to

do a superior job of executing the desired motion path.

Design Features

• Significantly improves move-and-settle time and contouring performance

• Increases throughput of existing and new machines

• Greatly reduces undesirable effects of frame motion on the servo system

• Compatible with all current Aerotech controllers

Unwanted base motion typically occurs because the force applied to

accelerate the stage reacts against the machine frame. The machine

frame responds with an oscillation that can extend over hundreds of

milliseconds (Figure 1. above). Fine positioning or high-dynamic

motion requires that the controller wait for this oscillation to subside

before continuing with the process. This forces the controller to wait

or causes inaccurate motion, either of which reduces productivity.

The most appropriate solution is an optimized frame and machine-

base design, but in many cases this is either not practical or is

prohibitively expensive.

The Aerotech ETM provides a low-cost solution for improving the

productivity of new and existing equipment with easy installation

and no changes to existing mechanical hardware. Figure 2 shows a

point-to-point move. As can be seen from the plot, the ETM and

Dynamic Controls Toolbox are able to reduce settling time by 21%.

Figure 3 shows integration on a Hermesys™ system and Figure 4

shows integration on the AGS15000. Contact an Aerotech Application

Engineer to find out how ETM can make your machine more productive.