The higher end models of Co-ordinate Measuring Machines ( CMMs ) are equipped with joysticks to enable the operator to easily move the probe to the job. In order to reduce the cost of a fully functional CNC CMM, a simple motorized CMM is available from our customer, which offers the features of joystick operation but at low cost.

The JS controller was developed for this application, and has a general design using joystick options including analog and switch type joysticks. In case of probe hit, the system comes to a halt immediately to avoid probe damage. 

A serial port is provided for connectivity to the PC - the user can run the diagnostic software for setting parameters. Software features provided include simple Windows based programs, whereby the user can change the motion parameters like axes speeds, incremental mode settings, etc.

The motion control is with a distributed architecture - the drives are all connected to the Joystick controller through an RS 485 serial port, reducing cabling complexity. This architecture provides the benefit, that either 2 phase, 5 phase or servo ( AC/DC ) motors can be used with the JS-01. The drives are
 

The JS - 01 controller consists of :
 

Atmel 8051 microcontroller
E2PROM to store parameters
Joystick options - analog or digital
Probe input for emergency stop
RS 232 serial port for PC-connectivity
RS 485 control port for control of motor ampliers on a bus architecture

Special features :

The system features include :

User features :

Different types of joystick supported : Analog ( resistive or capacitive )
RS - 232 C serial port for PC connectivity
Simple cabling

User Software on PC to :

Download desired motion profiles for each axis
Download speed information
Download incremental jog motion
Run diagnostics in case of system failure