Synchronizer

Name

Description

MLSyncInit

Initializes a synchronizer Pipe Block.

MLSyncReadDeltaS

Gets the output phasing value of a synchronizer block.

MLSyncStart

Starts a synchronization of a synchronizer Pipe Block.

MLSyncStop

De-synchronizes a synchronizer Pipe Block.

MLSyncWriteDeltaS

Sets the output phasing value of a synchronizer block.

Purpose

The Synchronizer is used to de-synchronize and re-synchronize an axis to an internal or external master like a mechanical clutch / brake.

  • It is used where a slave axis must be stopped and, when restarted, achieve perfect, jerk-free re-synchronization with the master.
  • The ramping distance (increment of slave axis motion within which ramp up or ramp down occurs) and the slave axis resting position are adjustable.

Such a pipe block can be used, for instance, when an item is missing on a conveyor.

Figure below illustrates the application of a Synchronizer which enables a slave axis to be stopped, started and re-synchronized to an external master.

Synchronizer Pipe Block to Start, Stop and Re-synchronize a Slave Axis

Figure 1: Synchronizer Pipe Block to Start, Stop and Re-synchronize a Slave Axis

Parameters

Parameter

Description

ModuloPosition
  • Value of the cyclic period of the input signal.
    • Expressed in User units.
  • The parameter is defined to correctly manage the periodicity (modulo) of the input values.
  • 0 (zero) indicates the input signal does not use the modulo operation.

CurveType

When synchronizing, specifies which type of curve (parabolic or polynomial) has to be implemented for merging with the master.

The options are:

  • 1 = Parabolic
  • 2 = Polynomial

DeltaS
  • The Distance to get in or out of synchronization.
  • This parameter is used in MLSyncStart and MLSyncStop.

Example: Synchronizer Functions

  • When MLSyncStart function is called, the output value is adapted to catch up with the input value.
  • The OUTPUT_PHASING parameter is used to define a curve in order to smooth the output value. (Figure 2)

Figure 2: Get Output Phasing after MLSyncStart

  • When the MLSyncStop function is called, the output value is adapted according to the specified Stop-Position (point B).
  • The OUTPUT_PHASING parameter is used to define point A, where the flow follows a curve in order to smooth the output value. (Figure 3)

Figure 3: Get Output Phasing after MLSyncStop

Associated Data

  • OutputValue: Output value of the data flows.
  • IsReady: Boolean set to TRUE when the pipe block is ready.