AlphaStep SensorAR Series Low Heat, Continuous Duty Closed Loop Stepping Motor and Driver Systems

The AR Series uses Oriental Motor's closed loop control to maintain positioning operation even during abrupt load fluctuations and accelerations.The rotor position detection sensor monitors the rotation.When an overload condition is detected, the AR Series will instantaneously regain control using the closed loop mode. When an overload condition continues, the AR Series will output an alarm signal, thereby providing reliability equal to that of a servo motor.

Unlike conventional stepping motors, the AR Series is designed for continuous operation. Continuous operation is achieved due to the reduction of motor heat generation by utilizing high-efficiency technology.


Control Diagram

Lower Heat GenerationLower Heat Generation

The AR Series utilizes high-efficiency technology to achieve a significant reduction in the amount of heat generated from the motor.

The motor generates significantly less heat than the conventional model as seen in the thermography results to the right.

The graph below shows the difference in temperature of the motor case over the same period of time under the same operating conditions.

Lower Heat Generation

 

Lower Heat GenerationContinuous Operation

The AR Series can be operated at high duty cycles allowing the motor to run continuously.

Note: If the motor is operated continuously, a heat sink of a capacity at least equivalent to an aluminum plate with a size of 250 x 250mm*, 6mm thick is required.

*For AC input, 100 x 100mm for DC input type.

Lower Heat GenerationEnergy Saving

Power consumption: up to 40% less than our conventional models.

CO2 emission: up to 40% less than our conventional model (assuming operation at a duty of 40%).


 

Lower Heat GenerationLow Vibration

In addition to the microstep drive system, the AR Series also uses the smooth drive function to allow for smoother motion. The smooth drive function automatically implements microstep drive based on the same travel amount and speed used in the full-step mode, without changing the pulse input settings.


 

Lower Heat GenerationImproved Angle Accuracy

The AR Series uses improved current control technology to improve the stop position accuracy of the motor. The result is greater position accuracy.

AR66AC-3: ±3 arc minutes
Conventional Model: ±5 arc minutes


 

High ResponseHigh Response

Like conventional stepping motors, AlphaStep operates in synchronism with command pulses. This makes possible short stroke positioning in a short time.


 

No Gain TuningNo Gain Tuning

Gain tuning for servo motors is critical, troublesome and time-consuming. Since the AlphaStep operates like a stepping motor, there are no gain tuning requirements. AlphaStep is ideal for low rigidity applications, such as belt and pulley systems.


 

No HuntingNo Hunting

Since AlphaStep is a stepping motor, it has no hunting problem. Therefore, when it stops, its position is completely stable and does not fluctuate. AlphaStep is ideal for applications in which hunting would be a problem.


 

Extended Functions Extended Functions

You can combine a control module (OPX-2A) or data setting software (MEXE02) (both sold separately) to change parameters, add functions and perform various monitoring operations according to the needs of your system.

For a list of Parameter Setting and Monitoring functions please refer to page 83 of the AR Series Product Catalog.


Return HomeReturn Operation

Two return operation functions are available: return to electrical home operation and automatic return operation. With these options, you can easily set up your system to return home when the main power has been cut off due to an emergency stop, etc., or the motor excitation has been turned off.
While the main power is cut off, the control power (24 VDC) must be supplied in order to maintain positioning.

Return to Electrical Home Operation
An operation in which the motor returns to the "position it had assumed when the power was turned on (=electrical home)" or "location set as the electrical home".


Return Operation
An operation in which the motor returns to the "position at which motor excitation was turned off (= the C-ON input turned OFF or FREE input turned ON)."Automatic Return


Push-Motion OperationPush-Motion Operation

You can input pulses to perform push-motion operation where the load continuously has force applied to it. The amount of force (motor output torque) is set by the push-motion operating current value. Using a control module (OPX-2A) or data setting software (MEXE02) (both sold separately), change the applicable parameter to "Push-motion operation" turn the T-MODE input ON, and input pulses. The motor will start the push-motion operation.


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