The TR-EM-239 parallel controller, available from LINAK Australia , is designed to drive two actuators in parallel. It is suitable for 12V to 24V DC motors with a maximum of 2 x 10Amp capacity and applications, where parallel movement is required such as across a bench, hatch, door, slide, transfer, directional guide, over a wide span and conveyor line.

The TR-EM-239 controller works with actuators that provide pulse feedback signals. Pulses can be derived from Hall-sensors, Reed or other kinds of switches that can accept either negative or positive pulses.

The actuators are synchronised using the pulse width modulation (PWM) to adjust individual actuator speeds. For example, if one side of a bench is fully loaded and the opposite side has minimal load resulting in less load on the actuator, this actuator speed will be slowed to maintain the same PWM count as the actuator under load, thus maintaining synchronisation of both actuators. If the controller cannot maintain parallel drive between the actuators, the actuators will be stopped, reducing the possibility of mechanical stress and breakage. The controller includes built-in safe guards for current cut-off and power stage temperature limit protection.

Another feature of the TR-EM-239 is the ability to operate in pulse or continuous operation modes. The basic control is done with FORWARD, BACKWARD and STOP commands. FORWARD and BACKWARD input commands can be accepted in continuous or impulse signal mode. In continuous mode, the actuators will operate as long as the command signal is activated. In impulse mode, only an impulse signal is required to start and stop the actuator movement.

This solution provides a suitable alternative system to pneumatics and hydraulics, which are costly and difficult to maintain the true synchronisation. The TR-EM-239 controller is easily adjusted or can be provided preset from the factory to suit the intended application. Repeat orders can be duplicated prior to dispatch from LINAK Australia that are ready to use. Controller operating parameters are easily adjusted such as actuator drive speeds, soft start and stop function, pulse or continuous operation, current overload settings and sensitivity. These adjustments are carried out through the portable serial interface handset (TR-EM-236). This needs to be plugged in, adjusted and operated. For advanced use, the TR-EM-236 can provide controller information regarding current levels and pulse counts in monitor mode.

The TR-EM-239 is available in PCB for DIN rail mounting or enclosed in an IP66 enclosure. These controllers can be installed in LINAK power supplies. This is an effective, low cost and simple solution.