Applied Controls UK Ltd.

Applied Controls UK Ltd. developed a bespoke single axis motion control system to operate a third party linear motor in closed loop position control. The design incorporated two microcontrollers which were interfaced to an intelligent IGBT in order to reciprocate the motor, following a pre-defined motion profile. The control system also featured a Bluetooth interface for initial wireless set-up and testing together with a low-voltage powerline communication to provide operational control over a long distance.


The project required a number of circular, multi-layer PCBs to be designed and manufactured. The design was heavily influenced by the space constraints and the demands imposed by extreme operating conditions.


An integrated, non-contact, position feedback system was developed, avoiding the need for a separate, external device which would otherwise have required additional space and with a similar need to tolerate the extreme operating environment.