Glossary · Motion control and drives
Synchronous axis
Also known as: Synchronized axis
German: Synchronachse
In motion control, a synchronous axis is an axis that runs in a fixed positional or velocity relationship to a master axis or to other axes, maintained continuously by the controller.
- Motion control
In one sentence
A synchronous axis runs in a fixed position or speed relation to a master or other axes, kept continuously by the controller.
Example
In a gantry, two parallel Y motors run as synchronous axes so the crossbeam doesn't twist.
How it applies
- Engineering: Synchronous operation relies on deterministic communication and synchronized drive cycles; Jitter and different loop tuning between axes cause position deviations.
- Commissioning: For mechanically coupled axes (gantries), the deviation between axes must be monitored and limited to protect the mechanics.
- Operation: Loss of synchronization is a fault that stops the group.
- Documentation: Describe which axes run synchronously and what the operator must do after a synchronization fault, including any realignment of mechanically coupled axes.
Synchronous axis vs. synchronous motor
A synchronous axis is a control relationship between axes. A Synchronous motor is a motor type whose rotor turns with the stator field. The two are unrelated; spell out which one is meant.