I am attempting to use 3 stepper motors to create an accurate x-y stage to move a sensor to 100 different positions above a 7ft^2 area. The motor I am using is the STM24QF-3RE NEMA 24 from Applied Motion Products. This motor has its own "Q-programming" for stand alone control. My goal is to use an Arduino communicate the 100 different positions to the motor using the Q language that consists of a library of 100s of commands the motor can run on its own. The integrated motor has 100 non-volatile Storage data registers, so I'm not sure if an Arduino is needed at all. This is my first project with integrated stepper motors, I don't have much experience, any help is appreciated. I have added the link to the motor page from which the host-command reference can be downloaded. If an Arduino is needed to accomplish this, please let me know which model to use.
What is your level of programming skill? How complex are the tasks that the x-y stage must perform? It's impossible to suggest a target controller without understanding the application requirements.
Thank you for reaching out. I have practically no programming skills, but the tasks required seem pretty basic. I have attached a picture of the requirements of the stage, as well as a few pages of commands from the command reference sheet of the motor to give an idea of what it is already capable of without an outside controller.
I see now. Is this a project that you undertook for someone else? An Arduino can probably do this. These requirements are very basic, there is no mention of the method of specifying tasks (i.e. how the x-y will be told what to do). Do steppers need to be synchronized to move in unison or is it okay to just achieve target positions? Where are the instructions stored and in what format? Is it controlled by some code like Gcode or custom instruction set? Where is that stored, PC or standalone controller? How will it be entered by the user?
You see, there is really a lot you haven't explained. Also if you are not a programmer, coding it is going to be a huge challenge.
While it's possible to do this with an arduino, it will be far simpler with something more powerful. What's more, that company already provides software that lets you download stored motion programs to its controllers. I'd start with that.
If you need something more sophisticated and are looking for someone to outsource the programming to, send me a PM. I've done similar tasks before, including a complex UI for some AMC servo motors for someone else on this site.
If your positioning accuracy limit is +/- 1mm over "7ft^2 area" does that mean you need a 7-foot beam that won't sag more than 1mm in the middle? That is a VERY stiff beam.
How much weight does this positioner have to carry?
I appreciate the offer but it is a group project and I can outsource the programming to someone else. However, you understand the scope of this project so I'm curious, what Arduino model or other controller would you use in this scenario. It just has to communicate to the motors using the software that comes with them. Thank you
