Device Under Test Position Control System
Cross Position Control Systems
Improve control, repeatability, and flexibility with an automated Device Under Test (DUT) position control system.
Device testing requires positioning the DUT in multiple, repeatable and precise locations and orientations based on what each test specifies. Manually controlled systems can be cumbersome to set up, work within a limited range of motion, and are less likely to provide the level of control and repeatability necessary for such comprehensive testing. Manually adjusted “lock In place” systems are labor intensive to adjust and only offer fixed angular positions that are defined at the time of initial design and manufacture. By implementing a coordinated motion control system for testing, the system gains a tremendous amount of control and flexibility.
The motion control experts at Cross Company have streamlined this application by designing a standard but configurable DUT Positioning System using industrial grade controls and mechanics. The electromechanical system includes a base X axis to provide linear travel and an azimuth, or tilt, axis for angular adjustments. Additional motion and/or degrees of freedom are also available should your testing method specify them.
Control Automation That Works For You
The X axis uses a dual axis belt driven actuator system coupled via a linkshaft. The tilt axis uses a rod style ballscrew actuator with the rod end fixed to the underside of the plate used to mount the DUT. Both axes are driven by stepper motors. The entire system is connected using custom mounting plates that allow the tilt axis to ride on the carriages of the X axis.
This two axis system gives the flexibility to move the unit under test to any position along a single linear axis with the desired azimuth position on the tilt axis. Using a stepper or servo control system means you can move the DUT to any linear and azimuth position with a few keystrokes into a PC or user interface. This allows measurements to be taken with greater speed and accuracy, resulting in reduced testing time and optimal positioning.
The type of control method can range from simple jogging or indexing, all the way up to a fully-automated closed loop system continuously monitoring signal feedback to adjust position. This type of controlled positioning allows for faster, more thorough testing that can help decrease development time, increase production and raise overall quality.
Simple indexing
Fully-automated monitoring
Faster testing process
More thorough test results
Decreased development time
Benefits of Position Control Systems
There are many benefits to partnering with Cross Company for your device under test position control systems. No matter your industry or process, we can work with you to try and devise the best unique automation solution for you.
Configurable system
Stroke length, overall width, tilt angle, load capacity, and mounting/mechanical sub-assemblies
Increased accuracy
Better target precision due to increased range of motion and greater overall adjustability
Variety of control methods
Stepper or servo system is open to various control methods, from simple to complex
Simplified processes
Reduced testing time and overall ease of use, which translates to increased throughput
Ongoing support
Cross engineering support from start to finish from our world-class customer support
Wide range of motion
With our customizable solutions, we can provide additional degrees of freedom and flexibility
Components Included
Base X axis – Two belt-driven actuators that provide linear positioning to the testing system and azimuth (tilt) axis
Azimuth (tilt) axis – A rod style screw-driven actuator mounted to the carriages via a crossmember bracket
Motors – Stepper/servo motor control system to meet application requirements
Bearings – Closed pillow blocks bearings that ride on a precision radial shaft and provide the axis of rotation for tilting the steel plate mounted antenna
Sub-assembly – including adapter plates, linkages, nuts and bolts
Target Applications And Configurations
Some target applications and configurations for the Cross DUT positioning system include
- Radar/Antenna Positioning
- Wind Tunnel Positioning
- Acoustics Testing
- EMI Testing
- Compatibility Testing
The DUT Positioning System is a standard but configurable system that can be tailored to meet the individual requirements of each application. Systems are configured to handle the load requirements, length of travel, degree of tilt, geometric constraints, environmental conditions, motion profiles, project budget, and more.
Is Automation Right for Your Process?
Answer a few simple questions and find out! We’ll send a copy of your inputs to help build the case for automation, and determine ROI for automating parts of your operation.
Why Cross Position Control Systems?
In today’s increasingly-evolving industrial marketplace, automation is becoming more and more necessary. There are many tasks that are able to be completely automated. And if your operation is performing them manually, you may be leaving money on the table or falling behind your competition.
Cross Position Control Systems offer automated Device Under Test (DUT) position control to enhance control, repeatability, and flexibility in device testing. Manual positioning systems can be laborious and lack the precision and adjustability needed for comprehensive testing. Cross Company’s motion control experts have designed a standard yet customizable DUT Positioning System using industrial-grade controls and mechanics.
For more information or to implement a position control system in your operation, contact a Cross automation expert to start a conversation today.
