The development of a controller for mechatronics equipment

Abstract

This paper describes the developmental history of mechatronics equipment controllers especially within Yaskawa Electric. First, the philosophy and definition of the word "mechatronics" are introduced. Then a discussion is presented about mechatronics equipment controllers in which they mean a numerical control (NC) system for machine tools and industrial robots. The NC system covers three fields of technology: controller hardware, software, and an actuator control system (servosystem). Second, the 20-year progress of each item is discussed. Finally, the necessary performance and functions for future NC systems are outlined.