The new controller combines multi-axis motion control and IEC language programming with Trio’s new MS I/O system for flexible I/O expansion.

Trio Motion Technology has launched Motion-PLC, a new class of machine controller that combines motion, robotics, and logic. Motion-PLC provides Trio's advanced motion control performance with the functionality and simplicity of a PLC to reduce the cost and complexity of machine design. The new controller combines multi-axis motion control and IEC language programming with Trio's new MS I/O system for flexible I/O expansion.

Motion-PLC is available in six models to control a range of stand-alone machines, from two to 16 axes, including robotics integration. The Motion-PLC range is for applications that need motion control and machine logic, such as gantries, packaging, and glue laying. To achieve a complete machine automation solution, control engineers can integrate Trio drives, motors, HMI, and SCARA robots, as well as Modbus TCP, PROFINET, and Ethernet/IP devices.
All Motion-PLC models include Trio's new MS I/O system, providing compact and robust I/O expansion through a slice interface. MS I/O slices connect directly to all Motion-PLC controllers, allowing up to 16 I/O slices that combine digital and analogue inputs and outputs. The MS I/O system can be extended further with Trio's MSEC EtherCAT coupler, allowing additional banks of MS I/O to be connected via EtherCAT.
Motion-PLC performs motion and logic control in parallel thanks to a multi-tasking operating system. This optimizes machine control performance by improving data sharing between applications and removing latency of fieldbus communications. Combining motion and logic functions within a single controller also minimizes the requirement for hardware and cabling, reducing cost and footprint while improving reliability.
The controller's motion capability is built on Trio's motion-first automation platform, Motion-iX. Motion-iX includes a variety of pre-programmed motion features, from simple point-to-point motion through to complex kinematics and robot control. Motion-PLC also includes a PLCopen motion library, and motion can be programmed in familiar PLC languages based on the IEC 61131-3 standard.
Motion-PLC achieves extensive device integration and control with an EtherCAT port, supporting up to 96 EtherCAT devices. Motion-PLC also offers up to two Ethernet ports supported by an Ethernet switch, enabling application programming plus HMI and PLC protocol support via Modbus TCP, PROFINET IO, and Ethernet/IP. Application development and device integration is managed through Trio's license-free Motion Perfect software, a single tool for programming and diagnostics.
Motion-PLC removes the footprint required for a separate motion controller or PLC and has also been designed for minimal dimensions. The controller modules measure from just 100mm high, 23mm wide, and 75mm deep, while I/O slices are just 12mm wide. The controllers are DIN rail-mounted, and the I/O slices feature forward insertion for easy access, and their connections enable easy wiring with spring clamp connectors.
"Combining motion coordination with the functionality and simplicity of a PLC, Trio's Motion-PLC is a true paradigm shift in the world of motion and factory automation," says Trio's President, Tom Alexander. "Based on Trio's advanced motion platform, Motion-PLC can increase machine performance, but as it replaces the need for a separate motion controller or PLC, this single controller can improve machine reliability and enhance design simplicity, while reducing cost."

About Trio Motion Technology
Trio Motion Technology was founded in 1987 as a manufacturer of motion controllers. Today the range, branded Motion Coordinators, can control up to 128 axes of servo, stepper and piezo motors, as well as hydraulic systems. Trio's expertise in motion programming is based within its Motion-iX technology. Today, additions to the portfolio have developed Trio into a motion-first automation solution provider, supporting OEMs and system integrators.
The company headquarters is based in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, UK, which also comprises its primary research and development hub. Additional R&D facilities are located in Italy, Bulgaria, and also China, where Trio's products are assembled. Application development teams are located in the UK, USA, Italy, India and China, and a global sales network comprises over 100 partners.
In 2017 Trio was acquired by the Estun Group, which is supporting Trio in its growth with assistance through shared facilities and R&D as well as financial backing. Trio has exceeded 15% growth year on year since the acquisition. In addition to the primary global markets, a significant proportion of Trio's business is in China where the company's motion control capability has enabled Estun to become a major player in the China automation market. Despite the presence of the Estun brand, motion control products in China carry Trio branding.
For more information, visit www.triomotion.com

About Estun Group
Estun started its activity in 1993 in Nanjing, China as a manufacturer of control systems for metal forming machinery. Today the company comprises six business groups focussing on automation and robotics, distributed around the world. Estun reported 2018 global sales figures at $230 and has more than 40% growth rate in recent years.
Estun is one of China's tier one robot manufacturers and has a 100,000 m2 robot manufacturing facility, as well as a servo drive and motor manufacturing plant. The company is operated with an Automation Business Group, focused on machine performance, and a Robotics Business Group, based on turn-key factory projects including robotics and automation.
Estun's acquisition strategy is one of collaboration over assimilation with many of its acquisitions being less than 100%. The spirit of collaboration also extends into key partnerships with suppliers and customers for mutual benefit.
Estun's business groups comprise:
• Estun, specialists in robotics, China headquarters;
• Trio Motion Technology, specialists in motion control technology, UK headquarters;
• Cloos, specialists in welding technology and welding robots, Germany headquarters;
• MAI, specialists in production cells using robotics, Germany headquarters;
• Barrett Technology, specialists in special purpose robotic manipulators, USA headquarters;
• Euclid Labs, specialists in 3D vision technology for robot applications, Italy headquarters.
For more information about Estun, please visit http://en.estun.com/