Microtrol Inc.

CA

MERITOR/KRUPP

A second generation of computer controlled spring coiler was developed for our customers due to the increasingly demanding applications of automobile suspensions systems.

This system targets just-in-time production, research and development, prototype fabrication, and low volume production. Decreasing inventory stocks, quick configuration of the equipment, and ease of use are only some of the advantages of this computer controlled system.

If the CNC coiler control is adapted to an existing coiler, it replaces the drive/brake assembly, as well as the shaping tool and its associated drive elements.

Installations have been completed with tremendous success in the largest coil spring manufacturers.

This system is designed to be easy to operate but holds all high level functionalities for coil spring designers. The Microsoft NT PC based interface includes creation tools for coil spring design. A context sensitive help facility and multi language support are integral parts of this system's many refinements.

Canadair - Montupet - IBM Canada - Wolverine Tubes Canada Inc. - Spar Aerospace - Kenworth Canada - Montreal Urban Community

QUIDAM, Cirque du Soleil's 9th production, was presented as a world premiere in Montreal on the 23rd of April 1996.

'Inspiration, when composing for Cirque du Soleil, comes often from the work of the other creators. And there was the challenge of Quidam:

to let unity prevail whilst respecting the movement of structures, the costumes, the setting. And of course the story...' Benot Jutras.

The creation team concentrated its efforts in creating a unique show which intertwines artistic performances and technological innovations. A show for the next century where mankind positions itself and adapts to new realities.

Microtrol was approached by Cirque du Soleil to conceive and integrate the controls for the scenography. Quidam offers a stunning scenography because of its originality. The integration of a 120 foot long skyride whose five rails occupy the entire interior surface of the tent is one of the most spectacular elements of this production. Each of the rails guide two motorized carts and facilitate the arrival of the artists, as well as create a variety of special effects during the performances.

A specially designed interface software custom built for this application together with a 10- axis motion control system allows the management of the many coordinated movements that render the QUIDAM production so spectacular.

CASCADES

A water jet paper cutting machine is currently in operation at CASCADES Converdis plant in Berthiervill, Qubec. The mechanical section of this machine was created by the automation division of the Centre de recherche industrielle du Qubec (CRIQ) and the control section was created by Microtrol.

The water jet cutter was conceived to cut circular pieces of paper.

Four bridges with longitudinal displacement each support a high pressure water jet (60, 000 psi) which move transversly on the bridges. Cutting circular pieces is therefore effected while paper travels at a constant speed. The premium quality of this machine is its flexibility. The computer, via a simple keyboard, programs the motion controllers with dimensions and positioning. The machine can cut circular pieces from 20 to 50 inches in diameter (mechanical limit). It can also cut other shapes such as rectangular or square pieces.

Microtrol designed a control system and operator interface to effect these tasks and minimize operator intervention. Eight (8) servomotors linked to a motion controller execute all cut patterns.

The machine cuts the pieces while the paper unrolls and travels at a rate of a 150 ft per minute. Hence, the control system compensates for speed variations and the lateral position of the paper.

334512

United States

Japan, Mexico, United Kingdom