Yaskawa has announced software options for its A1000 inverters that allow them to perform functions that have previously needed more expensive servodrives. It has also released IP54 versions of some of the drives.

An “electronic line shaft” option supports speed- or angle-synchronous operation of two or more drive axes with outputs from 0.4–630kW. The speed or angle ratio between the drives can be adjusted and the function can be activated or deactivated during operation. This allows drives to be coupled into a group, or decoupled from it. Speed synchronisation is possible in all four quadrants. Typical applications will include synchronous operation of conveyor belts, web tension controls, controlled material stretching, and synchronising main and auxiliary drives.

A new positioning option allows absolute and relative positioning using parameters set by the software. Simple positioning drives can be used for machine slides or feed drives, including those used for rotary tables or conveyors. The drives can also be operated manually in both directions for setting up. Positioning parameters can be configured in metric units, degrees, or revolutions.

The new IP54 versions of the A1000 inverters, available with outputs from 18.5–90kW, can be installed in dusty or moist environments near a motor without needing enclosures. They can be used to control asynchronous or permanent magnet synchronous machines, with or without encoder feedback.