Meet Tron-X!

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24 September 2003 News

The electro-pneumatic representation of a human being, 'Tron-X', showcases the unique capabilities of Festo's proprietary technologies in valves, servo-pneumatics, and electronic controls. In October, visitors to the Blue IQ Smart Industry Expo will have a unique opportunity to meet Tron-X face-to-face.

Tron-X' unique character lies in the methods used to emulate the movements of the human body. Developing a control system capable of providing coordinated execution of various commands was the first step in creating the impressive phenomenon, as it allows the robot's active joints to behave in a similar fashion to natural biological systems. Just like the human body, many different joints have to interact and cooperate to perform a task as simple as shaking hands.

Within this control system, Festo SPC-200 servo-pneumatic controllers provide a closed-loop control function, while Festo MPYE proportional pneumatic valves ensure precise response from the cylinders. Linear converters are fitted to the robot's body parts to deliver feedback signals, thereby allowing closed-loop control, employing the latest non-linear model adaptive techniques. State-variables of velocity, acceleration and deceleration are user-settable and are limited to give realistic movement.

The control system feeds digital signals to the CP-valves, where type EG pin cylinders convert the signals into high-speed synchronised mouth and eye movements. Type DSNU double-acting cylinders make individual finger movement possible.

Manufactured from stainless steel, most of Tron-X' weight is concentrated in its upper and lower torso. Here, larger DSW cylinders ensure fluent movement, again controlled by MPYE proportional valves.

For more information contact Festo Didactic, 011 971 5560, adrian_buddingh@festo.com

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