Okuma Servo Drives

Hi.

I have a Okuma LB15, with Okuma servo drives. I attached the electrical drawings of the machine, and you will see on page 24, (W1500-555-232) it has the XB1-1 and XB1-2 connections for the command signals. This is unfamiliar teritory, but something that I would like to learn, and know how it works. I believe this is serial communication, and from forums, I understand that this is possible with smartserial communication ( I believe it should be similar to the 8i20 communication?). I need guidance as to what Mesa cards will be able to handle these signals. ...? If there is any?

Signals: Clock
Clock-K
Ser DATA-N
Ser DATA
Strobe
Strobe-N

Are these signals that can be controlled from Mesa cards?

Hi Andy,

Thanks for your reply. I appreciate your input.

So... My thinking: It might be easier to just rather replace the servo Drives...? I think all the time that might go into the researching of how this works, might ... possibly ... cost me more time, tears and frustration, which costs more than just replacing them?? It's a pitty. I believe these drives is quite capable, and reliable. It would be awesome if there could be some type of interface, that can convert the analog signals to the okuma digital communication. Like a analog to digital converter. Have anyone ever heard of something like that that is available for these Okuma drives?

On my company we had changed a Okuma LB15 II to use linuxcnc. It was the first large project for us using linuxcnc, and we did replace the originals servo drives (X,Z and toolchage). If you look on the forum you will probably find some posts, with many questions of my side.

Hi There
I looked at this for Diederik and came across some info on the web

cncmanual.com/okuma-drive-units-bl-ii-d-...-maintenance-manual/
s3.amazonaws.com/Icarus/DOCUMENTS/Okuma_Manuals_3695.pdf


I briefly scanned through them but couldn't find any detail about the data packet format. It is possible that I have missed it and I will have a better look over the weekend, but I have a feeling that that info is not included.

The motors are fitted with absolute serial encoders. these encoders communicate with the SVP board which sends a current command to the Servo Amp (BL IID).
The pulse handle (mpg I assume) also connects to the SVP board.

I have a feeling that the position loop is actually controlled by the SVP board and that the main board only sends the commanded position to the SVP, but I may be mistaken.

Sadly, I don't think it is worth pursuing this option unless we can find the detail on the serial communication, but hopefully someone out there can assist with this detail

Henk

In my case, I replaced the original absolute encoders with incremental encoders.
A conical shaft was made that fits on the motor shaft and on the incremental encoders. They were standard 3 phase AC servos.

I have used the Mesa 8i20's before and I believe the STMBL drives are similar, but I don't think they are big enough for these motors.

The existing drives are rated 50A and 100A respectively for X and Z.

Maybe Diederik can post a photo of the motor nameplates.

Henk