High voltage electronics products from Artimus Robotics feature high voltage amplifiers with integrated high voltage power supplies. These products also include integrated control modules that utilize PID control methods to offer digitally programmable arbitrary waveforms.
Real-time control using digital signals is a commonly requested capability of high voltage electronics products. Traditional analog control using knobs and dials (found on many competing products) requires manual input, which limits the real-time control capabilities, especially for applications in remote environments. Furthermore, analog interfaces are cumbersome for multi-channel systems where many discrete outputs must be programmed simultaneously.
High voltage electronics from Artimus Robotics include integrated microcontrollers that are digitally programmable via serial communication. Using the Artimus Application Programming Interface (API), users can prescribe unique voltage profiles (as functions of time) to each output channel independently. This programmability allows the user to provide real-time control signals to the power supplies, which can be synchronized to each other or to an external sensor. Voltage regulation of the output of each channel is accomplished through real-time feedback and a tuned proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller.
Examples of arbitrary waveforms are demonstrated using an actuator that exhibits proportional control (stepped motions) in the videos below.
An additional demonstration of real-time control can be found in the charge control techniques video which is explained in this blog post.
Artimus is constantly striving for user-friendly interfaces and control software, which is why Python is the standard programming language for these devices. However, other languages are compatible if desired. Additionally, example Python scripts are available upon request to help customers quickly get started with the basics.
Want to learn more about high voltage electronics development efforts? Contact Artimus Robotics at info@artimusrobotics.com.
About Artimus Robotics
Artimus Robotics designs and manufactures soft electric actuators and high voltage control electronics. The technology was inspired by nature (muscles) and spun out of the University of Colorado. HASEL (Hydraulically Amplified Self-healing ELectrostatic) actuator technology operates when electrostatic forces are applied to a flexible polymer pouch and dielectric liquid to drive shape change in a soft structure. These principles can be applied to achieve a contracting motion, expanding motion, or other complex deformations. For more information, please visit Artimus Robotics or contact info@artimusrobotics.com.