Computer Control from UnilabPresented by Bruce Wigley B.Ed.
|
 |
Computer Control from UnilabPresented by Bruce Wigley B.Ed.
|
|
CFA means
Control For All.
The
CFA software program runs through Windows.
It features a 'Logo like' program which is easy for students to
understand. You will be able to
sense inputs and control outputs to model vehicles fitted with electric motors
etc. This interface can be linked
to control pneumatics as used in a car parking station.
CFA is an easy control program for students to use.
Along the journey students:-
·
are able to use their creative ability
·
learn about inputs and outputs
·
learn how to write a program and output
this information to control a Dodger Buggy
or play some simple tunes.
·
use the ‘Debug’ feature to solve
problems with their program. This
saves teacher time!
·
investigate how to link other kits to
the interface.
·
Use the DESIGN, MAKE and APPRAISE
approach.
CFA
links to the popular MFA kit, to Polymek and Alpha Electronics.
Control Cube.
This
system is the untimate in control. The
software (Windows) uses a flow chart program.
Features
are:-
·
Auto
recognition of Sensors and Actuators.
·
Cube
powers all Outputs to suit the device connected, automatic voltage setting.
·
Every
Output can control a motor’s speed and direction.
·
Wide
range of Sensors, digital and analogue.
·
Sensors
designed for building into projects.
·
Flow
chart programming.
·
Program
can be downloaded and stored in the Cube for maximum performance and
multitasking.
Available
in either 4 Input/Output or 8 Input/Output versions.
Control
Disk software recognizes Sensors which can be used to control devices such as
lamps and motors. Uniquely, these
devices (Actuators) are also recogized by the software.
Sensing
with intelligence.
When
a Sensor is connected to the Cube the software recognizes the Sensor’s
‘personality’. An icon displays
the Sensor type and shows where it is connected.
The animated icon shows when a digital Sensor changes.
The majority of analogue Sensors are calibrated and readings are
displayed on screen. Devices should be connected to the Cube before beginning to
program. An alternative is to use
‘virtual Sensors’ so that they are available to your program even if the
Cube is not connected.
Projects.
Projects
are built using procedures. Each
procedure is produced with a flowchart. Flowcharts
provide a graphical and logical way of building control programs.
Actions.
Actions
are used to switch Actuators on and off and to control speed and direction.
Actions can also be used to set other features such as Wait statements.
Decisions.
Toolbox
commands such as Decision, Do, If etc. are used to set up the Sensors
appropriately. The program can be
viewed in text format if required and an editor is provided for minor changes.
Running
your program.
You can use your computer and have access to
features such as Step and Trace, or download to the Cube for maximum performance
and multitasking.
Bruce
Wigley by Phone 08 83238442 or Fax on 08 83230033 e-mail bwigley@senet.com.au