Most designs for automatic machines do not begin with a clean sheet of paper. Previous versious versions of an automatic machine represent investments of mechanical, electrical, and particularly software engineering. Minimizing changes while pursuing machine improvements reduces engineering rework and relearning, retains a track record of proven performance, and reduces time to market. How can an improved motion control system be placed into an already present machine architecture with minimum system impact? A motion control approach is described which has a chameleon-like ability to conform to the surrounding system. For example, the chameleon can be configured to electrically impersonate a predecessor controller's hardware interface as well as software command set while delivering improved controller performance and value. Engineering investment, including staff learning curve for a new controller, is reduced saving time and money.
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