What is the best way to incorporate accelerometers into a 3D positioning system?

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    3d Need advice
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design of a rudimentary 3D positioning system, exploring the use of accelerometers for position data acquisition. Participants consider various methods for achieving accurate positioning, including the potential limitations of accelerometers and alternative technologies.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using an accelerometer at the tip of an actuator arm but questions its effectiveness, noting that accelerometers primarily measure tilt.
  • Another participant suggests using rotary or linear encoders as an alternative for position tracking, along with limit switches to reset position counts.
  • A participant expresses concern about the cost of encoders and acknowledges the need to stay within budget.
  • There is a suggestion to count steps if using stepper motors for motion control.
  • One participant shares an idea of using accelerometers attached to body joints (shoulder and elbow) to control the arm, indicating a shift in project direction.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on the best approach to incorporate accelerometers into the positioning system, with no consensus reached on a single method.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the limitations of accelerometers in measuring position accurately and the potential need for additional technologies like encoders. The discussion reflects varying levels of experience and budget considerations.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or hobbyists working on projects involving motion control systems, particularly those exploring the integration of sensors for positioning applications.

nclay
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I am trying to create a kind of rudimentary 3d positioning system, sort of like a CNC minus the machining aspect. I am just trying to get my very basic design down and I am stuck at how i should get the position data, my first thought was to use an accelerometer placed at the tip of the actuator arm but I am wondering if there is a better way to go... I've been doing lots of research on accelerometers and they seem to only work well with tilt. Any suggestions?
 
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nclay said:
I am trying to create a kind of rudimentary 3d positioning system, sort of like a CNC minus the machining aspect. I am just trying to get my very basic design down and I am stuck at how i should get the position data, my first thought was to use an accelerometer placed at the tip of the actuator arm but I am wondering if there is a better way to go... I've been doing lots of research on accelerometers and they seem to only work well with tilt. Any suggestions?

Welcome to the PF.

You can use rotary or linear encoders, depending on what you are using to create the movements. Limit switches can be used to zero out the counts, when you return the motion assembly to its home position.
 
Thanks berkeman! That was exactly what i was looking for... these things arent cheap! Gonna blow my budget.

Thanks again!
-Nick
 
nclay said:
Thanks berkeman! That was exactly what i was looking for... these things arent cheap! Gonna blow my budget.

Thanks again!
-Nick

How are you creating the motion? If you're using stepper motors, you can generally just count the steps...
 
My original idea was to use a servo control arm and use an accelerometer to track the movement. I would really like to use the accelerometers i have so I'm thinking about going a different direction with the project... maybe a arm that you can control by attaching accelerometers to your shoulder and elbow. The steppers are a good idea though. I'm just trying to come up with a good project that would satisfy the requirements of my senior project, unfortunately I am really not an idea man.
 

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