Goss International is a global leader in web offset printing solutions delivering a complete product range of newspaper and commercial press systems, as well as mailroom and post press equipment to markets worldwide.

With a new generation of equipment coming online and new performance and operation requirements, a new approach for motion control of print finishing machines was considered, as well as a solution that could span multiple applications. Print finishing applications include binding, inserting, and stitching printed products in a variety of ways.

The new controls approach involved the application of centralized control, a digital network, and tightly coupled multi-axis servo control to obtain a higher level of flexibility and performance versus the traditional line-shaft approach. Servos act as a ‘virtual line-shaft’ following a master just as a mechanically coupled system would respond. But a servo system in this capacity achieves higher performance, dynamic on-the-fly adjustments, and independent operation that cannot happen with typical mechanical master-slave, gearing, and clutch systems.
Implementing servos for lineshafting also decreases make ready and change over time needed during typical operation. Goss engineers realized this would be a huge benefit to their customer base.

In addition to the virtual line-shafting concept, it was clear that a digital network with centralized control would be key to the new architecture. The footprint of a typical machine or series of modules can be hundreds of square feet, and the less cabling equates not only to lower material costs, but moreso to lower troubleshooting and labor costs as well.

The key was to find a digital network that was fast enough to close the position loop centrally on applications of up to 94 axes, and maintain tight synchronization of all servos for optimal output. It was also critical that the network would include both optimal motion control capabilities and high-speed I/O capturing across the entire network from any location.

SynqNet® Solution
After extensive evaluation and research, it was determined that the MEI SynqNet® control platform would be implemented on the next generation Pacesetter® 1100. The Pacesetter® 1100 is an innovative, module-based machine that can be custom configured to accommodate high volume production requirements and increased line flexibility.

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