Hi Gregory,
Thank you very much for your kind words for our motor sizing software.
I have been trying to document almost everything that has to do with the motor sizing process, but I am also aware that there is still much to do.
Let's see what we have available at this time:
1. The installation of VisualSizer includes some demo applications, for instance for a leadscrew. Just use the File->Open menu and you will see the demo reference in the File-Open dialog window.
2. Of course, there is a help file included with the software. It really explains all the features in detail (and if not, let me know). For those who are too impatient to read 50+ pages there is also a Quick-Start section.
3. Check out our web site http://www.visualsizer.com (and even this forum). The web site has a number of articles addressing various aspects of motor sizing.
4. You could buy my book...;-) I need to make a living after all...;-) The book (See http://www.copperhillmedia.com/ServoSizingBook.htm, which includes a "Preview" function) explains all the math, etc. used in VisualSizer, including S-Curve calculation, motor sizing and selection process, comparison of motor technologies, torque and inertia calculations for all mechanical components, etc. etc. The book goes for US$39 (hardcopy) or US$29 for the download, i.e. very cheap when you live in Canada...;-) Again, the book is the most complete reference in regards to the theory behind servo motor sizing and suggestions/comments are always welcome.
Let me also address some "problems" with servo motor sizing programs: While the program can be a great learning tool it does not guarantee that the program is doing ALL the work for you. When I started developing VisualSizer back in 1995 it took a lot of thinking to come up with a concept that supported the servo motor sizing novice, but without insulting the 20-year-in-the-business motion control engineer.
I am aware that it can be difficult for a beginner to enter a value for, for instance, friction coefficient. However, in this case it is important not to expect that the program provides the data, because that would not result in a real-world application. In this case it is important to read the manual and while it may not be 100% perfect, it still contains a lot of information.
Again, it is important that you use the software for a real purpose, not some artificial mechanical application. Let me refer to an inquiry that came in some years ago: Somebody constructed an application where he wanted to move a 2,000 kg weight over a linear distance of 2 meters in a time of 0.001 seconds. The complaint was that the program did not find a suitable motor. Well, the space shuttle may be able to match the requirements, but not a regular servo motor.
The main purpose of the program is still to find the optimum motor for your application in the shortest time possible and you will find that the software is very easy to handle.
Last, but not least, let me say that I do appreciate your feedback and every feedback will most certainly influence the next edition of my book to some degree.
Sincerely,
Wilfred
