Linear actuators need smooth, accurate control. With the Moduline platform, precise motion becomes easy thanks to modular outputs and feedback inputs.

Many machines use linear actuators. They appear in robots, tools, vehicles, and all kinds of automation systems. For precise motion, however, an actuator needs both controlled power and accurate feedback. Without these two parts, it becomes hard to hit exact positions or repeat steps consistently.

The GOcontroll Moduline platform supports this type of control very well. It combines robust output modules, flexible input modules, and a visual MATLAB/Simulink environment. As a result, engineers can build smooth, repeatable actuator systems without writing code. GOcontroll’s modular blocks bring the hardware directly into Simulink, which keeps development simple.

The 6 Channel Output Module offers several independent outputs for driving loads. It fits the Moduline IV, Moduline Mini I, and Moduline Display I. The exact pinouts vary by controller, but the module always provides controlled output channels for hardware actuation.

Creating a full H-bridge with two half-bridge outputs

A linear actuator often needs to extend and retract. Therefore, it must reverse polarity. You can achieve this by pairing two outputs from the 6 channel output module. When configured together, these outputs behave like a full H-bridge:

• Output A drives the actuator forward

• Output B drives the actuator backward

• Both outputs off allow the actuator to coast

• Both outputs low allow the actuator to brake

Because these channels support fast switching, the control model can generate smooth ramps and safe transitions. This also reduces mechanical stress and improves actuator life.

Why modular outputs help

The output module connects directly to the controller through module slots. It stays protected by the rugged enclosure and the Superseal connectors. This makes the system stable even in harsh environments such as mobile machinery or industrial devices.

Precise motion depends on feedback. Many linear actuators include Hall sensors to measure movement. These signals show speed, direction, and position when interpreted correctly.

The GOcontroll 6 Channel Input Module can read a wide range of input types. It supports various sensor configurations across its channels.

Why Hall feedback matters

With Hall pulses, the control model can:

• Count movement steps

• Estimate velocity

• Detect direction

• Confirm actuator response

• Stop at target positions

• Correct drift or mechanical slack

Because each input channel has its own configuration, engineers can tune sensitivity and signal behavior through the module’s Simulink parameters.

GOcontroll controllers run compiled Simulink models directly using the dedicated Simulink service.
This keeps the workflow simple. Engineers drag blocks, connect logic, and compile the model. The GOcontroll blockset exposes:

• Output module write blocks

• Input module read blocks

• System blocks such as voltage, CPU temperature, and controller active state

• CAN and LIN communication blocks

• Memory blocks

Structure of a precise actuator control model

A typical design includes:

1. Hall pulse decoding
   Cleaning signals and turning pulses into movement counts.

2. Position estimation
   Integrating pulse counts into a position variable.

3. Target logic
   Receiving a new position command from a dashboard or CAN message.

4. Control algorithm
   Using a PID or a simpler rule-based controller to decide speed and direction.

5. Output block driving
   Controlling the paired half-bridge outputs with safe switching.

6. Limits and safety
   Using Simulink logic and optional system measurements to avoid overtravel.

Because the logic is visual, engineers can tune controller gains or add new behaviors quickly.

Node-RED is installed on every Moduline controller.
It allows operators to change actuator parameters without editing the Simulink model.

What operators can adjust

With GOcontroll’s Read/Write Simulink nodes, a dashboard can expose:

• Position setpoints

• Speed limits

• Acceleration ramps

• Soft-stop distances

• Zero-point calibration

These parameters update live. Therefore, testing or field adjustments become simple.

Monitoring the actuator

Node-RED dashboards can also show:

• Live position

• Pulse counts

• Output states

• System health values

This visibility helps technicians confirm behavior quickly.

Although this example uses a single linear actuator, the same method works almost anywhere. Robotics, automated doors, lifting systems, agricultural tools, and mobile platforms all use similar mechanisms. Because the Moduline platform is modular, the same controller can run many actuators by installing more modules.

With feedback from the input module and controlled power from the output module, the actuator becomes accurate and predictable. And with Simulink handling the control logic, development becomes faster and easier. In the end, this creates a reliable platform for precise motion in real machines.