Technical data

Technology objects
CPU 317T: Technology Functions
3-4 A5E00251798-03
3.1.3 Physical and virtual axes
When we speak of axes in this documentation, we always refer to physical and
virtual axes.
• Physical axis
This axis features a motion control, drive and encoder interface
• Virtual axis
This axis features command variable generation, but does not have closed-
loop control or a drive or encoder interface Setpoint values and actual values
are always equal. The virtual axis is usually operated as auxiliary axis, for
example, to generate the reference values for several physical axes when
operated as leading axis in a synchronization compound.
Difference between a physical and a virtual axis (example of a positioning axis)