Software Enables Robot Control, Programming Using PLC
The MLX300 software option integrates Yaskawa robots and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) by enabling operators to control and program robots in a standard PLC programming environment, eliminating the need to learn a specific robot programming language.
The MLX300 software option integrates Yaskawa robots and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) by enabling operators to control and program robots in a standard PLC programming environment, eliminating the need to learn a specific robot programming language. All program execution is performed by the PLC, while the motion control is handled by the kinematic algorithms of the Yaskawa robot controller. Supported PLCs include CompactLogix, ControlLogix and GuardLogix.
This unified controls approach simplifies safety design by eliminating redundant electrical interfaces and consolidating hardware to optimize floorspace. The single controller-single programming environment approach requires just one programmer to implement an application. In addition, familiarity of the controls among maintenance technicians can enable faster troubleshooting and quicker plant acceptance.
The software includes a set of add-on instructions (AOI) and human-machine interface (HMI) screens specific to robot configuration and motion control. Operator station HMI software is available for the Allen-Bradley PanelView display, and pendant HMI software is available for the Allen-Bradley MobileView or Pro-face GP4000.
The software option is compatible with any Yaskawa DX200 material handling robot or YRC1000 GP robot. A combination of up to four robots and positioners can be connected to a single software system. A functional safety unit is also available.
Related Content
-
Inside the Premium Machine Shop Making Fasteners
AMPG can’t help but take risks — its management doesn’t know how to run machines. But these risks have enabled it to become a runaway success in its market.
-
Modern Bar Feeds Bring New Life to Automatic Swiss Lathes
Cam-actuated Swiss lathes are still the fastest way to process many parts. By adding modern bar feeders, this shop has dramatically improved their utilization with the ability to work unattended, even in a lights-out environment.
-
CNC Machine Shop Honored for Automation, Machine Monitoring
From cobots to machine monitoring, this Top Shop honoree shows that machining technology is about more than the machine tool.