Keywords
Citation
(2004), "Built-in PLC makes Cartesian robot cell a tool for complete system control", Industrial Robot, Vol. 31 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2004.04931aad.002
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2004, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Built-in PLC makes Cartesian robot cell a tool for complete system control
Built-in PLC makes Cartesian robot cell a tool for complete system control
Keywords: PLC, Robots, Toshiba machine
TM Robotics' new TS2000 controller offers enhanced monitoring and control for its Cartesian linear actuator, the ROlbot (Plate 2). The built-in PLC makes it easy for the robot to interface with peripheral devices, rendering the robotic cell a tool for complete system control. The TS2000 simplifies and increases the speed of data transfer and can handle up to 38 inputs and 32 outputs with the capacity to extend I/O. All outputs are selectable between plus- common and minus-common, allowing both negative and positive switching.
Plate 2
TM Robotics' new TS2000 controller offers enhanced monitoring and control
for its Cartiesian linear actuator, the ROlbot
The ROlbot can be configured in up to 250 variations, and has a payload capacity of up to 150kg per axis. Despite such payloads, constant-speed control provides the smooth movement required in delicate applications such as sealing, gluing and waterjet cutting.
Featuring control of up to five-axes simultaneously, the controller has a memory capacity of up to 6,400 points, or 12,800 steps. Any one program can store up to 2,000 points or 3,000 steps. There are 256 operable programmes, comprised of 247 user files and nine system files.
Serial communication ports are RS-232C with options for DeviceNet and Profibus connectivity. The controller can be used in conjunction with a TP1000 teach pendant. Self-diagnosis makes maintenance easy, as the teach pendant displays an error code in the event of malfunction. The robot programme can also be written on a PC thus making programming a simpler process. The controller itself operates using a proprietary programming language, SCOL, which is very similar to BASIC. An interruptive function allows the robot to complete discrete tasks and then return to its primary programme.
Torque control for downward pressure protects the robot, gripper and the product being manufactured. Measuring only 290 mm wide by 230mm high and weighing just 12 kg, the controller is sufficiently compact to fit into any application where a Cartesian robot might be required.
For further information, contact: Nigel Smith, TM Robotics (Europe) Ltd, Unit 15, The Weltech Centre, Ridgeway, Welwyn Garden City, Herts. AL7 2AA, UK. Tel: 01707 871535; Fax: 01707 393959; E-mail: sales@tmrobotics.co.uk; Web site: www.tmrobotics.co.uk