Simpler interaction

For a long time, programming, control and error elimination for the two systems had to be carried out separately. However, thanks to the development of a well-established interface, robots can be integrated directly into a PLC even more simply and without previous knowledge of robots.

Originally, the two systems were programmed and operated separately from one another via the PLC and robot control. However, while it is still technically possible, this conventional interaction between robots and machines involves a number of issues which can now be solved more simply. For example, when using the conventional method operators have to be trained not just in international PLC standards but also possess skills in robot programming and control. Furthermore, redundant programming procedures mean that the source of failure is not always evident, making it difficult to eliminate errors quickly and easily.

Given that PLCs are now high-capacity and can be expanded on a modular basis, the approach today is the direct opposite: the robot is integrated directly in the machine via the PLC as one of many elements. For example, Yaskawa offers a highly effective solution where their MotoLogix interface, developed in association with Rockwell, allows robots of the Motoman series to be programmed and controlled quickly and easily via the PLC.

The MotoLogix interface allows coordination of all the axes of a production facility with the robot motion. It comprises a hardware unit and software for programming the robot via a Rockwell PLC. The platforms currently supported are Ethernet/IP, Powerlink and Profinet.

Function blocks

MotoLogix has a library of function blocks already prepared in all language options, so operators can work directly via the library. Integration of robot control in the PLC retains the full range of benefits, bit sequences for servos are no longer required and the robot control calculates motion kinematics to ensure high motion quality.

According to the conventional method of having robots and machines interact with each other, machines were programmed and controlled via the PLC and robot programming was carried out using a teach pendant. Here, the job structure and motion points are saved in the robot control system while a parallel operating structure and component administration has to be undertaken in the PLC. The jobs are then called up via the PLC by means of a bus with job creation and maintenance requiring expertise in operating robots, so special training had to be provided.

With MotoLogix full and direct robot control is through the PLC, where movements are initiated and tracked, so there is no need for knowledge of robot operation. Path control itself is via the robot controller DX200, ensuring that the benefits are retained, particular for motion precision and speed stability. Nothing else is required for the initial start-up.

The robot is connected and directly embedded in the PLC and the Human Machine Interface (HMI) via MotoLogix. This means that all data is saved in the PLC without storage limit. Another important benefit is the data can easily be displayed graphically on the HMI and it’s also possible to have individual items displayed such as a company logo or application-specific processes.

MotoLogix allows all Yaskawa robots with a DX200 controller to be integrated in complex production systems in a simple, straightforward way. The robot is programmed and operated directly via the PLC. This also eliminates error sources, which have often posed challenges in the past simply in terms of identification. The HMI can be used to create varying and individualized graphic displays, and the extensive Yaskawa library is available. Thanks to the Yaskawa DX200 robot controller, motion precision and speed stability are fully guaranteed.