Flexible “High-Performance” Robots Tackle Tough Industrial Tasks
Versatility best describes Yaskawa Motoman’s HP-series “High-Performance” robots. Featuring payloads from 20 to 600 kg, the robots leverage full six-axis flexibility to perform complex handling motions and other operations in a multi-function workcell. Applications include welding, machine tending, assembly, packaging, palletizing, and dispensing. The heavier-payload models tend to be used in jigless applications, in which the HP robot acts as a highly flexible positioner. It manipulates the given part for processing with up to seven additional robots, all of which are controlled by the company’s multiple-robot controller. The HP robots also are controllable with the FS100 open software architecture robot controller and PLC-integrated MLX200 platform.
The Motoman DX100 controller, incorporating patented multiple-robot control technology, makes it possible to control up to eight robots (72 axes). The controller also implements various I/O devices (PLC and HMI pendant displays, 2048 I/O, and a graphical ladder editor) and communication protocols (support for all fieldbus networks). It uses a Windows CE programming pendant with color touchscreen. It processing speed allows for smoother interpolation, advanced robot-arm motion, collision avoidance, quicker I/O response, and accelerated Ethernet.
The compact robots can be placed close together to save floorspace, or placed close to conveyors and other equipment to improve part accessibility. They can also be floor-, ceiling-, and shelf-mounted.
For more, take a virtual tour of Yaskawa Motoman's packaging innovations at Pack Expo 2014.