Reading axis position and tool offsets by an external PLC
Hi All
I need to integrate an external automation device that needs to work in tandem with CNC axes position. For that I need to obtain realtime position of the axis as well as the active tool offsets. I know we can use the MTconnnect to get that kind of data but as I understand there is a latency in the data transfer which can be as much as 10 sec. The most my application can tolerate is probably 100 milliseconds delay in reading the active data. I am open to both hardware as well as software solutions that can work with a Fanuc 30i but not limited to just that one controller.
Thanks for your help
Re: Reading axis position and tool offsets by an external PLC
That is an interesting 'problem'. I don't know what the maximum latency of MTconnnect on a 30i is, but I suspect a lot less than 10s.
A possible solution is using I/O Link (I did that before).
I am interested in discussing this, if there is a real product opportunity. 289 389 6117 Eastern Time Zone.
Re: Reading axis position and tool offsets by an external PLC
Fanuc has a function "Position Switch".
When an axis reaches a predetermined position, set by entering position in parameter, the control turns on an output F70, F71 (and others for direction) which is sent to the PMC.
See Fanuc Connection Manual.
Re: Reading axis position and tool offsets by an external PLC
I know about the PMC communication, it doesn't give me realtime axis position, just ON/OFF bits set by certain conditions
Re: Reading axis position and tool offsets by an external PLC
I need to have much more info before I can suggest a solution; it CAN be done in real time, if needed, but it may be too expensive.