Forum Members,
I work for a community college in Illinois (maybe you've heard of us...we're the state with no budget!). I have no resources to buy new robotic arms, but I have acquired 4 old CRS robotic arms that are mechanically OK, but with no controllers. Our regional manufacturers use mostly FANUC and MOTOMAN robots. I am looking at the feasibility of retro-fitting these arms with new servo controllers and robotic software. The arms currently use brush DC motors. I am thinking keep 2 of them with the original motors and change the other 2 arms over to stepper motors. I am finding many options are available to drive the motors, but my main concern is the controller software. I would like to find software that:
Programs similar to FANUC or MOTOMAN robots
Configurable to work with either USB or Ethernet communication to axis drives
Will support 6 axes (one of which being a gripper)
Supports a USB teach pendant.
I am new to working with robotic arms, so any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!!! http://www.robot-forum.com/robotforu...m/shield11.gif