“YASKAWA has not only created an interface to POWERLINK. With MotoLogix it also offers the option of programming the robot in the customary IEC61131 environment,” explains Stefan Schönegger, Manager of the Ethernet Standardization Group (EPSG). Commissioning times are drastically reduced and a higher level of synchronization achieved.

The advantages of two high-performance systems are thereby combined: the convenient robot programming directly via the programmable logic controller (PLC) and the high precision of the DX200. Motoman robots can thus be programmed in the customary IEC-61131 environment and integrated into the corresponding systems. In addition, productivity and flexibility are increased by the bi-directional exchange. A dedicated control terminal is no longer required for the robot. All relevant data for operation and diagnosis can be retrieved and processed via the machine’s own control terminal.

“We are pleased to be able to offer users of POWERLINK a simple method of integrating our Motoman robots into their system,” says Bruno Schnekenburger, CEO of YASKAWA Europe GmbH, Robotics Division. “It combines the advantages of two worlds: the convenient programming direct in the PLC and a high level of linear accuracy and control precision. Motoman robots have always been among the most reliable products on the market. YASKAWA’s global service organization is also a key factor that is becoming increasingly significant in the internationally networked business world.”

The Latest DX200 high-performance control

The latest POWERLINK-capable DX200 high-performance control for YASKAWA’s Motoman robots has new bus systems and an integral safety controller. DX200 is therefore a complete functional safety control (FSC) of Category 3. With up to 32 definable safety zones and 16 possible tools, production areas can be put to optimum use. In addition, several sub-processes can be simultaneously performed in the robot-man interface. The corresponding safety standards are always guaranteed. Through the integration of the real time Ethernet POWERLINK the machine can now also be connected using standardized process data.