Intelligent robot safety system simplifies human interaction

Cubic-S uses dual CPUs that are independent from the robot's control CPU to monitor speed and position. A total of eight individual functions enable safety zones to be easily programmed without the need for difficult-to-adjust and maintain zone limit switches.

The monitoring functions of Cubic-S, used with external hardware such as pressure mats or light guards, enable human-machine interfaces (HMI) to be established. Typically this could provide for human intervention for inspection of a component while it remains gripped by the robot still under power.

By restricting the robot's work space to its programmed operational area, Cubic-S provides the opportunity to save space on the factory floor. Additional in-cell safety equipment can also be reduced because Cubic-S functionality integrates into robot programmes to so the locations of peripheral equipment and operations can be considered.

The Motion Area Monitoring function allows for individual and specific boundaries to be programmed such that they can be enabled or disabled by inputs. Typical uses for Motion Area Monitoring would include operator access to one side of a working envelope while a robot continued to operate on the other side.

Axis Monitoring sets predefined axis motion limits, while Speed Monitoring shuts the robot down if predefined speeds are exceeded. Out-of-limit conditions on Axis, Speed and Motion Monitoring cause the robot to stop automatically with power off the motors.

Additional functions include Stop Monitoring, which shuts down the system if an axis moves that should be stopped, Tool Orientation Monitoring, which shuts down the robot if the tool, such as a laser, leaves a predefined area, and Protective Stop, which allows optional stop conditions when used with safety devices such as light curtains or mats.

For more information about the Cubic-S intelligent safety system from Kawasaki Robotics, go to www.kawasakirobot.co.uk.