Posted to News on 22nd Nov 2012, 12:56
Omron adds robotic functionality to Sysmac automation platform
One year after the introduction of its innovative NJ machine controllers, Omron Industrial Automation is significantly expanding their versatility by adding new robotics functionality. The controllers are now suited for use with high-throughput packaging machines in pick-and-place applications based on delta robots, described as the fastest mechanical technology currently available.
Thanks to the new functionality, a single NJ controller can now control up to eight delta robots, while also handling the motion control, sequencing and vision system requirements of the machine on which it is installed.
With a parallel structure that can achieve up to 200 cycles per minute, delta robots can be synchronised with multiple conveyors to perform on-the-fly pick-and-place operations. The NJ controller offers a response time of 2ms when controlling eight delta robots or 1ms when controlling four robots. It generates smooth polynomial trajectories that can accurately follow even highly demanding motion profiles.
With the addition of specific robotics function blocks to the NJ controller, complex operations such as multiple conveyor tracking or workspace auto-check are now easy to program. In addition, programmers benefit from using the same software environment - Sysmac Studio - for all functions, and by having all key program elements integrated in one project file, in one controller.
To complement the enhanced functionality of these NJ automation controllers, Omron offers two types of robot arms equipped with the standard Accurax G5 servo system that is part of the Sysmac family of products. For further details go to www.industrial.omron.eu.
