Robots controlled directly from PLC

Cobra PLC600 and PLC800 robots are said to be simple to integrate through direct programming from a user?s PLC. The new robot family combines a high-performance SCARA robot with a PLC server that allows direct programming of the robot from the Allen-Bradley family of PLCs (PLC-5, SLC-500, Logix family), through a DF-1 serial connection.

A user can connect the PLC server to their PLC and program the robot directly from the PLC?s native programming environment. The PLC server approach uses no emulation of ladder logic and no soft PLC. It directly controls the robot with the PLC. The robots are reportedly simple to implement and maintain, so plant-floor personnel who are familiar with PLCs will be able to develop and support robot applications without being robot experts. This product is designed to be economical and well suited for a wide range of part handling, packaging, and pick-and-place applications.

Adept Technology, Livermore, CA
(925) 245-3490; www.adept.com