Integrated PLC, robotic controller eliminates need for 2nd PLC
ABB’s PLC mounted inside controller cabinet door offers cost, space savings, ease of use, powerful performance for robotic production cells.
.jpg "ABB AC500 PLC")
ABB has introduced an integrated PLC and robot controller for robot cell applications, offering powerful performance in one unit. Combining ABB’s flexible AC500 PLC with its IRC5 robot controller, the newly integrated unit eliminates the cost and space of a separate PLC cabinet and greatly reduces the time associated with the set-up and operation of robotic production cells.
With up to three local I/O boards plus bus communications for remote I/Os, the integrated controller provides users with one point of control for a range of production cell functions, including peripheral production equipment, such as grippers, feeders and ancillary machines. All of the main communications standards, including DeviceNet, Profibus DP, CANopen and Modbus TCP are supported, as well as wireless communications, making the integrated controller suitable for virtually any factory site.
Since its launch in 2006, the AC500 PLC has reportedly proven popular with OEMs and plant operators looking for a system that can be easily expanded to meet changing requirements. A key benefit of the PLC is its flexibility. Using the Control Builder software, programmers are empowered by a complete, unified development environment including all six IEC61131-3 programming languages and tools for configuration, debugging and visualization..jpg "ABB AC500 PLC/IRC Controller")
To help simplify programming and operation, a software framework is included, removing the need to set-up a communication infrastructure between the robot controller and PLC. The framework includes user friendly interactive displays on the FlexPendant, the robot controller interface device. This will help system integrators and end-users, allowing them to concentrate on the higher level specifics of a system installation or reconfiguration.
Available immediately, the IRC5 controller with the integrated AC500 PLC offers a one-stop solution for expandable and scalable programming based on a user-friendly, high performance and low-cost automation platform, the company said.
ABB
www.abb.com/robotics ABB Robotics
- Related News:
FIRST Robotics Competition in Milwaukee showcases local high school team - 19.04.2011 09:45- PLC with built-in HMI operator panel - 17.12.2010 07:38
- ABB acquires Insert Key Solutions to software portfolio - 15.12.2010 11:23
- Robots, 4th generation: arc welding, material handing, machine tending - 08.12.2010 12:05
- ABB to acquire Baldor Electric Co. in a $4.2 billion transaction - 30.11.2010 01:15
- ABB and GM to collaborate on electric car battery research - 19.10.2010 08:13
Integrator Guide
| Search the online Automation Integrator Guide |
|
|
|
|
Visit the System Integrators page to view past winners of Control Engineering's System Integrator of the Year Award and learn how to enter the competition. You will also find more information on system integrators and Control System Integrators Association.
Case Study Database
Get more exposure for your case study by uploading it to the Control Engineering case study database, where end-users can identify relevant solutions and explore what the experts are doing to effectively implement a variety of technology and productivity related projects.
These case studies provide examples of how knowledgeable solution providers have used technology, processes and people to create effective and successful implementations in real-world situations. Case studies can be completed by filling out a simple online form where you can outline the project title, abstract, and full story in 1500 words or less; upload photos, videos and a logo.
Click here to visit the Case Study Database and upload your case study.