KUKA.PLC mxAutomation

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Description

Native programming interfaces make for simple programming and integration of KUKA robots into your machine environment. Our KUKA.PLC mxAutomation control software is ideal for all interfaces.

With the KUKA.PLC mxAutomation control software, it is possible for external controllers with an embedded PLC to command KUKA robots on the basis of elementary motion instructions. This provides an easy route to implementing a central, customer-friendly operator control concept for robot-controlled production machines.

The outstanding kinematic and safety-relevant functions of the KUKA KR C4 controller remain fully available since the mxAutomation command interpreter of the KR C4 communicates the PLC commands to the path planning module, which sets the robot in motion with the accustomed precision and reliability.

Advantages of KUKA.PLC mxAutomation

Simple programming

With KUKA.PLC mxAutomation, the user requires minimal knowledge of robot programming. The mxAutomation function blocks allow the KUKA robot to be commanded within the familiar PLC programming environment.

High flexibility

If the requirements in production are changed, the appropriate modifications or expansions can be implemented at any time with mxAutomation-based operator control. The flexibility made possible by using robots with regard to processing new series of parts or performing additional tasks is made available for the operator in his customary environment.

Certified in accordance with PLCopen

KUKA is the first robot manufacturer to meet the requirements of the PLC Open organization with the KUKA.PLC mxAutomation 2.1 software and is thus certified in accordance with “PLCopen Motion Control Part 4”. Access functions predefined by KUKA are available to the customer.

Picking up moving workpieces

Connecting KUKA.PLC mxAutomation to KUKA.ConveyorTech enables robots to pick up moving workpieces. The motions of the robot are adapted by the application software to those of assembly lines and conveyor belts. Using KUKA.VectorMove enables the robot to be switched vectorially to “soft” mode in order to facilitate the removal of components from injection molding machines and die-casting machines.

Simple control

The combination of robot and machine control with KUKA.PLC mxAutomation enables KUKA robots to be integrated effortlessly into existing operator control concepts. The robot can therefore also be controlled via the customary human-machine interface. Teach pendants for the machine can be used for setting the robot as well, provided appropriate safety precautions are implemented. A good integration example in this context is the incorporation of KUKA robots into the Sinumerik world on the basis of mxAutomation for S7, as offered by Siemens®.

Wide range of PLC suppliers supported

KUKA.PLC mxAutomation is prepared for operation in Europe, Asia and America and supports the following external control systems:

In conjunction with KUKA.PLC mxAutomation 2.0:

  • Siemens
    • SINUMERIK (Run myRobot)
    • SIMATIC
    • STEP 7 V5.4, S7-300 and S7-400
    • STEP 7 (TIA Portal), S7-300 and S7-400
    • STEP 7 (TIA Portal), S7-1500
  • CoDeSys
  • AllenBradley
  • LabView

New partners with Version 2.1:

  • Beckhoff (series status mid-2016)
  • Schneider-Electric
  • B&R
  • Siemens
    • TIA Portal (SIMATIC)
    • SIMOTION
KUKA.PLC mxAutomation supports a wide range of PLC suppliers.

System requirements for KUKA.PLC mxAutomation

The system requirements depend on the used SPS.