Archive for the ‘Robots’ Category

Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the latest addition to the RV-Series of high performance vertically articulated robots.

The RV-2 extends an already broad range of vertical robots which now ranges from 2Kg-12Kg. The new model is available in both SD and SQ formats which are the traditional stand-alone configuration and the iQ-based configuration respectively. While both types will continue to use same compact arm design that made the S-Series successful, new motion control and amplifier designs offer performance improvements that can affect cycle time up to 30% and accuracy to 70%.

In addition to performance, there are notable improvements in ease of use, integration and safety. A robust set of standard features and interfaces position the SD and SQ as a value product among many competitors.

The RV-2 is rated at 2Kg with a 3Kg maximum payload and 504mm reach. This new robot is dexterous and fast with many new design features enabling it to outperform its competitors. A new offset arm design allows for greater total range of motion. The slim profile of the arm and wrist allow the RV-2 to work and reach into confined spaces. The J1 axis has an unmatched range of 480º eliminating the typical rear dead zone. J2 range has also been extended to 240º which improves motion especially in ceiling mount applications. The speed performance of J4-J6 has been optimized to address fast and frequent posture changes common in assembly work. Maximum composite speed is 4400 mm/S enabling a 0.6S cycle time without compromise to repeatability. RV-2 is ideal for precision and high-throughput applications.

As with all Mitsubishi robots, the RV-2 offers ease of integration and connectivity. Connection to additional axes, GOT, Vision, Safety and other third party hardware is simplified. Powerful programming and simulation software round out a product offering that delivers high performance and value.

 

For more information, here is the RV-2SD/SQ Brochure

 

	Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of their next generation of high performance robots. The new lineup includes the SD-Series and SQ-Series which are the traditional stand-alone configuration and the iQ-based configuration respectively.
While both types will continue to use same compact arm design that made the SSeries successful, new motion control and amplifier designs offer performance improvements that can affect cycle time up to 30% and accuracy to 70%. In addition to performance, there are notable improvements in ease of use, integration and safety. A robust set of standard features and interfaces position the SD and SQ as a value product among many competitors.
While the SD and SQ share the same level of performance and speed, their hardware configurations are slightly different. The SD models have a self contained drive unit that also houses the CPU, communication modules and I/O. The SQ still requires a separate drive unit but the CPU module (Q172DRCPU) moves to the iQ rack and the user must add appropriate communication and I/O modules to the system on the rack. Standard Features: Additional axis interface- plug and play SSCNETIII connection to MR-J3 servos Serial encoder interface- 2 channels for conveyor tracking (standard on SD, under development for SQ) Ethernet communication port- easy integration to Vision or other accessories, PC connection ) USB and RS232 – quick connect to PC (SD only) GOT direct connect- no need for PLC code for GOT connection Collision Detection- user defined safe zones of possible impact definable by plane and level of impact Singularity Avoidance- control will automatically calculate movement around singularity points Selectable movement modes – Standard, High Accuracy, and High Speed modes allow user to optimize application with moves that are appropriate for the task Optional Interfaces for SD: Profibus DeviceNet

Flexible I/O:

General Purpose I/O is designed to be easily changed without opening the controller. Changing from sink to source type or vice-versa is an easy board swap.

The basic design concept is that robots will have no pre-installed I/O except for hand inputs which will have factory default settings of sink type for –S11 models and source type for –S12 (CE) models. This can be changed by the user with a switch setting. Hand outputs still require 2A-RZ365/375 cards to be activated. Sink or source type must be matched amongst the hand inputs and outputs. The other exception is that all CE models will have 32/32 source type GP I/O preinstalled. This is still field-changeable.

Remote I/O modules are available for SD models in sink or source configuration. Note however that onboard I/O and remote I/O now use different cables 2D-CBL** vs. 2A-CBL**.

I/O for SQ-Series configurations are selected from the standard Q Series modules

New Teach Pendants:

	The release of SD/SQ robots includes 2 new pendant options, R32TB and R56TB. R32TB is the new “basic” pendant. It has a new larger display of 8 lines x 24 characters, very user friendly, more ergonomic and allows easy right or left handed operation of the 3-way switch. R56TB is an enhanced pendant that boasts a 6.5”VGA touch screen interface. Additional features of the R56TB include: RT-TOOLBOX functionality on screen User definable screen capability Easy Navigation High-speed Ethernet connection to the controller Comfortable right hand or left hand operation USB connection for program /parameter access or firmware upgrades

Software:

RT-Toolbox 2 is the latest setup software for MELFA robots. This title is used for programming, setup, parameters, maintenance, and simulation. For users not requiring simulation, order RT-Toolbox 2 LT. MELFA-Works is a more comprehensive programming environment for 3D cell design, simulation and range of motion testing. This title also includes a 3D CAD to motion tool. MELFA-Works is an add-on to SolidWorks. MELFA-Vision is a setup tool for users of Cognex “In-Sight” cameras. MELFA-Vision allows for quick integration to the vision system and part identification.

Global Acceptance and Safety:

SD and SQ robots are built to the ISO 10218-1 standard for safe robot manufacture This standard has recently become the accepted robot safety standard in the USA.

SD and SQ robots are CE compliant. This is the version that MEAU will stock.

SD (but not SQ) robots are available in UL compliant versions. These are special order.

Warranty:

All Mitsubishi robots come with a full 2 year warranty covering parts and labor for replacement of defective items. This is longer than all of our major competitors. In addition to this, TSS offers warranty contracts to extend the original parts and labor term and/or add on-site warranty coverage.

Applications:

Mitsubishi robots are designed for precision applications of small to medium payload capacity across many industries. Typical applications include: machine tending, material handling, assembly, inspection, material removal, QC/test, laboratory work, and education.

 

For more information, here is the MELFA Robot Product Selection Guide