DENSO Robotics, a pioneer leader in robot design and manufacture, has released its latest RC8A robot controller.
The new model goes a step beyond the previous RC8 controller, adding DENSO Safety Motion, which allows users to create virtual fences around the robot.
Safety Motion uses two optical sensors to detect an approaching operator, one at the top and one at the bottom of the robot cell. The RC8A controller creates virtual boundaries that trigger incremental reductions in the speed of the robot in accordance to the operator’s proximity.
Once the operator reaches a certain threshold, the robot either completely stops or slows down enough for safe interaction. As the operator moves away from the cell, the robot incrementally speeds up again.
New safety solutions
"As people and robots work more and more closely together, especially with the trend toward collaborative robots, new safety solutions are required," said Peter Cavallo, robotics sales manager, DENSO Products & Services Americas, Inc. "Our Safety Motion function ensures that working environments stay safe for humans without compromising productivity."
The RC8A controller has a footprint of 12.5x14”, a height of 3.69” and an output of 3kW.
The controller, when paired with DENSO’s ORiN open-resource networking system, can communicate with over 100 different types of devices, including 100 Base-T Ethernet, Mini/hand I/O, RS232C and USB as Standard, with CC-Link, DeviceNet, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, parallel discrete I/O, Profibus and Profinet as optional.
A Microsoft Windows-based GUI is designed to reduce setup time.
New training centre
DENSO’s release of the RC8A controller coincides with the company’s 50th anniversary.
DENSO first opened its doors in 1967 to develop controllers, software and industrial robots.
By 1970, manufacturing and implementation of its first aluminium die-casting robot was underway.
As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations DENSO has opened a new sales, application and training centre near Cincinnati in Ohio.
The new facility offers training in programming, operation and maintenance of the newest robotic arms, controllers and applications for production operators, programmers and maintenance personnel.
Source: Engineering.com
