One factor that can discourage manufacturing engineers from bringing a robot into their production process is the hassle of using a new programming language. By integrating their robot programming with standard PLC, Yaskawa Motoman aims to make it simpler to handle robot programming and hardware compatibility.

The MLX300 software option is the newest generation of interfacing Yaskawa robot controllers and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).

The MLX300 enables operators to control and program Yaskawa robots in a standard PLC programming environment, eliminating the need to learn a specific robot programming language. All program execution is performed by the PLC; the motion control is handled by the Yaskawa robot controller.

Compatible Robots and PLCs

The MLX300 supports all Motoman material handling robots on the DX200 controller, and their GP-series robots on the YRC1000 controller. The MLX300 works with Rockwell CompactLogix, ControlLogix and GuardLogix PLCs. The company is not planning support for any other PLCs.

GP25 Material Handling robot. (Image courtesy of Yaskawa Motoman.)

This “unified controls” approach is intended to simplify safety design by eliminating redundant electrical interfaces and consolidating hardware to optimize floorspace. According to the company, the single controller, single programming environment typically requires a single programmer to implement an application. In theory, familiarity with the controls among maintenance technicians would allow faster troubleshooting and plant acceptance.

Differences between MLX300 and MLX200

The new unit expands the capabilities of MLX200 in three key ways. First, by expanding the family of supported robots. Any material handling robot supported on the DX200 or any GP-series robot on the YRC1000 can be used with MLX300. Secondly, MLX300 provides support for the Functional Safety Unit (FSU) capabilities of the DX200 and YRC1000 controllers. Finally, additional servo drives and panels are not required with MLX300.

The MLX300 software option is compatible with any Yaskawa DX200 material handling robot or YRC1000 GP-series robot. A combination of up to four robots and positioners can be connected to a single MLX300 system. Functional Safety Unit (FSU) is available.

While this specific case is limited to certain Yaskawa robots with certain Rockwell PLCs, it’s great to see optimization in the robot controlling market. After all, an easier-to-program production line is a more productive one.