Robot27

PLC communication utility

Universal Robots have a robust interface to allow PLCs to control the robot while programs are running.  However, if a program is not loaded or is stopped due to a safety condition, PLCs are unable to use that interface without a dedicated function block (and lots of additional code).  The Robot27 Connect UR Cap allows a PLC to run dashboard commands on the robot (such as play, stop, pause, restart safety, etc) even while the robot program is paused, stopped, or not loaded with no additional PLC programming.

This software can start automatically each time the robot is turned on by saving the started connection to the default installation file for the robot.  By writing specific integer values to an input integer register on the robot, the PLC is able to issue commands while programs are not running. It also allows for the same PLC to obtain and monitor the state of the “is remote” status of the robot by reading a specific boolean output register on the robot.

Features and benefits

Issue the following commands to the robot from a PLC connected via Ethernet IP or Profinet:

• Play robot program
• Stop robot program
• Pause robot program
• Shut down robot
• Close popup displayed on teach pendant
• After startup, power on robot systems
• After startup, power off robot systems
• Release robot brakes
• Reset from a protective stop
• Close a safety popup displayed on the teach pendant
• Restart safety systems