Robot control system with the igus Robot Control X

The iRC X EmbeddedCtrl integrates EtherCAT, PROFINET and CANopen directly into the motion control system. This reduces the overall width by about 50% compared to the previous EmbeddedCtrl. External gateway modules are not required, nor is additional effort for hardware, wiring and configuration. This facilitates integration into PLC-controlled systems, saves space in the control cabinet and reduces additional electronics.

Fairino cobots can now be programmed, simulated and operated with the igus Robot Control. The entire FR series is integrated via a compact hardware module, while the robot and original controller are retained. Apps for vision, gluing and palletising reduce the engineering effort. 3D simulation, drag-and-drop programming and industrial interfaces are available centrally.

The new OPC UA app connects iRC X directly to PLC, MES, SCADA, HMI and cloud. Thanks to VDMA OPC 40010, cross-manufacturer data exchange is possible without robot-specific drivers or proprietary gateways. Server, security, and user and certificate management run directly on the control system. This saves additional devices, cabling and energy and provides process data consistently.

The Vision App Pro recognises up to five different object types with a cost-effective USB camera and distinguishes them by their size. The data determined is available directly in the igus Robot Control and can trigger object-dependent subsequent movements there. Expensive special cameras are not required. This allows even existing robot systems to be easily expanded with flexible image recognition.

The new igus Robot Control OperatorHMI combines program selection, start, jogging, live status, and error display on a 7-inch touch panel. Emergency stop and reset are integrated directly. The web-based app runs on the Robot Control, so neither a separate user interface nor a separate PC is required. This reduces integration, wiring and maintenance effort as well as additional hardware on the machine.

With the new 5-axis kinematics, iRC X also controls linear robots via a rotary and pivot axis on the TCP. This allows tools to be aligned freely along complex paths during LIN, PTP and CIRC movements. A single iRC handles all five axes, eliminating the need for additional special control systems. Existing linear robots can be expanded and programs can be tested in realistic terms in the digital twin in advance.