Cutting Robot application

---

Description

Future-generation machines excel with unprecedented flexibility. This results in increasingly complex motion functionalities for automation.
For example, extremely high accuracy is required for the application of glue/lubricants to irregularly shaped objects or for cutting such products. Designers usually create such shapes using CAD (Computer Aided Design) systems.

Motion control challenges

The CAD information must be imported into the programming system and processed for the automation task. The processed data is then sent to the controller which performs the corresponding motion functionality. Special import functions are required to read the CAD data and graphic editors provide valuable assistance in designing the motion functionality.

Solution

The Schneider Electric programming system can import the CAD data, for example, via a DXF import filter. A global data structure (CNC data) is automatically generated for each shape/figure which is available in the application software. In this solution example, the CNC program is stored as an array of G code words. The programmer then uses a graphic editor to divide the shape/figure into individual path sections which are decoded by a decoder component. The suitable motion functionality (e.g. vertex smoothing with splines) is then created on the basis of a special module library. An interpolation module uses a defined speed profile and time pattern to transform the path into individual points. These position set-points are transformed by the application program and sent to the drives via interfaces.
Depending on the application, Schneider Electric offers the corresponding control technology with all the required drive interfaces. This example uses a Lexium Motion Controller which interpolates three Lexium 05 servo drives via the CANopen Motionbus interface.

Products used:

• Lexium Motion Controller (LMC),
• Lexium 05 Servo Drives,
• Linear Motion.