Stäubli uniVAL pi software enables robot programming via a PLC

Stäubli has launched uniVAL pi, a software option that enables robot programming to be performed via a PLC, using a Plug & Play feature in the Siemens TIA Portal.

With an optional communication interface, users can program the company’s robots without manufacturer-specific, high-level language knowledge.

Currently all of the company’s kinematics can be ordered with this software option. In this configuration, the communication interface to the PLC is already fully developed. Users only need to connect the robot to the Siemens portal to get started.

The plug-and-play ability makes robot integration easier. The Stäubli controller continues to handle the internal path planning. Backups also are no longer necessary because data is stored in the PLC.

According to the company, an advantage of PLC robot programming is the safety functions of the controller remain active during programming. These safety functions run on an additional CPU that monitors the path planning of the regular CPU and then intervenes if the set parameters are exceeded. For example, if the robot were to move into a work area defined as a safe zone, the higher-level safety CPU takes over and brings it to a stop.

Stäubli | www.staubli.com