POWERLINK Networks Connect Stäubli Robots and uniVAL Drives

Stäubli Robots can now be operated directly with B&R controllers because of a POWERLINK interface on Stäubli's uniVAL drives, which enables the transfer of Generic Motion Control programs from B&R controllers to the robots.

Robotic engineers could utilize the operating environment and uniform programming offered by B&R controllers.

The POWERLINK, which is the real time Ethernet standard connects the robots to the network. The Stäubli robot controllers are put on passive mode whenever a higher level controller is being used so that it could be checked if incoming control commands are legitimate and suitable as far as safety and kinematics are concerned. This consistent operating interface helps system operators to save money, work and time during both servicing and commissioning operations.

For manufacturers of machinery, when interfaces are reduced it would lead to reduced production cycle times as well as lower selling price and expenditures. Moreover, the shared POWERLINK network provides complete diagnostic support and comprehensive solutions such as integrated quality control using image processing and visualization application and robot/motion control in a real time network.