Scalable, open-architecture robot control

Aerotech has released an open-architecture robot for use in pick and place applications. The RCP-DELTA is available in four models that support payloads up to 3kg, with X/Y operating ranges of 500, 800, 1100 and 1300mm, and an optional continuous rotation about the Z axis.

The robot is comprised of carbon fibre and light-weight aluminium which is said to help it make 200 pick-and-place operations per minute with peak acceleration on the order of 15g.

The RCP-DELTA control system is based on Aerotech's A3200 Machine Controller. The A3200's networked, distributed architecture provides a scalable platform upon which additional robots, I/O, and positioning devices can be integrated. External sensors are supported with industry standard fieldbuses or applications operating in the RCP-DELTA's real-time enabled Windows operating system.

IP65 protection is standard and IP69K is available for applications where periodic cleaning with high-pressure water and/or steam is required.

The RCP-DELTA supports all standard A3200 programming and control capabilities such as multi-block look-ahead, corner rounding, and command shaping. Additional Delta robot specific functions are included for common robotic operations such as target queues, tracking moving material, and teaching tool/part locations.