A new era for robotic automation with AI
The MOTOMAN NEXT demonstration cell shows what is meant by "intelligent and adaptive robotics": the robot receives a task, recognizes the parts to be processed and adapts to changes in its environnement.
At the start of the demonstration, the visitor can set up any scenario and place objects, in this case fruit, as well as obstacles. Next, they select the fruit they want the robot to handle. Using artificial intelligence and a 3D camera, the vision system automatically models, recognizes, and classifies the fruit. Then, the "Path Planning" feature creates the trajectories from the robot's current position to the destination, avoiding any obstacles detected by the camera. This is how the MOTOMAN NEX10 robot automatically grabs the fruit and places it in the target basket.
This interactive application allows you to understand the operation of the new MOTOMAN NEXT solution and its features included in the MOTOMAN NEXT package – Automatic collision-free path planning “Path Planning”, Machine vision and image processing including Detection/Grasping/User Interface.
Leveraging MOTOMAN NEXT services greatly simplifies the task for system integrators to successfully launch AI-based robotics projects. Software developers using NEXT services benefit from substantial development time savings and have the right tools to build their code concisely, modularly, and with secure processes.
A new ecosystem for the complete control of machines with "iCube Control"
The "iCube Control" technology is Yaskawa's new open automation solution for machine control, based on PLCnext technology running on a real-time Linux system, which gives application engineers, machine builders, and integrators total control over their systems.
Indeed, this new control method allows for the integration and management of everything expected in a modern "motion" architecture, namely movement, logic, robotics, safety, HMI, and even the machine's network. All this is made possible by a new controller using the open EtherCAT communication protocol and complying with the IEC61131-3 programming standards conventionally used in the fields of automation and machine manufacturing.
The HD8 handling robot, a new standard in hygienic robotics
The high-performance, 6-axis MOTOMAN HD8 "Hygienic Design" robot, specially developed for hygienic and aseptic environments and IP69 certified, meets the stringent standards of applications in the food processing industry, as well as in laboratories, medical facilities, and pharmaceuticals. Its features include a sealed enclosure, antimicrobial surface, food-grade grease, and internal wiring. It is therefore easy to clean and resistant to the most commonly used disinfection products and processes in industry.
In terms of programming, the HD8 can be controlled with Yaskawa's standard controller and software, like the entire range, or also via the intuitive "Smart Pendant" touch tablet-type box.
The HD8 robot therefore guarantees industrial-level quality and the highest reliability for many years of operation, even in humid environments.
Industry 4.0 solution for production monitoring and control: "Digital Remote Monitoring"
Yaskawa is constantly developing its ecosystem of solutions to better support manufacturers seeking increased efficiency and productivity. At the trade show, the Japanese manufacturer is presenting its new comprehensive and secure "Digital Remote Monitoring" solution, which enables real-time, remote monitoring of Yaskawa robotic systems and production management to prevent downtime and optimize productivity.
This represents a new advance in automation and digitalization for all manufacturers using Yaskawa technology, as this solution allows, among other things, monitoring robot performance and cycle times, receiving alerts in case of robot malfunctions, and performing preventative maintenance. It is also possible to film inside robotic stations, enabling remote and asynchronous diagnosis and control of installations. This is all achieved using the customizable, intuitive, and user-friendly "Checkbot" interface, which offers exceptional ease of use.
