Echternach – FANUC’s new iRProgrammer makes the setup and programming of robots much easier. This software can run on conventional computers and laptops as well as on smart devices such as tablets or smartphones and is characterised by its interface, which can be operated intuitively. This type of programming can be used for all FANUC robots. FANUC will be showcasing the aspects of working with the iRProgrammer and its benefits at EMO 2019.
The iRProgrammer development approach was to create a programming option for the SCARA robots that is both cost-effective and simple. On a daily basis, working with tablet PCs is easy, because they are intuitive to handle compared to conventional teach pendants. Three types of operation are proposed: the creation and editing of robot programs, the execution of these programs and the adjustment of basis settings.
A key benefit of this in FANUC’s opinion, is that operating the iRProgrammer is the same as operating a conventional PC. Another benefit of working with this software is that several windows or tabs can be opened at the same time and one can switch between them at will, similar to using several pages in a web browser. This means that several robots can be programmed at the same time. Even before the introduction of the iRProgrammer this technique was used in a number of different FANUC software options. Examples of this are its Vision system and the iRPickTool software, which are parameterised and programmed via a browser. The programmer does not need to change the programming device if a task requires both movement and parameter input for the Vision system. The iRProgrammer can of course also be used with the collaborative robots in the CR Series.
There is no need to install any additional software on the PC or tablet. The robot’s IP address is accessed via a website. As only one IP address is authorised by a given tablet or PC, unauthorised access to the robot can be prevented.
Programming is web-based. The web interface that is integrated in every controller is also used. Multiple elements recognised by modern PC menu interfaces or smartphones are "built in" to the corresponding menu interfaces. In this respect the interface is familiar – a significant requirement for the approval of programming software. The iRProgrammer also helps programmers when creating a program in that when they input the first letter of a command, it displays all commands with this first letter in a separate window. Then a program line is either manually completed or dragged into the Editor window using drag&drop. Potential manual data entry typos are also identified and checked by the system. In a separate window there are software keys that give the robot specific movement instructions via plus or minus keys for each individual axis or via a kind of virtual handwheel that can move the robot in the space. It couldn’t be simpler.
Technically speaking, the iRProgrammer is a software option. As easy as working with the software is, optimal safety compliance should be verified using a risk analysis, as the robot must be in automatic mode when operated by the iRProgrammer.
More information can be acquired here:
FANUC Europe Corporation
Société Anonyme
7, rue Benedikt Zender
L-6468 Echternach
Phone : +352 (0)72 7777-0
Email : pr@fanuc.eu
Home: http://www.fanuc.eu
