Cobot Monitoring System – Enhancing the Capabilities of Your Cobot

October 2024

Overview

In partnership with Beckhoff, SP has developed an advanced Cobot Monitoring System designed to significantly expand the functionality of your cobot. This highly configurable system allows users to add various functionalities and data retrieval scenarios tailored to their needs. It can track key metrics such as joint performance, movements, and OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), with the flexibility to scale up and monitor complete production line performance.

The system supports remote data monitoring through industry standard Fieldbus connections, enabling you to oversee your cobot cell’s performance from any device, such as a PC, tablet, or smartphone.

Real time position and colour coded warnings for current and temperatures on each joint of the cobot allow supervisors to monitor the current states of workstations without having to be at the cobot. E-stops and Protective e-stops and alerts issues to ensure optimal uptime for each station.

The system’s built-in Wi-Fi and ethernet connections allow management, engineering, and operators to access the cobots. Cobots can be accessed in two ways: a secure point-to-point connection where the device acts as a private network, or they can be configured to join an existing office or factory network.

Remote dial-in for advanced support can be enabled to allow cobot programming changes to be done remotely.

Expansion

Beyond monitoring, the system’s controller is built on a powerful Atom-based PC, offering the potential for further expansion. This allows for integration into a comprehensive machine control system, removing the limitations of the standard UR control system.

SP and Beckhoff will showcase this innovative solution at the Scotland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on October 23rd and 24th, 2024, at the SEC in Glasgow.