In the process of modern industrial automation, industrial robots have become the core force in improving production efficiency and ensuring product quality. As a key bridge for communication between humans and robots, the importance of industrial robot teaching devices cannot be underestimated. Seemingly ordinary, it actually contains rich and exquisite technology, which comprehensively supports the efficient operation of industrial robots in complex production environments.
1, Hardware architecture of teaching pendant
(1) Human computer interaction component
Operation handle and buttons: The handle design of the teaching pendant conforms to ergonomics, making it convenient for operators to hold it for a long time. Analogous to game controllers, joysticks can flexibly control the joint movements of robots or the pose of end effectors, but their accuracy and stability far exceed those of ordinary game controllers. The layout of the buttons has been carefully planned, including function keys, mode switch keys, emergency stop keys, etc. Each button has a clear and important function. For example, in the assembly process of automotive parts, operators can quickly switch the robot's working mode from grabbing parts mode to precise assembly mode by pressing buttons.
Display screen: High resolution display screens are important information output windows for teaching devices. It presents the real-time running status of the robot, including joint angles, motion trajectories, current task progress, etc. In some advanced teaching devices, the display screen also supports touch operation, and operators can directly click and slide on the screen to select programs and set parameters, greatly improving the convenience of operation. In the electronic chip manufacturing workshop, workers can clearly see the chip soldering process of the robot at micrometer level accuracy through the display screen. Once deviations occur, they can be adjusted in a timely manner.
(2) Internal core hardware
Processor: The teaching pendant is equipped with a high-performance processor that is responsible for quickly processing large amounts of data. It not only needs to respond to the instructions of the operator in real time, but also analyze and process the data feedback from the robot. When the operator controls the robot's movement through the handle, the processor quickly converts the operation signal into control instructions, accurately conveying them to the robot's control system, ensuring that the robot executes actions quickly and accurately.
Storage module: The storage module is used to store the robot's program, motion trajectory data, and various configuration information. From simple point-to-point motion programs to complex multitasking linkage programs, they can all be safely stored within it. In factories that frequently switch production tasks, the production programs for different products can be pre stored in the teaching pendant and called at any time, greatly reducing production preparation time.
2, The software system of the teaching pendant
(1) Teaching Programming Software
Graphical programming interface: Most teaching aids use graphical programming methods, and operators do not need to have deep programming knowledge. They can create robot motion programs through simple operations such as drag and drop and click. For example, in a logistics warehouse, staff can easily set the robot's cargo handling path through a graphical interface, connecting the starting point, passing point, and ending point in sequence, and the teaching pendant automatically generates the corresponding program.
Teaching reproduction function: This is one of the core software functions of the teaching device. The operator manually guides the robot to complete a series of actions, and the teaching pendant accurately records the position, posture, speed, and other parameters of each action. After that, the robot can repeat the task according to the recorded trajectory. In furniture manufacturing factories, workers use the demonstration and reproduction function to enable robots to learn complex wood polishing actions, ensuring consistent product quality.
(2) Monitoring and diagnostic software
Real time monitoring: The software monitors the operating status of the robot in real time, monitoring parameters such as motor current, joint temperature, and operating speed of the robot. Once a parameter exceeds the normal range, the teaching pendant immediately issues an alarm to remind the operator to handle it in a timely manner. Welding robots working in high-temperature environments have monitoring software that constantly monitors motor temperature to prevent motor overheating and damage.
Fault diagnosis: When the robot malfunctions, the diagnostic software quickly analyzes the cause of the fault and helps maintenance personnel quickly locate the problem through fault codes and prompt information. For example, if a robot suddenly stops running, diagnostic software may prompt that a certain joint sensor is faulty, and maintenance personnel can quickly replace the sensor and resume production based on this.
3, The development trend of teaching aids
(1) Intelligent upgrade
Future teaching devices will incorporate more artificial intelligence technologies. For example, with autonomous learning ability, the robot's teaching pendant can automatically optimize its motion trajectory and operation process according to the actual situation during task execution. In complex assembly tasks, the teaching pendant can use machine learning algorithms to analyze the data during the assembly process, continuously adjust the robot's actions, and improve the success rate of assembly.
(2) Wireless and Remote Control
With the development of wireless communication technology, teaching devices will achieve more stable and high-speed wireless connections. Operators can freely move within the factory and remotely control the robot. In hazardous environments such as chemical and nuclear industries, operators can remotely control robots through wireless teaching devices in safe areas to avoid the risk of personal injury or death.
(3) Integration with virtual simulation
The teaching pendant will be deeply integrated with virtual simulation technology. Before actually operating the robot, operators can use a teaching pendant in a virtual environment to simulate operations, verify the feasibility of the program in advance, and reduce actual debugging time and costs. In the planning stage of the new production line, engineers optimize the layout and task allocation of robots by combining virtual simulation with teaching aids to improve the overall performance of the production system.
As a key equipment in industrial automation, industrial robot teaching devices are constantly developing and innovating to adapt to increasingly complex production needs and provide strong support for the transformation of industrial intelligence.