Flexxbotics Universal Robots

UR to Brother

Machine Tool Compatibility Assessment

FlexxCNC™

SUMMARY

This is a procedure for evaluating a Brother CNC controller and assessing the compatibility for FlexxCNC™ with a Universal Robot integration. After this process, you will be able to identify the type of controller that is present, what features of FlexxCNC™ are available and what physical setup is needed.

STEP 1: Determine what CNC controller model you have

To determine, check the top left of the controller or the front of the machine’s face to see the model name.

STEP 2: Determine if you have MTConnect

If your machine model is a speedio it is MTConnect compatible. You can also contact your CNC distributor to get this information.

To activate MTConnect, if inactive, it is as simple as purchasing it, following included instructions, and activating it on your machine. There is no hardware required.

Brother Speedio

CNC FEATURES AND WIRING SETUP
Controllers with MTConnect

If you have a controller with MTConnect these are the features that are available:

FEATURES

  • G-Code Loading*

    Load G-Code from the CNC’s disk drive in memory autonomously to run multiple operations

  • Peripheral Control*

    Publish macro values to G-code using UR robot program nodes to drive real-time offsets using a CMM or digital caliper to change variables during the program

  • Cycle End Detection
    Detect cycle end via MTConnect in order to detect when the cycle ends in order to reduce cycle time
  • Peripheral Control
    Control Autochucks/vices, auto doors, ect.
  • Cycle Start
    Start the cycle

*G-Code loading and Macros are still available without MT-Connect but it is recommended
to still get MT-Connect for simplified integration and more direct source of information.

SETUP:

  • 1 Ethernet Wire from FlexxCNC™ to CNC
  • 1 M12 wire from FlexxCNC™ to Start/Stop Cycle
  • Any M12 cables for third-party peripherals

Not Listed Controllers

Any machine tool may be integrated into the FlexxCNC using a digital I/O tie-in with a stack light, In-Cycle indicator LED, or an M Code actuated relay. Please note, that I/O tie-in typically takes longer to interface and is generally more complex than utilizing Smooth Controllers or Controller with MTConnect. Please speak to sales@flexxbotics.com about our onsite or remote support options if considering this option.

FEATURES

  • Cycle End Detection

    Detect cycle end M12 digital input in order to detect when the cycle ends in order to reduce cycle time

  • Peripheral Control
    Control Autochucks/vices, auto doors, ect.
  • Cycle Start
    Start the cycle

For detailed information about the benefits of Program Loading (G-Code Loading), Macro loading, and machine cycle end detection please check out this link here:

FlexxTend

The complete automated machine tending
solution. Our team rapidly designs, integrates
& supports your machine tending setup.

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FlexxConnect

The manufacturing continuous improvement
platform connecting information between
your work cells, people and business systems.

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