Abstract: A synchronous high speed motion stop for a series of multi-top loaders residing on “n” controllers on one rail achieves effective detection of the servo-error status and shut off of the trailing controller's servo power within 3 ITP time. The control method reduces the unnecessary error recovery because it only shuts off its immediate trailing controller without aborting its leading controller, allowing the leading controller to complete the cycle tasks. The cascade control method produces a synchronous high-speed motion stop for the robots across the controllers and effectively prevents the collision between the robots.

Abstract: A synchronous high speed motion stop for a series of multi-top loaders residing on “n” controllers on one rail achieves effective detection of the servo-error status and shut off of the trailing controller's servo power within 3 ITP time. The control method reduces the unnecessary error recovery because it only shuts off its immediate trailing controller without aborting its leading controller, allowing the leading controller to complete the cycle tasks. The cascade control method produces a synchronous high-speed motion stop for the robots across the controllers and effectively prevents the collision between the robots.

Abstract: A robot system for handling and transporting workpieces in a workspace includes a rail supported above a floor, at least two robot arms supported on the rail for mutual relative displacement and coordinated displacement along the rail, each arm articulating about multiple axes for engaging and supporting the workpiece, and a controller communicating with each of the robot arms to control displacement and articulation of each robot arm, whereby the workpiece is engaged by each gripper, lifted on the robot arm, carried along a path, which may include motion along the rail, and released from the gripper at its destination.