Robot teaching pendant

Abstract

A robot teaching pendant having improved operability achieved by being provided with a display function for a personal computer. The robot teaching pendant includes an emergency stop switch and a deadman switch necessary to secure the safety of an operator, and a jog key switch necessary for a teaching operation. The robot teaching pendant further includes a liquid crystal display unit for displaying an image signal supplied from a graphical (CRT) interface of the personal computer, whereby the robot teaching pendant not only serves as a display unit for the personal computer but also realizes an easy to operate display using the graphical user interface of the personal computer when a teaching operation and the like are carried out.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the InventionThe present invention relates to a robot teaching pendant, and more specifically, to a robot teaching pendant needed when a robot system is arranged in combination with a personal computer.2. Description of the Related ArtA conventional robot system includes a robot main body, a robot controller for controlling the robot main body and a teaching pendant through which an operator teaches his intended operation to the robot controller. The teaching pendant is extended from the robot controller by a cable and the operator carries out a teaching operation through the teaching pendant held by his hand while observing the operation of the robot. At the time, the operator puts the robot into operation while depressing a deadman switch disposed on the teaching pendant and carries out the teaching operation by operating, for example, a jog key switch. If the robot in a stationary state unintentionally starts its operation by any chance and ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

According to the aforesaid arrangement, the robot teaching pendant includes all of the intrinsic functions thereof, and the display means itself can be also used as a display unit for the personal computer. Consequently, when operations such as a robot teaching operation and the like are carried out, it is possible to provide an easy to operate display screen using the graphical user interface of the personal computer.

Problems solved by technology

This handy teaching pendant which can be operated while it is carried by the operator is usually provided with a small display unit and, therefore, its display capability is limited.

However, when it is used in place of a teaching pendant, a problem occurs with regard to safety, operability and portability.

Because the personal computer does not include an emergency stop switch, a deadman switch for securing the safety of the operator, or a jog key switch for effectively carrying out a teaching operation, it cannot be used for a teaching job.

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