Robotics project

Recovering an Industrial XYZ Robot

Reverse engineering an industrial XYZ motion platform whose original control computer and configuration are no longer available.

Status
Active
Timeline
September 2026 to present
Last documented update
September 2026
Domains
Robotics, Reverse engineering, Motion control, Industrial systems
Technologies
Python and Pydantic, JavaScript and HTML/CSS, SQLite, HTTP APIs and TCP/IP, SimpleMotion, PowerShell, Packet capture

Background

This ongoing project aims to recover an OptoFidelity industrial XYZ motion platform without its original control laptop or configuration. The platform uses an OptoController Standard, two horizontal direct-drive linear motors, and a screw-driven vertical axis.

Current state

Communication with the Granite Devices IONI drives works through SimpleMotion over TCP. Drive configuration, encoder positions, and fault information can be read, and the two horizontal drive addresses have been matched to their physical axes.

A local browser application supports diagnostics, calibration records, and simulated motion. Controlled physical movement has not yet been commissioned; the vertical axis is currently excluded from actuation.

Next steps

  1. Calibrate encoder counts against measured travel for both horizontal axes.
  2. Check physical clearance, stopping, and protection before enabling movement.
  3. Perform supervised initialization and validate bounded movement and stopping.
  4. Establish repeatable horizontal positioning and coordinated motion.
  5. Commissioning the vertical axis separately at a later stage.

Back to all projects