Brooks Automation 2. Introduction to the Hardware
Part Number: PF40-DI-00010 Rev. A System Description and Overview
In all modes of operation, the controller includes a web based operator interface. This interface is
used for configuring the system, starting and stopping execution, and monitoring its operation. The
web interface can be accessed locally using a browser or remotely via the Internet. This remote
interface is of great benefit in system maintenance and debugging.
The optional machine vision system, PreciseVision, can execute in a PC connected through
Ethernet. PreciseVision requires cameras connected via Ethernet or USB, allowing any processor
on the network to obtain and process information from any camera on the network, and provide the
results to any networked motion controller.
Release History
The PF400 was released in 2011. Since the initial release, designated by SN F0X-wwww-xy-zzzzz,
two significant upgrades have been released.
Revision B, designated by Serial Numbers F0B-wwww-xy-zzzzz, was released in 2014, and
improved the high-speed, continuous duty performance of the robot. The main changes in this
revision were a wider timing belt in J2 (12 mm replaced 9 mm), changing to all steel drive pulleys
from aluminum to improve the bond strength of the drive pulleys to the motor shaft, and changing
the slip ring in the wrist for improved reliability.
Revision C, designated by Serial Numbers F0C-wwww-xy-zzzzz, was released in the fall of 2016,
and improved the resistance of the robot to high-speed crashes by adding clamp rings and beveled
retaining rings to the J2, J3, and J4 bearings, so that these bearings cannot come loose in a high-
speed crash. In addition, improved support for pneumatic grippers and control of solenoid valves in
the outer link is provided, and some longer life cam followers for the J2 timing belt are installed. In
January 2017, a longer life Ethernet cable is expected to be released which should last for the life of
the robot running continuous duty for at least three years.
Copyright © 2023, Brooks Automation
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