Cedar Spark Robot Control Platform

The platform is built on the CodeSys environment and serves as the core control system for robots and automation equipment. It can be configured for different robot structures and customized applications, using motion control, speed planning, and multi-machine logic to execute control tasks.

In operation, the controller handles the main control and real-time computation, while the teach pendant provides user interaction and operating input. The PLC layer can be programmed to match on-site requirements, and direct access is available between the PLC layer and the control layer.

For more complex automation scenarios, The platform also supports multi-machine control, open interface integration, and multiple communication protocols. This gives the system stronger structural flexibility and better integration potential.

The teach pendant serves as the system’s human-machine interface and on-site operating input device. It uses an ARM Cortex-A8 800MHz processor, with 256MB memory and eMMC 4GB storage. The display is an 8-inch TFT screen with 800×600 resolution and a reinforced 4-wire resistive touchscreen.

It runs Linux 4.9.65 and supports the QT 4.9.65 development environment. Functional components include an emergency stop, mode selector, electronic handwheel, stylus, and a three-position enabling switch. At 1.2kg, it combines operating input with the safety and interaction requirements of industrial control.

The controller is the core computing and execution unit of the platform. It uses a Celeron J1900 CPU with 4 cores at 2.0GHz, supported by DDR3 4G memory and 32G storage, and provides 2 × I210 Ethernet ports.

In safety and I/O terms, the system supports high-voltage control, STO control, external gear-position signals, external power-on, pendant-free operation, encoder functionality, 16 DI / 16 DO (PNP), and two 0–10V analog outputs. This makes it suitable not only for standard control tasks, but also for industrial integration and future expansion.

Software and communication are among the platform’s strongest capabilities. The display side runs on an ARM-based Linux system, while the controller uses an x86-based 64-bit real-time Linux operating system. The PLC layer is built on CodeSys and supports ST, Ladder Diagram, Sequential Function Chart, and other PLC languages.

In communication, the system supports EtherCAT, Modbus RTU master/slave, Modbus TCP master/slave, EtherNet/IP, and CAN. This makes it suitable not only for standalone control, but also for system networking, protocol integration, and expansion into more complex automation environments.