MBL Series: Introduction

Rockwell Automation's Machine Builder Libraries are a free to use set of software objects including PLC code and HMI faceplates that can be used to build application code for machinery used in discrete manufacturing. By using these pre-built and pre-tested software objects, machine builders can reduce development time, reduce commissioning time, and provide a more consistent and rich user experience for their machines.

Machine Builder Libraries are a very powerful tool for quickly developing software and visualizations for machines, but like most powerful tools, there is a steep learning curve when it comes to using them.

In this series, I will walk you through the process of using Rockwell Automation's Machine Builder Libraries and Device Object Libraries in Application Code Manager to produce production ready PLC code and HMI applications for a typical machine.

Demo Machine

In this series, we will develop the PLC code and HMI application for the assembly machine that is shown here. This machine is made up of:

• Two conveyors to transport lids and bases
• Two clamping units to position lids and bases correctly. Both clamping units can be raised up to allow parts to pass.
• A pick and place unit that moves in three axes to place lids on base units.

Wrap Up

In this tutorial, I introduced the MBL series and the content that will be covered.

In the next tutorial, I will show you how to download Machine Builder Libraries onto your computer so that you can start using them to build your application code. Read that post here.