KUKA robots typically use KRC controllers, which are equipped with built-in Profinet interfaces. This allows for seamless integration with other Profinet devices in a network.

Configuring Profinet on a KUKA robot, particularly with a KRC5 controller, involves setting up the controller as either a Profinet IO controller (master) or a Profinet IO device (slave). This setup typically requires using KUKA WorkVisual, the engineering tool provided by KUKA for configuring robot systems and networks.

Steps to Configure Profinet on a KUKA KRC5 Controller:

1. Preparation:

• Ensure Software Versions: Make sure you have the correct versions of KUKA WorkVisual and the Profinet driver installed on the KRC5 controller.
• Network Setup: Connect your KUKA controller and Profinet devices to the same network. Ensure that the network cables are properly connected and that devices are powered on.

2. Open WorkVisual and Create/Load a Project:

• Launch KUKA WorkVisual.
• Open an existing project or create a new one. If you are creating a new project, ensure that it matches your robot's configuration.

3. Add Profinet Devices:

• Network Topology: Go to the "Network Topology" section in WorkVisual.
• Add Profinet IO Controller:
  • Right-click on the robot controller (e.g., KRC5) and select "Add Profinet IO Controller."
  • Assign the controller an IP address that is within the same subnet as your Profinet devices.
• Add Profinet IO Devices:
  • Add each Profinet IO device (e.g., sensors, actuators) to the network topology. You may need to import the GSDML file for each device. GSDML files define the communication properties of Profinet devices and are usually provided by the device manufacturer.
  • Assign each IO device an IP address and set the device name. The name and IP address should match those configured on the actual hardware.

4. Configure Profinet Communication:

• Device Assignment: In the "Bus Structure" section, assign each Profinet IO device to the appropriate IO controller (the KRC5).
• Input/Output Mapping:
  • Map the inputs and outputs of each Profinet IO device to the robot’s IO structure. This allows the robot to send and receive signals to and from the Profinet devices.
• Configure Timing and Priorities: If necessary, adjust the communication cycle times and priorities to match your application’s requirements.

5. Assign IP Addresses and Names:

• Use WorkVisual’s "Online" tab to connect to the KUKA controller.
• Go to the "Profinet" section and assign the IP addresses and device names to the devices in your network.
• Use the "Download to Controller" option to send these settings to the KRC5 controller.

6. Compile and Deploy the Project:

• Once your configuration is complete, compile the project to ensure there are no errors.
• Deploy the project to the KRC5 controller by selecting the "Deploy" or "Activate" option in WorkVisual.

7. Testing and Diagnostics:

• After deployment, test the communication between the KRC5 controller and the Profinet IO devices.
• Use the diagnostics tools in WorkVisual or on the KUKA SmartPad to monitor the status of the Profinet network. Check for any errors or warnings.