The Robot Report Podcast · 23 May 2026 · 55m
Chris Elston, Chief Robotics Manager at Yamaha Robotics Group (YRG) and founder of Mr. PLC, discusses the enduring relevance of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) in modern automation. He explains how YRG simplifies integration for controls engineers through Add-On Instructions (AOIs) and function blocks that allow ladder logic to control robots and read real-time data like amperage for predictive maintenance. Elston also assesses the current limitations of AI in generating ladder logic while highlighting its potential for debugging and anomaly detection via Python drivers.
Where this conversation describes AI being used to build or deliver a product. Part of the AI in practice tracker.
Engineering & simulationRockwell Logix Designer
Rockwell has integrated AI into its Logix Designer software to assist controls engineers, though Elston notes he hasn't found a great easy way to make it work for ladder logic generation yet.
“I think 3 weeks ago I saw a YouTube video. that Rockwell had that. They, they have AI now put into their new logics designer software. I watch the whole YouTube video demo on it. And that's exactly what we need.”
Chris Elston · Hear it at 39:11
established companies
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