AutoBlocks™
The future is here. Control Block.

AutoBlocks™
The future is here. Control Block.

Unlock the future of automation with AutoBlocks Control Block

The AutoBlocks™ Control Block is a comprehensive machine controller that integrates logic, safety, and motion control into a single platform. Supporting up to 6 axes of coordinated motion, it simplifies the management of industrial robots, vision systems, safety devices, and sensors. Its no-code, plug-and-play architecture allows for easy scalability, making it ideal for applications ranging from small batch processes to fully automated production lines.

Control Block: The Ultimate Machine Controller

READY FOR THE FUTURE

With its no-code, plug-and-play architecture, the AutoBlocks Control Block is built for the next generation of automated systems. Control your entire production line with ease, reduce downtime, and scale effortlessly.

OVERVIEW

The AutoBlocks Control Block is a powerful, all-in-one solution for industrial automation, designed to control complex machinery with ease and flexibility. Equipped with advanced motion control, integrated safety features, seamless communication capabilities, and the ability to run two software programs, the Control Block empowers machine builders, integrators, and manufacturers to streamline production with precision and efficiency.

  • Precision assembly
  • Robotics control
  • Industrial automation
  • Custom machine design

Modular, Safe, and Smart: The Future of Machine Control

Designed for industrial environments, the Control Block features a modular design with expandable remote I/O capabilities, enabling seamless integration of additional devices. It includes a built-in safety controller, 24V power supply, and fault diagnostics, ensuring reliable and safe operations. The user-friendly interface, powered by AutoCode, facilitates quick setup and modification of machine sequences without extensive programming knowledge

Specifications

The AutoBlocks Control Block is a robust and unified machine controller that effortlessly combines logic, safety, and motion control into a single, streamlined platform. It supports up to 6 axes of plug-and-play single-cable motion, engineered specifically for precision assembly applications. Offering no-code integration, it simplifies the management of diverse industrial robots, vision systems, safety devices, and sensors, making it accessible even for those with limited programming experience.

Its modular, flexible design allows for seamless scalability, from small batch processes to fully automated production lines, making it the perfect solution for a wide range of industrial automation requirements. Additionally, the AutoBlocks platform includes the AB+ product line, offering highly compatible motors, actuators, and gearboxes that further enhance system versatility and expand automation capabilities across multiple applications.

Hardware Specifications

FORM FACTOR

  • Dimensions: Standard 19” x 4U Rack Mount
  • ~24” L x 20” W x 6” H  
  • Weight: ~45 lbs.
  • Ventilation: Rear exhaust fan.

POWER SUPPLY

  • Voltage Input: 120 VAC or 240 VAC
  • Amperage Input: Max 15A at 120VAC or 8A at 220V
  • 24V Bus (12 terminals) Power Output: 8A Max/190W
  • 0V Bus (12) terminals
  • RJ45 Ports (3)
  • Protection: Overvoltage, short circuit, and reverse polarity protection.

Connectivity

MOTOR INTERFACES

  • Supports NEMA 8, 10, 17, 23, 34 absolute encoder closed-loop stepper motors.
  • Single M12 cables with absolute encoders for all motor connections.
  • Programmable brakes available in all sizes (no separate wiring).
  • Home-run architecture from Control Block to motor (6 motors supported natively).

EXTERNAL PORTS

  • RJ45 Ports (3)
  • (1) USB 2.0 for file management
  • (1) DB15 for HMI teach pendant with integrated e-stop circuit.
  • (4) M12/4 motors
  • M12/5 (2) Light curtains
  • M12/4 (1) Light Tower
  • M12/8 (1) Primary Door Switch
  • M12/8 (1) 7 Safety inputs/24V
  • M12/8 (1) 5 safety outputs/1 AUX output.
  • 12 Pin Connectors (4) - 1 inputs/1outputs/1 24VDC/1 0VDC

COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS

  • Ethernet/IP
  • MODBUS TCP
  • CANopen/CANLayer2
  • MQTT Client

I/O STANDARD MODEL

  • 10 digital inputs
  • 2 analogue Inputs
  • 10 transistor outputs
  • 2 Relay outputs
  • Expandable up to 2048 points.

I/O ANALOGUE MODEL

  • 8 digital inputs
  • 4 analogue Inputs
  • 6 transistor outputs
  • 2 Relay outputs
  • 3 analogue outputs
  • Expandable up to 2048 points.

OTHER

  • SQL Client
  • WEB Server
  • E-Mail & SMS
  • VNC
  • FTP server/client
  • GPRS

SAFETY FEATURES

  • Safety Controller: Integrated Programmable Safety Controller
  • Ple, Category 4, SIL3 Safety Standards
  • Plug and play safety devices – light curtain, door interlocks, remote E-stop, light tower, and other safety devices
  • Customizable programming
  • Safety event tracking
  • Remote Emergency Stop Circuit: Remote E-stop port to connect field devices.
  • Interlocks: Plug and play magnetic door interlock/switches. HMI password controlled.

MECHANICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS

  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C
  • Storage Temperature: -20°C to 70°C
  • Humidity: 10% to 90% (non-condensing)

Software & Control Capabilities

SOFTWARE PACKAGES

  • Control Block comes pre-loaded with choice of AutoCode or TurnCode.
  • AutoCode – software package for generalized automation control.
  • TurnCode – software package specializing in modular rotary control.
  • Custom Interfaces – Limited custom Interfaces are available with NRE.

TURNCODE PROGRAMMING ENVIRONMENT – NO CODE MODULAR ROTARY CONTROL

  • Modular Rotary System Support: Controls up to 8 stations with configurable 2, 4, or 8-position setups.
  • No-Code Configuration: Simplifies programming with an intuitive, point-and-click interface.
  • Error Handling and Diagnostics: Includes real-time error detection, fault history, and troubleshooting tools.
  • Integration: Fully compatible with Autoblocks HMI and teach pendant for seamless operation.
  • Applications: Ideal for assembly lines, inspection stations, filling operations, and other indexed rotary tasks.
  • Efficient Automation: Enhances the Autoblocks Control Block’s capabilities for scalable, multi-station rotary control

AUTOCODE PROGRAMMING ENVIRONMENT – LINEAR CONTROL MADE SIMPLE

  • Table-based command structure compatible with PLC and CAM programming  
  • Supports custom commands and developer environment.
  • Supports AI-generated AutoCode for fast programming  
  • Recipe Programming: Integrated recipe management for production line reconfiguration
  • Machine Master and up to (6) Slave device AutoCode control.

HMI/TEACH PENDANT INTERFACE

  • 10.1- inch high resolution capacitive touch screen HMI interface.
  • Supports integration of other web interfaces.
  • Integrated E-Stop
  • Supports VNC/Remote connectivity
  • Supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity

Motion Control

AXES CONTROL

  • 6 primary axis of control (X,Y,Z,A,B,C)
  • 4 axis teach control
  • Simplified wiring via M12 cables for power and communication.
  • High-precision motion with closed-loop control using absolute encoders
  • Real-time trajectory planning with coordinated motion control

SAFETY AND ERROR HANDLING

  • Built-in Fault Detection
  • Diagnostic system with real-time error logging
  • Automatic motor shutdown in case of fault
  • Red, Green, and Yellow HMI/light tower status indicators

System Integration

MODULARITY

  • Compatible with both gantry and SCARA robots using the same distributed motion platform
  • Flexible device integration through Auto-code or PLC programming for complex machine control
  • Expandable I/O and motor controls for future scalability

Supported Devices

AUTOBLOCKS SMART MOTORS

  • NEMA 8, 10, 17, 23, 34
  • Closed-loop stepper motors with absolute encoders

AUTOBLOCKS SMART ACTUATORS

  • Precision Ball Screw Actuators +/- 0.005mm up to 2000mm
  • Belt Drive Actuators +/- 0.05mm up to 3000mm
  • Customizable Cartesian Gantries available.

EPSON ROBOTS

  • EPSON Robots are plug & play with simple device selection on the HMI.
  • EPSON robot program templates with extensive handshake and error handling prebuilt.

UNIVERSAL ROBOTS

  • UR robots are plug & play with simple device selection on the HMI.
  • UR CAPP with extensive handshake and error handling prebuilt.

VISION SYSTEMS

  • Keyence IV3/4
  • Keyence VS
  • Zebra FS/VS
  • Cognex
  • Custom devices supported

SERVO DRIVES & VFDs

  • AutoBlocks Smart Servo Drives & VFDs come plug & Play
  • Third Party Servo Drives & VFDs available.

SAFETY

  • Keyence GS Door interlocks
  • Keyence Light Curtains
  • Banner Light Towers
  • Custom devices supported

CLOUD

  • Customizable Cloud Machine monitoring dashboard
  • Remote Support
  • Remote Software Customization and Support.

OTHER DEVICES

  • Control Block is simple to configure for any discrete I/O device
  • High level communication devices are simple to add with NRE or development.

Integrator Support The AutoBlocks Control Block is targeted at integrators and machine builders seeking a cost-effective, highly configurable, and easy-to-program machine controller. Its plugand-play capabilities and AI-driven AutoCode functionality reduce the need for extensive programming, making it ideal for medium complexity machines in industries such as automotive, electronics, medical devices, and precision assembly.

Hardware Specifications

FORM FACTOR

  • Dimensions: Standard 19” x 4U Rack Mount
  • ~24” L x 20” W x 6” H  
  • Weight: ~45 lbs.
  • Ventilation: Rear exhaust fan.

POWER SUPPLY

  • Voltage Input: 120 VAC or 240 VAC
  • Amperage Input: Max 15A at 120VAC or 8A at 220V
  • 24V Bus (12 terminals) Power Output: 8A Max/190W
  • 0V Bus (12) terminals
  • RJ45 Ports (3)
  • Protection: Overvoltage, short circuit, and reverse polarity protection.

Connectivity

MOTOR INTERFACES

  • Supports NEMA 8, 10, 17, 23, 34 absolute encoder closed-loop stepper motors.
  • Single M12 cables with absolute encoders for all motor connections.
  • Programmable brakes available in all sizes (no separate wiring).
  • Home-run architecture from Control Block to motor (6 motors supported natively).

EXTERNAL PORTS

  • RJ45 Ports (3)
  • (1) USB 2.0 for file management
  • (1) DB15 for HMI teach pendant with integrated e-stop circuit.
  • (4) M12/4 motors
  • M12/5 (2) Light curtains
  • M12/4 (1) Light Tower
  • M12/8 (1) Primary Door Switch
  • M12/8 (1) 7 Safety inputs/24V
  • M12/8 (1) 5 safety outputs/1 AUX output.
  • 12 Pin Connectors (4) - 1 inputs/1outputs/1 24VDC/1 0VDC

COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS

  • Ethernet/IP
  • MODBUS TCP
  • CANopen/CANLayer2
  • MQTT Client

I/O STANDARD MODEL

  • 10 digital inputs
  • 2 analogue Inputs
  • 10 transistor outputs
  • 2 Relay outputs
  • Expandable up to 2048 points.

I/O ANALOGUE MODEL

  • 8 digital inputs
  • 4 analogue Inputs
  • 6 transistor outputs
  • 2 Relay outputs
  • 3 analogue outputs
  • Expandable up to 2048 points.

OTHER

  • SQL Client
  • WEB Server
  • E-Mail & SMS
  • VNC
  • FTP server/client
  • GPRS

SAFETY FEATURES

  • Safety Controller: Integrated Programmable Safety Controller
  • Ple, Category 4, SIL3 Safety Standards
  • Plug and play safety devices – light curtain, door interlocks, remote E-stop, light tower, and other safety devices
  • Customizable programming
  • Safety event tracking
  • Remote Emergency Stop Circuit: Remote E-stop port to connect field devices.
  • Interlocks: Plug and play magnetic door interlock/switches. HMI password controlled.

MECHANICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS

  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C
  • Storage Temperature: -20°C to 70°C
  • Humidity: 10% to 90% (non-condensing)

Software & Control Capabilities

SOFTWARE PACKAGES

  • Control Block comes pre-loaded with choice of AutoCode or TurnCode.
  • AutoCode – software package for generalized automation control.
  • TurnCode – software package specializing in modular rotary control.
  • Custom Interfaces – Limited custom Interfaces are available with NRE.

TURNCODE PROGRAMMING ENVIRONMENT – NO CODE MODULAR ROTARY CONTROL

  • Modular Rotary System Support: Controls up to 8 stations with configurable 2, 4, or 8-position setups.
  • No-Code Configuration: Simplifies programming with an intuitive, point-and-click interface.
  • Error Handling and Diagnostics: Includes real-time error detection, fault history, and troubleshooting tools.
  • Integration: Fully compatible with Autoblocks HMI and teach pendant for seamless operation.
  • Applications: Ideal for assembly lines, inspection stations, filling operations, and other indexed rotary tasks.
  • Efficient Automation: Enhances the Autoblocks Control Block’s capabilities for scalable, multi-station rotary control

AUTOCODE PROGRAMMING ENVIRONMENT – LINEAR CONTROL MADE SIMPLE

  • Table-based command structure compatible with PLC and CAM programming  
  • Supports custom commands and developer environment.
  • Supports AI-generated AutoCode for fast programming  
  • Recipe Programming: Integrated recipe management for production line reconfiguration
  • Machine Master and up to (6) Slave device AutoCode control.

HMI/TEACH PENDANT INTERFACE

  • 10.1- inch high resolution capacitive touch screen HMI interface.
  • Supports integration of other web interfaces.
  • Integrated E-Stop
  • Supports VNC/Remote connectivity
  • Supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity

Motion Control

AXES CONTROL

  • 6 primary axis of control (X,Y,Z,A,B,C)
  • 4 axis teach control
  • Simplified wiring via M12 cables for power and communication.
  • High-precision motion with closed-loop control using absolute encoders
  • Real-time trajectory planning with coordinated motion control

SAFETY AND ERROR HANDLING

  • Built-in Fault Detection
  • Diagnostic system with real-time error logging
  • Automatic motor shutdown in case of fault
  • Red, Green, and Yellow HMI/light tower status indicators

System Integration

MODULARITY

  • Compatible with both gantry and SCARA robots using the same distributed motion platform
  • Flexible device integration through Auto-code or PLC programming for complex machine control
  • Expandable I/O and motor controls for future scalability

Supported Devices

AUTOBLOCKS SMART MOTORS

  • NEMA 8, 10, 17, 23, 34
  • Closed-loop stepper motors with absolute encoders

AUTOBLOCKS SMART ACTUATORS

  • Precision Ball Screw Actuators +/- 0.005mm up to 2000mm
  • Belt Drive Actuators +/- 0.05mm up to 3000mm
  • Customizable Cartesian Gantries available.

EPSON ROBOTS

  • EPSON Robots are plug & play with simple device selection on the HMI.
  • EPSON robot program templates with extensive handshake and error handling prebuilt.

UNIVERSAL ROBOTS

  • UR robots are plug & play with simple device selection on the HMI.
  • UR CAPP with extensive handshake and error handling prebuilt.

VISION SYSTEMS

  • Keyence IV3/4
  • Keyence VS
  • Zebra FS/VS
  • Cognex
  • Custom devices supported

SERVO DRIVES & VFDs

  • AutoBlocks Smart Servo Drives & VFDs come plug & Play
  • Third Party Servo Drives & VFDs available.

SAFETY

  • Keyence GS Door interlocks
  • Keyence Light Curtains
  • Banner Light Towers
  • Custom devices supported

CLOUD

  • Customizable Cloud Machine monitoring dashboard
  • Remote Support
  • Remote Software Customization and Support.

OTHER DEVICES

  • Control Block is simple to configure for any discrete I/O device
  • High level communication devices are simple to add with NRE or development.

Integrator Support The AutoBlocks Control Block is targeted at integrators and machine builders seeking a cost-effective, highly configurable, and easy-to-program machine controller. Its plugand-play capabilities and AI-driven AutoCode functionality reduce the need for extensive programming, making it ideal for medium complexity machines in industries such as automotive, electronics, medical devices, and precision assembly.

Teach Pendant

The Teach Pendant is an essential interface designed for intuitive and efficient operation of the Autoblocks Control Block system. It combines advanced functionality with user-friendly features, enabling seamless interaction with automated systems for programming, monitoring, and control tasks.

HARDWARE INTEGRATION

Connection Port | DB15 connector with an integrated emergency stop (E-Stop) circuit for enhanced safety.

Touchscreen Display | High-resolution 10.1-inch capacitive touch screen, offering clear visuals and responsive touch control for precise operations.

Connectivity Options | VNC/Remote Access: Allows remote monitoring and control via network-based tools.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Support: Enhances flexibility in system connectivity.

USER INTERFACE

Simplifies control with a highly interactive Human-Machine Interface (HMI).

Offers support for integrating additional web-based interfaces for customizable user experience.

APPLICATIONS

Ideal for managing assembly lines, inspection stations, filling operations, and rotary tasks.

Enables the seamless integration of diverse devices such as vision systems, robots, and safety components.

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

For users who prefer external peripherals.
Autoblocks offers an HMI Hub Interface that allows connection to external touch monitors and devices through a single HDMI and USB cable.

Note: External setups require separate E-Stop integration.

SAFETY FEATURES

Integrated E-Stop ensures immediate system shutdown in case of an emergency, improving operator safety.
Compatible with other plug-and-play safety devices, such as magnetic door interlocks and light curtains, ensuring robust safety integration.

PROGRAMMING SUPPORT

Fully compatible with Autoblocks’ AutoCode and TurnCode programming environments.

AutoCode: Provides a table-based, simplified programming structure for linear motion.

TurnCode: Features no-code, modular rotary system control with intuitive point-and-click setup.

Includes error-handling diagnostics for real-time fault detection and troubleshooting.

OVERALL BENEFITS

Intuitive design reduces the learning curve, making it accessible for operators with limited programming experience. Ensures compliance with industrial safety standards while simplifying operational control. Scales across various applications, from small-batch processes to fully automated production lines. Integrates effortlessly with various motion systems, robots, and other industrial devices.

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Take Full Control with the AutoBlocks Control Block

Straight out of the box, the Autoblocks Control Block puts the power of advanced automation in your hands. Whether you're managing gantry systems, SCARA robots, or custom industrial setups, this all-in-one solution simplifies motion control, safety integration, and communication. With plug-and-play AutoCode programming, support for up to six axes of motion, and compatibility with a wide range of devices — from Keyence safety systems to EPSON and UR robots — the Control Block is your ultimate machine controller.

From streamlining precision assembly to managing complex production lines, the Autoblocks Control Block is designed to empower integrators, builders, and manufacturers to achieve next-level efficiency and scalability.

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Download AutoBlocks Literature

Welcome to our AutoBlocks literature library! Here, you'll find a wealth of resources designed to inform and inspire.

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Some of our customers

Fancort customers include the following NASA engineering schools: MIT, John Hopkins, JPL, U of NH, MN, NM, TX and AZ. We are also a major supplier to the national labs system: Sandia, Draper, Fermi and Los Alamos.