Programming and simulation software optimises efficiency and minimises downtime of industrial robot applications

Industrial Robot

ISSN: 0143-991x

Article publication date: 1 December 2000

104

Keywords

Citation

(2000), "Programming and simulation software optimises efficiency and minimises downtime of industrial robot applications", Industrial Robot, Vol. 27 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2000.04927fad.006

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2000, MCB UP Limited


Programming and simulation software optimises efficiency and minimises downtime of industrial robot applications

Keywords: Simulation, Programming, Software, Robots

Designed to optimise the efficiency and minimise the downtime of today's industrial robot systems, a new software tool from Panasonic Industrial significantly simplifies the production programming of automated applications ranging from MIG, TIG and spot welding to handling, spraying and assembly (see Plate 6).

Plate 6 Programming and simulation software optimises efficiency and minimises downtime of industrial robot applications

Panasonic's new Desk Top Programming and Simulation (DTPS) system is a calibrated offiine programming simulation package that combines system and component CAD capabilities with the automatic generation and simulation of robot operating programs. As a result, production programs that are optimised to provide the highest levels of productivity in any given environment can be automatically generated without incurring costly system downtime.

Suitable for the offline programming of single or multiple robot systems, Panasonic's new DTPS tool incorporates powerful three-dimensional CAD functionality, allowing systems to be modelled and component parts drawn complete with the process line details. The 3D system and CAD component drawings can then be merged, allowing the optimum production programs to be generated automatically. Work piece programming facilities using robot-based language software allows for the automatic insertion of process lines and the full modification and editing of programs, providing access to application-specific features such as welding condition data tables. The comprehensive, offiine program simulation functions can then be used to analyse detailed cycle time and efficiency data.

The new DTPS features a virtual teach pendant function with controls that accurately mimic the target robot system's pendant. This virtual teach pendant facility includes speed and position control details, accommodates external axis control and allows users to program multiple robots simultaneously.

Sales enquiries to: John Hopper or Stuart Whitehead, Panasonic Industrial Europe Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 1543 446203; Fax: +44 (0) 1543 444747; E-mail: john.hopper@piel.co.uk; Web site: http://www.piel.co.uk

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