IMTS 2006: Off-line robot simulation software

By Control Engineering Staff September 19, 2006
Roboguide from Fanuc Robotics America Inc. helps engineers develop and test a complete robotic application in a simulation environment without needing to develop a prototype work cell.

Chicago, IL and Rochester Hills, MI— Roboguide technology for off-line robot simulation software from Fanuc Robotics America Inc . includes Fanuc Robotics’ virtual robot controller and full-featured robot programming. Product gives engineers the tools they need to develop and test a complete robotic application in a simulation environment without developing a prototype work cell. System was featured last week at the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago.

Latest features include CAD-to-path programming that lets users create robot paths from CAD data. Process requirements are defined on the CAD model and Roboguide automatically generates the robot program. Engineers can import CAD models of parts; create a work cell including machines, part transfer devices, and obstacles; and teach robot paths to simulate the operation and performance of a robotic application. Reach verification, collision detection, accurate cycle time estimates, and other visual system operations are simulated in the software’s graphical virtual environment.

Process-specific plug-ins are offered to provide simulation for general-purpose material handling applications, arc welding, painting, palletizing, motion optimization, and Karel/teach pendant programming. A variety of other features are provided, including a process navigator to guide the user through the steps needed to set up and simulate a cell; library access to any Fanuc robot for system layout and simulation; access to built-in CAD models; and a robot reach check that provides a 3-D view of the robot work envelope to help lay out parts and components within the work cell.

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—Control Engineering Daily News Desk
Jeanine Katzel , senior editor