Robotic simulation software benefits for manufacturers

Robot simulation software is making robotic automation a viable option for nearly any manufacturer. It's used during the quoting and concept stage to provide proof of design, proof of process, and to maximize a robot user's automation investment.

By Robotic Industries Association (RIA) September 5, 2017

There are many reasons most robotic system integrators use some form of robot simulation software in their integration projects. Much of the integration process is completed before anything is assembled on the factory floor. A proper simulation helps ensure that manufacturers are receiving the best system for their application.

Computing capability is constantly improving, as well as becoming cheaper, making robot simulation more and more important to finding a system that will help manufacturers stay competitive.Three benefits of robot simulation software A manufacturer benefits in many ways from advanced robot simulation software, but there are three direct and immediate benefits.

1. Proof of design. Oftentimes, robotic systems are not one-size-fits-all. Robot simulation software helps fine tune and customize robotic design to ensure the system will fit seamlessly with existing production processes and equipment. If loading or unloading your automation system creates bottlenecks, it defeats the entire purpose of automation.

2. Proof of process. Robot simulation software can prove the effectiveness of an automation system. With accurate, detailed simulation you can be sure a robotic system will meet your cycle time and efficiency goals. Without this simulation, you’re taking a big risk that the proposed system will operate correctly for your application.

3. Maximize a robot user’s automation investment. Once a simulation is complete, the end result is often downloadable software programming for a robotic application so the real system will exactly match the simulation. Robot simulation software ensures potential flaws aren’t designed into the system and the robotic system functions precisely as anticipated. This helps the manufacturer maximize their return on investment (ROI) for the automation system.

There are many other benefits to leveraging a system integrator with advanced robot simulation software, but the three mentioned above are some of the most important for protecting the manufacturer’s investment and finding the highest levels of productivity.

Robot simulation software reduces the risks of automation. As computing power increases and simultaneously becomes cheaper, simulations will become more advanced and enable even more widespread automation.

This article originally appeared on the Robotics Online Blog. Robotic Industries Association (RIA) is a part of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3). A3 is a CFE Media content partner. Edited by Chris Vavra, production editor, Control Engineering, CFE Media, cvavra@cfemedia.com.