Simulation Software offers path-intensive robotic trimming.
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Press Release Summary:
TrimPro, PC-based, offline software allows users to simulate and program robot in 3D space. It provides tools needed to simulate and optimize cycle times of actual work cells without prototype setup or bringing system down during production. Users can import unique CAD models of parts; create work cell including machines, part transfer devices, and obstacles; and teach robot paths to simulate operation and performance of robotic applications.
Original Press Release:
Robotic Production Technology Introduces TrimPro
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 22, 2004 - Robotic Production Technology (RPT) introduced TrimPro, a new robot simulation software for path intensive robotic trimming, at its open house on June 22 to 24. RPT featured TrimPro in a water jet cutting application cutting a mini-headliner.
TrimPro is a PC-based offline robot simulation software which allows users to simulate and program a robot in 3-D space. Robotic Production Technology jointly developed the product with FANUC Robotics based on its SimPRO software. TrimPro bridges the gap for the next generation of robotic offline programming for path intensive trimming applications including water jet cutting, deflashing and router trimming for any industry. TrimPro provides customers the tools needed to simulate and optimize the cycle times of actual work cells without the time and costs associated with a prototype setup or bringing a system down during production. RPT has more than six seats of the software installed at current customers to date. Additional customers are interested in purchasing the software for future systems since they see it as a significant tool.
"With the competitive environment, manufacturers are constantly searching for ways to trim the time it takes to get a new system up and running. TrimPro allows our customers to create a program offline while concurrently running production," said Chuck Russo, CEO of RPT. "TrimPro significantly cuts the amount of time needed to finalize a robot program while in production mode. These software tools also reduce the amount of programming while in an engineering environment, rather than on the manufacturing floor."
End users can use the product to create programs off line while running production from CAD to path. They can also use the software to create estimates and quotes including accurate cycle times for future programs since users can write programs in advance. In addition, customers can use TrimPro as a training tool without taking a robot out of production.
With the TrimPro software, operators bring the math data into the TrimPro work cell. The software allows the operator to automatically create a cutting path. Operators can program even faster by plugging a teach pendant into the laptop, a tool they already know. TrimPro speeds up programming time by 50 percent. Since it is a PC-based software, plugging the teach pendant into the computer gives users the opportunity to use it as an offline training tool.
Users can import unique 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 TrimPro's unique graphical virtual environment.
TrimPro includes the following features:
o CAD Import (IGES files) - CAD models of existing parts, fixtures and grippers can be imported directly into TrimPro to build system layouts and to evaluate system operation.
o Built-in CAD models - Instant access to many commonly used fixtures, tables, conveyers and end-of-arm tools. Additional simple 3-D geometric shapes are provided as modeling tools to create custom machines, tools and/or fixtures.
o The FANUC robot library - Quick access to any FANUC robot for system layout and simulation. Each robot model comes complete with an associated Virtual Robot Controller and a unique robot solid model to replicate the robot's operation as precisely as possible within a simulation environment. Systems sold by RPT will be equipped with the actual work cell provided.
o Simple robot teaching - Easy creation of robot paths by teaching positions on the part model(s) or by entering robot coordinates manually. An innovative robot programming drag and drop Teach ToolTM is accompanied with a traditional teach pendant style jogging panel - automatically plots the points with the combination of teaching with the mouse and plugging in the teach pendant.
o Simple robot instructions - Standard teach pendant instructions are supported by TrimPro to develop teach pendant programs for throughput verification.
o Robot reach check - A 3-D view of the robot work envelope that helps the user to layout parts, fixture and other cell components effectively within the work cell.
o Cycle time validation - A calculated, accurate cycle time data can be output from running the taught robot program in simulation mode.
o Collision detection - Visual identification of collisions during the robot simulation helps to avoid collision and allows the relocation of the robot, tooling and/or part before an actual robot becomes installed in the plant.
o Profiler - The teach pendant program profiler allows programs to be reviewed quickly for timing bottlenecks and operational slow downs. Processing problems can be avoided long before the robot is placed into production.
o Animation AVI - This program allows the user to record system simulation video that can be easily copied to a CD or other formats and delivered as needed as part of any system quotation or presentation.
RPT's three-day technical open house included demonstrations in a variety of process technologies that can provide companies the needed tools to counteract the cost performance of their overseas competitors. The company unveiled a broad range of new technologies to customers and open house attendees - laser cutting, automated flash removal, router trimming, robot milling, water jet cutting, material handling and ultrasonic plastic welding.
Robotic Production Technology is a turnkey robotic systems solutions provider. Industries served include aerospace, appliance, automotive, composites, construction, consumer goods, marine and plastics industries. The company specializes in high path accurate trimming applications such as deflashing, laser cutting and scoring, router and water jet cutting. RPT also has process expertise in material dispensing, assembly, joining, material handling and welding. Capabilities include project management, engineering, simulation services, fabricating and machining, system integration and certification, software, training, service and support.
Since 1985, RPT has been a leading manufacturer of flexible manufacturing systems utilizing multi-axis robots, with an installed base of more than 2,000 robots. RPT's Auburn Hills headquarters is located at 1255 Harmon Road, Auburn Hills, Mich.
