Enhancing Gear Repair Efficiency with RoboDK’s Advanced Robotic Simulation Tools
Introduction:
In a recent collaboration between FORCE Technology and Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, ESPRIT additive toolpath programming and RoboDK’s simulation software were used to program an industrial robot. The system included a 6-axis KUKA robot arm, a tilting table, and a spindle, enabling additive functions for Steel 4140 parts. This project showcased how robot integration can improve Maintenance Repair and Operations (MRO) to address sustainability concerns. By using digital twin and post-processing, FORCE Technology successfully repaired a gear instead of replacing it, reducing waste and minimizing downtime. RoboDK’s simulation tools also aid in reducing production downtime and testing a robot’s abilities in a virtual environment. Combining RoboDK with other software solutions allows companies to develop sustainable production processes and reduce their environmental impact.
Full Article: Enhancing Gear Repair Efficiency with RoboDK’s Advanced Robotic Simulation Tools
Industrial Robot Programmed Using RoboDK’s Simulation Software in Collaboration with FORCE Technology and Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence
In a collaborative effort between FORCE Technology and Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, an industrial robot has been programmed using RoboDK’s simulation software. The combination of ESPRIT additive toolpath programming and RoboDK’s robot digital twin with post-processing and analysis capabilities resulted in the creation of the final part.
The System Setup
The system consisted of a 6-axis KUKA robot arm mounted on a rail, a tilting table for rotary operation, and a spindle. The addition of a GTV cladding head (powder+laser) enabled additive functions, reducing the overall cycle time to 5 minutes when reloading Steel 4140 parts. This project served as a genuine application instance to examine the numerical chain within FORCE Technology’s setup.
Promoting Environmental Responsibility
The project focused on how to repair a gear instead of replacing it, aligning with FORCE Technology’s commitment to environmental responsibility. By avoiding the need to throw away a whole part, the project reduced waste of materials and labor costs while keeping downtime and costs low. This successful application demonstrates how robot integration can improve Maintenance Repair and Operations (MRO) to alleviate sustainability concerns.
The Role of ESPRIT and RoboDK
ESPRIT, Hexagon’s “Hybrid” CAM, was employed by FORCE Technology to program the additive head path planning. RoboDK’s simulation software, on the other hand, resolved kinematics and collisions while generating robot code. The extension of RoboDK in ESPRIT facilitated communication between systems and made it easier for end-users. The combination of ESPRIT and RoboDK helped FORCE Technology complete the MRO application using digital twin and post-processing to improve weld quality and waste reduction.
Financial Support by Manufacturing Academy Denmark (MADE)
The successful realization of this project was made possible by the financial backing provided by Manufacturing Academy Denmark (MADE).
The Advantages of RoboDK
RoboDK’s simulation and offline programming tools can reduce production downtime caused by shop floor programming. It allows companies to test a robot’s abilities in a virtual environment, eliminating the need for coding experience. The integration of RoboDK with other systems, such as the ESPRIT CAM, enables the development of sustainable production processes by reducing energy consumption and waste generated from operations.
A Tool for Companies Committed to Sustainability
RoboDK is an invaluable tool for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact and achieve sustainability goals. Combining RoboDK with other software solutions allows businesses to develop sustainable production processes that align with industry standards. To take advantage of the benefits of robotic simulation with RoboDK, interested parties can visit the website, explore the range of features available, and access the blogs and other resources.
Join the Discussion
Companies that have combined technologies to improve their carbon footprint are encouraged to share their experiences in the comments below or join the discussion on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or the RoboDK Forum. They can also subscribe to the RoboDK YouTube Channel to stay updated with the extensive video collection available.
Summary: Enhancing Gear Repair Efficiency with RoboDK’s Advanced Robotic Simulation Tools
FORCE Technology, in collaboration with Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence and RoboDK, used ESPRIT additive toolpath programming and RoboDK’s simulation software to program an industrial robot. The system included a 6-axis KUKA robot arm, a tilting table, and a spindle for additive functions. This project allowed FORCE Technology to repair gears instead of replacing them, reducing waste and costs. Using ESPRIT and RoboDK, they achieved high-quality welds and improved MRO processes. RoboDK’s simulation tools also help reduce production downtime, optimize robot paths, and minimize hazardous materials. By combining RoboDK with other software, companies can develop sustainable production processes and improve their carbon footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) Question: What is robotics?
Answer: Robotics is a field that focuses on designing, programming, and constructing robots. These automated machines are equipped with sensors, actuators, and artificial intelligence to perform specific tasks or simulate human-like behavior.
2) Question: How are robots programmed?
Answer: Robots can be programmed using various techniques, depending on their complexity. Simple robots can be programmed using visual programming languages or by manually inputting commands. Advanced robots may require more complex programming languages such as C++ or Python, and they may also utilize machine learning algorithms to adapt and improve their performance.
3) Question: What are the different types of robots?
Answer: There are several types of robots used in different industries and applications. Some common types include industrial robots used in manufacturing, medical robots used in healthcare, social robots for human interaction, autonomous robots for exploration or surveillance, and even educational robots used for teaching purposes.
4) Question: What are the benefits of using robotics in various industries?
Answer: Robotics brings several advantages to different industries. It increases productivity and efficiency by automating repetitive tasks, improves accuracy and precision, reduces human errors and safety risks, enhances production speed, enables round-the-clock operations, and can even be used in hazardous or challenging work environments.
5) Question: How is artificial intelligence integrated into robotics?
Answer: Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a critical role in advanced robotics applications. AI enables robots to perceive and understand their surroundings, make decisions based on collected data, learn from their experiences, and adapt to changing situations. Machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing are some AI techniques applied in robotics to enhance their capabilities and autonomy.
