Offline Robot Programming (OLRP) enables robot functions to be programmed in a virtual environment, independent of the actual real-world robot cell. Realistically, however, there are challenges in ensuring the virtual world and the real world align; this alignment is critical for the success of OLRP. "Which real-world robot functions assist with successful OLRP implementation & deployment?" We've seen this question come up often, so we pulled together a list.

Five Robot Functions That Are Critical to the Success of OLRP

1. Mastered Robot

In the virtual world, the robot is always mastered and therefore perfect; it'll drive exactly where it needs to go. In the real world, that is not always the case. If the robot is not mastered, the robot will think it's in a different position than it actually is. If that’s the case, your offline program will not work as expected; it is going to drive you to the wrong place. Buying a new robot? Make sure your integrator “masters” the robot. Not sure if your existing robot is “mastered”? Call your integrator!

2. Robot Backup

A robot backup file taken from the real-world robot gives your OLRP provider an understanding of what needs to be supported, as every robot controller is set up a little differently. Your robot backup files contain unique options and code structures that are critical for dialing in the post-processors which generate the robot code.

3. Seam Finding & Seam Tracking

CAD is perfect. Or, it should be perfect. But the real world never is. To account for discrepancies, touch sensing, and/or seam tracking, and/or vision systems are all critical in ensuring the real-world robot correctly locates the area of the part to perform its desired function. Without these systems, touch-ups can be expected.

4. Accurate CAD Geometry

Pretty obvious, right? But this is something we see often. If your CAD drawing is off or is of low quality, then OLRP will be off. OLRP is only as good as its CAD.

5. Precise References

Even with a mastered robot, your program will require touch-ups if your Tool Center Point, or TCP, and/or your User Reference System (Uframe, BASE_DATA, work object, etc.) aren’t precise. Ensuring these references are where they need to be before executing a program will save you a lot of headaches.

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