What’s the Difference Between Offline Robot Programming and Offline Robot Simulation?
Offline robot programming and offline robot simulation are both extremely useful tools when it comes to implementing robotic automation. Both are relatively new technologies, but their use is growing quickly as they can improve the implementation process for industrial robots.
Since both deal with the setup of robotic automation and contain the term “offline” they often confused with one another and viewed as sharing the same meaning. However, robotic offline programming and offline robotic simulation are not the same and should not be interchanged with one another. Each serves a different purpose and they can be used in conjunction with one another since their purposes are closely related and beneficial to one another. Understanding how they differ from one another will ensure you choose the right software for your articulated robot and help you determine if both are needed for your implementation process.
Offline Robot Programming
Offline robot programming involves programming an industrial robot using software on an external computer without involving the actual robot. Offline robot programming is often shortened to OLP and is a cost-effective and time saving robot programming method. Many of today’s robots feature offline robot programming capabilities. The FANUC Arcmate 120ic can be programmed offline for welding automation. The FANUC M-710ic/50 also features offline programming functionality for material handling automation.Offline robot programming is the preferred programming method for complex applications as it can save a significant amount of programming time. Complex applications often involve manually entering several steps with a teach pendant, but with OLP steps do not need to be manually entered individually, simplifying the process. OLP is also best for programming robotic applications with large parts, high part mixes, or low volume productions.