RoboDK, a pioneer in the world of robotics simulation and offline programming, announces its strategic partnership with Comau, a global leader in advanced automation solutions and robot manufacturer. The latest version of Comau Roboshop Next Gen software seamlessly integrates with RoboDK, making simulation more advanced.

RoboDK’s integration into Comau’s Software

This collaboration solidifies RoboDK’s presence in the OEM market, marking a significant step as an embedded solution. Comau users can now enjoy the benefits of RoboDK directly due to RoboDK’s integration into Comau’s Roboshop Next Gen software suite. This integration allows users to easily simulate and program robots using advanced CAD to path features, import 3D Models, detect collisions, integrate with external axes such as turntables and linear rails, support multiple robot cells in the same project, improved integration with CAD/CAM software and use advanced simulation features such as conveyors and grippers. This allows Comau robot programmers to easily use Comau robots for advanced manufacturing applications such as robot machining or 3D printing.

Realistic Robot Simulation (RRS)

In addition to these technical benefits, the collaboration also introduces support for Realistic Robot Simulation (RRS), providing accurate path and cycle time estimates. This advancement aims to provide businesses with a clear understanding of robot behavior and precise cycle time details, ensuring more efficient and optimized robot operations. Using RoboDK it will therefore be possible to create a program in a very intuitive way. Then through Roboshop Next Gen, it can be executed in a simulation with a Virtual Control and then deployed on a real robot!

While this partnership marks a significant step for embedded solutions, RoboDK remains committed to its ongoing collaboration efforts with various partners, reinforcing its dedication to make automation more affordable across industries.

Phillip from the RoboDK team shares his insights on the collaboration:

By working closely with Comau we were able to improve our integration with Comau robot controllers while keeping everything backwards compatible. The level of integration resulting from this partnership is immensely beneficial for all Comau users.

Albert Nubiola, CEO and Founder of RoboDK, comments:

We’re excited to partner with Comau and bring RoboDK’s advanced simulation features to Roboshop software at an unbeatable price. By working together, we were able to make advanced simulation more affordable. Our mission is to build a software platform where users can program any robot arm using the same software, democratizing robot simulation and programming. Partnering with Comau, one of the world’s premier robot manufacturers, marks a pivotal moment for us.

RoboDK distinguishes itself by embracing modern technologies, thus setting itself apart from peers reliant on older and more expensive software frameworks. With modern tools, integrations, competitive pricing, and an array of complementary features—including advanced CAD to path features, integrations with CAD/CAM software, collision checking, singularity avoidance, robot calibration and brand-agnostic offline programming—RoboDK stands out as a frontrunner. Users have access to extensive documentation and libraries at no cost. Moreover, RoboDK’s website, documentation and YouTube channel offers a rich collection of tutorials.

Alessandro Piscioneri, Head of Product and Solutions Management, remarks:

Comau has recently launched the latest version of RoboShop Next Gen, that allows our customers and partners to program our robots and simulate their functionalities in an easy and fast way. Thanks to the collaboration with RoboDK, a truly innovative company in robot programming and 3D simulation, it is possible for companies to create their virtual environments and simulate their applications in a matter of minutes, while using Comau’s software. It’s important to emphasize that this solution is aimed at both experienced and new programmers, in an effort to make robotics easier to design and use. This is a priority for us and we are investing heavily in this direction.

About RoboDK

Founded by Albert Nubiola in January 2015, RoboDK is a spin-off company from the prestigious CoRo laboratory at ETS University in Montreal, Canada. Designed to bring robust robotics simulation and programming capabilities to various sectors, RoboDK supports over 900 robots from more than 70 manufacturers.

About Comau

Comau, a Stellantis company, is a worldwide leader in delivering sustainable advanced automation solutions. With 50 years of experience and a global presence, Comau is helping companies of all sizes in almost any industry leverage the benefits of automation. Backed by a continuous commitment to designing and developing innovative and easy to use technologies, its portfolio includes products and systems for vehicle manufacturing, with a strong presence in e-Mobility, as well as advanced robotics and digital solutions to address  rapidly growing markets in industrial sectors. The company’s offering also extends to project management and consultancy. Through the training activities organized by its Academy, Comau is committed to advancing the technical and managerial knowledge necessary to face the challenges related to automation and leverage the opportunities of a constantly changing marketplace. Headquartered in Turin, Italy, Comau has an international network of 5 innovation centers, 5 digital hubs, and 12 manufacturing plants that span 13 countries and employ 3,700 people. Together with its wide network of distributors and partners, the company is able to respond quickly to the needs of its customers, no matter where they are located throughout the world.

Tell us in the comments below or join the discussion on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or in the RoboDK Forum.. Also, check out our extensive video collection and subscribe to the RoboDK YouTube Channel

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And, indeed, should your simulation be highly realistic?

It’s important to understand the delicate balance between realism and usefulness in robotic simulations.

On the one hand, high-level realism allows you to create a more accurate depiction of how the robot will perform in a real-world setting. This helps you to create simulations that more closely match the operating conditions in your facility. On the other hand, striving for absolute realism in your simulation can compromise its usefulness. The simulation can become overly complex and time-consuming, creating a system that is impractical.

The most useful level of realism for your virtual environments is one that accurately reproduces the robot’s task, while remaining streamlined and efficient.

Here’s how to judge and create that level of realism.

What Does It Mean to Have a Realistic Simulation?

Realism refers to how accurately a simulation replicates the real-world behavior and functionality of the robot. This includes the robot’s movement dynamics, interaction with the environment, and operation.

It’s important to understand that a realistic simulation isn’t necessarily one that looks visually pleasing. Qualities of realism like complex lighting and shadows, high-definition rendering, and advanced surface modeling are not usually necessary. While these attributes might enhance the visual appeal of the simulation, they usually don’t contribute to the robot’s performance.

Instead, a realistic simulation should focus on aspects that directly affect the robot’s performance.

Remember, the point of adding realism is not to have an accurate simulation… it’s to have a useful robot.

3 Types of Realism for Effective Robotic Simulation

There are various ways you can look at realism in robotic simulations. For example, you can split it into different types.

Here’s one way to look at 3 types of simulation:

1. Operational Realism

Operational realism refers to the accurate representation of the actual operations of the robots. This involves faithful representation of the robot’s kinetic and dynamic properties and its interaction with the environment.

The primary purpose of operational realism is to create a robot program that will perform optimally in the real-world environment.

2. Visual Realism

Visual realism refers to the accurate graphical rendering of the simulation. With it, you create a visually appealing virtual representation of the real-world environment.

While visual realism might not directly affect the operational effectiveness of the robot, it can be very important for certain applications. For example, if your application uses [robot vision sensors,][RKCAMERA], high levels of visual realism can help you accurately test this sense.

3. Physics Realism

Physics realism refers to accurate modeling of the physical laws that govern the environment where the robot operates. This includes factors like gravity, friction, and collision dynamics that might affect the robot’s performance.

This is one area where you need to strike a balance with your simulation. If you add more physical realism than is necessary, your simulation can quickly become unwieldy.

How Simulation Realism Affects Robot Deployment

When you want to deploy a robot to your workplace, it’s a good idea to start by identifying the level of simulation realism that will be necessary. This will vary depending on your task and application area.

The wrong level of realism in your virtual environment could negatively affect the deployment.

For example, here are some disadvantages to using an overly realistic simulation:

• Increased computational load — Highly realistic simulations use more computational resources, which slows down the simulation.
• Complex debugging — More realism usually leads to programs that are harder to maintain and debug.
• Cost and time — Creating very realistic simulations often takes longer and costs more in terms of computer resources and programming.
• Inaccuracy from overfitting — No simulation is 100% accurate to the real world. As a result, a higher level of realism can actually lead to a worse operation of the physical robot. This is known as “overfitting.”
• Unnecessary details — Any details that are not relevant to the robot’s operation are probably a distraction.

By stripping away unnecessary details from your robot simulation, you can focus on the critical aspects of the robot’s operation and prevent overfitting.

The Realistic Robot Simulation (RRS) Project and RoboDK

In RoboDK, we are dedicated to address a significant challenge in industrial robotics: the need for accurate, easy-to-use robot simulation.

One way we have done this recently is to incorporate the Realistic Robot Simulation (RRS) project. The RRS is an ambitious initiative designed to address the current limitations in the accuracy of offline generated programs for industrial robot.

The primary goal of the RRS is to enhance the precision of robot programs, enabling a more economic and efficient application of industrial robots.

We have created an RRS project add-in which helps to improve the accuracy of robot programs developed with RoboDK. It provides an interface to incorporate accurate robot controller software for motion behavior into offline programming.

Finding the Right Level of Simulation for Your Application

How can you find the right level of virtual environment realism for your robot simulation?

Here are a few tips for finding the right level of realism for your application:

1. Understand the simulation needs for your project — Begin by outlining your project objectives and defining the purpose that your robot will serve.
2. Evaluate your interactions — Consider both the physical and other interactions that your robot will have with the environment and other components in the workspace.
3. Assess the operational environment — Evaluate which elements of the environment need to be included in the simulation.
4. Be realistic about visual realism needs — Look at the rendering and visual requirements of your simulation. Identify what aspects are really necessary.
5. Determine your performance requirements — Identify the level of computing performance required from the simulation tasks. For example, high-precision tasks might need more detailed simulations.
6. Factor in your budget and resources — Lastly, consider your resources and budget. More realistic simulations may demand more computing power and programming skills.

With all of these, strive for balance — a simulation that meets your needs without being “too much.”

Remember, creating realistic robot simulations is fundamental when working with modern robots. By using the right tools, like our RRS add-on, you can create a robot simulation that works for you.

What questions do you have about accuracy and realism in robot simulations? Tell us in the comments below or join the discussion on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or in the RoboDK Forum.. Also, check out our extensive video collection and subscribe to the RoboDK YouTube Channel

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