Robot Simulation Software: Bridging the Gap between Theory and Actuality

Dave Duche, Director of Engineering, KUKA Systems North America

Dave Duche, Director of Engineering, KUKA Systems North America

From costly integration to constant process changes and design modifications, new technology brings new risks. While it may be impossible to eliminate risks altogether, limiting them isn’t out of the question. Instead of simply assuming new systems will fit within an existing environment, manufacturers can leverage robot simulation software to tackle potential issues well before installation.

Explore a few of the benefits you stand to gain from simulation software.

Easier integration

A robotic system isn’t something you can set and forget. Adjustments are often required to ensure a proposed system works well on the factory floor. Make the most of your investment by using simulation software to fine tune an application or piece of equipment. The more time you devote toward identifying potential process issues and design concerns, the better chance you have of reducing friction later on. Uncertainty surrounding new technology can be substituted for increased confidence in its effectiveness.

Better yet, robot simulation software promises to advance virtual commissioning.

By completely redesigning a process chain, virtual commissioning makes it easier than ever for new components to interact with one another—regardless of whether they come from a wide range of manufacturers. The result? Greater efficiency across the factory floor.

Check Out: Simulation Companies

Faster processing

When it comes to reaping the rewards of new technology, time may not always be on your side. An installation period coupled with the need for programming often delays the impact of innovations. With robot simulation software, however, that may soon change.

Greater insight into the function of robot technology sets the stage for programming prior to system installation. Time and again, the immediate effectiveness of new systems is hampered by a slow installation process. But by offering up an idea of how a specific piece of technology will work within its new environment, a simulation gives you the chance to start programming long before technology makes its way to the factory floor. This added efficiency means robots can begin contributing toward your bottom line faster.

Increased savings

Looking for a way to cut costs? Robot simulation software does just that. Although prices are projected to dip by 2025, you can bet robots will continue to take a significant portion of your budget. Ease some of that burden by simulating how a system would work within your factory. Rather than spending thousands of dollars to get the answers you need, use simulation software to get a sneak peek at an application.

In addition to testing different ideas for just a fraction of the cost, such software can also help you sidestep expensive problems later on. If, for example, an application is expected to have trouble collaborating with an existing system, you can make any necessary adjustments well ahead of time.

The future may be full of uncertainty, but simulation software can help you predict which automation applications will work more often than not. Save yourself the guesswork by using robot simulation to bridge the gap between theory and actuality. In addition to gauging the effectiveness of specific applications, you also stand to speed up integration, increase efficiency and build extra savings.