Robotics Case - Robot Programming

1. Robot programming is crucial in controlling the robot for automation. Basically, there are two types of robot programming which is the on-line and off-line programming. Briefly explain the off-line programming and three advantages using the off-line programming.

Answer:

Off-line programming is where the robot and all the machines or instruments in the workspace is tested by using a robot simulator. It means that the off-line programming is a technique where a robot program is generated without using the real machine. The robot is not available during the programming but then it can be moved on screen and the process simulated. However, this technique has limited value because it relies on accurate measurement of the positions of the associated equipment and also relies on the positional accuracy the robot which may or may not conform to what is programmed.

There are three advantages of the off-line programming. First is the reduction of robot downtime which causes an increase in productivity and flexibility. This is a result of zero interruptions of robot operation during the preparation of the programs. Second, this technique is a removal of the programmer from the potentially hazardous environment, as most of the program development is executed away from the robot. Hence, the duration of time where the programmer is at risk from deviant robot behavior is reduced. Last but not least, the third advantage of off-line programming is the usage of single programming environment to program a number of robots. This is where new programs can include previously developed routines.