Fanuc launches latest 3D simulation program for robot control

Fanuc UK has launched the latest, upgraded version of its intelligent 3D simulation software for robot motion control.

ROBOGUIDE Version 9 can be used for pre-sale concept simulations, right through to a full offline programming package for use on the shopfloor. It is suitable for both new, and experienced, robot users, and has several advanced features, including: a more intuitive user interface, the most up-to-date virtual controllers, and a drag-and-drop function for the addition of robots and components within a work cell layout.

The ROBOGUIDE software can also support Fanuc’s latest R30iB Plus robot controller, which includes the new iHMI interface that is common across the whole product range.

Fanuc’s ROBOGUIDE software is based on more than 16 years of research and development. It allows operators to design, test and modify robotic systems through the use of a fully-simulated, 3D, CAD environment. The simulations, which can be conducted offline, provide an operator with accurate robot motion and cycle times when designing and verifying a system. The finalised program can then be downloaded to the robot.

Additional plug-ins are available for the calculation of reducer lifetimes, motor duties and power consumption, while plug-ins monitoring possible collisions and enforced safety parameters, particularly for collaborative robots, come as standard.

The software is designed to be as intuitive as possible, allowing 3D CAD to be imported directly into a cell layout. The software also includes a KAREL editor and compiler for advanced customisation and programming.

Industry-specific versions of ROBOGUIDE are also available, including: ChamferingPro for deburring, HandlingPRO for material handling processes, PAINTPRO for paint applications (an additional spray simulation plug-in is available to aid process development), and WeldPRO for arc-welding applications. CAD-to-path functionality, which automatically generates programs based on CAD data, is available as standard in all versions of ROBOGUIDE.

For enhanced capabilities in robot cells, users of the latest version of ROBOGUIDE can benefit from additional smart Fanuc software, including iRVision and line-tracking.

Andrew Armstrong, sales and marketing manager for Fanuc UK, said: “We’ve been developing the ROBOGUIDE software for more than 16 years as an easy, intuitive and accurate way to program your robot cell offline. Version 9 represents key advances in the usability and connectivity of this software.

“If you’re new to automation, ROBOGUIDE is the best way of harnessing the true potential of your investment. For existing Fanuc robot users, it’s the next step to a fully-connected, Industry 4.0-ready automated production cell.”

www.fanuc.eu/uk/en/robots/accessories/roboguide