Offline/Online robot programming
Offline robot programming (OLP)
Offline robot programming is a method of creating and debugging programs for industrial robots in a computer environment outside of the actual manufacturing process. The program is first created and tested in a simulation (often based on 3D CAD models), then transferred to the real robot to perform the task.
Main advantages of offline programming
Does not interrupt production
Programming takes place off-line, eliminating downtime caused by manual programming directly on the robot.
Speed and efficiency
The time required to create a new program is reduced from weeks to days or hours. Programming is up to 10x faster compared to traditional online programming.
Increasing robot utilization
The robot can be used for more than 90% of its time, instead of waiting for programming to complete.
Cost reduction
By reducing downtime and deploying programs faster, overall production costs are reduced.
Higher quality and safety
Simulation allows collisions, range errors and trajectory optimization before real deployment, increasing safety and production quality.
Flexibility
Based on the simulation, robot programs are prepared and then transferred to real robots, thus reducing commissioning time and minimizing errors.
OLP workflow
- Import of CAD model of workplace and parts into OLP software.
- Creation and simulation of robot trajectories in a 3D environment – including collision checking and motion optimization.
- Generating a program for a specific type of robot using a controller.
- Transfer the program to the real robot and run it (first at low speed to verify correctness).
- Quick adjustments and redeployment if necessary
Offline robot programming is a method of creating and debugging programs for industrial robots in a computer environment outside of the actual manufacturing process. The program is first created and tested in a simulation (often based on 3D CAD models), then transferred to the real robot to perform the task.
Online robot programming
Programming an industrial robot is the process of creating and testing instructions that a robot executes to perform manufacturing tasks, such as material handling, welding, or gluing. A quality program ensures the efficient use of the robot and consists of defining precise paths, timing activities, and coordinating individual steps.
Online programming
1. It takes place directly at the robot, often using a Teach Pendant device, which allows the robot arm to be manually moved to the desired positions and recorded.
2. It is intuitive and suitable for programmers without deep coding knowledge.
Programming a robotic workstation
The industrial robot itself is programmed separately, often in combination with the programming of the PLC control unit, which provides the logic for triggering sequences, reading sensors, and coordinating multiple devices. Programming an industrial robot is a complex process involving planning, defining movements, and logic, which can be accomplished by various methods depending on the specific application and available tools.
Comparison of offline vs. online programming
Programming an industrial robot is the process of creating and testing instructions that a robot executes to perform manufacturing tasks, such as material handling, welding, or gluing. A quality program ensures the efficient use of the robot and consists of defining precise paths, timing activities, and coordinating individual steps.
Property | Offline Programming (OLP) | Online programming (manually on the robot) |
Stoppage of production | None or minimal | Distinctive (production stops during programming) |
Deployment speed | Very fast (hours/days) | Slow (days/weeks) |
Quality and safety | High (simulation, error detection) | Lower (errors will only become apparent during testing) |
Flexibility | Large (various brands, processes) | Limited |
Knowledge requirements | All you need is software knowledge. | Requires knowledge of robots and programming |