Implementation of a Virtual Laboratory of Industrial Robots

Abstract

This article shares the results obtained about the implementation of a Virtual Laboratory (VL) of industrial robots in the class of Integrated Manufacturing Systems. The reasons to implement it were: (1) to use different configurations of industrial robots, (2) to decrease the use of a real laboratory with expensive equipment, (3) to avoid accidents and misuse of equipment, (4) to use a robot for each student, and (5) to know the perception of engineering students, about using a VL in their course. The novelty of this work is that VL is based on the use of a mechanism simulation module of a CAD program (Computer-aided design). On the other hand, its implementation can be replicated with any other program of this type. Other industrial robot simulators are based on a single type of robot, which is sometimes experimental or didactic. In this case, the simulator presented uses three industrial robots of the ABB company. Because the VL is based on a CAD program application, its cost is less than a sophisticated program aimed at programming industrial robots; professors can also vary the level or depth of the knowledge they want to teach. It can be used for an introductory course or an advanced robotics course according to the equations that are programmed. Another advantage is that the simulator allows a new type of robot to be incorporated to have a greater variety of configurations without the need to write some type of computer code. By using a CAD program, users can print the robot models in 3D or apply engineering analysis to determine mechanical stresses in their components, which allows endless academic activities for students. In addition, if a path is defined within the VL, a program can be generated for a real robot to follow that path.