Comau has released its Comau Next Generation Programming Platform, a protocol that implements the Uniform Robotics Data Interface (URDI) communications standard to simplify robot programming.
"This implementation facilitates the complete integration of Comau's robot family with the Siemens Simatic Robot Library, significantly reducing complexity within machine automation," said a spokesperson. "Now, operators in any industry sector can easily program one or more Comau robots via the Siemens ecosystem they currently use for other applications and processes. The interface also delivers tangible cost and time savings, given that all automation products and cells can be managed without the need for specific competence in robotics programming. As such, companies can boost their efficiency and productivity without facing a challenging learning curve, which further reduces automation barriers for clients that have a consolidated use of the Siemens PLC and now want to introduce articulated robots."
Working with a major automotive customer, Comau reported that it has been able to reduce configuration and programming costs by 30% using its robot controller with the Siemens Simatic Robot Library. Beyond automotive, applications include everything from end-of-line processes, pick & place, management of boxing and palletizing operations to logistics and more. Another important benefit is the ability to virtually program Comau's robots with the Siemens virtual PLC controller as a single operation. This enables end users and systems integrators to perfect the programming sequence, download the program onsite and immediately begin running the robot.
"The Comau Next Generation Programming Platform let integrating robotics into an existing line or process become straightforward and intuitive, a concept that is fully aligned with Comau's vision of making robotics accessible to end users," said the spokesperson. "As such, it also mirrors the company's HUMANufacturing approach, through which industrial equipment and human operators work together in complete safety and with the help of innovative digital technologies."
The spokesperson added, "By removing barriers to automation, Comau is well-positioned to support companies of any size, in any industry, enjoy higher productivity. They simply use the same Siemens PLC that is already deployed for other applications, and all the necessary intelligence is instantly transferred from the Siemens library to the robot without any extra work."
For more information contact:
Comau LLC USA
21000 Telegraph Rd.
Southfield, MI 48034
888-888-8998 / 248-353-8888
www.comau.com/en