A rapid entry into the field of Low Cost automation using a "digital twin" in the field of intuitive robot control

To make robots easy to program, igus has now developed a control software for its Low Cost automation solutions. igus robot control is available free online and provides users with an easy introduction to the world of automation. Various robot movements can be programmed and controlled. A digital twin simulates the movements. In this way, the user can program a suitable solution before purchase. The robot hardware, for example a linear robot with control cabinet, is offered by igus from as little as 5000 Euro.

Grabbing goods from a box, helping to take samples and draining cans from a machine - all done by robots! Whether articulated robots, delta robots or linear robots, igus has all three kinematics as Low Cost automation solutions in its program. To enable users to try out in advance which robot is best suited for their application, igus now offers igus robot control, a software for the simulation and programming of all igus robots. "As a mechanical engineering company, we are very familiar with the various aspects of motion theory, so the next logical step for us was to develop a simple and intuitive robot control system," says Alexander Mühlens, head of automation technology at igus GmbH. The special feature: the software is available online for free and license free. The software contains a digital twin for all igus robots; which can be used to run simulations and be instructed just like the real robot. The robot control system is also used later to intuitively program the robot. Any programming can be applied to the real robot afterwards. The complete hardware package, for example a drylin linear robot with integrated control system in the control cabinet, is available from as little as 5000 Euro.

Easy programming of robots

With igus robot control, the user can freely move all axes of the digital twin via a 3D interface. Through a teach-in function, the robot can be programmed very easily even without a robot connection. To do this, the user must manually move the robot to the desired position and define how it should be moved. The process is repeated until the desired motion profile is created. Matching end-effectors, such as grippers, can be easily added and the tool center automatically adjusts. Virtual objects can also be installed, for example to prevent the robot from colliding with a machine. The igus robot can also be connected to an overhead control system, either through interface communication with digital I/O or through Ethernet communication through the use of an IP address. The igus developers want to extend the control system even further: "In the future, we want to offer cloud services such as vision integration, remote commissioning and also online training for a small fee, which the customer can book. Other services such as image evaluation via webcam or "bin picking" solutions are planned as cloud-based solutions," says Mühlens.