Comau pioneers new and easy-to-use robot programming
Comau has successfully released its 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. 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 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 and place, the management of boxing and palletising 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. 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.
By removing barriers to automation, Comau says it 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.
“The successful integration of Comau’s robot controller with the Siemens ecosystem reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to simplifying automation,” explained Gaia Salvadore, robotics and automation products segment leader. “It also represents an important step towards the easy-to-use vision of Comau for Robotics.”
Tobias Fengel, marketing manager robotics and electronics at Siemens, added: “Together with Comau, we are pioneers in offering the market the first seamless interface between industrial robotics and our Simatic Robot Library. In addition to Comau’s industrial automation expertise, this milestone is the result of our longstanding collaboration and will undoubtedly help companies extend their use of our joint technologies.”
Visit the Comau website for more information
