Modern robotization and automation of the production process rely on technologically advanced equipment. Such robots must not only be designed but also adapted to operate in the desired manner at a specific location—that is, they must be programmed. Let us explain how industrial robots delivered to client companies are programmed using different methods.
Methods of robot programming
Currently, several basic methods of programming industrial robots can be distinguished. These include manual programming, offline programming, programming by demonstration, and AI-based programming. They primarily differ in the tools used, but the goal is the same: to optimally adapt the device to the needs of a given industrial environment. The advent of artificial intelligence has not led to the complete abandonment of manual programming; on the contrary, different methods can be combined, as they are effective under different conditions. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, allowing them to be selected to match specific requirements, the nature of the work, and the availability of personnel.
Manual programming of industrial robots
Manual programming is the oldest and most hands-on method available. All work must be carried out by a qualified specialist whose task is to teach the robots the tasks they are to perform. A handheld control panel is used to demonstrate the movements that need to be memorized. This method of programming is particularly suitable for less complex tasks and smaller enterprises. It is valued by programmers because it provides a high level of control over the robot and allows for greater precision. However, its drawbacks include the need for constant personnel presence and significant time investment. It is less flexible and would be difficult to implement on a larger scale under modern industrial conditions.
Offline programming of industrial robots
Offline programming of an industrial robot gets its name from the fact that it takes place away from the production line. Advanced software is used to simulate real production conditions and accurately replicate the working environment. It is within this simulation that the necessary operational data for the device is input. This method is popular because it does not require halting production and allows for extensive testing without using space that could otherwise be dedicated to ongoing company operations. By thoroughly testing the robots’ performance in the simulation, their operation can be properly designed, avoiding collisions or other unforeseen events without checking directly on the production line. However, even the best simulation software can never fully replicate real working conditions, so discrepancies may occur that could be significant when implementing the developed solutions in an actual production environment.
Programming by demonstration
These are methods of industrial robot programming that use human action imitation. The machines are equipped with sensors that allow them to observe tasks performed by human hands. Their goal is to translate the observed actions into their own capabilities. The advantages of this approach include the lack of need for personnel skilled in advanced programming languages. The drawbacks, however, include the requirement for sensor technology and the risk that not all tasks can be physically demonstrated in a way that achieves the desired level of precision.
AI-based programming
Artificial intelligence is gradually permeating most areas of our lives, and robot programming is no exception. Although AI is already being used for this purpose, it is not yet the most common method, and experts predict that its full potential in this area is still ahead of us. The code required for a robot’s operation can be generated automatically and continuously optimized. In practice, AI-based robot programming often works by having the device perform a task repeatedly until it learns to execute it correctly, with results improving with each repetition. Another application of AI is the automatic generation of movement trajectories based on models and transferring them to the actual production line. However, many specialists still approach this method of robot programming with caution due to the imperfections of available solutions and the risk of unexpected behaviors or other inaccuracies during operation. For this reason, AI is not yet the primary tool used for programming industrial robots.
