SolidWorks and Microsoft joined forces to create a new software to enable engineers to simulate robots working before they’re actually put to work.
Rather than regurgitating what I’ve read, here’s the press release from SolidWorks:
Microsoft and DS SolidWorks Enhance Robot Simulation
Robotics programmers can now use SolidWorks 3D CAD models for more powerful simulations
CONCORD, Mass., USA, Nov. 18, 2008 – Engineers now have a more accurate way to simulate robots in action before they’re put to work thanks to new software developed by Microsoft and Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corp. (DS SolidWorks). The new simulation capability helps companies program robots more quickly and effectively, a key advantage for robot manufacturers seeking improved efficiency.
Users of Microsoft® Robotics Developer Studio 2008 (Microsoft RDS) will be able directly incorporate 3D CAD models designed in SolidWorks® software into Microsoft’s Visual Simulation Environment (Microsoft VSE) and simulate their operation more accurately. As a result, robotics developers can correct any robotic application issues early and maximize the robots’ performance. The solution takes advantage of the fact that both applications support a common XML format, COLLADA, for rendering 3D objects and motion. A demo of the solution is available now at SolidWorks Labs, and the solution itself will be available for download from SolidWorks Labs the first week of December.
“We are excited about the results of our collaboration with DS Solidworks in support of the COLLADA format,” said Tandy Trower, general manager at Microsoft. “This software integration means faster development of detailed physics-based simulation scenarios, a significant benefit for robot and automation developers, researchers, and even hobbyists.”
A robot designer, for example, can download the free SolidWorks/Microsoft RDS integration software, export a SolidWorks robot design into Microsoft VSE, develop the robotic application, then simulate the robots’ operation prior to deployment. The integration preserves dimensions, constraints, mass properties, motors, springs, colors, textures, and more from the SolidWorks model.
“The worlds of machine design, mechatronics, and robotics are converging, and this first-of-its-kind partnership is just one way we’re supporting the convergence,” said Fielder Hiss, director of product management at DS SolidWorks, a world leader in 3D solutions. “SolidWorks software has long enabled modeling, motion, and simulation, and customers are excited that we’re extending these capabilities to robotics.”
