What is the purpose of the RTR plug-in in Siemens PS?
Pairing Tecnomatix Process Simulate, provided by Siemens, with RTR’s RapidPlan will empower users with the ability to generate collision-free paths created by RapidPlan. These paths can then be simulated and recorded within Process Simulate, subsequently deployed to the robots on the shop floor. This integration significantly alleviates customers' challenges when implementing industrial robots, enhancing productivity, and maximizing the benefits of robotics. The solution is straightforward: The user defines paths as a list of process points, RTR identifies collision-free routes between these process points, and generates a new path that incorporates the necessary waypoints and interlocks for collision-free operation of the cell. This video shows an end-to-end example of the RapidPlan Plugin use.
What are the system specifications?
Intel CPU with 8 cores / 16 logical processors, or more
Workstation-class Nvidia RTX or newer GPU with 4GB graphics memory, or more
64GB RAM for a work cell project with 4 robots or less. 128GB RAM is recommended for large work cells (with up to 16 robots)
Enough space in the disk. RapidPlan projects require several GB of space in disk, up to 20GB in big cells. We recommend 1TB of space in disk.
How do I setup the system?
The Tecnomatix Process Simulate installation does not require any additional step. The RapidPlan Plug-in will be installed with the standard distribution. The feature can be enabled through the corresponding license.
In addition to the plug-in in Siemens PS, users need to install the RapidPlan software. There are 2 ways of installing RapidPlan:
Standalone: Installing both Siemens PS and RapidPlan in the same computer. https://realtimerobotics.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/TPS/pages/2704310343/Installation+guidelines+for+customers#Standalone
Server-Client: Installing Siemens PS in one machine (client), and RapidPlan in a different machine (server). Multiple clients can reach the server in this configuration, only one at a time. https://realtimerobotics.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/TPS/pages/2704310343/Installation+guidelines+for+customers#Server%2FClient
Which are the use cases where the plugin brings value, and which aren’t?
The RTR software (RapidPlan) supports point-to-point applications (spot welding, riveting, inspection). Handling applications are not fully supported, but can work with workarounds. The reason to this is that Siemens PS does not communicate to RapidPlan if the robot is holding the part or not, and the status of the jig and clamps.
Path applications, like dispensing, arc welding, or roller hamming are not supported.
Are additional axis, like robot rails and weld guns, supported?
Yes, both linear rails and weld guns are supported. These axes must be configured as additional axes within the robot controller. The user is responsible for specifying the positions of the external axes at the process points, while RTR will determine the positions of these axes within the waypoints.