In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up and execute remote recording using Easy Automator. This feature allows you to record robotic movements away from the robot’s workspace and transfer the program back to the robot for execution. The flexibility of this feature enables programming in a cleaner or safer environment, which is particularly beneficial when working in hazardous or dust-filled industrial areas.
Additional benefit is, that the robot can work productive as long the recording of a new program is running.
Set Up the Frame and Coordinate System #
Frame Setup: The frame for remote recording must exactly match the frame defined in the robot’s workspace.
Alignment: Ensure that the origin point (O), X, and Y calibration points are placed with the same distance and direction relative to each other, as they are in the robot’s workspace.
Sequence Reproducibility: The sequence of Origin (O), X, and Y points must be reproducible. This ensures that the same coordinate system is used during recording and transferred to the robot’s workspace.
Once this is set, the coordinate system can be transferred anywhere from the robot’s workspace, allowing flexibility in programming.
Start the Easy Automator App #
Launch the Easy Automator app on your device to initiate the recording process.
You will be able to record movements remotely, outside of the robot’s immediate workspace.
Initial Calibration #
Begin the calibration process. This ensures that the app correctly aligns with the robot’s workspace frame. Minor deviations (e.g., 1.6 mm) might be tolerable. If the failure exceeds 5 mm, you will get an automatic warning. You can still decide to continue the recording job.
Calibration does not need to be performed in the same space as the robot’s operation. You can perform the recording away from the robot in a safer or cleaner area.
Recording Movements #
Record your movements using the app, ensuring that you define both a start point and finish point.
The app will visualize the path as you record. This helps confirm that your hand movements are accurately captured within the defined frame.
Testing the Recorded Path #
After recording, simulate the movements on the screen to ensure that all points are reachable and transitions are smooth.
Verify that the recorded path will be correctly interpreted by the robot before transferring the program.
Applying Offsets (Optional) #
If the recorded path is too close to a surface (e.g., a desk), apply an offset to shift the points. This can raise or lower the points in the Z-axis to prevent collisions.
Offsets can be applied after recording to adjust the entire path relative to the workspace.
Transfer the Program to the Robot #
After finalizing the recording, generate the robot program.
Transfer the program to the robot using a file transfer tool like FileZilla.
Once uploaded, test the program manually on the robot to ensure accuracy and avoid collisions. For this you can activate the collision detection feature in RoboDK. We strongly recommend this.
Final Testing and Refinement #
Use manual controls to move the robot to key points and confirm that the robot is following the correct path.
Further refine the program if necessary, adjusting speed and applying additional offsets as needed.
Key Points #
Frame Consistency: The remote recording frame must exactly match the robot’s workspace frame in terms of origin, X and Y points, their distances, and direction. This ensures the coordinate system is transferable and aligned.
Flexibility in Recording: Recording can take place in a different location from the robot, such as in a clean or safe environment, as long as the frame remains consistent.
Offset Adjustments: Offsets can be applied after recording to adjust the position of the robot’s movements relative to the workspace, preventing collisions.
Quick and Easy Transfer: Once recorded, the program can be quickly transferred to the robot for testing and execution.
This guide outlines the necessary steps for successful remote recording with Easy Automator. By ensuring consistent frame alignment, you can efficiently transfer recorded paths and ensure smooth robot operation.