This module provides an introduction to robot software, programming languages, and various programming techniques associated with industrial robots. On-line  and off-line programming, teach pendants and automatic programming are presented using a combination of theoretical and laboratory exercises utilizing robotics simulation software.  In addition, this module also introduces the student to web-based programming and open architecture programming and provides coverage of some of the major robot programming languages and techniques, including Microsoft Robotics Studio.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this module the student will be able to:

  • Explain the purpose of a layered system for robot programming
  • Name the two major categories of robot programming
  • List five criteria for standardized programming languages
  • Define software architecture
  • Differentiate between manual and automatic programming
  • Name three types of non-proprietary robot languages
  • Identify five types of motion instructions
  • Describe the most popular type of robot programming language
  • Explain how program touch-up is used when programming
  • List two types of simulation used in industry
  • Compare keyframing and skeletal animation in 3D modeling
  • Discuss the benefits of open-architecture programming
  • Name four characteristics of DSSP in Microsoft Robotics Studio