MELFA-Works
What is MELFA-Works?
MELFA-Works is an
add-in tool(*1) for SolidWorks(*2) that can be used to simulate Mitsubishi
Electric industrial robots.
Using MELFA-Works, it becomes possible to verify robot program operations and
creat processing path data.
*1) An add-in tool is
a software program that adds certain functions to application software
packages.
*2) SolidWorks® is a registered trademark of SolidWorks Corp, (USA).
*This product requires SolidWorks. Please note that SolidWorks needs to be
provided by the customer.
Features of MELFA-Works
·
MELFA-Works is an
add-in tool that runs under SolidWorks.
·
MELFA-Works can
simulate production systems using robots on personal computers, and it is
possible to make use of peripheral devices and parts such as hands created
using SolidWorks as it is.
·
In the simulation it
is possible to convert processing paths defined for workpieces to data and
output this data.
· Since MELFA-Works includes RT ToolBox2 (mini), it can create programs and change parameters.
Windows®-compatible
Item |
Software Version |
OS |
Microsoft Windows®XP
Professional (32bit) SP3 |
3D-CAD |
SolidWorks®2010 ~ SolidWorks®2015 |
RT ToolBox2 |
It is bundled to
setup DVD of MELFA-Works. |
Robot model setting
·
This function allows
selecting a model name from a displayed list and setting the robot model.
·
A robot can be placed
using positions relative to the CAD origin or other parts. Layout setting via
value entry is also possible.
·
A traveling axis can
be installed to a robot to verify the operation of the system equipped with
this.
· (Please refer to the "MELFA-Works Instruction Manual" for robots supported by this software.)
Installation of hands, Handling of work
·
Hands designed/created
in SolidWorks® can be installed on robots. An ATC (Auto Tool Changer) can also
be specified for each hand.
· Simulations of hand signal control can be created using a robot program to handle workpieces.
Loading of part data and rearrangement
·
Part data created in
SolidWorks® can be loaded.
·
The positions of
loaded parts can be rearranged relative to the CAD origin and other parts.
·
Part positions can
also be changed via numerical input.
· Please Check the SolidWorks® website and other published documents for the latest specifications.
Virtual Controller
·
MELFA-Works allows
starting a virtual robot controller supporting a positioned robot.
·
Since this virtual
controller simulates the actual robot controller almost exactly, it can be used
just like an actual controller in almost all operations, such as program
creation, parameter setting and monitoring, using RT ToolBox2.
Also, by connecting a virtual controller with the currently displayed robot, the movement of a robot program can be reproduced as it is.
Assignment of robot programs
·
Use the RT Toolbox2,
to create an operable program in this software.
·
Robot programs can be
used as is without any modifications.
· A different robot program can also be specified for each task slot.
Robot program debugging functions
The following functions are provided to
support the debug of robot programs.
·
Step operation : A
specified program can be executed step by step.
·
Breakpoint :
Breakpoints can be set in a specified program.
· Direct execution : Desired robot commands can be executed.
Jog function
The robot shown in SolidWorks® can be jogged just like a real robot.
Offline teaching
· The robot posture can be set up on the screen in advance.
Simulation of robot operations
Robot programs,
including I/O signals, can be simulated.This means that movements of the actual
system can be recreated directly and accurately.
The following two methods are provided to simulate I/O signals of your robot
controller.
·
Create simple
definitions of operations associated with I/O signals.
· Link I/O signals with GX Simulator.
Interference checks
·
Interference between
the robot and peripheral devices can be checked.
·
A target of
interference check can be specified by a simple mouse click it on the screen.
·
Information explaining
the condition of interference that occurred (such as the contacted part,
program line that was being executed when the interference occured, and
corresponding robot position) can be saved to a logfile.