What are Online and Offline Cobot Programming?

The ease of use, specifically simple programming, is an important aspect that industrial users consider when purchasing a cobot. Many cobots on the market today are specifically designed to be easy to program and use, even for those without extensive programming experience.

Whether you are a proficient cobot programmer or a new user, it's important to be aware of the most efficient methods for programming and operating a cobot.

The ease of programming is a key feature of cobots. These robots are designed to be used alongside human employees, and their ease of programming is a major selling point for many manufacturers. This feature allows for reduced programming time, making it more convenient for both new and established users.

There are predominantly two main types of cobot programming methods: offline and online programming.

Online programming, on the other hand, refers to the ability to program and control a cobot through an internet connection. This means that the user can create, edit, and run programs for the cobot from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the internet. This method of programming allows for real-time data transmission, remote access, and the ability to integrate the cobot with other automation equipment and systems. Additionally, it allows for remote monitoring, remote diagnostics, and remote maintenance, which can help to optimize the cobot's performance and reduce downtime.

Offline programming, on the other hand, refers to the ability to program and control a cobot without an internet connection. This means that the user can create, edit, and run programs for the cobot from a computer or mobile device that is not connected to the internet, and then later upload the program to the cobot. This method of programming is useful for situations where internet connectivity is not available, or for those who prefer to have more control over the offline programming process.

As mentioned earlier, online programming typically refers to the ability to program and control a cobot remotely over the internet. This means that the user can create, edit, and run programs for the cobot from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the internet, rather than having to be physically present with the cobot.

Online programming can be done through a web-based interface, which typically allows the user to access and control the cobot's functions, such as motion, sensors, and I/O, as well as monitor and troubleshoot the cobot's performance.

This feature is useful for remote monitoring, troubleshooting, and managing cobots, especially when the cobot is installed in different locations or working remotely. It also allows for collaboration with other team members and easier control of the cobot from different locations.

This feature is becoming more common in modern cobots, as it adds a level of convenience for the users and allows for more flexibility in how the cobot is controlled and monitored.

Our data indicates that only 21.1% of users use online programming.

There are several options for online cobot programming, which include:

Web-based interface:
Many cobot manufacturers provide a web-based interface that allows users to program and control the cobot remotely over the internet. This interface typically allows users to access and control the cobot's functions, such as motion, sensors, and I/O, as well as monitor and troubleshoot the cobot's performance.

Remote Desktop:
Some cobot manufacturers provide remote desktop software that allows the user to access and control the cobot from a remote computer as if they were physically present with the cobot. This option can be useful for remote programming and troubleshooting of the cobot.

Cloud-based programming:
Some cobot manufacturers also provide cloud-based programming which allows the user to program and control the cobot through a cloud-based platform. This platform typically allows users to access and control the cobot's functions, such as motion, sensors, and I/O, as well as monitor and troubleshoot the cobot's performance from anywhere with internet connection.

Mobile apps:
Some cobot manufacturers also provide mobile apps that allow the user to program and control the cobot from a mobile device. This option allows the user to program and control the cobot remotely, and also provide a visual representation of the cobot's current status.

These are some of the options that are commonly available for online cobot programming, but it is worth checking with the cobot manufacturer to see which options are available for a specific cobot.

Connecting a cobot to a LAN or VPN allows for real-time data transmission and remote access to the cobot, which can greatly improve its efficiency and performance.

By connecting the cobot to a LAN or VPN, operators can easily monitor the cobot's performance, troubleshoot issues, and perform software upgrades remotely. This can save time and resources, as the operator does not have to be physically present with the cobot to perform these tasks.

Additionally, connecting a cobot to a LAN or VPN can also enable advanced features such as remote monitoring, remote diagnostics, and remote maintenance, which can help to optimize the cobot's performance and reduce downtime.

Furthermore, connecting a cobot to a LAN or VPN can also allow for integration with other automation equipment and systems, such as PLCs, SCADA systems, and databases, which can provide a more comprehensive and integrated automation solution.

To reiterate the point earlier, offline cobot programming refers to the ability to program and control a cobot without an internet connection. This means that the user can create, edit, and run programs for the cobot from a computer or mobile device that is not connected to the internet, and then later upload the program to the cobot. This method of programming is useful for situations where internet connectivity is not available, or for those who prefer to have more control over the offline programming process.

According to our own data, the majority of cobot users, 78.9% prefer offline programming. It's particularly convenient for small-to-medium sized businesses.

There are several types of offline programming for cobots, which include:

PC-based offline programming:
This method involves creating and editing programs for the cobot on a computer using specialized software provided by the cobot manufacturer. The programs are then saved to a USB drive and uploaded to the cobot when internet connectivity is available.

Hand-guiding:
This method involves manually guiding the cobot through the desired motion paths using a hand-held controller. The motion paths are then recorded and stored as a program for the cobot to repeat.

Lead-through programming:
This method involves manually guiding the cobot through the desired motion paths while the program is being recorded. The recorded program can then be edited and fine-tuned offline before being uploaded to the cobot.

Offline simulation:
This method allows the user to simulate the cobot's motion and program offline using specialized software provided by the cobot manufacturer. The simulated program can then be tested, edited and then uploaded to the cobot.

Offline programming software:
Some cobot manufacturers provide specialized offline programming software that allows the user to create and edit programs for the cobot offline. These programs can then be uploaded to the cobot when internet connectivity is available.

Again, it's worth noting that offline programming options can vary depending on the cobot manufacturer, it is best to check with the cobot manufacturer to see which offline programming options are available for a specific cobot.

To learn more about cobots, click here.

Updated 23.01.23