We’ve added a lot of features and updates to RoboDK recently. From a modernized interface to advanced curve and point operations, the functionality of this powerful robot programming software continues to grow.
Here are 20 of the most impactful new updates and features that we’ve added…
1. Improved Robot Drivers and Post Processors
We are always adding new robot models to our ever-expanding Robot Library. We now support over a thousand models from dozens of brands.
In the latest releases of RoboDK, we’ve improved the drivers and post processors for brands including UR, Elite Robots, Fanuc, Kinova, Techman, and more.
2. Support for 5-Axis and 6-Axis CNC Modeling
For years, we have heralded the benefits of robotic machining as an alternative to conventional CNC modeling.
RoboDK now includes an option to model 5-axis and 6-axis CNC. You can now easily convert a multi-axis machining job for robot machining.
3. Modernized Icons and Enhanced UI
Aesthetic tastes change often in software design, which also means our users change in what you find intuitive.
With a focus on improving user experience, the latest updates feature modernized icons and improve user interface elements.
4. Enhanced Add-in Manager
RoboDK Add-ins are a powerful feature to allow developers to extend the core software features to suit particular needs.
We have updated the add-in manager to facilitate a more seamless integration of custom add-ins into RoboDK. This includes improving support for legacy add-in packages.
5. Advanced Curve and Point Operations via API
Curve and point following are a core feature for many robot operations, including welding, drilling, and painting.
We recently improved the functionality of curve and point operations when you are using the RoboDK API.
6. Robust Event Feedback for Plugins
If you are a plugin developer, you will benefit from our improved event feedback mechanisms.
These updates ensure better integration and responsiveness of custom plugins within RoboDK. They include an improved event channel through the API.
7. Increased Stability and Crash Fixes
As with any software package, there are often small tweaks to be made to eliminate the occasional instability in some use cases.
We are always working to update the program to improve stability across all use cases, even those that include a lot of custom program elements.
8. Introduction of RoboDK CNC Add-in
We also recently introduced a collection of tools to facilitate using RoboDK like a CNC machine.
The RoboDK CNC add-in includes allowing execution of large programs up to an unlimited number of lines in streaming mode.
9. Comprehensive G-Code Handling
RoboDK’s ability to act as a tool to program robots with G-Code is extremely beneficial for machinists.
We’ve made some changes to our G-Code parser, including the ability to reliably map to digital outputs and include brackets within your code for clearer documentation.
10. Added New Robot Brands
As well as adding new robot models all the time, we also regularly add compatibility for new robot brands to support emerging robot manufacturers.
For example, we have added support for robots from the brand Productive Robotics, a brand originating in the motion picture industry.
11. Improved KUKA Program Transfer
One exciting development for users of KUKA robots is our addition of KUKA Bridge, a driver that allows more efficient operations and remote program control.
Find out more in our blog article Easier, Faster KUKA Robot Programming With Our New Driver.
12. Refined Python API and Type Hints
The Python API allows you to access RoboDK’s advanced functionality through one of the most popular programming language in the world.
We have refined the Python API in various ways, including adding hints for better development practices and easier integration with Python 3.
13. Blender Export Enhancements
Blender is a powerful program for rendering your robotic simulations in a more visually appealing way.
Recently, we have made several key improvements to the Blender export functionality, making it even easier to export and visualize your projects in Blender.
14. Advanced Simulation Capabilities
RoboDK’s simulation capabilities are always growing, as we add new functionalities and respond to user needs.
Some recent additions to the software’s advanced simulation functionalities include improved camera simulations for small cameras, a faster collision-free planner, and improved performance for virtual reality.
15. Expanded API Documentation and Options
As well as adding to the software’s functionality, we are also always adding to the documentation to make it easy to use.
Recently, we have added comprehensive documentation for the API module and its new options, such as customizing zoom and rotation speeds.
16. Import and Export Settings as INI Files
A new option now exists to important export settings for RoboDK as a single INI file.
This simplifies transferring configurations between different installations of RoboDK.
17. Enhanced Support for Scara Robots
RoboDK already has significant support for Scara robots. But, with the newest versions, we have enhanced that support even further.
Examples of this increased support include supporting Mecademic Scara robots and a new option to add a translation on the first axis of Scara robots.
18. Robust Integration with Measurement Systems
We already support a range of advanced measurement systems, such as various popular laser trackers, and we keep adding to this compatibility.
The latest versions of RoboDK now officially support OptiTrack as a measurement system. We have also improved integration with ballbar measurement systems.
19. Customizable UI and Simulation Settings
The user interface (UI) is now even more customizable than it was previously.
The new UI now includes options to customize slider and text box step increments. You can also rename groups of programs in bulk and customize rotation speed.
20. Improved Compatibility Across the Board
Updates across the board have improved compatibility with various robots, drivers, post processors, and many other robot components.
Robotics involves integrating many hardware components into a single functional system. At RoboDK, we are committed to improving compatibility and increasing features wherever we can.
These 20 updates are just the latest step in our quest to make your robot programming as easy as possible.
Which of these new features are you most excited about? Join the discussion on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or in the RoboDK Forum.. Also, check out our extensive video collection and subscribe to the RoboDK YouTube Channel
