 Desktop and Scara Robots are universal tools for various applications like dispensing, screw tightening, welding or marking. They are easy to use and can be applied economically. These robots are typically programmed by using waypoints and path information. The coordinates and types of waypoints have to be entered manually or taught by using "Direct Jog" or remote functions of the robot. Typically small work pieces with a high complexity of linear paths (like dispensing sealing material onto cast motor parts) will raise programming efforts. Flexibility is one of the key words in modern manufacturing. Loosing time, money and flexibility because of high preparation times for automation equipment is no longer acceptable. Using Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) methods and processes can be an effective way to reduce costs and raise flexibility. The idea is to use already existing graphical data of the work piece (CAD drawing) in order to create paths and waypoints for Desktop and Scara Robots. Highest precision and minimum amount of programming time is the result. Visual PathBuilder is an integrated software programming environment for Janome TM Desktop and Scara Industrial Robots and can be used for automatic generation and reverse engineering of paths and waypoints. It works like a 3D CAD software with import and export features and the ability to create full functioning robot programs for your appropriate target model. Visual PathBuilder imports existing CAD drawings into project files where paths and waypoints can be easily specified by using overlay features. Paths are constructed by using standard graphical elements like lines, multi-lines (with embedded arcs), arcs or circles. To create graphical elements all well known software tools provided by CAD applications are implemented. Drawn paths and waypoints can be assigned to user defined task objects which can have free order. Task objects will be automatically translated into robotic language of your type of robot. Alignments and offset values are calculated fully automatically by using one or two reference points. Import functionality of already existing robot programs will make "Reverse Engineering" and visual documentation possible. Point types and coordinate information is automatically translated into 3D paths and can be easily transferred to project files for changing or later reference. Visual PathBuilder creates import files for the Janome TM JR Points 4.60E (or higher) software. In order to transmit programs from or to your computer you will need Janome TM JR Points 4.60E (or higher) software. | 
