Visual Components, a developer of 3-D simulation software, has acquired the robotics division of Delfoi, a provider of robot offline programming (OLP) software solutions worldwide. This development gives the Finnish organisation the foundation to expand globally by complementing its existing simulation tools for production systems and virtual commissioning with OLP capabilities, thereby enabling manufacturers to program robots on the factory floor, alongside Visual Components’ existing product offering of layout design, feasibility and validation of control logics, robot programs and processes.

Visual Components says this capability will not only make a ‘one stop shop’ for digital transformation of production systems a reality but also enable manufacturers to benefit from significantly reduced levels of downtime — while saving time and improving the accuracy of robotic programming processes.

“These capabilities will help to meet the growing demand for effective utilisation of robotics in the manufacturing environment, alongside the increased use of simulation and virtual commissioning. As Industry 5.0 grows in importance, which places focus on upskilling humans in the workforce, this development allows professionals to train across a number of disciplines with just one solution.

“Manufacturers will also save on costs and enable more sustainable practices with use of one tool to complete both robotic programming and simulation projects. Delfoi brings a wealth of experience in robotic applications such as cutting, welding and surface processes, helping to bring improved solutions to manufacturers and system integrators.”

In terms of targeted regions for future expansion, the organisation is aiming to grow its presence in the USA and the APAC region, specifically China, Japan and South Korea, having already established a comprehensive customer base in European countries such as the UK and Germany.