Due to the revolution of technology, the spec and functionality of robots is striking over their limits. However, there would be no use if it isn’t possible to control robots in the manner of one’s desire. Especially for industrial robots, the importance of controlling robots is high. TP(Teach Pendant) is the key in order to achieve this goal. TP provides comfort and accuracy for the workers. Now let’s step into the world of TP.
Control Robots at my will
TP(Teach Pendant), a.k.a Programming unit or TPU, can be defined as the handheld device for controlling and programming robots. It functions as a small remote controller, with small screen, button, and joy sticks which allows users to manually set and control robots. This particular product is often used in car and electronic manufacturing line, where the importance of robots are high.
Why is TP necessary?
Most of the TP devices are designed in a size of a palm, allowing workers to hand carry and use easily. This small yet powerful devices provide various functions. Not just turning off and on robots but also control and control in a precise manner. First, robot’s motions can be control and taught. With the help of several button and control stick, workers are possible to set motion track on real time. Moving on, programs are possible to be input and adjusted. This function is often used when to make robot function in a repetitive way or correct/adjust other existing program/code. Finally, TP is useful with error analyzation and status inspection. When robots don’t act in a proper way, TP analyzes and evaluate problems and error and allows the worker to take immediate action. This allows reducing the delay time of manufacturing. Hence, it is possible to illustrate that even TP looks simply, it has exquisite functions, making it the device connecting human and robots.
TP’s Past & Present
To understand the value of TP more deeply, it would be important to understand the origin and history of it. TP first came up during the 1970~80s when industrial robots started to get introduced. At that time, TP weren’t this concise and precise. Early TP only had few buttons and switches, wired connection. The main purpose of TP was just to control the robot manually. For instance, in the car industry, TP were used to set where to mold. Some didn’t even have display and adjustment had to be done by our bare eyes. Controlling robots were still necessary in this era, but due to the complexity and required technique to use TP, TP was considered as a professional equipment. The evolution from the crude tools of the past to the sophisticated equipment of today is a clear demonstration of the advancement of industrial automation and robotics technology.
On the other hand, the current TP has undergone a remarkable change with the advancement of technology. Today, TP is relatively easy for even beginners to access with its color display, touchscreen, and intuitive user interface (UI). For example, Fanuc's latest tablet TP provides a graphics-based programming environment and visualizes the robot's behavior within TP in real time. Unlike previously relying on wired connectivity, many models support wireless communication and have achieved a great deal of results not only in device performance but also in lightweight, maximizing convenience. Functionality has gone beyond simple operation control to store complex task sequences and automatically diagnose errors. Today, TP has become an indispensable tool in various industries such as automobiles, electronics, logistics, etc. where advanced industrial robots are used, contributing to increasing work efficiency and safety at the same time. The evolution from rugged tools of the past to sophisticated equipment of the present is a testament to the progress of industrial automation and robot technology.
Drimaes and TP
Our company, DRIMAES, is gearing up to enter the TP (Teach Pendant) sector. We are presently concentrating on creating TP applications, with the goal of providing cutting-edge solutions in multiple sectors. Historically, Teach Pendants have played a crucial role in robot control and programming, and DRIMAES is evolving this into a software application, focusing on a more user-friendly and efficient experience.
Business Objective: Growth in the Robotics Sector
DRIMAES aims to expand into the robotics sector in the mid-to-long term. Utilizing our knowledge in data handling, user interface (UI/UX), and cloud integration, developed through IVI technology, we are investigating fresh prospects in the robotics sector. We are concentrating on solutions for robot control, monitoring, and commands as primary areas, with the goal of developing a cohesive platform that includes a diverse array of applications, ranging from industrial robots to service robots.
The Significance of TP Applications
The TP application we are creating transcends a basic robot control tool, transforming into an intelligent solution that facilitates real-time oversight and remote administration. By doing this, users can monitor the real-time status of robots and send control commands tailored to the work environment. DRIMAES aims to improve efficiency and productivity in sectors like manufacturing and logistics, where robots are extensively used, through this technology.
DRIMAES' Advantages and Prospects
DRIMAES has secured a solid presence in the mobility solutions sector by partnering with worldwide companies like Qualcomm, Continental, and Naver. By leveraging this experience in the robotics field, we anticipate our TP application-focused control, monitoring, and command solutions will expedite the digital transformation of industrial locations. At present, we are also advancing in the TP sector with Hyundai Robotics. We are dedicated to ongoing technological advancement and customer-focused solution provision to build a future where robots and humans live together in harmony.
Transforming the Field: The Future of TP
Having explored TP's history and status, let's glimpse at what lies ahead. Major companies such as FANUC, KUKA, and ABB currently lead the TP market, but as robotics and industrial automation continue to advance, TP is poised to adopt new forms and features. To start, AI and machine learning are taking center stage. Tomorrow’s TP will not merely execute your commands—it may evaluate historical job data to recommend optimal motion paths or even foresee problems in real time. Envision it encountering a glitch while performing a repetitive job and either resolving it on its own or notifying the worker with an alert.
Following this, wireless connectivity and cloud integration are set to soar. While most TPs remain connected, the rollout of 5G and 6G will allow wireless versions to provide greater freedom for workers. Connect it to the cloud, and a single TP could oversee several robots simultaneously or monitor an entire factory from afar. That’s a significant victory for productivity and reducing upkeep expenses.
And here's an interesting tidbit—augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are making their way in. Future TPs could replace simple numbers and graphs with AR interfaces that display robot actions in 3D or allow you to experience tasks in a VR environment. Employees could review outcomes prior to the robot moving, enhancing programming safety and precision.
Thus, TP is set to exceed the functions of a simple controller—it is evolving into an intelligent, central component of the system, fostering innovation on the production floor. The TP market is expanding at approximately 6% annually, and the future looks promising. At Drimaes, we are leveraging our experience in various industries to present intuitive, user-friendly TPs. Prepare for an exceptional UX—Drimaes is entering the TP arena, and we’re eager for you to experience it.
