Microsoft and DS SolidWorks Enhance Robot Simulation

The Microsoft Robotics Developer Studio 2008 (Microsoft RDS) software, jointly developed by Microsoft and Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corp. (DS SolidWorks). helps companies program robots more quickly, claims Microsoft.

Users of Microsoft Robotics Developer Studio 2008 (Microsoft RDS) will be able directly incorporate 3D CAD models designed in SolidWorks software into Microsoft’s Visual Simulation Environment (Microsoft VSE) and simulate their operations. The solution takes advantage of the fact that both applications support a common XML format, COLLADA, for rendering 3D objects and motion. A demo of the solution is available now at SolidWorks Labs, and the solution itself will be available for download from SolidWorks Labs the first week of December.

“We are excited about the results of our collaboration with DS Solidworks in support of the COLLADA format,” said Tandy Trower, general manager at Microsoft. “This software integration means faster development of detailed physics-based simulation scenarios, a significant benefit for robot and automation developers, researchers, and even hobbyists.”

“The worlds of machine design, mechatronics, and robotics are converging, and this first-of-its-kind partnership is just one way we’re supporting the convergence,” said Fielder Hiss, director of product management at DS SolidWorks, a world leader in 3D solutions. “SolidWorks software has long enabled modeling, motion, and simulation, and customers are excited that we’re extending these capabilities to robotics.”