Visual Components, a developer of 3D simulation software, has announced the acquisition of the robotics division of Delfoi, a developer of robot offline programming (OLP) software solutions.
Visual Components hopes to take this opportunity to expand globally by complementing its existing product offering of simulation tools, which are intended for use in production systems and virtual commissioning with OLP capabilities.
OLP functions are developed to support manufacturers to program robots for the factory floor and, according to Visual Components, can be used with its products for layout design, feasibility and validation of control logics, robot programs and processes.
The idea behind such a system is to develop a one-stop-shop for digital transformation of production systems and to enable manufacturers to significantly reduce downtime and improve the accuracy of robotic programming processes.
According to Visual Components, these capabilities can help organisations meet growing demand for effective utilisation of robotics in manufacturing environments, in addition to increased use of simulation and virtual commissioning.
As Industry 5.0 grows in popularity, the company suggests there will be an increased focus on upskilling people in the workforce, with the mentioned developments supporting the multi-disciplinary training of employees through a single solution.
Visual Components adds that this will likewise save on costs and encourage more sustainable practices, as one tool can be used for both robotic programming and simulation projects.
Delfoi, which is reportedly a long-term partner of Visual Components, has experience in robotic applications including cutting, welding and surface processes.
“This acquisition is a natural next step in a long working relationship with Delfoi, with the business having utilised our simulation software for over ten years,” said Mikko Urho, CEO of Visual Components.
“It’s fantastic to now be joining forces with another Finnish company to meet the demand from manufacturers to effectively utilise robots on the factory floor as Industry 5.0 grows in importance.
“Our customers now benefit from a solution that covers the entire production system lifecycle.”
Visual Components reports a year-on-year growth of 45%, with the expectation that it will gain 100 more employees by the end of 2022, thanks to the acquisition.
Moreover, the organisation is aiming for targeted growth in the US, China, Japan and South Korea and claims to have already established a strong customer base in Europe, especially the UK and Germany.
Visual Components (Stand 312) will be at Robotics and Automation 2022 on 01-02 November at the Coventry Building Society Arena. For more information about this unmissable event, or to register to attend, please visit www.roboticsandautomation.co.uk.
