A visual programming framework for complex robotic systems in micro-optical assembly

Abstract

In this contribution, we present a novel Visual Programming [VP] framework for the programming of general automated systems in research and industry and its specific application for the programming of complex tasks in micro-optical assembly. The foundation of our principally generic VP framework is a 3D simulation and visualization system in which automated systems are modeled, simulated and controlled as multi-agent systems. By supporting event-, state- and timebased programming techniques for these multi-agent systems in any domain, our VP framework addresses the programming of robotic applications on a fundamental level. We address the particular lack of industrial complexity of earlier VP frameworks by enabling end-users to easily (and visually) implement and develop their own libraries of expert schemes and building blocks.