PTC links Onshape with NVIDIA Isaac Sim for robotics

Key Takeaways

• PTC has introduced a robotics design-to-simulation workflow connecting Onshape with NVIDIA Isaac Sim
• The workflow aims to reduce manual work and errors in robotics design by defining mechanical relationships in Onshape and carrying them into Isaac Sim
• The cloud-native architecture on Amazon Web Services enables engineers to focus on evaluating system behavior and performance
• The Onshape-Isaac Sim workflow supports PTC's Intelligent Product Lifecycle approach, helping manufacturers build a product data foundation and use it across the enterprise

Introduction to Robotics Design and Simulation

The field of robotics design involves complex processes, including repeated updates to mechanical models and simulation testing. Traditionally, moving from computer-aided design (CAD) to simulation requires manual re-creation of joints, actuators, and other physical details after export. This manual work can lead to errors and inefficiencies in the design process.

The Onshape-Isaac Sim Workflow

To address these challenges, PTC has introduced a robotics design-to-simulation workflow that connects its cloud-native Onshape CAD and product data management (PDM) platform with the NVIDIA Isaac Sim open simulation framework. This workflow allows teams to simulate robot designs using a single source of truth, reducing errors and supporting downstream robotic training in NVIDIA Isaac Lab. The Onshape-Isaac Sim workflow defines mechanical relationships in Onshape and carries them into Isaac Sim, enabling simulation models to update automatically when designs change.

Comparison of Robotics Design Workflows

Benefits of the Onshape-Isaac Sim Workflow

The Onshape-Isaac Sim workflow offers several benefits, including:

• Reduced manual work and errors in robotics design
• Improved collaboration and data management through a cloud-native architecture
• Enhanced productivity, enabling engineers to focus on evaluating system behavior and performance
• Support for PTC's Intelligent Product Lifecycle approach, helping manufacturers build a product data foundation and use it across the enterprise

Conclusion

The Onshape-Isaac Sim workflow is a significant development in the field of robotics design and simulation. By connecting Onshape with NVIDIA Isaac Sim, PTC has created a seamless design-to-simulation workflow that reduces manual work and errors, while supporting downstream robotic training. With its cloud-native architecture and real-time collaboration capabilities, this workflow is poised to revolutionize the way manufacturers design, simulate, and develop robotics systems.

Bottom Line

The integration of Onshape with NVIDIA Isaac Sim is a major step forward in robotics design and simulation, offering a more efficient, accurate, and collaborative workflow for engineers and manufacturers. As the demand for robotics and artificial intelligence continues to grow, this workflow is likely to play a critical role in shaping the future of product development and innovation. With its focus on reducing manual work, improving productivity, and supporting AI-related development, the Onshape-Isaac Sim workflow is an essential tool for companies looking to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of robotics and automation.