This VI is a utility using a tree control and 3D picture control to help build a "robot" or any 3D object. It uses parent-child relations between elements - meaning if a tranlsation or rotaion is applied to a parent object, all the child objects connected will automatically have the same translation or rotation applied. Front panel joint controls are available for manually manipulating joints. These joint controls could also be linked to a secondary program for programatic path simulations.

Indivitual element object types supported are sphere, box, cylinder, cone, and CAD files: ASE, STL, and VRML.

VI instructions: Run the VI. Open the included example file by selecting "6_axis_robot_example.dat" using the Robot File Path control then click 'Load'. The "6_axis_robot_example" elements will appear in the 3D picture control and "Robot Tree". Each item may be edited by selecting the item in the Robot Tree control then selecting 'Edit Item'. Changes made to the parameter controls will be updated on the 3D picture and tree controls when 'Edit Item' is de-selected. Items may be added by selecting the desired parent in the tree control and clicking 'Add Item' once desired parameter controls are correct. Saving changes to the current or new file can be done with the Save control.