Enhancing Engineering Efficiency and Supply Chain with Autodesk Vault Integration at KUKA

The initial setup involved running three powerJobs on three different designer computers to generate PDF files as needed. The intention was to save a dedicated machine and CAD license. This required the respective designer to become the job-processing machine if necessary. This situation did not allow for timely execution and reliability. Discussing with the customer, it became clear that the Inventor Server would not require a license, and a dedicated machine would ensure convenient and reliable performance. The complete powerJobs solution would then improve overall job queue processes, and designers would be able to focus on their primary tasks.

Improving innovation and digital automation at the engineering department.

A dedicated machine running powerJobs Processor, while powerJobs Client installed on each Vault Client machine is the most effective setup for increased performance. The extension of powerJobs to generate DXF and STEP files will further result in task automation, better performance, and quality gain.

The update to the latest Vault version went smooth, and the powerJobs' jobs almost needed no attention and retained compatibility as promised. To take advantage of the new powerJobs features, the custom jobs got adapted in collaboration with the coolOrange support team rapidly and efficiently.

The customer can now create STEPS from a contextual menu inside the vault! It makes a step in 4 seconds instead of opening the file manually, taking 30-40 seconds. The implementation has delivered innovation to the engineering department creating more digital automation and allowing the team to spend more time on engineering tasks. The solution has also enabled the purchasing manager to generate STEP files leading to efficiencies within the supply chain.

PROJECT RESULTS

• The number of jobs in the queue got reduced since unwanted jobs never got queued

• Increase in performance and reactiveness

• Lifecycle transitions were locked for a given file as long as the related job was in the queue. This further reduces interference with the job processing and avoids the typical "non-tip-version errors."

The implementation of Autodesk Vault, in combination with coolOrange’s solutions, has driven innovation within KUKA’s engineering department by creating more digital automation and allowing engineers to focus more on core engineering tasks. This integration not only streamlined data management but also empowered the purchasing manager to generate STEP files directly from Autodesk Vault, leading to significant efficiencies within the supply chain. The seamless connection between Autodesk Vault and KUKA’s systems demonstrates how powerful automation can boost productivity and drive operational success across departments.

“The COOLORANGE team has done an excellent job, always prepared to go the extra mile. Technical knowledge is second to none! Thank you for all your support”

John Dudley, IT Manager – Business Segment Robotics