An integrated flexible robotic controller family was among recent discussions between Peter Fixell, ABB global robot portfolio global manager, and Gary Cohen, senior editor, WTWH Media. Learn more below and by watching the video interview.
Cohen: Can you please tell us about the ABB OmniCore controllers?
Fixell: ABB OmniCore robot controller platform is a modular future-proof architecture, $170 million ABB investment in the next generation of robotics. It integrates motion with artificial intelligence (AI), sensors, cloud and edge computing for advanced robotics applications in a scalable solution. We started five years ago with the C30 Compact, and now it supports all ABB robots in five sizes small to large. Sustainability and cybersecurity are built in, supporting connectivity.
Cohen: What applications and industries are appropriate for these controllers?
Fixell: They fit any application for robotics, including material handling, machine vision, machine tending, welding, collaborative or industrial robots. We’re targeting productivity. In one application, ABB OmniCore increase productivity 25%. It supports very precise applications such as arc welding, mobile phone assembling and gluing applications, with 0.6mm accuracy at speeds up to 1600mm/sec. In another application, it’s use reduced energy consumption up to 20%.
Cohen: What’s the future for these controllers?
Fixell: Collaborative robots are attracting users who want robots to be easier to program, install and use while keeping performance high. The ABB OmniCore controller family is super scalable, supporting small and large robots. Users are asking how to manage and integrate robotic motion and sensors. ABB has about 1000 options for robotic hardware and software to fit specific application needs.
Cohen: How does AI fit with robotics?
Fixell: Especially in gripping, picking and placing in dynamic environments, AI will help robots maneuver for better accuracy, speed and payload capabilities. Applications include flexible warehouses, logistics, laboratories, health care, life sciences and other areas, creating better solutions to help customers. More agile and flexible.
Cohen: What the feedback been on ABB OmniCore, and what’s next for ABB Robotics?
Fixell: Feedback has been positive. If you have a really small robot, it doesn’t make sense to have a cabinet twice its size. Greater efficiencies help customers’ sustainability efforts. OmniCore capabilities also address global trends, such as availability of resources labor shortages because it’s easier to program, integrate and use. In the future, we will continue to help customers to be profitable and prosperous. We want to make robots easier to use so more people can install and commission them in a short time.
Edited by Mark T. Hoske, editor-in-chief, Control Engineering, WTWH Media, [email protected].
KEYWORDS
Robot controllers, robotic trends
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