ABB Upgrades Robotics Programming and Simulation Software

ABB has enhanced its RobotStudio robot programming and simulation software with cloud-enabled functionality. The new RobotStudio Cloud enables individuals and teams to collaborate in real time on robot cell designs remotely on any device. New features such as automatic version control increase transparency and productivity across teams. According to ABB, the software’s simplified interfaces and intuitive navigation enable users of all skill levels to work on robotic projects.

“New web-based tools like RobotStudio Cloud bring a new level of agility and flexibility to manufacturers in how they plan and design their robotic automation solutions,” Marc Segura, president of ABB Robotics division, says. “Offering a simplified user experience, RobotStudio Cloud helps to increase collaboration and reduce complexity, enabling both novices and experts to push the boundaries of robotics programming.”

The enhanced cloud-based RobotStudio software can help companies program robots more collaboratively while cutting the time, cost and disruption associated with physical testing and commissioning. Now system integrators and engineering teams can collaborate in real time to design, develop and enhance robotic automation solutions.

New features in RobotStudio Cloud include version control, which enables users to keep track of changes and have full transparency of any amendments. With complete knowledge of who edited the program and when, developers can cut the time needed to resolve errors and performance issues.

Incorporating RobotStudio’s cloud-based virtual controllers, developers have a rapid and powerful robot-simulation tool to tune and test programs. By producing an exact digital twin, the virtual controllers move the robot as precisely in the real world as in the simulation. This enables for the fine-tuning and optimization that can help minimize waste or problems when production begins.

The software’s simplified interface makes it easier to produce and change programs, enabling users with little engineering expertise to program robot applications rapidly and with minimum effort. Meanwhile, enterprise-grade protection ensures high security and productivity.

RobotStudio Cloud is the latest chapter in the ongoing development of ABB’s RobotStudio software, which offers over 500 integrated functions. Automatic path planning, for example, can reportedly reduce the time needed to program robots by 80%. In addition, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) options allow users to visualize and interact with their designs in a virtual 3D environment.