A robot package that puts together hardware, including the 4-axis IRB 460 robot shown here, and software for automating high-speed, end-of-line palletizing is easier to program and integrate into existing lines. (Source: ABB)
This robot package adds to a recent trend in automation -- devices that include the intelligence inside, making it easier for users to deploy the package. We're seeing this in a wide range of automation equipment. This is the first time I've seen it with robotics. It's a great idea -- make the device or package more intelligent on the inside and less complicated on the outside.
I'm not sold on this being a great idea. There are nuances to robot programming that cannot be included into a software package. Proper selection of motion type, termination type, look-ahead, etc. are part of robot programming. Programming a robot is easy. Programming a robot well isn't.
The best examples that I have are with CNC machining. I saw a demonstration of an aluminum part being machined, and I could hear the machine was being over-driven. After the cutting cycle ended, I reached into the machine to inspect the chips to see how hard the cutter had been working. I pulled out a blob of aluminum. The software had allowed the tool to be driven so hard that it melted the aluminum instead of cutting it. I saw another application where the software allowed a 9/16 drill bit to be plunged through 1/2 thich aluminum. The proper sequence would have been: center drill, pilot drill, finishing drill. Oh, the reason that I was there was they had destroyed the bearings in the spindle because the drilling reaction load was too large.
ABB is leveraging its experience in writing palletizing applications with this software and robots/grippers specifically targeting these types of projects. By putting the major focus on ease of use, this approach reduce the need for custom programming but I would be surprised if they couldn't make adjustments to fit a specific customer requirement. This is a very intriguing product that has a goal of virtually eliminating the requirement to write robot application software for the user. Definitely a trend; the key is application software that can be deployed to meet a range of customer needs using the standard software product.
Yes, Apresher, it seems the goal for much of the new automation hardware is to relieve the end user of customer programming. So much of the new product introductions seemed to be designed for quick and easy deployment. Not a bad trend.
While there are some application-specific packages being developed with the goal of limiting user programming, the bigger trend in automation software is the development of software objects. These objects are reusable, configurable functions that are supported by powerful integrated development environments but still require programming expertise. Of course, companies that build specific types of machines have their software base and expertise in specific application areas but it doesn't go as far as the ABB solution which is offering really a turnkey package for palletizing.
Al, when you talk about the goal of eliminating the need to write robot application software, what does that mean? Does the user just answer a few software-based questions, fill in a few parameters, and then go? Seems like the robot's motion wouldn't be very ideally-suited to the task that way.
Chuck, The key is the pre-written routines specifically for palletizing which, I assume, users can configure for their specific application. The new software approach merges with the virtual programming environment of ABB RobotStudio which allows users to configure, simulate and program robots and grippers for palletizing solutions. Since users are also able to immediately download code into the robot, teach reference points in the work cell and get up and running more quickly, it is potentially a huge advancement in reducing engineering costs and lead times for palletizing projects.
Robot manufacturers have gotten lots of feedback from customers that robot programming is too complex, so providing easier to use solutions is an ongoing focus. We'll have to wait and see how widespread this type of approach becomes.
Glenn, we've discussed this issue in a few other article comment threads. The idea is similar to the idea in machine vision or any other area of manufacturing and automation: simplify "programming" so instead of actual coding it's more like point and click, and operators can do it, instead of actual programmers.
With LEDs dropping in price virtually every year, automakers have begun employing them, not only on luxury vehicles, but on entry-level models, as well.
The 3D printing revolution seems to have a knack for quickly moving technology ahead by way of collaborative effort and even a little friendly competition -- all of course in the name of scientific advancement.
Advantech has launched a new series of motion-control I/O modules to meet the increased demands that come with more distributed industrial systems that require control of a growing number of axes and devices.
Using almost 200 light-emitting diodes in the front and back of the new 2014 CTS, Cadillac designers are showing how LEDs can change the character of a vehicle.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
3 
