ABB Announces AI-Powered Robot Vision and High-Performance Robots

ABB Robotics has announced two releases: an AI-powered vision training workflow and two new industrial robots. The new software update introduces OmniCore EyeMotion with AI Robot Trainer, while the hardware launch features the IRB 1700 and IRB 1700ID robots.

Together, these releases aim to advance industrial automation, from simplifying machine vision applications to handling manufacturing tasks with faster and more precise robots.

OmniCore EyeMotion’s AI Robot Trainer combines image acquisition, AI model training, and deployment into one workflow. Video courtesy of ABB Robotics

AI Robot Trainer Simplifies Vision Application Development

ABB is adding AI Robot Trainer to its OmniCore EyeMotion platform, enabling users to develop, deploy, and improve AI-powered robot vision applications without having to build AI models from scratch.

This tool unifies image capture, model training, deployment, and updates in a single workflow. System integrators and automation partners can use images from the factory floor to create vision data for production.

The workflow uses both real and synthetic image data, along with ABB’s robotics expertise, to make things easier for users who are not AI specialists. A guided interface and AI chatbot help users through the process.

The system works with third-party cameras and sensors, making it flexible for existing automation setups. It can handle simple tasks like 2D pick-and-place and more complex jobs like 3D bin picking, quality checks, sorting, and assembly. The workflow also helps manufacturers adjust vision systems for new products, changes in lighting, layout updates, and different objects.

ABB has designed AI Robot Trainer to simplify vision applications such as 2D pick-and-place, 3D bin picking, quality inspection, sorting, and assembly. Image courtesy of ABB Robotics

ABB Reports Shorter Commissioning and Cycle Times

According to ABB, using OmniCore EyeMotion with AI Robot Trainer can cut commissioning time by up to 90%. ABB also states that, when combined with automatic collision-free path planning, OmniCore EyeMotion with AI Robot Trainer can reduce cycle times by up to 50%.

This integrated solution enables manufacturers to implement vision-guided automation more quickly and adapt efficiently as production requirements evolve. Automatic path planning connects what the vision system sees to the robot’s movements, turning visual data into planned actions.

The new high-performance IRB 1700 and IRB 1700ID robots for high-speed precision manufacturing. Video courtesy of ABB Robotics

IRB 1700 Robots Target High-Speed Precision Manufacturing

ABB Robotics also launched the IRB 1700 and IRB 1700ID, two compact industrial robots built for fast, precise work and efficient use of space. There are five versions, with payloads from 6 kg to 12 kg. These robots use ABB’s OmniCore controllers and are designed to support manufacturing while using less energy and needing less maintenance.

According to ABB, these robots have cycle times up to 20% shorter than similar robots on the market. They offer path repeatability down to 0.03 mm and joint speeds up to 700 degrees per second, making them suitable for tasks like material handling, welding, deburring, sanding, and machine tending.

The new IRB 1700 uses up to 15% less power than the previous IRB 1600 when carrying the same load with an OmniCore controller. Service intervals extend up to 20,000 hours between oil changes, helping to reduce both maintenance frequency and overall operating expenses. The robot’s footprint is 50% smaller than its predecessor. The IRB 1700ID also makes installation easier by routing cables and hoses inside the robotic arm.

The IRB 1700 and IRB 1700ID target arc welding, sanding, deburring, material handling, machine tending, and AI server rack assembly. Image courtesy of ABB Robotics

Supporting More Adaptable Manufacturing

ABB’s IRB 1700 robots are made for common manufacturing jobs like surface finishing, welding, material handling, and machine tending. ABB also sees electronics production, especially in the manufacturing of AI servers, as a growing area for fast, precise robotics.

As manufacturers face higher demand for computing infrastructure and more complex electronics, automation systems need to keep quality high while speeding up production. Compact robots with high repeatability can help when set up correctly. By offering both AI vision tools and compact robots, ABB gives manufacturers more options to set up quickly, automate flexibly, and improve production efficiency.