ABB Brings AI Assistance to RobotStudio Simulation Software

ABB has introduced AI assistance to its flagship RobotStudio software, marking a major step toward smarter, faster robot programming. The new AI-powered tool uses a large language model to provide real-time coding suggestions, syntax help, and functional guidance directly within RobotStudio. By drawing from ABB’s technical library and documentation, the assistant reduces development time and helps both experienced engineers and new programmers build, test, and deploy robotic applications with greater speed and confidence.

A programmer using RobotStudio to develop robot programs. Image used courtesy of ABB

Programming With AI

Until recently, AI was primarily used for vision applications in the industrial automation industry. The AI algorithms allowed integrators and programmers to develop defect detection applications by teaching the AI algorithms what constitutes a good or bad part. AI is also used for predictive maintenance applications. Data collected from motors, pneumatic cylinders, and process sensors is analyzed using AI technology to determine when components should be replaced or devices serviced. These advancements have helped factories produce higher-quality products with less downtime due to overworked equipment. Recently, ABB has announced that RobotStudio, ABB’s leading robot simulation and program development software, will include AI assistance to help integrators develop robot programs.

A robot performing work in a factory. Image used courtesy of ABB

RobotStudio

Each industrial robot manufacturer has their own flavour of programming and simulation software; ABB uses RobotStudio. With RobotStudio, programmers and integrators can develop and simulate programs in one software installation to ensure accuracy and debug code. This capability reduces integration time and allows the developers to deploy reliable, tested code. Because each robot manufacturer has different ways of programming, most developers need access to programming manuals when they need information on a specific function or syntax. Searching through manuals and reading text can consume a lot of development time, so some integrators will have robot brand specialists on staff who will know the development environment inside and out. An AI assistant could suggest syntax and functions without the time to search through manuals.

RobotStudio is being used to simulate robot paths in a virtual environment. Image used courtesy of ABB

RobotStudio AI

The latest release of RobotStudio will include an AI assistant that will provide real-time guidance for robot programming. The AI assistant is powered by a Large Language Model (LLM), capable of reading and understanding human text. Drawing from ABB’s extensive library of manuals and documentation, the AI assistant can suggest syntax and a specific function or offer step-by-step guidance for developing functional robot programs. By utilizing the AI assistant integrators, robot programmers can build applications faster and cleanly, using more integrated functions from the RobotStudio software. New or inexperienced programmers will have less of a learning gap, allowing smaller factories to take on larger automation processes.