Vention Aims To Simplify Robotics With AI-Based Controller and ABB Collaboration

Vention, an automation company that manufactures turn-key automation solutions as well as individual plug-and-play components, has released a new AI-powered motion controller that can perform advanced computing operations. The company has also announced a collaboration with ABB to make Vention’s automation platform compatible with ABB’s lineup of GoFa collaborative robots.

Vention’s MachinMotion AI controller is reimagining robotic control systems, giving them more flexibility than existing PLCs. Image used courtesy of Vention

MachineMotion AI

MachineMotion AI is an AI-based automation controller targeted toward any-sized robotics manufacturers wanting more capable industrial robots. According to Vention, its third-generation controllers signify the post-PLC era, where new controllers are based on AI instead of ladder logic diagrams. Decision-making capabilities are more complicated and can be based on sensor feedback, historic data, and other sources, using AI versus just a few pieces of information, as is found in PLCs.

The MachineMotion AI system will be compatible with several popular robot manufacturers, including FANUC, Universal Robots, and ABB. It will be capable of delivering up to 3,000 W of power and controlling up to 30 servo motors over EtherCAT.

The MachineMotion AI controller was formally announced during a Demo Day fireside chat with Vention’s CEO and Vice President. The controller can now be pre-ordered and will be available beginning in 2025.

ABB’s GoFa cobots can now be fully integrated with Vention’s Manufacturing Automation Platform (MAP). Image used courtesy of ABB

Vention and ABB Collaborate

Vention’s collaboration with ABB will ensure connectivity between Vention’s Manufacturing Automation Platform (MAP) and ABB’s GoFa cobot family. MAP allows clients to develop, deploy, automate, and operate automated equipment directly from a web browser. The GoFa line of cobots from ABB is designed to work alongside their human counterparts for welding, assembly, and inspection tasks. It is available in three lifting capacities (5 kg, 10 kg, and 12 kg).

Seamless integration between MAP and GoFa cobots will enable quick deployment of cobot manufacturing cells from prototyping and design stages until full production mode. Through this collaboration, users will have access to Vention’s MachineBuilder. This automation design module allows users to select all of the components to customize the factory floor to support their operations. 

Besides MachineBuilder, Vention’s MachineLogic and MachineAnalytics are also available. MachineLogic is a programming and simulation environment that is intuitive for new users and allows users to predict how robots will interact before actually deploying them in the manufacturing environment. MachineAnalytics gives users access to data analysis tools that can be used to optimize motions, improve safety, and increase efficiency and throughput.