ABB Robotics has announced the launch of AppStudio, a groundbreaking no-code software tool that aims to reduce the time needed to set up robotic interfaces by as much as 80%. The company designed the platform to empower users of all experience levels—from novices to seasoned developers—to create customized robot user interfaces swiftly and effectively.
The need for such a tool comes amidst a growing shortage of skilled labor, particularly within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have traditionally seen complexity as a significant barrier to adopting robotic automation. According to Marc Segura, President of the ABB Robotics Division, AppStudio is intended to simplify automation processes significantly. "Designed for novices and experts alike, AppStudio is an exciting addition to ABB’s current software offering," Segura said. "By making it easier to create robot interfaces, it will save users significant time on setup and allow for fast and seamless robot integration across diverse applications."
AppStudio’s innovative features include a collaborative cloud-based library that allows users to share application templates easily. It is compatible with all ABB robots on the OmniCore controller platform, facilitating broad applicability across various devices and environments.
After acquiring AppStudio, users are presented with two main paths: they can either repurpose a previously used setup or choose from a vast selection of templates, models, modules, and examples available in a cloud-based library. These resources come in 20 different languages, ensuring accessibility for a diverse, global user base.
For those aiming to create rather than reuse, AppStudio offers the capability to create customized interfaces compatible with devices such as the OmniCore FlexPendant, tablets, and mobile phones. This feature is particularly useful for clients transitioning from the IRC5 controller to the OmniCore platform, as it reduces the time necessary to rebuild interfaces from days to mere minutes—a significant time and cost-saving benefit.
AppStudio incorporates intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, empowering users to personalize interfaces according to their needs with elements like icons, dropdown menus, and buttons. More advanced users are catered to as well; they have access to a JavaScript-based component kit, enabling the creation of highly customized interface elements that can be shared to enhance collaborative project efforts.
A further noteworthy feature is the capability to immediately deploy created interfaces to ABB robots or a digital twin within ABB’s RobotStudio programming tool. This functionality allows robots to be programmed to execute specific commands, such as performing an action or opening a gripper, ensuring integrated and seamless operation from the outset.
Another crucial aspect is the financial availability of the tool. AppStudio is offered as a free download from ABB’s website, positioning the tool as a widely accessible resource in the sphere of robotics.
ABB's expansive robotics portfolio doesn't end with AppStudio. It includes industrial robots, collaborative robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and machine automation platforms. Adding to this portfolio, ABB launched an Energy Efficiency Service in October, designed to assist manufacturers with improving the energy efficiency of their robots by up to 30% using a tailored package of consultations, analysis, and tools.
The launch of AppStudio aligns with the industry's overall direction towards ease of use and operational efficiency, particularly in environments traditionally hindered by technical complexity and resource constraints. As the demand for automation continues to grow, tools like AppStudio may play a crucial role in breaking down the barriers to entry, allowing businesses to harness the full potential of robotic technology.
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