ABB has launched IRB 1010 as its smallest-ever industrial robot. This new tool offers new possibilities for faster, more flexible and high-quality production of wearable smart devices. Specifically, it offers compact size, class-leading payload and unrivaled accuracy. These features allow IRB 1010 to offer electronics manufacturers the opportunity to increase production of devices, including smart watches, earphones, sensors, and health trackers through automation.

“The market for wearable smart devices is accelerating rapidly, with projections estimating double-digit growth between 2022 and 2028,” said Rui Liang, Managing Director of ABB Robotics’ electronics business line. “To meet this growth, companies are demanding compact robotic solutions that are suited to narrow production spaces in electronics manufacturing lines and that can accurately handle the small components used in wearable devices. Our IRB 1010 meets these demands as the most accurate robot in its class for 1.5kg payloads. It enables companies to maximize output and productivity while maintaining the highest levels of product quality.”

To Fit Narrow Spaces 

Particularly, IRB 1010 is designed to suit the narrow spaces and special-purpose machines typical of electronics production environments. With a reach of 370mm and a footprint of 135×250mm, IRB 1010 is 30 percent smaller than ABB’s current smallest robot, IRB 120. These compact dimensions increase the number of cells that can be fitted into production spaces, enabling manufacturers to boost output through higher density factory layouts.

Higher Payload Capacity

Capable of handling loads up to 1.5kg, IRB 1010 has the highest payload in its class. It has the ability to lift up to three times more weight than comparable robots. This increased payload capacity – coupled with a larger diameter air hose that provides added power for vacuum suction – enables simultaneous handling of multiple objects. This feature allows more objects to be processed per hour. Additionally, it also opens opportunities for new applications including film peeling, material handling, assembly, gluing and inspection.

Enhanced Productivity

The inclusion of six braking systems further enhanced productivity. These systems allow the robot arm to remain in its position even when stopped. By eliminating the time needed for the robot to recover its position after a stop or pause, production can be resumed more quickly. Thus, it enables IRB 1010 to do more in less time than other robots in its class.

Specifically, ABB’s OmniCore™ E10 controller is key to IRB 1010’s high accuracy. It offers class-leading position and path repeatability of 0.01mm. With its slimline design, the controller is well suited to small part assembly in applications where production cell sizes need to be minimized. The controller offers the flexibility to meet changing requirements, with built-in digital connectivity and over 1000 additional functions enabling easy scalability.

Consuming up to 20 percent less energy compared to ABB’s previous IRC5C controllers, the OmniCore E10 also enables manufacturers to cut their energy costs and improve energy efficiency.

Robot Control Mate Makes Programming Simple

Programming the IRB 1010 is made simple with ABB’s Robot Control Mate. Available as an add-in to ABB’s RobotStudio® programming software, Robot Control Mate enables users to move, teach and calibrate IRB 1010 from their computer or mobile tablets without the need for programming skills.

This simple programming, together with the small size of IRB 1010, also opens new possibilities for educational applications. IRB 1010’s compact design makes it suitable for installation on classroom desktops. Meanwhile, its ease-of-use enables both teachers and students to quickly master the skills needed for programming and operation.

The addition of IRB 1010 complements ABB’s comprehensive range of articulated industrial robots, with includes a full range of small, medium, and large options. These include a growing family of collaborative robots that can be safely deployed alongside workers.