ABB has launched a new Robotics Ecosystem Program to support its customers with more diverse automation applications. Specifically, the program allows collaboration with a global network of partners. Accordingly, it will enable easy access for end users and system integrators to third-party innovations, including certified peripheral equipment and software solutions.

“Lack of skills and experience in using robots can be a barrier for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) when it comes to realizing the full range of benefits that robotic automation can deliver,” said Andrea Cassoni, Managing Director, Global Business Line General Industry for ABB Robotics. “For end users, the availability of plug and play solutions from our Ecosystem partners addresses these issues. It will enable them to introduce and integrate robots quickly and easily into their operations.”

Specifically, the new program will allow Ecosystem partners to develop and provide packages consisting of pre-engineered accessories and software. These are compatible and can be easily integrated with ABB’s complete portfolio of robotic solutions. As fully integrated, ready-to-use solutions, the packages will enable both end users and systems integrators to reduce time and effort in setting up robots for new applications. Also, they will let system integrators offer more technologically advanced solutions. Accordingly, this will increase their competitiveness and further lower the barriers to automation for SMEs.

Available for both ABB’s cobots and industrial robots, the first Ecosystem packages focus on hardware – such as grippers, tables and feeders. In time, the program will also see software solutions developed by partners, such as programming blocks for ABB’s Wizard Easy programming and an app for configuration.

The Ecosystem packages will also help schools, colleges, and universities to create robot applications more easily and introduce them as part of their teaching programs. Currently, ABB works with educational institutions in over 40 countries to equip students with the skills to thrive in a new age of automation.

“As robots become more commonplace in factories, warehouses and other environments, workers will increasingly need to know how to apply automated technologies to perform tasks,” said Cassoni. “By making it easier to introduce robots into classrooms, our Ecosystem Program can play a key part in ensuring that people have the right skills for an automated future.”

Select demo cells built with Ecosystem Partner accessories will be on show on ABB’s stand at Automatica 2023 (Hall B5, booth 319, June 27th-30th). More information are available during a LinkedIn live event on June 29^th. Customer can also visit ABB at the Automatica trade show in Munich, Germany, from June 27th to June 30th to see some of Ecosystem solutions in action.