ABB Robotics has extended the scope of its free Wizard Easy Programming software. Specifically, it now includes six-axis industrial robots powered by an OmniCore^TM controller in addition to its collaborative robots (cobots). This makes ABB the first robot manufacturer to offer an easy-to-use, no-code programming tool for cobots and six-axis industrial robots. Accordingly, it lowers barriers to automation for new users. Also, it offers ecosystem partners and integrators an efficient tool to support their customers. 

“Addressing industry challenges and opportunities is essential to sustain and accelerate the worldwide adoption of robotics automation.” This is according to Marc Segura, President of ABB Robotics. “By extending Wizard Easy Programming to our six-axis industrial robots, ABB Robotics is responding to the scarcity of skilled labor and rising manufacturer demand for simple and easy-to use robot programming software for their robot fleets.”

Building Robot Applications with No Prior Training

Wizard Easy Programming uses a graphical, no-code, drag-and-drop programming approach designed to simplify the development of robot applications. The software helps first-time and expert robot users to develop applications in minutes – a task that typically requires one week of training and another for development. Since its release in 2020, Wizard Easy Programming has been widely adopted in a range of applications using ABB’s collaborative robot portfolio. This includes the Yumi, SWIFTI^TM, and GoFa™ cobot families.

Additionally, the software helps operators with no prior training to develop robot applications such as arc welding or machine tending.  Also, it increases operational flexibility, allowing users to modify existing programs and pre-programmed blocks that control various behaviors. These range from robot movements to signal instructions and force control, through its intuitive graphical user interface.

Efficient Creation of Custom Code for Use Case Specific Applications

Catering to novice and experienced users, Wizard Easy Programming comes with Skill Creator. Specifically, this is a tool that helps system integrators and other expert users efficiently create customized, application-specific Wizard blocks for use with their customers.  Also, Skill Creator can simplify the creation of highly specific tasks like machine tending and welding and intricate applications including medical inspections. Meanwhile, ecosystem partners developing accessories such as grippers, feeders, and cameras will gain access to a digital tool to share product-specific functionalities, regardless of the type of robot they will be deployed on.

Wizard Easy Programming comes preinstalled on all cobots and new six-axis industrial robots powered by OmniCore™. Omnicore is ABB’s best-in-class robot controller family, which delivers an average 20 percent energy savings and future-proof deployments by offering built-in digital connectivity and 1000+ scalable functions.