ABB launches no-code AppStudio to create robotic user interfaces

A laptop with ABB's AppStudio open in front of a white ABB robotic arm.

ABB said its AppStudio software is compatible with all of its robots on the OmniCore controller platform. | Source: ABB Robotics

ABB Robotics yesterday launched AppStudio, a “no-code” software tool that it said can reduce startup time by up to 80%. The company designed AppStudio to empower users of all experience levels to quickly and easily create customized robotic user interfaces.

The system includes intuitive functionality and features, including a collaborative cloud-based library enabling users to share application templates. It is compatible with all ABB robots on the OmniCore controller platform.

“A growing shortage of skilled labor requires the further simplification of automation and programming, especially among small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) where complexity is seen as a major barrier to implementing robotic automation,” stated Marc Segura, president of the ABB Robotics Division.

“Designed for novices and experts alike, AppStudio is an exciting addition to ABB’s current software offering,” he added. “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 supports new, existing interfaces

After installing the software, users have two options, said ABB Robotics. They can repurpose a previously used setup or select from a cloud-based library of templates, models, modules, and examples. Users can select options in 20 languages.

Alternatively, ABB said users can create customized interfaces to fit any device and application. This includes the OmniCore FlexPendant, tablets, and mobile phones.

AppStudio also supports customers migrating from the IRC5 controller to the OmniCore platform, significantly reducing the time needed to rebuild interfaces from days to minutes. This feature ensures a smooth transition to the latest technology, enhancing efficiency and productivity, said ABB.

ABB supports novice and advanced developers

With intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, AppStudio offers simplified configuration, asserted ABB. Users can add icons, dropdown menus, buttons, and other functions to tailor the interface to their specific needs.

The platform also supports more advanced users, who can build custom interface elements using a JavaScript-based component kit, enabling a high degree of customization. Once developed, these elements can be shared with other users for streamlined project collaboration, said the company.

Once a user creates an interface, they can deploy it to the ABB robot or a digital twin in ABB’s RobotStudio programming tool. Through this connection, the robot can be programmed to carry out specific commands, such as performing an action or opening a gripper.

AppStudio is available as a free download from ABB’s website.

ABB’s robotics portfolio includes industrial robots, collaborative robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and machine automation. In October, ABB launched an Energy Efficiency Service. It said the service will provide manufacturers with a package of consultation, analysis, and tools to increase the energy efficiency of their robots. The service offers up to 30% energy savings, claimed the company.