ABB Robotics launched the third generation of its PickMaster robotic software for vision-guided random flow picking and packing applications for the digital Factory of the Future. The new PickMaster Twin software is equipped with digital twin technology for the first time, to shorten commissioning times from days to hours and cut changeover periods from hours to minutes.

Digital twin technology allows customers to test out robotic configurations on virtual production lines before physical lines are built. When using digital twin technology, the simulated twin can be directly connected to production operations, which allows the picking process to be optimized virtually at the same time as the process is being implemented. For customers, PickMaster Twin now offers flexibility and visualization of all complicated robotic maneuvers designed for flow-wrapping, tray loading, case and carton packing and handling applications.

Enabling offline programming of picking and packing tasks means users can create, simulate and test a complete robot installation in a virtual environment without having to disturb their actual production line. This not only helps customers mitigate costly and time-consuming risks, but also shortens the time to market for new products, as product lines can be installed faster, ramped up to full speed without surprises during commissioning and continuously used in concurrent optimization – a critical competency for manufacturers with today’s mass customization and shorter product life cycles.

“These upgrades to ABB’s PickMaster technology will help our customers take high speed picking and rapid applications to the next level, whether it’s to boost picking and packing efficiency or to reduce the cost of integrating robotics into production lines,” said Steven Wyatt, Head of Portfolio and Digital for ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation business.

PickMaster Twin also condenses and enhances the advanced application experience with new intuitive interfaces built on ABB’s Ability Zenon Operations Data Management, providing vibrant and colorful dashboards for easy data visualization. In addition, PickMaster Twin complies with the OMAC PackML (packaging machine language) standard, which makes it ideal for modern packaging machines. The latest PickMaster software also features online visual tuning of the workspace in both X and Y directions in order to maximize output and increase OEE (overall equipment effectiveness).

PickMaster Twin is available in a multitude of configurations and can work seamlessly with all ABB robots, and a range of virtual and physical machines. Coupled with the inherent user-friendly software, the PickMaster Twin is best-suited for factories and production lines where higher output, faster response times and quick changeovers are vital.

ABB’s PickMaster software was introduced at the China International Industry Fair (CIIF) in Shanghai. It will be on display at Pack Expo in Las Vegas (September 23-25) at the ABB Robotics Booth (#C-2051).