Introduction
After a three-year hiatus, ABB made a remarkable comeback at China International Industry Fair (CIIF) 2023. During this event, ABB unveiled a wide array of innovative robot automation products, solutions, software, and services. All these offerings aligned under the captivating theme: “Not Just Robots, but Infinite Possibilities.”
OptiFact™ Modular Software Platform
One of the highlights of ABB’s presence at CIIF 2023 was the introduction of the OptiFact™ modular software platform. OptiFact™ marked ABB’s debut in the world of modular software platforms. This groundbreaking platform enables enterprises to aggregate, manage, and analyze data from hundreds of factory devices. It empowers these enterprises to extract and cultivate business value. Notably, OptiFact™ achieves a remarkable 20% increase in production efficiency by effectively reducing downtime. Moreover, it optimizes factory decision-making processes by tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and proactively avoiding major operational failures.
IRB 1090 Industrial Education Robot
In the realm of education and skill development, ABB unveiled its latest innovation: the IRB 1090 industrial education robot. With a substantial 3.5kg payload capacity, ABB dedicated its efforts to catering to the educational sector’s specific needs. This robot supports fully customizable educational units and operates under ABB’s cutting-edge OmniCore controller. It has received certification from STEM.org, affirming its educational prowess. Each IRB 1090 robot comes equipped with a complimentary license for ABB’s leading offline programming simulation software, RobotStudio. The introduction of the IRB 1090 aims to bridge the skills gap in robotics education, thereby laying a solid foundation for students as they prepare for future careers in automation and robotics.
Expansive Exhibition Across Four Zones
Beyond these two noteworthy product introductions, ABB’s presence at CIIF 2023 extended across four distinct exhibition zones: the Collaborative Robot Zone, New Applications Zone, Digitalization Zone, and Customer Service Zone. CIIF 2023 stood out by committing to provide an immersive exhibition experience for both online and offline attendees through cutting-edge 3D technology and live streaming.
Robotic Showcase
Visitors to CIIF 2023 had the opportunity to explore a diverse range of robot exhibits. These spanned from specialized applications in the automotive industry to robots that facilitated end-to-end production processes in logistics and machining. ABB presented these exhibits both on-site and online, ensuring a wide-reaching audience could engage with ABB’s cutting-edge robotic solutions.
Digitalization Zone
In the Digitalization Zone, ABB showcased an array of advanced features, including Automatic Path Planning. These features are made possible through ABB’s offline simulation programming software, RobotStudio. They are designed to significantly enhance manufacturing efficiency and streamline operations.
Customer Service Zone
In the Customer Service Zone, attendees delved deeper into ABB’s robot remanufacturing services and modular service agreements. These offerings are committed to elevating resource utilization, promoting material recycling, and extending the operational lifespan of robots. By doing so, ABB plays a pivotal role in fostering a circular economy and driving more sustainable production practices.
ABB’s Legacy in China
ABB’s legacy in China spans nearly three decades. The company has consistently led the development of robot technology in the country. It has assisted clients in adapting to dynamic market landscapes and achieving resounding success. Given China’s status as the world’s largest and fastest-growing robot market, ABB’s commitment to advancing intelligent manufacturing in the region received further emphasis when its 67,000-square-meter robot super factory in Shanghai officially commenced production in December of the preceding year.
Conclusion
As labor shortages, skill gaps, supply chain uncertainties, and global demands for more sustainable and efficient operations continue to mount, robot technology is experiencing an unprecedented surge. In response, an increasing number of enterprises are turning to robots and automation to bolster their resilience and drive smarter, faster, and more efficient operations. ABB’s OptiFact™ software platform, designed to collect, manage, and analyze data from factory equipment, empowers enterprises to make informed decisions, optimize processes, and enhance performance. Simultaneously, the introduction of the IRB 1090 industrial education robot is poised to equip the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in the new era of automation.