ABB invests in Scalable Robotics
Range of user-friendly welding solutions
ABB is entering into a strategic partnership with US start-up Scalable Robotics to expand its range of robotic welding solutions.
Scalable Robotics' technology uses 3D image processing and integrated process knowledge to enable easy programming of welding robots. "Faced with global challenges such as labor shortages, disrupted supply chains and general uncertainty, companies are increasingly turning to robotics to improve their resilience, flexibility and efficiency," says Marc Segura, head of ABB's Robotics division. "In the US alone, it is estimated that there will be a shortage of 400,000 skilled welders by 2024. To combat this, we need to promote the adoption of robotics and offer technologies that are easy to use and program. This will make it easier for manufacturing companies to introduce automated solutions that can weld more components in less time - while ensuring minimum waste and maximum quality."
With Scalable's technology, ABB is expanding its portfolio of solutions that do not require the writing of program codes or special programming knowledge. Welders can simply show the robot where a weld seam is to be applied - the robot then learns the corresponding path independently. Scalable's platform includes a 3D camera in a protective housing at the end of the robot arm and a touchscreen interface that guides users through all the scanning, teaching, validation and fine-tuning steps.









