Building on the success of YuMi, the world’s first collaborative, dual-arm industrial robot, ABB has unveiled a new single-arm collaborative robot, which offers users a much smaller footprint.

The new single-arm robot will be officially launched next year, but ABB gave visitors to the 2017 International Robotics Exhibition (iREX) in Tokyo a sneak peek this week.

As their name suggests, collaborative robots (cobots) are designed to work alongside humans on the factory floor to raise productivity and support the transition to mass customization.

Like YuMi, a small-parts assembly robot introduced in 2015, the new robot has a payload of 500g.

Its compact design means it can be easily integrated into existing assembly lines, increasing productivity. The new robot also features lead-through programming, eliminating the need for specialized training for operators.

Exceptionally versatile

Sami Atiya, President of ABB’s Robotics and Motion division said the success of YuMi has exceeded expectations.

“It was originally designed for small-parts assembly, but it has turned out to be exceptionally versatile – it can solve a Rubik’s Cube, make sushi, wrap gifts and conduct an orchestra, Mr Atiya said.

“Based on YuMi’s enormous success, we fully expect our new single-arm robot to be equally well-received, especially since it was developed at the request of customers.”

Per Vegard Nerseth, Managing Director, ABB Robotics said: “We continue to build our collaborative robotics portfolio.

“The newest robot is a much anticipated addition to the ‘factory of the future,’ enabling our customers to grow and thrive in the age of mass customization.

“Combining this robot with our ABB Ability™ digital solutions will allow our customers to take efficiency and reliability in their factories to the next level.”