ABB launches OmniCore robot controller on the market

ABB's OmniCore platform is the result of an investment of more than $170 million in next-generation robotics and represents a major step towards a modular and future-proof control architecture. It enables the full integration of AI, sensor, cloud and edge computing systems to develop cutting-edge and autonomous robotic applications. "Automation is a strategic imperative for our customers who need greater flexibility, simplicity and efficiency to respond to global megatrends such as labor shortages, insecurity and the need for sustainable business," said Sami Atiya, head of ABB's Robotics & Factory Automation business. "Through our development of advanced mechatronics, AI and vision systems, our robots are now more accessible, powerful, flexible and mobile than ever before. But increasingly, they also need to work seamlessly together - both with us and with each other - to do more tasks in more places. That's why we're launching OmniCore, a new milestone in our 50-year history of robotics. OmniCore is a unique unified control architecture based on a single platform and language, integrating our entire portfolio of leading hardware and software."

OmniCore's leading motion control enables robot path accuracy of less than 0.6 mm, even when multiple robots are operating at high speeds of up to 1,600 mm/s. This opens up new automation possibilities in areas such as arc welding, cell phone display assembly, gluing and laser cutting, where maximum precision is required. Compared to the previous ABB controller, OmniCore enables up to 25 percent faster robot operation and 20 percent lower energy consumption. OmniCore is based on a scalable, modular control architecture that offers a wide range of functions for the development of almost any conceivable application. "A unique feature of OmniCore is its ability to control motion, sensors and application devices through a single integrated system," said Marc Segura, head of ABB's Robotics division. "OmniCore opens the door to ABB Robotics' entire hardware and software portfolio, in any combination and on a single control platform. This creates unlimited possibilities and new ways of adding value. In the automotive industry, OmniCore enables an increase in the production output of robotic press lines from 12 to 15 strokes per minute, producing 900 parts per hour, giving manufacturers a huge competitive advantage. As we celebrate ABB Robotics' 50th anniversary, we are convinced that OmniCore has the potential for many more breakthroughs in the industry and will help customers across all sectors to meet the challenges of the future." OmniCore replaces ABB's IRC5 robot controller, which will be phased out in June 2026. Customers working with IRC5 will continue to receive spare parts and services from ABB for the remaining useful life of the robots.