ABB Robotics released its first modular industrial robot arms in 2023. Its fifth-generation robots expanded the company’s large robot range with four new models. These models, however, include 22 different variants to offer ABB’s customers more choices, increased coverage, and greater performance.

The IRB 6710, IRB 6720, IRB 6730, and IRB 6740 have payloads ranging from 150 kg to 310 kg and reaches from 2.5 m to 3.2 m.

What makes these robots innovative is that all 22 models are based on the same modular design. All of the components are standardized across all model platforms, including the base, lower arm, upper arm, and wrist. All of the robots having the same footprint means installation is faster, more convenient, and more flexible.

All of the modules, or building blocks, share the same linkages or interfaces, allowing ABB to offer a greater range of robot models more efficiently. The company said these modules help it maintain a more manageable supply chain of components, allowing it to deliver built-to-order robots far more quickly and economically.

The result is shorter lead times for customers and more flexible robots. Customers can order an ABB robot model that exactly matches the specifications of their application. And if things change in the future, they can simply change out robot components to modify the robot’s capabilities.

This lets ABB’s customers know they’re not sinking money into something that won’t be able to adapt as their business grows. For example, within the electric vehicle industry, manufacturers will likely need to ramp up production in the coming years. These manufacturers can choose from a wide range of ABB robots to ensure they have the right variant to handle batteries of varying sizes.

Explore the RBR50 Robotics Innovation Awards 2024.