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ABB has enhanced its RobotStudio robot programming and simulation software with cloud-enabled functionality. The new RobotStudio Cloud enables individuals and teams to collaborate in real-time on robot cell designs from anywhere in the world, on any device.

ABB said new features such as automatic version control increase transparency and productivity across teams. The software’s simplified interfaces and intuitive navigation allow users of all skill levels to work on robotic projects.

“At ABB Robotics, we continue to develop innovative and flexible solutions to help businesses overcome challenges, respond to changing customer needs and thrive in an age of increasing digitalization,” said Marc Segura, president of ABB Robotics division. “New web-based tools like RobotStudio Cloud bring a new level of agility and flexibility to manufacturers in how they plan and design their robotic automation solutions. Offering a simplified user experience, RobotStudio Cloud helps to increase collaboration and reduce complexity, enabling both novices and experts to push the boundaries of robotics programming.”

ABB said the new cloud-based RobotStudio software can help companies program robots more collaboratively while cutting the time, cost and disruption associated with physical testing and commissioning. Now system integrators and engineering teams can collaborate in real-time to design, develop and enhance robotic automation solutions.

New features in RobotStudio Cloud include version control, which allows users to keep track of changes and have full transparency of any amendments. With complete knowledge of who edited the program and when, developers can cut the time needed to resolve errors and performance issues.

The software’s simplified interface makes it easier than ever to produce and change programs, ABB said, enabling users with little engineering expertise to program robot applications rapidly and with minimum effort. Meanwhile, enterprise-grade protection ensures high security and productivity.

RobotStudio Cloud is the latest chapter in the ongoing development of ABB’s RobotStudio software, which already offers over 500 integrated productivity-enhancing functions. Automatic path planning, for example, can reduce the time needed to program robots by 80%, ABB claims. In addition, AR (augmented reality) and VR-enabled (virtual reality) options allow users to optimize the design of their robotic installations by enabling them to visualize and interact with them in a virtual 3D environment.