A new era for AI-driven robotic automation

The MOTOMAN NEXT demonstration cell shows what is meant by intelligent, adaptive robotics: the robot is given a task, recognizes both the parts to be processed and its changing environment, and adapts its motion to the situation.

At the start of the demonstration, visitors can set up any scenario and place objects—here, fruit—as well as obstacles. They then select the fruit they want the robot to handle. Thanks to artificial intelligence and a 3D camera, the vision system automatically models, recognizes, and classifies the fruit. Next, the “Path Planning” function creates trajectories from the robot’s current position to the target position, avoiding obstacles detected by the camera. This is how the MOTOMAN NEX10 robot picks up the fruit and automatically places it into the target basket.

This interactive application helps users understand how the new MOTOMAN NEXT solution works and the features included in the MOTOMAN NEXT package: automatic collision-free path planning (“Path Planning”), machine vision and image processing including detection, gripping, and a user interface.

Relying on MOTOMAN NEXT services greatly simplifies the work of system integrators in successfully launching AI-based robotics projects. Software developers using NEXT services benefit from substantial development time savings and have the right tools to build their code in a concise, modular way, with secure processes.

A new ecosystem for full machine control with “iCube Control”

“iCube Control” is Yaskawa’s new open automation solution for machine control, based on PLCnext technology running on a real-time Linux system, giving application engineers, machine builders, and integrators full control over their systems.

This new control approach makes it possible to integrate and manage everything expected in a modern motion architecture—motion, logic, robotics, safety, HMI, and a machine’s network—thanks to a new controller using the open EtherCAT communication protocol and complying with IEC 61131-3 programming standards traditionally used in automation and machine building.

The HD8 handling robot: a new benchmark in hygienic robotics

A high-performance 6-axis robot specially developed for hygienic and aseptic environments, the IP69-certified MOTOMAN HD8 “Hygienic Design” meets the strict requirements of applications in the food industry in particular, as well as laboratories, medical, and pharmaceutical sectors: sealed housing, antimicrobial surface, food-grade grease, and internal cabling. It is therefore easy to clean, as it is resistant to the most commonly used disinfection products and processes in industry.

In terms of programming, the HD8 can be operated with Yaskawa’s conventional pendant and software, like the entire range, or also via the intuitive “Smart Pendant” touchscreen tablet-type teach pendant.

The HD8 therefore guarantees industrial-grade quality and very high reliability for many years of operation, even in wet environments.

Industry 4.0 solution for production monitoring and control: “Digital Remote Monitoring”

Yaskawa continues to develop its ecosystem of solutions to better support manufacturers seeking higher performance and productivity. At the show, the Japanese manufacturer is presenting its new complete and secure “Digital Remote Monitoring” solution, which enables, on the one hand, real-time remote monitoring of Yaskawa robotic installations, and on the other hand, production control to prevent downtime and optimize productivity.

This is a new step forward in automation and digitalization for all manufacturers equipped with Yaskawa, as this solution makes it possible, among other things, to track robot performance and cycle times, receive alerts in the event of robot malfunctions, and carry out preventive maintenance. It is also possible to film inside robotic cells, enabling remote and time-shifted diagnosis and monitoring of installations. This is done via the customizable “Checkbot” user interface, which is intuitive and user-friendly, offering great ease of use.