Dual-arm concept robot

ABB has developed a dual-arm concept robot aimed at closing the gap between a manual assembly and a fully automatic assembly process. It is designed to be suitable for environments involving handling and assembly of small parts in a line where both humans and robots work.

The robot, FRIDA, consists of a torso with integrated controller, two arms (with seven axes each) and grippers capable of handling a wide range of parts. The arms have a reach similar to that of a small adult and the weight of the robot is small enough to make it portable. Using single-phase power, it can be mounted on a workbench or hung from a wall - it is capable of operating in tight spaces and reaching components below its base.

The features of the robot allow it to be easily interchanged with a human co-worker when the production order is changed or a new layout is required.

Due to the intrinsic safety of the proposed robot solution, the requirements for performing a safety assessment of the installation are minimised. Normally, no safeguarding or enclosing of any kind is required, which allows for very fast installation, commissioning and relocation. Key technology features are:

• Harmless robotic co-worker for industrial assembly
• Human-like arms and body with integrated IRC5 controller
• Complements human labour with scalable automation
• Padded dual arms ensure safe productivity and flexibility
• Lightweight and easy to mount for fast deployment
• Agile motion based on ABB robot technology

The concept robot was created in response to requests from ABB Robotics’ existing customer base to develop robotic solutions for manufacturing environments in which humans and robots would be able to work together. This 14-axis, dual-arm robot is the initial output from ABB Corporate Research’s initiative for industries requiring new and innovative solutions for their small part assembly operations.

As a result of the positive reaction to this initial effort, ABB is now engaged in the further development of this concept. The robot is also part of a research program aimed at evaluating new robotic solutions for modern manufacturing concepts (FP7 Rosetta).

There are no immediate plans by ABB Robotics to introduce the robot as a commercial product.