At the 25th China International Industry Fair (CIIF 2025), ABB Robotics demonstrated a series of cutting-edge advancements in robotics technology, continuing its commitment to the development of Autonomous Versatile Robotics Technology (AVRTM). These innovations reflect ABB’s role at the forefront of industrial automation, combining AI, mobility, and precision to redefine the capabilities of robots in complex environments.
The Key Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Robotics
ABB's focus on AI has significantly enhanced the versatility of robots over the past decade. According to Marc Segura, President of ABB Robotics, “We are at a pivotal moment in the development of AI and industrial robotics.” Through the integration of AI-driven 3D vision systems, advanced force control sensors, and autonomous navigation technologies, ABB has given robots the equivalent of "eyes," "hands," and "mobility." This combination allows robots to perform tasks with greater autonomy, precision, and adaptability.
The new OmniCore™ EyeMotion visual system, which was introduced at CIIF 2025, is a prime example of this innovation. It enables ABB's robots to perceive their environment in real time and make autonomous decisions, such as path planning and obstacle avoidance, all without human intervention. This level of integration leads to enhanced operational efficiency and accuracy, significantly reducing cycle times.
OmniCore™ EyeMotion: The Future of Visual Perception in Robotics
The OmniCore™ EyeMotion system, integrated with ABB’s collaborative and industrial robots, provides enhanced sensory and perception capabilities. The system utilizes third-party cameras or sensors to allow robots to recognize and interpret their surroundings accurately.
When paired with ABB’s AI-powered path planning software, the EyeMotion system enables robots to plan and execute collision-free, optimal paths autonomously. The ability to adjust in real-time to dynamic obstacles allows for seamless task execution in environments that would typically require human intervention. This system can reduce cycle times by up to 50%, making it a game-changer for industries that require high-speed, precise operations, such as material handling and assembly.
The IRB 6750S: A High-Performance, Multi-Scenario Robot
The new IRB 6750S, showcased at the event, is a powerful robotic arm capable of handling up to 350 kg with a path precision of 0.9 mm and a position repeatability of 0.06 mm. These specifications make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from heavy-duty material handling to die-casting and spot welding.
The IRB 6750S is designed to perform tasks in various industrial settings, including high-altitude installations and vertical and horizontal movement. With the integrated OmniCore™ controller, this model offers a 20% reduction in energy consumption compared to previous generations, providing an eco-friendly solution to industrial automation.
Tailored Solutions for the Chinese Market: Localized and High-Performance Robots
ABB has been deeply committed to the Chinese market for over 30 years. At CIIF 2025, the company unveiled several new robots designed and manufactured specifically for local customers. This includes the latest IRB 920 SCARA robot, which is ideal for operations in confined spaces. It offers a load capacity of 6 kg and a working range of 450 mm, making it highly efficient for applications such as small parts assembly and packaging.
Additionally, the next-generation IRB 1200 and IRB 1100 Lite+ series cater to the electronics manufacturing industry, providing flexible automation solutions for material handling and high-speed assembly tasks. These products are produced in ABB’s Shanghai Superfactory, highlighting the company’s dedication to providing local manufacturing solutions that support China’s advanced manufacturing industry.
Expanding ABB's Localized Production and Services in China
ABB's robots for the Chinese market are now over 90% locally produced, showcasing the company's deep integration into the local value chain. With a strong focus on research, development, manufacturing, and after-sales services, ABB ensures that its robots meet the unique needs of Chinese customers. The company operates a service network across 22 cities in China, offering comprehensive support for local businesses.
This local production capacity ensures that ABB’s robotics solutions are adaptable to the fast-evolving Chinese market. The company’s emphasis on customer-centric innovation and localized service makes it a key player in China’s industrial automation sector.
Industry Trends: The Rise of Autonomous, Multi-Functional Robotics
As the industrial landscape evolves, the demand for more flexible, autonomous, and intelligent robotic solutions is growing. In industries like automotive, electronics, logistics, and manufacturing, companies are seeking automation systems that can handle a wide range of tasks without the need for constant human intervention. The integration of AI, vision systems, and advanced sensors into industrial robots is driving this shift, enabling robots to work more independently and efficiently in a variety of environments.
The development of robots like the IRB 6750S and IRB 920 demonstrates how these machines can not only improve performance but also reduce operational costs and energy consumption. ABB’s efforts in integrating AI and machine learning into its robots will likely set the standard for the next generation of industrial automation.
Author Insights: The Future of Industrial Automation
As industrial automation continues to evolve, the incorporation of AI and machine learning technologies will be essential to creating more intelligent and adaptive robotic systems. The integration of AI in robots like ABB's new OmniCore™ EyeMotion system represents a significant leap forward in the capabilities of autonomous robots. However, the challenge for industries moving forward will be to ensure these systems can be seamlessly integrated into existing production environments while maintaining high standards of safety, reliability, and efficiency.
Moreover, as robots become more autonomous, businesses will need to address the skills gap by investing in workforce training and education. The future of industrial automation is not just about robots replacing humans; it’s about humans and robots collaborating in smarter, more efficient ways.
Application Cases: Real-World Benefits of ABB’s Robotic Solutions
In real-world applications, ABB’s robotics solutions have been transformative for a variety of industries. For instance, the automotive industry has adopted ABB robots for tasks such as assembly, material handling, and welding, which has significantly increased production speed and precision while reducing labor costs.
Similarly, in electronics manufacturing, robots like the IRB 1200 are utilized for high-speed assembly and inspection tasks. These robots provide consistent quality and efficiency, even in small-scale, high-mix environments.
Conclusion: A New Era of Industrial Automation
The innovations presented by ABB Robotics at CIIF 2025 signify a major milestone in the evolution of industrial automation. By integrating AI, advanced vision systems, and enhanced mobility, ABB is paving the way for a future where robots are not just tools but autonomous, versatile workers capable of performing complex tasks in dynamic environments.
As industries across China and the world continue to embrace automation, ABB's localized solutions and cutting-edge technologies offer a glimpse into the future of smart factories and autonomous production.