Arithmetic robot modules control robotic production

Discusses the forthcoming installation of an ABB Flexible Automation beam preparation system at an offshore platform construction company in Scotland. Using a six‐axis robot suspended from a boom, the system will be able to cut beams to any length with any desired end profile using an Arithmetic Robot Application Control [ARAC] system, which allows virtually any beam profile to be programmed into the system, in seconds by means of ARAC macros. Prior to cutting, the robot will exchange its gas torch for a 3‐D probe to measure the actual beam dimensions and compare these with the stored data design. Describes how the ARAC software package works and gives examples of other applications such as the cutting of round tubes for structural assemblies, multi‐pass welding and tube‐to‐sheet welding.