ABB Introduces PickMaster Lite for Faster, Simpler Vision-Guided Robotic Picking

ABB Robotics has launched PickMaster® Lite, a simplified version of its PickMaster software suite designed to help packaging machine builders and system integrators deploy vision-guided robotic picking systems faster and with less engineering complexity. The new software solution provides essential functionality for common picking and packing applications while reducing development time and lowering deployment costs.

Built on ABB's established PickMaster technology, PickMaster Lite delivers high-speed vision-guided picking, conveyor tracking and motion control through an intuitive task-based interface. The software includes pre-configured templates and guided workflows that reduce the need for specialized programming expertise, enabling faster implementation of robotic picking systems.

According to ABB, PickMaster Lite can reduce engineering effort by up to 30 percent and shorten commissioning and deployment times by up to 25 percent compared with conventional pick-and-place software or PLC-based solutions. These efficiencies help machine builders accelerate project delivery while minimizing development risks.

The software integrates with ABB's RobotStudio® platform, allowing users to create digital twins, simulate production layouts and optimize robot paths before installation. This capability enables manufacturers and system integrators to validate system performance virtually, reducing commissioning challenges and improving project outcomes.

PickMaster Lite is designed for seamless integration with existing machine architectures through ABB's OmniCore™ controller platform. Communication with PLC and HMI systems allows operators to manage functions such as recipe selection, start, stop and pause commands using familiar control interfaces. This approach enables OEMs to maintain existing machine designs while incorporating advanced robotic automation capabilities.

The software is targeted at cost-sensitive, high-volume picking and packing operations where simplicity, speed and reliability are critical. Key application sectors include food and beverage processing, consumer goods manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, electronics assembly and e-commerce fulfillment.

As part of ABB's broader PickMaster portfolio, PickMaster Lite provides a scalable upgrade path for manufacturers. Users can transition to the full PickMaster platform or PickMaster Twin as operational requirements become more complex, adding advanced functionality, customization options and digital twin capabilities. The launch further strengthens ABB's software-driven automation portfolio and supports growing demand for flexible, high-performance robotic picking solutions.