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Robots are often considered complex to program. Moving point by point, saving positions, manually optimizing paths—this process, known as "teaching," still deters many manufacturing companies from using robots today. However, this assumption does not apply to CNC machining with a MABI Robotic milling robot. Programming is done in G-code via CAM software, identical to a conventional CNC milling machine. Anyone who can program a machine tool can also program this robot.
Why teaching is considered a hurdle
With classic industrial robots, motion sequences are created via teaching. An operator manually moves the robot to every relevant position, saves the points individually, and links them into a path. In practice, this approach has noticeable disadvantages:
- Time-consuming: Each new path must be taught point by point; for complex geometries, this takes hours or even days.
- Downtime: The cell is idle during teaching, making productive machining impossible.
- Specialized knowledge: Programming requires robotics specialists with manufacturer-specific expertise.
- Error-prone: Manually taught paths are difficult to reproduce and time-consuming to correct.
Teaching may be sufficient for simple pick-and-place tasks. For machining with thousands of path points, tight tolerances, and frequently changing workpieces, it is simply unsuitable.
G-code instead of teaching: The CNC approach from MABI Robotic
MABI Robotic takes a different path. Every robotic arm in the MAX series is fully CNC-controlled. The integration of the Siemens SINUMERIK controller allows for programming via G-code, just as CNC specialists are accustomed to from the world of machine tools. Time-consuming teaching is completely eliminated.
The decisive difference lies in the control architecture. While conventional industrial robots work with their own robot controllers and manufacturer-specific programming languages, the CNC robot from MABI is addressed like a machine tool. Proven technology cycles, a familiar user interface, and seamless processes from CAD to control.
The workflow: From STEP file to finished machining
The programming workflow corresponds to that of a conventional CNC milling machine and comprises five steps:
- Load STEP file: The CAD model of the workpiece is imported into the CAM software.
- Define machining strategy: Roughing, finishing, tool paths, and cutting parameters are defined in the CAM system
- Generate G-code: The post-processor translates the machining strategy into executable G-code
- Transfer code: The program is transferred to the SINUMERIK controller
- Start machining: The milling robot executes the program automatically
Programming is carried out using Siemens NX CAD/CAM software with a G-code post-processor. CNC millers and production planners can work productively without retraining, as the workflow is identical to that of conventional milling machines. New workpieces do not require new robot programming, but simply a new CAM project.
Siemens SINUMERIK: Machine tool logic for the robot arm
MABI Robotic consistently relies on the Siemens SINUMERIK ONE. This controller has been established in the machine tool world for decades and offers decisive advantages for robot-assisted machining:
- Open architecture for integration into existing Siemens environments
- Compatibility with existing CAM workflows and post-processors
- Familiar user interface for CNC specialists, without manufacturer-specific robot languages
- Reduction of setup times through proven technology cycles
Many CNC specialists are already familiar with the SINUMERIK user interface from their daily work on machine tools. This significantly shortens the training period. The basic functions, programming, and error diagnostics follow the same logic that is standard in machining production.
In addition, MABI Robotic offers practical training, either at the factory in Veltheim or directly at the customer's site after installation. The content ranges from the basic functions of the controller and G-code generation to CAM integration and preventive maintenance.
What the CNC workflow means for manufacturing companies
Eliminating the need for teaching fundamentally changes the economic viability of using robots. A CNC robotthat can be programmed like a milling machine lowers the barrier to entry on several levels.
Existing staff remain productive. Specialists with CNC experience can work with the system from day one without having to retrain in a robot language. The shortage of skilled workers in robotics therefore loses weight as an argument against automation.
Frequent workpiece changes become cost-effective. Since each new component only requires a new CAM program, the milling robot is also suitable for small and medium batch sizes. Setup time is limited to loading the program and setting up the workpiece.
The process chain remains seamless. From the STEP file through the CAM system to the controller, there is a unified, documentable workflow. Path corrections are made in the CAM project, not on the robot, making them reproducible at any time.
Conclusion: Robot machining without the robotics barrier
The assumption that robots must be laboriously programmed comes from the world of teaching and does not apply to MABI CNC robotics. Anyone who programs a CNC milling machine today already knows the workflow: load the STEP file, define the machining strategy, generate G-code, and start machining.
MABI Robotic AG develops milling robot with Siemens SINUMERIK control and secondary encoder technology, which can be programmed entirely via G-code. This makes robot-assisted machining accessible to manufacturing companies that want to continue using their existing CNC expertise without having to invest in manufacturer-specific robotics know-how.
