B&R Automation :: Industrial Automation, Motion Control & Robotics Solutions

B&R Automation (Bernecker + Rainer Industrie-Elektronik Ges.m.b.H.), now part of the ABB Group since 2017, is a leading Austrian provider of industrial automation, motion control, and robotics solutions. Founded in 1979 in Eggelsberg, Austria, the company has grown into a global technology partner with a strong emphasis on integrated, software-defined automation systems. B&R is known for its innovative, open-architecture platforms that combine PLCs, drives, HMIs, safety technology, and robotics into a unified ecosystem, enabling flexible and efficient smart factory solutions for industries such as automotive, packaging, food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and machine building.

B&R offers a comprehensive robotics portfolio that includes both traditional industrial robots and collaborative robots (cobots). Their solutions are designed for high-performance applications requiring precision, speed, and seamless integration with the broader automation environment. All robotic systems are programmed and managed within B&R’s Automation Studio development environment, which provides simulation, debugging, and digital twin capabilities to accelerate development and commissioning.

Key robot-based products include:

• 6-Axis Articulated Robots: A full range of high-performance industrial robots with various payload and reach options. These are used for welding, assembly, material handling, palletizing, and machine tending. They feature high repeatability, fast cycle times, and robust construction suitable for demanding 24/7 operations.
• SCARA Robots: Compact, high-speed 4-axis robots optimized for pick-and-place, assembly, and dispensing tasks in electronics, packaging, and consumer goods manufacturing.
• Collaborative Robots (Cobots): Safe, user-friendly models designed for direct interaction with human operators in flexible production cells. They support hand-guiding, force-limited operation, and easy programming for small-batch and high-mix production.
• Integrated Robotic Cells and Software: Complete automation solutions combining robots with B&R’s motion control (ACOPOS), safety technology, vision systems, and mapp Robotics software. The mapp Robotics suite simplifies programming, path planning, and integration with other automation components.

B&R’s robotics strategy emphasizes openness, modularity, and Industry 4.0 readiness. Their systems support OPC UA, TSN, and cloud connectivity, enabling data-driven optimization and predictive maintenance. The company continues to expand its robotics offerings with AI-enhanced capabilities and greater emphasis on collaborative and mobile robotics.