PixelPaint is initially getting used for the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Collection. The obsidian black hood of this
unique mannequin is obtainable with a Maybach sample upon buyer request. | Supply: ABB Robotics
Mercedes-Benz AG has deployed ABB Robotics’ PixelPaint expertise at its Sindelfingen plant in Germany. The system enhances the manufacturing unit’s typical portray processes by enabling the exact and environment friendly software of intricate paint designs.
ABB claimed that the expertise is each sustainable and resource-saving. The firm started operation within the facility earlier this 12 months and has helped Mercedes-Benz adapt to its new customized choices for its most unique fashions.
“PixelPaint makes use of an award-winning paint head much like an inkjet printer that may apply giant areas of coloration in addition to exact particulars with full accuracy,” mentioned Joerg Reger, managing director of ABB Robotics Automotive Enterprise Line.
“In a wholly automated course of that requires no guide intervention, the expertise opens new potentialities for car producers as they appear to extend personalization in response to rising shopper demand whereas additionally lowering emissions. We’re delighted to have been capable of work with Mercedes-Benz to assist them make these extraordinary design visions a actuality.”
Mercedes affords distinctive designs with PixelPaint
PixelPaint consists of a paint head with greater than 1,000 tiny, individually managed nozzles, mounted on an ABB robotic such because the IRB 5500 paint collection. Mixed with ABB’s 3D imaginative and prescient system and coordinated by its RobotStudio planning and programming software program, the top tracks very carefully to the car physique to make sure that 100% of the paint is utilized to the automotive with no overspray or airborne misting.
This eliminates the necessity for labor-intensive masking and repeat journeys by the paint store, mentioned the corporate. This ends in zero waste, lowered environmental remedy necessities, and decrease emissions general, in keeping with ABB.
The expertise can recreate even probably the most intricate designs with unprecedented precision, it added. The 3D imaginative and prescient system allows a excessive diploma of repeatability so that every painted panel seems similar to the following.
Mercedes-Benz will first use PixelPaint on the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Collection. To additional improve the exclusivity of this mannequin, the obsidian black hood is obtainable upon request with an intricate Maybach sample in contrasting graphite gray. The automaker mentioned this design can be unimaginable to attain with a standard course of.
“With PixelPaint, we’re setting a brand new benchmark in portray expertise,” mentioned Arno van der Merwe, head of manufacturing planning at Mercedes-Benz. “The mix of the best design and high quality precision with modern technological options is a milestone for the portray of our top-end fashions on the Sindelfingen website. This forward-looking expertise raises us to a brand new stage in particular person coatings. It allows unique product outcomes for our demanding clients.”
ABB Robotics touts improvements
ABB’s different portray programs embrace the RB1000i-S digitally-enabled atomizer. The corporate mentioned it will possibly obtain as much as 99% switch effectivity, utilizing much less paint and supplies. ABB mentioned each programs are a part of its objective to make producers extra sustainable, environment friendly, and aggressive.
ABB’s product line features a full vary of industrial robots, collaborative robotic arms, and autonomous cell robots (AMRs). In January 2025, it introduced its “no-code” AppStudio for creating person interfaces and partnered with Agilent Applied sciences on laboratory automation.
In March, ABB launched the RoboMasters robotic coaching software, and final week, it upgraded its Flexly Mover AMR. ABB Robotics is among the high RBR50 winners of all time, incomes recognition yearly within the innovation award’s historical past.
Final month, ABB Group introduced that it will be spinning off its whole robotics division. It intends for the enterprise to start out buying and selling as a individually listed firm within the second quarter of 2026.
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