Learn ABB-RAPID with Real Code Examples

RAPID allows programming of ABB robots for motion control, I/O handling, and process automation.

Supports modular procedures, routines, and data types for efficient program organization.

Used in welding, painting, assembly, material handling, and other industrial automation tasks.

Integrates tightly with ABB robot controllers, teach pendants, and simulation tools.

Provides error handling, signal management, and task synchronization for robust robot operations.

Robotic motion commands: MoveL, MoveJ, MoveC

Data types for positions, joint angles, and tool references

Procedures and functions for structured code

Event-driven programming and interrupts

Integration with external devices and sensors

Module - container for RAPID procedures and routines

Procedure - executable code block called by tasks

Routine - subroutine for reusable code

Data types - positions, numbers, strings, booleans, joint targets

Task - independently running execution thread for robot operations

RAPID module files (.mod) containing procedures and routines

Task configurations defining execution threads

Tool and work object definitions (.tool, .wobj)

Signal and I/O configuration files

RobotStudio project file for offline simulation

Define modules and procedures for specific robot tasks

Program motion sequences and I/O interactions

Simulate the program in RobotStudio

Deploy RAPID code to the robot controller

Test and adjust paths, timing, and signals on the real robot

Beginner: moving robot to fixed positions

Intermediate: integrating conveyor signals and I/O

Advanced: synchronized multi-robot tasks

Expert: error handling and dynamic path planning

Architect: complete production cell automation with safety logic

RAPID vs KUKA KRL: RAPID designed for ABB with specific motion commands and modules

RAPID vs Fanuc TP: high-level structured programming vs Fanuc's teach pendant scripting

RAPID vs Python robot frameworks: dedicated, deterministic control vs general-purpose scripting

RAPID vs PLC logic: better motion and path control for robots

RAPID vs ROS: RAPID is proprietary and controller-specific, ROS is middleware for integration

1994 - Initial development of RAPID by ABB

1997 - First deployment with IRC5 controllers

2000 - Expanded I/O and sensor integration

2005 - Multi-tasking and error handling introduced

2010 - Enhanced simulation support in RobotStudio

2015 - Advanced motion and kinematics features added

2020 - Integration with collaborative robots and safety tools

2025 - Current release with full RAPID features and simulation support

Module - container for RAPID procedures

Procedure - executable code block

Routine - reusable subroutine

Task - independently running thread

Work object - reference for positions relative to objects