Wireless and intuitive: The future of robot operation
- Automation
- Robotics
- HMI
- Digitalization
- 27.1.2025
- Reading Time: {{readingTime}} min
Contents
A prime example is the combination of the user-friendly drag&bot-software with KEBA's KeTop T15x Safe Wireless. Together, they offer greater freedom of movement and intuitive control, making various robots and machines easy to operate—with just one device.
The drag&bot software significantly simplifies the integration and operation of industrial robots. Its graphical user interface allows users to configure robotic tasks via drag-and-drop and operate robots independent of the manufacturer. This makes automation more accessible and flexible. The KeTop T15x Safe Wireless is a wireless handheld device specifically developed for industrial use. It features a high-resolution touchscreen and supports safety-critical functions such as emergency stop and enabling switch.
When drag&bot is used in a robotic solution, it is easy to integrate the KeTop T15x Safe Wireless and create a fully wireless operation setup. Without drag&bot, however, the KeTop T15x Safe Wireless cannot be used as a teach pendant, leaving users with only the wired manufacturer-specific alternative. Only the combination of drag&bot and KeTop T15x Safe Wireless enables true wireless robot operation.
Use Cases: Added value through mobility and simplicity
The combination of drag&bot and the KeTop T15x Safe Wireless opens up new possibilities for more efficient and flexible robot operation. But what exactly makes this combination so unique, and in which scenarios does it truly shine?
- Easier movement in the robot cell during teach-in
In confined robot cells or where control cabinets are located at a distance, cables often obstruct operation. In cells with many physical obstacles, a cable can even interfere with safety mechanisms like laser scanners. A wireless HMI, such as the KeTop T15x Safe Wireless, overcomes these issues. Positioning and teach-in tasks can be performed flexibly and safely without cables affecting safety systems. - One teach pendant for multiple robots
Having a dedicated teach pendant for every robot can quickly become costly and increase maintenance efforts. Additionally, using teach pendants from different manufacturers typically means dealing with a variety of user interfaces and operation concepts—raising complexity and training needs. A mobile panel like the KeTop T15x can be used to control robots from different manufacturers. When combined with drag&bot’s vendor-agnostic interface, multiple robots can be operated using a single, unified HMI on one handheld device. - Dual functionality: machine visualization and teach pendant
In production environments with integrated robotic and machine control systems, separate devices are often needed for each task. This results in additional hardware and complexity. The KeTop T15x Safe Wireless can handle both tasks—acting as both a machine control panel and a robot teach pendant. This simplifies usage and reduces the number of required devices. For instance, the KeTop T15x Safe Wireless can be used both to control a CNC machine and to operate and program the integrated robot responsible for loading and unloading parts.
Integration: Questions and Answers
How does it work?
The drag&bot software enables manufacturer-independent robot programming and control through an intuitive graphical interface. The KeTop T15x Safe Wireless adds wireless operation to the setup.
How easy is the integration?
drag&bot is optimized for KEBA controllers and communicates with the robot controller via TCP/IP. Robotic tasks are created using drag&bot’s graphical programming environment. The KeTop T15x Safe Wireless is connected via a secure wireless link.
Which robots are supported?
drag&bot supports a wide range of robotic brands including ABB, KUKA, FANUC, UR, and many others. The KeTop T15x is universally applicable.
How much effort is involved in retrofitting?
When retrofitting drag&bot and the KeTop T15x, the existing robot application must be ported, and drag&bot integrated into the existing control infrastructure. Generally, only minor adjustments are needed, as the software supports numerous interfaces.
Conclusion: added value through greater flexibility and easy operation
The combination of drag&bot and the KeTop T15x Safe Wireless enables the operation of robotic solutions from different manufacturers via a single graphical user interface—thanks to drag&bot—and wirelessly with just one teach pendant—thanks to the KeTop T15x. This simplifies robot control, reduces complexity, increases flexibility, and provides real added value for companies looking to embrace flexible automation.
