ABB has acquired software provider Meshmind to expand its capabilities in AI, Industrial IoT and machine vision. With the acquisition, ABB will form a new global R&D hub to develop automation solutions within its Machine Automation division (B&R).

The integration of Meshmind’s approximately 50 employees will expand collaboration between B&R teams on a range of R&D projects, including deep learning vision systems, AI-powered engineering tools and IoT app development. Meshmind’s office in Sarajevo, Bosnia, will serve as the B&R division’s new global competence centre for AI and software development.

“AI-powered robotics and automation have the power to transform industries, providing businesses with greater flexibility and intelligence amidst critical global trends and workforce challenges,” said Sami Atiya, President, ABB Robotics and Discrete Automation Business Area. “Through this acquisition, we will further accelerate the development of our software and AI-powered solutions to make automation more adaptive and accessible, enabling businesses of all sizes to become more resilient.”

“This acquisition builds on our successful relationship with Meshmind to establish a new global R&D hub for B&R,” said Machine Automation Division President Joerg Theis. “As part of our wider ecosystem that includes universities, partners and start-ups, this latest investment will strengthen our capacity and expertise to create solutions that make our customers’ lives easier, helping them shape the future of their industries.”

ABB recently acquired Sevensense, a provider of AI-enabled 3D vision navigation technology for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).