How do you build an automated espresso robot in a single day?
For our appearance at JOBFACTORY, we set ourselves exactly that challenge. The result was an automated coffee station powered by a collaborative robot, serving fresh espresso while demonstrating what modern automation can achieve in a remarkably short time.
Fast Development Through Modular Software
At the heart of the project is our modular software framework based on .NET and Avalonia. By combining reusable UI concepts, hardware interfaces, and communication modules, we can rapidly assemble new applications from proven building blocks.
For this showcase, the system controlled a Fairino FR5 cobot while simultaneously handling communication with the PLC and end effector. This modular approach allows individual components to be developed independently and integrated into a complete automation solution within a very short timeframe.
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Using AI to speed up engineering
Another key element of our development workflow is the use of AI-assisted software generation.
Thanks to a growing library of internally documented example projects, AI can already help generate parts of new applications for prototypes and demonstrators. This significantly reduces development time while allowing engineers to focus on validation, optimization, and system integration.
However, speed never comes at the expense of quality. Especially in industrial environments, maintainable, transparent, and well-structured code remains essential.
Rapid Prototyping with 3D Printing
The hardware side follows the same philosophy.
The gripper fingers and the components of the automatic cup dispenser were entirely produced using FDM 3D printing. With only a few design iterations between the first concept and the final version, we were able to move from idea to deployment within days.
This rapid prototyping process enables us to test, refine, and implement hardware solutions without long development cycles.
Standardized Hardware, Flexible Applications
Beneath the showcase sits a standardized hardware stack consisting of a power supply, an OPTA PLC, and a generic C/C++ firmware layer.
By abstracting the control of moving components, the same foundation can be reused across different projects and applications. This approach reduces engineering effort and allows new systems to be deployed much faster.
From Idea to Functional System
What excites us most is the speed at which our engineering team can now transform concepts into working systems.
The espresso robot is a perfect example of that approach. By combining modular software, reusable hardware components, AI-assisted development, and rapid prototyping, we were able to create a fully functional automated solution in just one day.
Whether it's an industrial automation project, a testing system, or a trade show showcase, the principle remains the same: build on proven foundations, move fast, and maintain the quality and reliability required for long-term success.