#USA #Detroit #Cobot #Universal Robots #UR15

Universal Robots Unveils the Fastest Cobot in the Industry

Universal Robots (UR) made waves at the Automate trade show in Detroit by introducing its latest cobot, the UR15, which stands as its fastest product to date. With the launch now open for orders and deliveries set to begin in June, this innovative robot marks a significant step forward in collaborative automation technology.

The UR15 boasts an impressive maximum speed of 5 m/s at its tool center point (TCP), making it the quickest model in the UR family, enabling shorter cycle times and improved productivity across various applications and industries. Specifically, it achieves up to a 30% reduction in cycle time for pick-and-place tasks compared to previous UR models. Maintaining UR’s signature lightweight design and compact dimensions, the UR15 offers unmatched flexibility for integration in tight workspaces.

According to Tero Tolonen, UR's Product Director, “For 20 years, we have been pushing the boundaries of collaborative automation, making it safer, more effective, and accessible for businesses worldwide. The new UR15 is designed to operate at high speeds with smooth performance, making it ideal for various manufacturing environments.” This versatility is mirrored in the extensive ecosystem of partners, who are inspired to enhance current applications and develop new transformative solutions using the UR15.

Incorporating the revolutionary OptiMove technology, the UR15 further advances trajectory smoothness and ensures consistent motion accuracy, even in high-speed, high-load applications. Additionally, the cobot is built for compatibility with artificial intelligence, operating seamlessly with the latest PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X software, which opens avenues for unprecedented usability combined with the UR AI Accelerator—a toolkit for building AI-powered applications. Developed in partnership with NVIDIA, the UR AI Accelerator utilizes NVIDIA's CUDA Isaac™ libraries and models, operating on the powerful NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin™ module.

During the Automate event, 3D Infotech showcased the quality control process featuring the UR15 alongside the UR AI Accelerator, demonstrating the tangible benefits of physical AI applications within the UR15.

The UR15 is engineered for flexibility, efficiency, and reliability, boasting a payload capability of 15 kg (33 lbs) that can be increased to 17.5 kg (38.58 lbs) for specific down-facing wrist applications like palletizing. The tagline for this versatile cobot is that it is crafted to tackle the unique challenges presented in various sectors, including:

1. Automotive Industry: Where space is limited, the UR15 shines with a compact footprint that provides robot performance without space or speed limitations. Applications such as automated sorting, machine operation, and inspection that were previously constrained by cobots' operating speeds can now be accelerated while upholding top-notch precision.

2. Metal Machining: With increased ingress protection at IP65, the UR15 offers enhanced durability, alongside high payload capabilities and easy deployment in demanding environments.

3. Electronics: This industry, characterized by the need for precision and compact design, benefits from the UR15’s cleanroom excellence and features that allow quick picking and storing processes, perfectly integrating with Automated Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs).

Furthermore, Tero Tolonen emphasizes the importance of addressing the diverse needs of UR's varied customer base. “Every industry has its distinct set of requirements that shape our approach to both cobots and ecosystem solutions. With the UR15, we aim to empower our clients to meet today’s challenges and seize tomorrow's opportunities.”

The UR15 joins the ranks of UR20 and UR30 in UR's formidable series designed to handle higher payloads and sophisticated capabilities required in demanding environments. In updating the acclaimed e-Series lineup, notable enhancements include an increase in the UR5e's payload by 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) to unlock greater potential in existing setups.

Moreover, the UR10e, which already carries a payload of 12.5 kg (27.55 lbs), has been renamed UR7e, alongside the introduction of the UR12e—to more accurately represent their capabilities while providing greater efficacy where it matters.

The UR15 is now available for ordering, with shipments starting in June, while the UR7e and UR12e are ready for immediate delivery. Explore the remarkable capabilities of the UR15 by viewing the image collection here.

About Universal Robots

Universal Robots is a global leader in collaborative robotics, widely integrated across various industrial sectors. Our mission is simple: Automation for everyone. Anywhere. Over 100,000 cobots have been sold worldwide, and our user-friendly platform is bolstered by intuitive PolyScope software, award-winning training, comprehensive services, and the largest cobot ecosystem globally, fostering innovation and choice for our customers.

Universal Robots is a division of Teradyne Robotics, a part of Teradyne (NASDAQ: TER), a leading supplier of automated testing equipment and advanced robotic technologies. For more information, visit www.universal-robots.com.