Posted to News on 17th Nov 2016, 08:43
Manufacturers interested in mobile robot with onboard cobot
RARUK Automation reports that manufacturing companies are very interested in adopting the MiR100 mobile robot with a Universal Robots collaborative robot (cobot) mounted on the top for a variety of autonomous mobile operations such as collecting and delivering parts, unloading machines, assembling components and shuttling between conventional AGVs (automated guided vehicles) and production lines.
After exhibiting a MiR100 with a UR3 robot at the recent PPMA Total show, RARUK Automation has been discussing applications with engineers from a number of different industries, including automotive. While the use of conventional AGVs is now widespread in the automotive sector, the problem with these is that they are large and are normally restricted to following guide tapes that have been laid at floor-level. This means there can be a gap between the AGV's stopping position and the production line itself that is served by a human operative. A MiR100 equipped with a UR cobot could undertake such tasks, with a payback period of less than one year (depending on the specifics of the application).
When a UR cobot is mounted on a MiR100, an additional 48V battery is installed within the body of the MiR100, and the robot and its controller are mounted on top. This means the robot can operate autonomously without the need for a mains supply or any connection for control. If required, the robot can be equipped with a vision system so that high-precision positioning of the MiR100 is not necessary. With the Mir100's maximum payload of 100kg, it still has ample carrying capacity after the robot, controller and battery have been installed.
Easy programming
Both the MiR100 and UR cobot have user interfaces that are intuitive for programming by non-experts, so the MiR100 and UR cobot can be readily reprogrammed to perform different tasks. Furthermore, with add-ons such as Robotiq grippers and force/torque sensors, vision systems and configuration software, the combination is exceptionally versatile.
Moreover, both the Mir100 and UR cobot (and its controller) have been designed for collaborative working; provided a suitable risk assessment has been conducted, the combination should be safe for use in areas where people are also working.
Follow the link for more information and to watch a short video about the MiR100 mobile robot and the family of Universal Robots collaborative robots from RARUK Automation.
