Posted to News on 18th Apr 2013, 16:02
Six-axis collaborative robots now with force control
Universal Robots has introduced force control as part of its latest software upgrade for all users of its low-cost, compact, portable, six-axis collaborative robots. Force control technology, which is usually an optional extra feature with other manufacturers, enables robots to use variable force to grip and handle objects of variable dimensions and flexibility without causing distortion or damage. Examples would include some food or items contained in flexible or fragile packaging.
Kristian Hulgard, UK and Nordics Sales Manager, states: "A key selling point of our UR5 and UR10 robots is that they are continuously upgraded. Once purchased, our users can expect a steady stream of software upgrades, giving them access to all the new features on the latest robots to leave the factory. This makes their investment future-proof."
A torso application using two robotic arms has also been developed by the company. It mimics the way a human can grip objects by using two arms. The two robotic arms are programmed to work in unison and use variable force to hold objects between them without crushing. There has already been interest from UK Universities in this unusual application for research purposes.
The UR5 and UR10 robotic arms are aimed at companies that thought robots were too expensive, cumbersome, and hard to program and integrate in existing production. The lightweight, flexible UR5 and UR10 can work alongside personnel and generally require no safety shielding in 80 per cent of installations. The robotic arms are easily moved around the production area and are described as 'a plug-and-play solution'; a simple user interface enables employees with no previous programming experience quickly set up and operate them.
Instead of expensive sensor technology, the robotic arms use a patented technology to measure electrical current in the joints to determine force and movement. This enables the robot to undercut the price of other automated alternatives, so even small and medium-sized firms can automate production that previously would have been unthinkable.
Hulgard concludes: "Small and medium-sized companies demand a fast return on investment. Besides the robot's low initial cost, it operates very cost-efficiently and is profitable in only six to eight months."
In 2012, the UR5 robotic arm was named The world's most innovative robot by The International Federation of Robotics and IEEE Robotics and Automation Society.
Follow the link to find out more about the UR5 and UR10 robots with force control.
