Universal Robots goes big

Universal Robots (UR), the Danish manufacturer of collaborative robots (cobots), has announced that it will add a new 20 kg cobot to its product range.

Called the UR20, the cobot has an all-new design, featuring an entirely new joint design that will allow for faster cycle times as well as the ability to handle heavier loads. Its 1750 mm reach has been designed to work to the full height of the standard Euro-pallet, while its small footprint will allow companies to achieve more within their existing production space, according to the company.

In addition to palletising, Universal Robots expects the UR20 to be used for welding, material handling, machine loading and machine tending, as well as for innovative solutions created by its extensive partner ecosystem.

“This is not just a bigger version of our existing cobots; it’s the cobot redefined,” said the company’s President, Kim Povlsen. “The UR20 is the most innovative cobot we have produced and the latest evolution in 17 years of technical experience in the robotics industry. Our expert engineers have completely re-engineered the arm while retaining the same intuitive user interface we have long been celebrated for.

“The benefits of the UR20 are significant, from faster cycle times and the ability to handle heavier loads, to greater reach with a small footprint. We’ve also incorporated advanced software enhancements, giving users unprecedented motion control capabilities.”

Universal Robots launched its first cobot in 2008 and has since built an ecosystem of more than 1100 integrators, distributors and independent partners creating components, kits and applications for its cobots. The company has sold more than 50,000 cobots and says it has drawn on the knowledge gained through its established customer base in the design of this latest product.

According to UR, the UR20 signals the start of a new series of innovative, next-generation cobots, which will complement the company’s highly successful e-Series.

“Our commitment to every customer’s success is reflected in the effort we put into creating our products, and the development of the UR20 is a perfect example of this,” Povlsen said. “We are dedicated to quality engineering, stunning Nordic design and an outstanding user experience from software to endcaps.

“The UR20 is just the beginning. We’re launching our next generation with this high-payload model first to market because it will make end-to-end automation a reality for our customers, allowing them to use cobot automation to cover new tasks. The next step in redefining automation will be to bring the same innovative features to a new family of cobots.”

The UR20 is expected to be available for pre-order in late Q4 2022 and will begin shipping in Q2 2023.