Danish robot manufacturer Universal Robots has introduced force control as an integrated part of its software.
The companys force control feature lets robots operate with an additional force component that will allow for more complex automation processes. The feature could be particularly useful for buffing or polishing applications.
“Advanced force control is a unique feature for this type of collaborative robot. We can now automate manual tasks previously not possible due to the exact amount of force exertion needed in the application,” said Ed Mullen, National Sales Manager in North America.
Two of the companys models, the UR5 and UR10, are designed for companies that believed robots to be too difficult to integrate in their existing production.
The lightweight robots can work alongside personnel and dont require safety shielding in 80 per cent of installations.
They can be easily moved around production areas and have a plug-and-play feature; a simple user interface lets employees with no previous programing experience quickly set-up and operate them.
“A key selling point of our robots is that they are continuously upgraded”, said Kristian Hulgard, UK and Nordics Sales Manager.
“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.”
The robots are not like others because they dont use sensor technology, instead they use patented technology to measure electrical current in the joints to determine force and movement. This feature actually reduces the price point of the robot.
“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,” says Hulgard.
The six-axis robot arms can easily be implemented in many industries; from a small CNC lathe production to large automobile assembly lines.
If the robots come into contact with an employee, the robot will automatically stop operating. The force delivered in the collision does not cause bodily harm, adhering to the current safety requirements on force and torque limitations. Tools used by the robot and other unique factors of each application should be incorporated in a full risk assessment for every installation before deciding if safety guarding is necessary or not.
The UR5 and UR10 are named after their respective payload in kilos (11 lbs for UR5 and 22 lbs for UR10).
The UR5 robotic arm was labelled “The world’s most innovative robot” by The International Federation of Robotics and IEEE Robotics and Automation Society in 2012.
