Universal Robots UR5 and UR10 for SMEs

Universal Robots has launched the UR5 and UR10 simple-to-program robots in Australia and New Zealand. The flexible, lightweight robots are suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises in the manufacturing, packaging and process industries.

The robots are designed to integrate into existing production processes and work alongside personnel with little to no safety shielding required. As soon as an employee comes into contact with the robot arm and a force of at least 150 Newton is exerted, the robot arm will automatically stop operating.

The products provide users with a simple user interface combined with a teaching function which allows the user to simply grab the robot arm and show it how a movement should be performed. This means they can be programmed and operated by people with no previous experience.

The robots weigh just over 18 kg, enabling them to be moved around the production area to perform different tasks. The UR5 is suitable for loads up to 5 kg, while the UR10 can handle 10 kg.

The robotic arms use a technology to measure electrical current in their joints to determine force and movement. According to the company, this technology means the robot costs less than other automated solutions.