Universal Robots has added a 20kg collaborative robot (cobot) to its product range, augmenting its strong portfolio of industrial robots. The UR20 cobot highlights an all-new design based on Universal Robots’ experience in highly refined engineering.

In addition to palletizing, Universal Robots expects UR20 to be used for welding, material handling, machine loading and machine tending. It was also designed for innovative solutions created by its extensive partner ecosystem. 

Better Design Features

UR20 is the best demonstration yet of Universal Robots’ unrivalled innovation in the cobot space. It features an entirely new joint design that will allow for even faster cycle times. Moreover, it can handle heavier loads. Its 1750mm reach has been designed to work to the full height of the standard Euro-pallet, which will transform the way businesses package and palletize. Meanwhile, its small footprint will allow companies to achieve more within their existing production space. 

Cobot Redefined

“This is not just a bigger version of our existing cobots. It is the cobot redefined,” said Kim Povlsen, president of Universal Robots. “The UR20 is the most innovative cobot we have produced. Moreover, it is the latest evolution in our 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.”

He added, “The benefits of UR20 are significant, from faster cycle times and 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.”

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

“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. So, watch this space – we can’t wait to show you what the future holds,” he concluded.

Universal Robots launched the first commercially viable cobot in 2008. Since then, it has built an ecosystem of more than 1,100 integrators, distributors and independent partners creating components, kits, and applications for its cobots. The company has sold more than 50,000 cobots. Over the years, it has drawn on the knowledge gained through its established customer base in the design of this latest product. 

The release of UR20 signals the start of a new series of innovative, next-generation cobots. This will complement the company’s highly successful e-Series.