Universal Robots Designs UR8 Long Cobot For Space-constrained Tasks

The new UR8 Long cobot can reach farther than its predecessors to automate more welding tasks. Source: Universal Robots

Collaborative robot arms are continuing to grow in size and capability. Universal Robots (UR) today introduced the UR8 Long cobot, which it is showing at FABTECH this week in Chicago.

With the same 1,750 mm (68.9 in.) reach as the UR20 model and a significantly slimmer profile, the UR8 Long combines reach, stability and precision in a rugged, compact, lightweight form, asserted Universal Robots. The new cobot has a payload capacity of 8 kg (17.6 lb.), which the company said makes it suitable for space-constrained setups and industrial tasks, from complex weldments to precision dunnage picking and flexible multi-point inspections.

UR8 Long runs with both PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X software It can be extended with MotionPlus, UR's new motion control technology that allows for ease of integration with linear axis, rotary positioners, and rotary turntables for precise control, smoother trajectories, and consistent accuracy.

Universal Robots claimed its upgraded freedrive capabilities allows users to manually guide the arm with precision and ease, making programming more intuitive and enabling fast setup without the need for layered interfaces or external tools. The UR8 Long has 30% less mass than the UR20 force- and power-limited robot arm.

UR said the new robot's compact wrist design means that it can be mounted on gantries, rails, or overhead systems, where external axes can operate more efficiently.

UR said it has sold more than 100,000 cobots worldwide. The Odense, Denmark-based unit of Teradyne Robotics noted that its user-friendly platforms are supported by the PolyScope software and its extensive partner ecosystem.

Last week, Ujjwal Kumar stepped down as president of Teradyne Robotics.

Here's one of the sources for this article: See here