Whether you are implementing robots to overcome labor shortages and skill gaps or to elevate your operations to a higher technological level, it’s essential to plan their integration properly.
And although factory managers, technical and production specialists, and automation engineers are often extremely busy, the first rule is to dedicate enough time to researching and planning the implementation of the new cobot.
If you are not certain that the cobot will integrate seamlessly into your existing setup, perform the required tasks effectively, and be the right fit for the specific workstation, the process can turn out to be much more complex and time-consuming than necessary.
How to Choose the Right Cobot for Your Facility
Two main characteristics are crucial when selecting a cobot:
- The maximum payload it can handle, and
- Its reach (working radius).
To answer these questions, it’s best to start by analyzing the process or application you want to automate. What weight will the cobot need to lift or move during operation? Don’t forget to include the weight of any tools or grippers, as well as the parts or products being handled.
When it comes to reach, you need to know the exact area in which the cobot will operate — the distance between the stations it will serve and the total workspace it needs to cover. While this can be harder to determine, CAD-based selection tools can significantly simplify the process.
These two key factors shouldn’t be viewed in isolation. They are directly related — the greater the payload that needs to be moved, the larger the cobot model should be. Likewise, a longer reach usually requires a larger cobot with higher load capacity.
Other factors must also be considered. The cobot’s weight and installation location determine the type and size of the mounting surface. It must be rigid enough to withstand the forces the cobot can generate — not only during normal operation but also in unexpected situations, such as an emergency stop while carrying a maximum load at maximum speed.
Combining Conveyors and UR Cobots – A Proven Formula for Success
The Universal Robots portfolio includes two highly successful series of collaborative robots, designed to work across a wide range of applications and industries.
UR Series
This flagship series offers exceptional speed and precision, combined with increased payload and reach — while maintaining safe, collaborative interaction with human operators.
The series includes the following models:
- UR15 – payload 17.5 kg, reach 1300 mm
- UR20 – payload 25 kg, reach 1750 mm
- UR30 – payload 35 kg, reach 1300 mm
The use of cobots enhances end-of-line operations, boosts productivity, and relieves skilled workers from repetitive, physically demanding tasks — allowing them to focus on higher-value, more meaningful work.
URe Series
The URe series offers reliable collaborative automation for a broader range of applications, featuring lower payload capacities but maintaining the renowned Universal Robots quality and precision.
It includes the models:
- UR3e – payload 3 kg, reach 500 mm
- UR7e – payload 7.5 kg, reach 850 mm
- UR12e – payload 12.5 kg, reach 1300 mm
- UR16e – payload 16 kg, reach 900 mm
Universal Robots cobots demonstrate exceptional versatility in different production environments. When combined with certified components, they offer the potential for significant manufacturing transformation — enabling advanced applications and driving innovative automation.
Conveyors Ready for Cobot Integration
Cobot-ready conveyors are used for continuous component handling in applications such as pick-and-place, machine tending, and packaging. They enable the cobot and conveyor to interact seamlessly — without operator intervention — increasing throughput and reducing labor-intensive tasks in modern production environments.
Such conveyors include the GUF-P 2000 models from mk Technology Group, a partner within the Universal Robots network. They are certified under the UR+ system, which approves peripheral equipment such as grippers, vision components, software, and conveyors for use with UR cobots,
The GUF-P 2000 conveyor technology can be easily integrated into applications using the URCap plugin. mk now offers customized belt conveyors for all Universal Robots users, enabling quick and simple cobot integration. The user-friendly URCap interface further simplifies conveyor setup and programming.
When you purchase your first cobot, you’re getting much more than a robot. In addition to improving productivity and enhancing employee health and safety, its positive impact paves the way for further automation and more cost-efficient applications.
System integrators are your trusted partners on this journey. At Robotec, we provide analysis, professional consultation, design, implementation, and technical support for customized robotic and conveyor automation solutions tailored to your needs.
Trust us — and together, let’s build flexible and reliable solutions that meet the demands of the factory of the future.
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