Universal Robots Raises the Bar with e-Series Cobots – Meet UR5e

With the new e-Series platform the market leader of collaborative robots sets a new standard for cobots, adding built-in force/torque sensing, unrivaled safety features, and improved precision for faster integration in a wider range of future-proofed applications.

UR5e, the medium-sized member of the Universal Robots family is ideal for automating low-weight processing tasks with its 11-lb payload and 850-mm reach radius. Easy to program and fast to set up, the UR5e strikes the perfect balance between size and power. With a new built-in, tool-centric force/torque sensor the e-Series is ready to take on applications requiring force control right out of the box such as sanding, buffing, polishing and deburring where force-feedback is paramount in order to obtain uniform results. Additionally, the sensor can be used to measure mass and perform inspection processes or precisely detect contact. A repeatability of down to 30 micron means the new cobots are suitable for very precise finishing, assembly and electronics tasks.

A re-designed intuitive and responsive-touch user interface reduces programming to a few clicks. Advanced users can utilize the new externally accessible, 500-Hz system bus to implement more complex motion control algorithms such as advanced machine vision applications.

The user interface now also includes programming stopping time and stopping distance for protective stops. This unique feature, not found on any other collaborative robot, greatly reduces the complexity and uncertainty involved in performing pre-deployment risk assessments. All 17 safety functions are certified by TÜV Nord and in compliance with the latest ISO machinery safety standards for unobstructed human-robot collaboration.

As the catalog and capability of UR+ products grow so has the need for increased tool power consumption. To address this emerging need the e-Series platform tool power supply now supports up to 2A of peak current. The new cobot line also adds 4 additional digital inputs with an associated interface for use with conveyor tracking.