Unveiling Power and Precision: Navigating the Universal Robots UR16e

December 2023

In the realm of collaborative robotics, the Universal Robots UR16e emerges as a robust and versatile solution, balancing power and precision for industrial automation needs. In this exploration, we uncover the UR16’s safety features, pros, and cons that position it as a dynamic force in the landscape of collaborative robots.

Key Features of UR16:

Payload and Reach

The UR16e is a heavyweight contender with a substantial payload capacity of 16 kg and an extended reach of 900 mm. This combination of strength and reach makes it an ideal choice for applications demanding heavy-duty lifting and a versatile operational range.

Versatility Across Industries

Boasting 6 degrees of freedom, the UR16e offers unparalleled versatility. From heavy-duty material handling and machine tending to welding and assembly tasks, it proves to be a comprehensive solution adaptable to diverse industrial applications.

User-Friendly Programming

Building upon Universal Robots’ commitment to user-friendly interfaces, the UR16e can be easily programmed using an intuitive touchscreen teach pendant. This ensures accessibility for users with varying levels of programming expertise.

Collaborative Operation

Collaborative operation is inherent in the UR16e, making it a safe and efficient choice for human-robot collaboration. Force and collision sensing technology is integrated to enhance safety during collaborative tasks, eliminating the need for safety cages.

Safety Features of UR16e:

Force and Collision Sensing

The UR16e incorporates advanced force-sensing technology, enabling it to detect unexpected forces or collisions. This feature ensures a rapid response to external stimuli, minimising the risk of accidents in dynamic industrial environments.

Power and Force Limiting (PFL)

Power and Force Limiting capabilities are integral to the UR16e’s safety mechanisms. By operating within predefined force and torque limits, the cobot prioritises safety, especially in collaborative settings.

Adherence to Safety Standards

The UR16e adheres to rigorous international safety standards, underscoring Universal Robots’ commitment to providing a reliable and secure collaborative robot solution.

Pros of UR16e:

High Payload Capacity

The UR16e’s impressive 16 kg payload capacity positions it as a heavyweight in collaborative robotics, making it suitable for applications requiring substantial lifting capabilities.

Versatile Reach

With a reach of 900 mm, the UR16e covers a considerable operational area, enhancing its adaptability for tasks that demand a broader workspace.

Diverse Applications

The UR16’s versatility extends across various industries, accommodating heavy-duty material handling, machine tending, welding, and assembly tasks.

Cons of UR16e:

Size and Weight:

The larger size and weight of the UR16e may pose considerations for applications with limited space or mobility requirements, but then a higher payload would be required.

Cost Considerations:

The enhanced capabilities of the UR16e come with a higher cost, which may be a factor for users mindful of budget constraints. However, this UR does provide a solution with much more possibilities.

In conclusion, the Universal Robots UR16e stands out as a dynamic solution for industries seeking a collaborative robot that seamlessly combines power and precision. Its advanced safety features and versatile capabilities position it as a key player in the landscape of industrial automation.

What Applications can a UR16e be used for?

The Universal Robots UR16e, being a larger and more powerful collaborative robot, is designed to handle heavier payloads and tackle more demanding applications. Here are some common applications for the UR16e:

1. Heavy-Duty Material Handling: With its substantial payload capacity, the UR16e is well-suited for heavy-duty material handling tasks, including lifting and transferring larger and heavier items in manufacturing environments.
2. Machine Tending: The UR16e can tend to CNC machines and other industrial equipment, loading and unloading parts, and handling tasks associated with machining processes.
3. Palletising and Depalletising: The UR16e is suitable for palletising heavy products or depalletising incoming goods, contributing to the automation of logistics and manufacturing processes.
4. Welding: While not intended for extremely heavy welding applications, the UR16e can handle more substantial welding tasks, making it suitable for applications like welding larger components or structures.
5. Assembly of Larger Components: The UR16e’s higher payload and extended reach make it effective in assembling larger and more complex components in industries such as automotive and aerospace.
6. Quality Inspection: The UR16e’s precision and payload capacity make it suitable for quality control tasks, inspecting large and heavy products for defects, and ensuring components meet specific criteria.
7. Research and Development: Researchers and engineers can utilise the UR16e in R&D environments for prototyping, testing, and developing new processes or products, particularly those involving larger and heavier components.
8. Picking and Placing Heavy Items: The UR16e can efficiently pick up and place heavier items, making it suitable for applications with larger and more substantial objects.
9. Large Parts Manufacturing: The UR16e’s extended reach and higher payload capacity make it well-suited for handling and assembling larger components in manufacturing processes.
10. Education and Training: Similar to other Universal Robots models, the UR16e is used in educational institutions for training purposes, providing students with hands-on experience in programming and operating collaborative robots.
11. Heavy-Duty Material Transfer: The UR16e can handle the efficient transfer of heavy materials within a workspace, contributing to the optimisation of production lines and material flow.
12. Food and Beverage Processing: In the food industry, the UR16e can be employed for tasks such as handling larger ingredients, palletising finished products, and contributing to automation processes.

The collaborative and user-friendly nature of the UR16e allows it to work safely alongside human operators without the need for safety cages in many scenarios. The specific tasks it can perform depend on the programming and end-of-arm tooling configured for the application. As technology evolves, the range of applications for the UR16e continues to expand.

Why not contact us? Our team of experts can help guide you through the automation process and help you choose which UR is right for your application.