Compact Yet Capable: The UR18 Robot Steps Up Industrial Tasks

Universal Robots has unveiled the UR18, its newest collaborative robot that combines compact form with industrial-grade strength. Weighing just 39.2 kg, the UR18 delivers an 18 kg payload, a 950 mm reach, and speeds up to 4 m/s. With built-in force/torque sensing, OptiMove and MotionPlus motion control, and UL 1740-certified safety features, the UR18 provides manufacturers with a high-throughput, space-efficient solution for automation tasks ranging from pick-and-place to polishing and palletizing.

The UR18 robot features an 18 kg payload capacity suitable for larger end effectors. Image used courtesy of Universal Robots

UR18

The UR18 robot weighs 39.2 kg and offers customers a payload capacity of 18 kg and a 950 mm reach. This robot is also lighter than the majority of other industrial bots with similar payloads. This facilitates easy installation and mounting on conventional gantry systems. With a motion capacity of 4 m/s, customers can leverage UR18’s speed, mountability, compact form, and advanced safety functions to optimize process efficiencies, increase throughput, economise on valuable floorspace, and reduce installation costs.

The UR18’s base diameter measures ~204 mm, which lends to flexible use of facility space and aids integration into existing production line layouts. Another aspect of UR18 is safe human-robot collaborative working. The UR18 has 20 configurable safety functions and satisfies safety requirements for human-robot cooperation thanks to its UL 1740 certification. This certification means its mechanical, electrical, and control systems are built to avoid risks. This certification allows workers and the UR18 to interact safely while adhering to important industrial safety requirements. With increased payload and speed, it is important to consider carrying out appropriate risk assessments and using sensor technologies and barriers if necessary, especially if robots and human workers are in proximity.

All UR robots are designed to meet strict safety requirements to enhance safety and instill trust in human co-workers working alongside them. Image used courtesy of Universal Robots

The UR18 features a built-in force/torque sensor with an accuracy of ±8.3 N and ±0.5 Nm and a precision of ±7.5 N and ±0.2 Nm, making it ideal for sensitive tasks that require fine-tuned control.

To minimize shake, vibration, or abrupt movement—such as when handling fragile components—the UR18 incorporates two new motion control innovations, OptiMove and MotionPlus, which improve fluid and consistent motion and enhance precision. Additionally, customers can use Freedrive modes of operation, which entail physically guiding the robot arm to teach it tasks and finalize programming. This capability saves on development time and speeds deployment.

Optimove and MotionPlus

When you are ready to integrate UR18 into your automation system, you’ll receive the robotic arm, 3PE TP (teach pendant with a built-in 3-position enabling device), and a control box. Customers can access the PolyScope X graphical user interface through the teach pendant to configure and deploy desired programs.

While using PolyScope X, users can optimize motion control for delicate and high-throughput operations for UR18 (other UR robot models) using OptiMove and MotionPlus features. OptiMove allows customers to modify robot paths and movements in real time to minimize vibration and consequent stress on mechanical components. In contrast, MotionPlus allows adjustments to match load and motion requirements depending on the application.