Rethink Robotics Leaps Into the Future With Brand New Lineups

On the first day of the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago, Rethink Robotics announced the addition of three different model series. The Reacher (RE) series includes seven new cobots, and the Ryder series consists of two mobile (AMR) platforms. Finally, the Riser series combines collaborative and mobile platforms to create a fully mobile manipulator.

In addition to the updated catalog, Rethink Robotics also launched a stunning rebrand along with a renewed vision of closer integration into more vertical markets than ever before.

A History of Collaboration

Rethink Robotics holds a special place in my heart as the very first collaborative robot (cobot) brand that I was lucky enough to experience–along with my young son–proving that cobots can be user-friendly enough to usher in a new era of robotics for many industries.

In the years that have followed, Rethink Robotics has continued to evolve, launching better technology that solves common problems across the industrial landscape.

Now, Rethink Robotics is poised to impress with the most recent announcement of not only a new product and a new series of products but also three entirely new lineups for industries, including handling, logistics, packaging, and much more.

The Reacher Cobot Series

Seven new cobots have been announced, with payloads from 7 kg with the RE 07 model up to 30 kg with the RE 30 and 30L versions. Maximum speeds of 120-200 degrees per second (depending on the specific model) and a precision of ±0.03 mm help these robots achieve maximum success and reliability in the workplace.

The new Reacher cobot series. Image used courtesy of Rethink Robotics

As expected, the Reacher series is compatible with a wide range of accessories and attachments, including end tools, vision systems, and unique components to better integrate with applications.

The Ryder AMR Series

Mobile platforms are quickly gaining traction as the workhorses in logistics and manufacturing applications. Whether transporting raw materials or waste from workstations or moving finished products between fulfillment stations, AMRs can be found moving hundreds of pounds with many hours between charging sessions.

The new Ryder AMR series. Image used courtesy of Rethink Robotics

The new Ryder AMR lineup from Rethink Robotics includes two models, the light-duty MRE 550 and the heavy-duty MRE 1400. As the model numbers suggest, they have payload capacities of 550 kg or 1400 kg, respectively. Both platforms also have integrated lifts for hoisting loads between shelves or workstations.

Sensors provide a comprehensive 360-degree view for collision avoidance, adding to the reliability and safety that is paramount in mobile applications that must work alongside humans and other equipment.

The Riser Mobile Manipulator MMR Series

What do you get when you attach a cobot to the top of an AMR? You get a truly mobile workstation that can manipulate objects independently without being constrained to one location.

The new Riser MMR series. Image used courtesy of Rethink Robotics

This combination of devices is an excellent solution for applications that those robots cannot accomplish alone. For example, a cobot riding on an AMR can tend to multiple CNC machines at once, increasing uptime for a growing manufacturing facility. Likewise, transporting materials between many stations in a biomedical manufacturing facility requires the utmost care and precision, perfect for a mobile robot arm.

Collaborative Robots in the Workforce

This week’s IMTS showcased some of the most innovative technology in the manufacturing industry. Robots working alongside humans isn’t merely something out of science fiction; it’s been the reality for many years, and it’s likely to only gain popularity in the future. Rethink Robotics intends to dominate this trend with new releases like the recent cobot, AMR, and mobile manipulator applications.

Featured image used courtesy of Rethink Robotics