To provide a dedicated space for customers to see its products in action and allow RARUK Automation applications engineers to develop tailored solutions, the company has established its own technology centre. The facility is directly opposite the headquarters of its sister company, R. A. Rodriguez, and also provides a base for the automation field-based sales team that now includes new recruit, Keith Johnston.

Keith has joined the company as a Senior Robotic Sales Engineer and is based in Gloucester covering the South West, Wales and the West Midlands. He brings 15 years engineering sales experience to his new post and joins RARUK Automation from the packaging machinery company, APP. Also joining the sales team is Teresa Reynolds. Her career to date has been in business, education and human resource management, experience that stands her in very good stead for her new role in automation sales support.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

The systems complement the company’s established product programme that has been focused on collaborative and mobile transport robots, automation systems and feeding solutions. These new product additions will give RARUK Automation even greater scope to help UK manufacturers work smarter and more competitively.

TM Robotics had been searching for some time for a strong UK technical distributor with an in-depth knowledge of automation and strong understanding of the UK robotics market. The company’s managing director, Nigel Smith, is certain it has found the perfect sales partner in RARUK Automation.

“RARUK Automation has an extensive salesforce and, importantly, this is backed-up with an in-house team of automation and robotics engineers. This means it can fully understand customers’ requirements and provide good pre- and post-sales support and service.”

The Toshiba Machine products available from RARUK Automation are its 6-axis robots, with precision vision control if required and a complete range of SCARAs, from low cost to the industry leading TH-A series capable of handling up to 20kgs with a 1200mm reach. These will provide quality solutions for applications outside the scope of collaborative automation that call for a strong, fast and precise robot.

As a result, the Toshiba Machine robots slot perfectly into the RARUK Automation product portfolio that includes collaborative Universal Robots, Robotiq grippers, MiR mobile transport robots and IEF Werner linear motion systems. There is also a good synergy between the new traditional robots and other established RARUK Automation products such as FlexiBowl feeding systems.

“TM Robotics is the perfect partner for us too,” commented Peter Williamson, MD of RARUK Automation. “The company’s technical knowledge and application engineering capability, allied with the quality of the Toshiba Machine products, supports our aim to offer a high quality and complete automation solution to UK manufacturers, either directly or through our countrywide network of integration partners.”

Visit the RARUK Automation website or the TM Robotics website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

See all stories for TM Robotics

The Robotiq FT 300 multi-axis torque force sensor is designed specifically for operation with Universal Robots.  This sensor has a measuring range of ±300N and RARUK Automation has just confirmed that its sensitivity has now been increased tenfold.

With plug-and-play integration on all models of Universal Robots, the Robotiq FT 300 performs highly repeatable, precision force control tasks such as finishing, product testing, assembly and precise part insertion.

The Robotiq FT 300 force torque sensor comes complete with an updated version of URCap software, Universal Robots’ platform that allows hardware components, software plug-ins or a combination of both to extend cobot capability. It ensures quick integration, application security and reduced cost.

URCap also includes a new calibration routine, a step-by-step procedure that guides the user through the process in less than two minutes.  A new dashboard provides real-time force and moment readings on all six axes.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

These include Toshiba Machine industrial robots. As the recently appointed sole UK distributor of TM Robotics’ SCARA and Cartesian robots, RARUK Automation is now able to provide solutions using these caged systems as well as its 6-axis, collaborative Universal Robots (UR). This scope allows the optimum solution to be developed for any application.

At MACH one of the TM Robotics’ SCARA systems will be demonstrated with FlexiBowl, another new product from RARUK Automation for feeding a wide variety parts. Regardless of whether parts are smooth, sticky, tangled or burred FlexiBowl will feed the parts uniformly, effectively and, if required, continuously.

RARUK Automation is a preferred Universal Robots supplier in the UK and naturally these cobots will feature heavily on its stand. The UR systems give companies access to all the benefits of advanced robotic automation with none of the extra costs associated with traditional robot programming and set-up. They make robotic automation affordable for SMEs and small batch production runs.

Universal Robots are designed to operate alongside employees, assisting with work that may be too dangerous, strenuous or tedious for them to accomplish on their own. They create a safer, more efficient workplace without eliminating jobs that involve the fabrication of the product.

Three Universal Robots will be demonstrated on the RARUK Automation stand, performing a variety of applications and all complete with Robotiq grippers, vision system and force torque sensors. One, for example, will be shown on a ProFeeder unit, a new compact, mobile and modular robot cell that can be easily moved between production and processing machines to increase productivity. ProFeeder can also be systematically expanded to give manufacturers an affordable growth path to full automation.

Full information will also be available at MACH on the latest MiR customisable mobile robots for transport tasks. Only recently introduced to the RARUK Automation range, the MiR200 autonomously transports a load of up to 200kg and can be customized with top modules such as bins, racks, lifts, conveyors or even a Universal Robot.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

When the management team of ASICS decided that it wanted to dress the principal display window of its new London store with robots, the appointed AV system integrator made the call to its trusted resource in this technology area – RARUK Automation. As a UK supplier of articulated collaborative robot (cobot) arms from Universal Robots (UR), RARUK Automation set to work on turning ASICS’ concepts into reality.

In a first-of-its-kind application, one of the ideas was for the robots to pick-up felt pens, draw a trainer (one robot draws the side view, while the other – located alongside – draws the sole view), put the pens down, pick up wipers, erase the drawings, put down the wipers and repeat the cycle.

The skill in completing this task lay mainly in the programming. Fortunately, RARUK Automation is far more than a supplier/distributor, adding considerable value through services that include programming, training and project management.

“The routine required 300 programming points for the side view and around 900 for the sole view, so it was quite intricate,” explains Darren Reynolds, Operations Director at RARUK Automation. “We had to generate programs for three different types of the latest ASICS trainers, with cycle times purposely slow at around 60 minutes for each drawing.”

Along with the programming, several challenges presented themselves in relation to the glazing. Due to the position of the window it is prone to sufficient expansion and contraction caused by the heat of the sun this had an effect on the robot drawing position.

“We had some challenges along the way,” says Mr Reynolds. “However, with our expertise in UR robots and determination to meet the timescale, we managed to get things done on time. Admittedly we were on site at 10:30pm the night before the store opened, but that’s because we’re always prepared to go the extra mile if it means getting the job right for the customer.”

The UR10 robots at ASICS are fitted with Robotiq 2F85 electric finger-adaptive grippers which, like the robots, feature force-adjustable collaborative technology. This innovative functionality means the robots and grippers can operate collaboratively with humans safe in the knowledge that they will come to a safe and immediate stop even in the event of the smallest ‘bump’.

Another task required by ASICS was for the UR10 robots to pick up and rotate trainers at different angles using the same grippers that are deployed for the pens. Again, thanks to the programming knowledge of RARUK Automation, the task was achieved successfully.

As well as supplying the robots and grippers, RARUK Automation also fitted each UR10 with an Alumotion YouRing smart light tool. Bolted on the robot tool flange, the wireless YouRing accessories feature LED technology and powerful sound emitters to warn users about the oncoming arrival of the articulated arm. Special light and sound effects are easily programmed to indicate specific modes, such as direction of motion, for example, thus enhancing both safety and the rate of interaction between man and machine.

“To complete the project, we are now in the process of setting up a remote access solution for the system integrator that is based on Robotiq Insights,” concludes Mr Reynolds. “If the robots stop for any reason, a message will be issued immediately so that an investigation can commence.”

As well as downtime reporting, Robotiq Insights provides real-time data about cycles completed, efficiency, waiting time and overall robot utilisation.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

ProFeeder Light is the foundation product which comprises a basic, stand-alone unit with one manually removable parts’ tray with a capacity for up 780 units, depending on their size. Ideal for use with most CNC machines, ProFeeder Light can handle a wide variety of parts up to 10 kg and is used as extra ‘manpower’ for small batch production or the first step towards greater automation. It can also be expanded at any time to incorporate additional functions such as turning, deburring or cleaning.

The next in the three-model range is ProFeeder which comes complete with two movers and two parts trays. The mover is a modular cart which, when placed in the robot cell, automatically centres the parts tray. When the parts have been processed the first mover and tray are replaced by the second mover with unprocessed parts.

Interchangeable perforated plates in the parts’ trays ensure that the CNC machine can be fed with all part types and these can be replaced with thin plate feeding for operations such as edge bending or even a custom feeding solution.

This model is good choice for automatically loading a CNC machine, making it possible to introduce an additional shift. In the event of unscheduled downtime, the system automatically sends a text alert to the operator.

The third option is ProFeeder Multi that introduces a lift module that automatically presents trays to the machine for parts to be processed; its capacity is eight trays. This solution makes it possible to run a fully automated four-shift operation or even lights out production. Manual input is limited to machine supervision, pre-filling the parts’ trays and replacing the mover at the end of the fourth shift.

All ProFeeder systems can be quickly moved to a new station with a pallet truck. Set-up is easy and quick as it only requires connection to electricity and compressed air. The system’s compact design allows it to be used with most types of processing or production machine and, as the robot arm can be fixed on three sides of the cell, application flexibility is ensured.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

Dashboards are now customisable and the new interface allows the easy creation of user groups with different level permissions. It also supports the latest versions of popular internet browsers, has a fully-featured REST API and is responsive on smartphones and tablets.

One of the biggest interface improvements is in map editing as all related topics are gathered in one place. This makes it even easier to create and modify routes and missions for the MiR.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

A qualified and time-served mechanical and production engineer with an MSc in polymer engineering, Iain has worked in industrial sales and business development for the majority of his career. Notably, Iain’s service as business development manager with the Manufacturing Advisory Service has given him a good understanding of diverse industrial sectors and their specific requirements.

Iain’s counterpart in the South of England is Ross Lacy who is based at the new RARUK Automation sales and showroom facility in Letchworth. Both are supported by Paul Keeling who has returned to the company as a full-time member of staff following the completion of his BSc in Robotics at Reading University. His role is to provide technical applications advice and training and he too is based in Letchworth.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

There are now three flexible and lightweight 6-axis robot arms in the Universal Robot range from RARUK Automation. Each can be used for a wide range of applications and are categorised according to their payload limits. The models also have reach, weight and footprint differences. The smallest and most recent addition is the table top UR3. It is extremely compact and virtually noiseless with a footprint of just 118mm. It weighs only 11kg but has a payload of 3kg and, in common with other Universal Robots, it has ±360 degree rotation on all wrist joints and infinite rotation on the end joint. Additional features include a patented safety system with 15 adjustable safety functions, a wide range of I/O ports, standard communication protocols for easy integration and programming via a 12in touch screen.

One of the most recent additions the range of accessories for the Universal Robots is YouRing, a smart programmable collar that gives visual and audible information on robot status. Wireless connectivity and the URCaps plug-in that is supplied with the YouRing makes this neat and clever device easy to install; URCaps is the accessory platform that enables full integration into Polyscope, the UR GUI for robot programming and operation. YouRing can then be freely programmed to meet the needs of the application and operator.

Visit the RARUK Automation website for more information

See all stories for RARUK Automation

The clear benefit of the Robotiq Dual Gripper is productivity. By having two grippers on the same Universal Robot arm shortens cycle times, creates a more efficient production line and increases output. Indeed, it’s even possible to have two, Dual Grippers on the same robot to boost productivity even further.

One early user of this new combination has reduced changeover times by 50 percent – from 40 minutes to 20 minutes – when compared to loading its PCB products manually. Importantly, this technology also relieves employees of repetitive tasks that can cause physical and mental tiredness, allowing them to move on to more fulfilling roles within the business.

Robotiq’s Karine Simard commented at the Automate Show that Universal Robots is the cobot brand that is the most adapted to the realities of manufacture. She added: “Making our products fit mechanically and software-wise has been very well received in the market.” For RARUK Automation, the collaboration between these OEMs has had a direct bearing on its ability to supply UK customers with automation solutions that are exceptionally easy to programme and use.

The new Robotiq Dual Gripper from RARUK Automation is no exception to this rule. It is therefore suitable for all manufacturers seeking greater productivity and flexibility, whatever their size or level of experience in automation.   No coding is required in the set up with the cobot, making integration fast and simple. Programming, maintenance, training and spare parts management are equally easy, saving manufacturers time and money.

This new addition to the Robotiq range can be used for a wide range of parts, making it extremely valuable for subcontractors and manufacturers whose products are made from multiple parts. Larger factories also benefit as it is possible to standardize one gripper for use on all stations.

Visit the RA Rodriguez website for more information

See all stories for RA Rodriguez