Instead of the traditional code-based programming required to get a robot cell up and running, Trener Robotics’ Acteris platform offers a learning-based software solution powered by Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models. This enables greater adaptability to changing production needs and makes automation increasingly accessible for those with no prior experience. Acteris can be deployed on new robot cells or retrofitted on existing work cells.

RARUK Automation is the UK’s leading Universal Robots distributor, offering a portfolio of complementary products including application kits, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) and vision systems to automate repetitive manufacturing tasks. Combining Acteris with the popular Universal Robots range will unlock new automation possibilities for RARUK Automation’s UK customers.

“We’re pleased to announce our new partnership with Trener Robotics. Their innovative approach to Physical AI, and replacing point-to-point programming with adaptive intelligence, aligns perfectly with RARUK Automation’s mission to make automation accessible, intuitive and commercially beneficial for manufacturers of all sizes,” said Ross Lacy, Sales Director at RARUK Automation.

Acteris enables robots to adapt to real-world environments where variation and complex operating conditions are common. This allows manufacturers to move from traditional programming to intuitive and scalable automation.

“Partnering with RARUK Automation is a strategic step in our mission to bring Physical AI to global manufacturing. RARUK has a strong reputation for making automation accessible, and by combining their automation expertise with the Acteris platform, we are giving UK manufacturers the ability to deploy robots that see, learn, and adapt in real time. We are moving away from the era of static programming and into a future where intelligent robotics is the standard on the factory floor,” said Jacob Pascual Pape, VP of Sales at Trener Robotics.

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Known for supplying collaborative and mobile robots, RARUK Automation has a longstanding partnership with Teradyne Robotics’ company Mobile Industrial Robots and has achieved MiR Gold Partner status due to sales achievements in the UK. Nord Modules offers AMR top modules designed specifically for the Mobile Industrial Robots range, providing additional functionality such as lifting mechanisms, roller conveyors, carts and other accessories.

Nord Modules products are designed to optimise space utilisation and offer modular flexibility for companies looking to deploy AMRs. With Nord Modules, the transportation of totes or pallets between conveyors, racks and other pick-up/ drop-off zones is seamlessly accurate. The full range consists of quick movers, lifts and conveyors, which come with the option of adding integrated blue light and barcode scanners, as well as other accessories.

The new collaboration between RARUK Automation and Nord Modules reflects a shared focus on making automation simple, scalable and flexible for real-world manufacturing applications. When investing in an AMR solution, customers will gain faster deployment and smooth integration between mobile robots and existing factory infrastructure by choosing Nord Modules’ proven, standardised top module equipment.

“Our partnership with Nord Modules strengthens our commitment to delivering simple, scalable and fully integrated AMR solutions to UK manufacturers. By combining Nord Modules’ proven top modules with our expertise in Mobile Industrial Robots, we will be able to bring immediate, tangible value to our AMR customers,” said Ross Lacy, Sales Director, RARUK Automation.

“We are very excited to partner with RARUK Automation, who are not only the sole MiR distributor in the UK but also hold MiR Gold Partner status. The UK is a high-priority market for Nord Modules, and RARUK Automation’s deep expertise in MiR and automation makes them an ideal partner for bringing our solutions to this market. With our top modules known for their superior quality and durability, and RARUK Automation’s strong local presence and technical expertise, we are confident this partnership will create real value for UK customers,” said Frank Ib, CSO, Nord Modules.

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Palletising is a repetitive and strenuous task that poses risk of injury to workers. For manufacturers looking to increase efficiency, palletising is an easy choice in terms of tasks to automate. Implementing a robotic solution to take the strain of repetitive palletising tasks increases safety for workers and allows staff to be re-allocated to more rewarding, higher-value tasks.

Robotiq offers a choice of two different approaches to easy, simple palletising automation: PAL Ready and PAL Series. PAL Ready is a production-ready palletiser which utilises the UR20 model from Universal Robots. The solution includes everything manufacturers need to get started and is designed for rapid installs. A vacuum gripper, a mobility kit (which allows the cell to be moved to different lines), a safety package and a smart infeed roller conveyor are all included in the PAL Ready package.

PAL Series, on the other hand, is a modular approach based on standard Robotiq components. This option offers a choice of five different palletiser models, along with optional extras such as grippers, safety packages, mobility kits, interlayer racks and more. Users can choose to add or remove these components to suit their application needs.

RARUK Automation is a Robotiq Expert Partner and was named Universal Robots’ Top Global Distributor in 2024. With previous deployments, Robotiq Palletising Solutions have proven popular due to their small footprint, making it easy to fit them into existing production lines. The PE10 has a payload capacity of 11.5 kg (25 lb) and a stacking height of 1,550 mm (60 in). The solution offers a cycle time of 13 cycles/ min.

Designed to enhance efficiency, Robotiq’s easy-to-use software makes it quick and simple to get a robotic palletising solution up and running. Staff can effortlessly adapt production through an intuitive interface. With Robotiq’s Multi-recipe feature, it is easy to accommodate product changeovers.

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RARUK Automation is the exclusive UK representative for Robotiq, a Canadian manufacturer of end-of-arm tooling and application solutions designed specifically for Universal Robots. Delivering a new approach to simple, fast end-of-line automation, Robotiq has launched PAL Ready and PAL Series which offer two new options for customers.

PAL Ready is a production-ready palletiser, which is fully assembled, tested and ready to run on arrival. The solution includes everything manufacturers need to get started and is designed for rapid installs. PAL Ready offers a palletising solution complete with a vacuum gripper, a mobility kit (which allows the cell to be moved to different lines), a safety package and a smart infeed roller conveyor.

Andrew Mason, Automation Product Manager at RARUK Automation comments: “PAL Ready offers the end user the capacity for flexible redeployment between lines, with its complete hardware and easy-to-use software solution. It is designed exclusively to work with proven, industry-leading Universal Robots.”

On the other hand, PAL Series offers a more modular approach for businesses with custom requirements. This option offers a choice of five different palletiser models, along with optional standard components such as grippers, safety packages, mobility kits, interlayer racks and more. Users can choose to add or remove these components to suit their application needs.

Both of these options are designed to allow businesses to scale with ease, as each solution is based on the same software, building blocks and design logic. For manufacturers looking to determine the right solution for their factory floor, there is even a Palletising Fit Tool which will generate a custom report based on a series of questions about the potential application.

RAR UK says this new step marks a breakthrough in palletising automation, offering shorter timelines, rapid deployment and predictable ROI for businesses. All of this makes palletising automation more accessible to businesses – both large manufacturers and SMEs – and guarantees a safer, more productive facility.

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The Movotrak CTU features collision detection settings for programming and control benefits. The collaborative 7th axis will immediately stop the cobot when it detects an obstacle. This offers increased reach for collaborative applications, whilst maintaining high standards of safety.

The collision detection system also monitors current continuously, detecting position errors in the motor, and providing comprehensive anti-collision capabilities along the entire 7th axis. The system includes a small reverse-move feature that eliminates pinch points following a stop.

A versatile solution

The 7th axis increases the robot’s operating range up to 10 metres, meaning that a cobot can be utilised for more than one workstation. Offering flexibility for users, the Movotrak CTU can be seamlessly mounted in a horizontal, inverted or wall-mounted configuration, making it an adaptable choice for diverse applications. Notably, the Movotrak CTU 7th axis is well-equipped for compatibility with even the largest cobots, such as the UR20 and UR30.

Fully compatible with Universal Robots, the Movotrak CTU can be programmed directly through a URCap interface on the UR Teach Pendant. All collision monitoring and safeguard logic runs in the Thomson drive, so bandwidth competition with the UR controls is minimal.

Similar to the freedrive of cobot joints, the Movotrak CTU 7th axis freedrive functionality enables hand-driven setting of linear waypoints during programming. Users manually slide the cobot where they would like it to be in a sequence along the 7th axis and register that with a simple push button. This could particularly benefit a range of applications, such as welding, quality inspection or lab automation.

Optimised collaborative robot applications

The collaborative 7th axis offers maximised efficiency, as one robot can operate multiple workstations. It also offers 24/7 operation, enabling increased throughput. By utilising the Movotrak CTU, businesses can make efficient use of space and resources.

“We’re excited to partner with Thomson to bring the Movotrak CTU to our customers,” comments Ross Lacy, Sales Director at RARUK Automation. “This innovative 7th axis solution perfectly complements our range of Universal Robots cobots, offering enhanced reach, safety and flexibility. The Movotrak CTU empowers manufacturers to optimise their collaborative applications, maximise efficiency and unlock new automation possibilities.”

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Following a large investment in a gear hobbing machine, the EMS production team were looking for a way to maximise the machine’s output and therefore achieve the best possible value from the investment.

Pete Daly, Production Engineer at EMS, explains: “The Affolter gear hobbing machine was a substantial capital investment for us; to maximise our return on the investment, we considered various ways of increasing production outside of the normal working hours. A cobot was the best solution.”

Automating the process of feeding blank parts into the Affolter machine would optimise the productivity and efficiency of the cell.

Having made the decision to automate with a collaborative robot, EMS looked into a range of solutions on the market and ultimately chose a UR5e from Universal Robots, supplied by UR+ Platinum Partner RARUK Automation.

“After obtaining quotes from several cobot suppliers, the decision to go with UR was based on ease of use and programming, the support offered and price,” Daly says.

Universal Robots 6-axis robot arms are designed to work safely alongside human operators, with a range of reach and payload capacities available depending on the cobot model. These robots are popular due to their ease-of-use and flexibility to be re-deployed to suit production needs.

In order to ensure that the automation process went as smoothly as possible, EMS conducted in-house testing and 3D modelling before the cobot was installed.

“From receipt of cobot to shop floor implementation was around two months,” explains Daly. “The reason for this was, we built a replica of the machine loading system in our R&D lab to test different methods and smooth out any potential issues. The whole setup was then installed on the machine.”

RARUK Automation has a dedicated Technical Support team, offering support on-site and over the phone, as well as certified training and feasibility trials.

“I have used the support a few times and they have always been able to help,” remarks Daly.

Adding that his overall experience with RARUK Automation has been positive, Daly says: “Everything has been very good. Very straight forward with good communication.”

Overall, implementing the UR robot has been beneficial for EMS for a range of reasons, including improved product quality. For instance, using the collaborative robot during the day enables the skilled operator to perform more frequent quality checks, making the process more efficient whilst keeping quality standards high.

Production staff at EMS have had a positive reaction to the robot, Daly says: “Staff were informed that the purpose of the cobot was, primarily, to extend the working hours of the machine, and secondly, to relieve the operator from the more tedious duties. Not to replace people, as is often the worry when people hear the word ‘robot’. Now staff have seen it working and can see the benefits; we have been met with positivity.”

Lastly, the primary goal of increasing productivity and continued output after working hours has been achieved, enabling EMS to maximise its ROI on both the gear hobbing machine and the robot.

Looking ahead, EMS may consider implementing more collaborative robots. Daly remarks:

“We have a couple of other projects where we feel the use of another cobot might be beneficial.”

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RARUK Automation is a long-standing distributor of the Universal Robots range, as well as complementary end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) and application solutions. GRIP is an exciting addition to RARUK Automation’s product line-up, for customers seeking expanded automation capabilities.

GRIP’s tool changers are designed to integrate seamlessly with Universal Robots, with a URCap for easy set-up and programming. With both manual and automatic options available, the systems allow a single robot to perform multiple tasks by switching between tools quickly and safely.

Manual tool changers

Also referred to as manual connectors, these changers feature a mechanical release lever, which can be operated one-handed. They deliver high durability, precision and repeatability (<0.02 mm). With a locking pin to prevent unintentional release, user safety is prioritised with GRIP manual tool changers. These low weight connectors, made of anodised aluminium, can withstand high loads.

Automatic tool changers

GRIP’s auto connectors function as fully automated end-of-arm tool changing systems, with no external energy source required. The locking and unlocking mechanism is activated by the robot’s own movement, meaning that no human intervention is required. Matching the manual tool changers’ levels repeatability, GRIP’s automatic tool changers work with tool trays which enable the robot to seamlessly switch between multiple end-effectors and ‘park’ the tools it is not using.

Robot base changers

GRIP also offers a manual robot base connector that allows the entire robot to be relocated between workstations in seconds – without the need for unscrewing. An operator can release the robot from its position by simply pulling a lever, allowing it to be transferred to a new station. This intuitive solution optimises robot cell layouts and improves resource utilisation.

Ross Lacy, Sales Director at RARUK Automation, comments: “Our partnership with GRIP will bring a new level of versatility for our customers. Their innovative tool changing systems enable collaborative robots to switch seamlessly between tasks – minimising downtime, boosting productivity and unlocking greater value for businesses.”

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On stand D72, RARUK Automation will be demonstrating the PE Series Palletising Solution from Robotiq. The solution was designed specifically for the Universal Robots range of 6-axis cobot arms and there are a variety of options to suit different UR models. For this demonstration, the palletising solution will be paired with the newly upgraded UR12e. With a recently improved payload capacity of 12.5 kg/ 27.5 lbs, this model has a reach of 1300 mm / 51.2 in whilst maintaining a compact footprint.

With many manufacturers struggling with labour shortages, robotic palletising enables workers to be re-allocated to higher value, safer tasks. This eliminates the risk of RSI associated with manual palletising. Robotiq’s full range of palletising solutions are fast to set up, easy to scale and do not require annual software licencing fees.

Material handling with mobile robots

Working in collaboration with the palletising cell on stand D72, the MiR600 from Mobile Industrial Robots will be transporting the pallet once loaded. This showcases how workflows can be completely automated in real-life applications and how different robotic solutions can work together. The MiR600 can move 600 kg payloads autonomously at a speed of 2m/s in demanding environments. The AMR is IP52 rated, with an ability to withstand dust and fluids. Offering enhanced worker safety due to multi-sensor systems and cameras that feed data into an advanced planning algorithm, the MiR600 meets ISO 3691-4 safety standards.

Another mobile robot on RARUK Automation’s stand will be the ER-FLEX, created by Enabled Robotics. The robot combines a MiR250 mobile robot base with a Universal Robots cobot arm mounted on top (there are a range of UR models to choose from). This mobile cobot can be used for transporting and handling materials, saving valuable worker time and improving productivity. The ER-FLEX can be used for 20 hours a day, or around the clock with a smart layout.

AI vision for packing

Completing the range of demonstrations on RARUK Automation’s stand will be an AI vision application, using Cambrian Vision on a UR5e. The vision system works by capturing images with a 3D camera mounted on the robot arm, which are then routed through an AI model and 3D co-ordinates are returned for any pickable parts. The UR robot will then move to pick the part and pack it in a uniform orientation. Cambrian Vision offers prediction times of 0.2 seconds. The vision system can detect difficult part materials such as shiny metals and transparent plastics. The AI technology enables the system to work in a range of challenging artificial and natural lighting conditions.

The PPMA Total Show 2025 promises to highlight the very latest in machinery, robotics, vision systems and automation all under one roof. On stand D72, visitors will have the chance to see innovative collaborative robot technology in action and ask any questions they may have. Whether it is packing, palletising or material handling there are a range of scalable, intelligent solutions available from trusted automation distributor RARUK Automation.

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These new partnerships will allow RARUK Automation to unlock new collaborative robot applications for UK manufacturing businesses. The End-of-Arm-Safeguard (EOAS) from SICK creates a protective field around the robot’s end effector, preventing the robot from coming into contact with human workers operating in the same area. Meanwhile, Inbolt’s GuideNOW is an AI-based 3D vision system that enables real-time robot guidance.

End-of-Arm-Safeguard (EOAS)

The End-of-Arm-Safeguard is designed to facilitate human-robot collaboration and makes it possible to work safely in the immediate vicinity of the robot. Installed directly on the robot flange, the system’s contactless technology prevents collisions before they occur. With its small protective field, the End-of-Arm-Safeguard offers protection exactly where it is needed, thereby creating more space for humans and machines.

Moreover, the End-of-Arm-Safeguard enables faster robot operating speeds due to the non-contact protection it provides. There is also a muting mode for faster working areas of the robot if needed. The End-of-Arm-Safeguard can be configured using a URCap with a 3-step process, making it simple to set up and deploy.

GuideNOW Real-time Robot Guidance

GuideNOW from Inbolt is a real-time, plug-and-play 3D vision system for robot guidance, accessible to anyone and easy to set up. The solution is capable of real-time data processing, maintaining productivity on moving assembly lines. With robust 3D vision, GuideNOW performs reliably in all lighting conditions.

The solution reduces automation costs, as there is no need for custom jigs or indexing tooling. As a result, manufacturing processes can become more efficient and cost effective. GuideNOW improves product quality, as it prevents the end-effector from colliding with the part. Robot guidance also stops the robot from executing a process in the wrong place. RARUK Automation will be showcasing GuideNOW at Automation UK on the 7th and 8th of May 2025.

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AI-Powered Bin Picking with Cambrian Vision

Experience a collaborative robot (cobot) bin picking task using Cambrian Vision, an AI-based vision system from Cambrian Robotics. Designed to handle challenging lighting conditions, this robust vision technology ensures precise robot detection for various part types, including transparent, shiny metal and plastic components.

Real-Time Robot Guidance with GuideNOW

RARUK Automation will also be demonstrating GuideNOW from Inbolt, an AI-powered 3D vision guidance system for Universal Robots. This plug-and-play solution enables precise robot positioning, making it ideal for tasks such as assembly, bin picking, gluing, tightening and surface finishing.

Seamless Automated Screwdriving

See the Robotiq Screwdriving Solution in action, performing an assembly task with remarkable efficiency and reliability. By automating the communication between the screwdriver, screw feeder, robot and vacuum technology, this solution simplifies programming and set-up.

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) in Action

In the Mobile Robot Demo Zone (Stand E106), RARUK Automation will be presenting a fleet of MiR autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) with top modules. Designed to handle a variety of payloads, MiR robots feature multi-sensor systems and cameras that feed data into an advanced planning algorithm, allowing the robots to navigate safely and autonomously in dynamic environments.

Visit RARUK Automation at Automation UK on 7-8 May 2025 at the CBS Arena, Coventry, to explore the future of collaborative robotics, AI vision, mobile robots and more.

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