Cobot FAQs

No, you do not need a PLC to run a Universal Robot. A UR robot can operate as a standalone system because the UR controller includes its own robot control and programming environment (called PolyScope). This enables programming, I/O, gripper control and more to be run directly from the robot controller. However, a PLC is used in larger automation systems where you need to:

Coordinate the robot with conveyors, machines, sensors, or other equipment.
Manage overall cell sequencing and production logic.
Interface with HMIs and plant-wide control systems.
Simplify troubleshooting and fault recovery in complex production lines

Universal Robots are designed to work in close proximity with humans, due to features such as force limiting, speed limiting, safety-rated monitored stops and configurable safety zones. In most scenarios, UR robots do not require cumbersome guarding typically required by industrial robots. However, the safety of any robotic application depends on all factors involved, such as the end-of-arm tooling, speed of operation, the object being handled, etc. A proper risk assessment is required before deployment to determine if additional safety measures, such as emergency stop buttons or light curtains, are required.

Universal Robots’ safety functions are certified to:

• Performance Level d (PL d) according to ISO 13849-1
• Category 3 (Cat 3) architecture according to ISO 13849-1

The robots themselves are also certified to:

• EN ISO 10218-1 (industrial robot safety standard) by TÜV Rheinland.

Universal Robots are certified to EN ISO 10218-1 and are supplied with a Declaration of Incorporation because a robot arm on its own is considered “partly completed machinery.” The complete robot cell will receive the final CE marking as a complete machine/ system by the system integrator once all components are assembled.

UR was an early pioneer of collaborative robotics and remains the market leader globally. Universal Robots is known for ease of programming, certified collaborative safety functions and a global integration and support network. Although the upfront cost may be higher than newer entries to the cobot space, users are paying for a proven product (over 100,0000 cobots deployed worldwide), a mature software system, ease of integration and peace of mind in the long-term.

RARUK Automation can deliver a UR robot in a box in 2-4 weeks. A fully integrated automation cell will likely take longer depending on design, safety validation, tooling choices, etc.

Universal Robots are designed and manufactured in Odense, Denmark, which is known as one of Europe’s major robotics hubs.

Universal Robots promises 35,0000 hours of operation, but this could be longer with appropriate servicing and maintenance, as well as programming optimised to reduce wear on the cobot.

Universal Robots are designed to be low maintenance, however there are some best-practice steps to follow to maximise performance and lifespan:

• Daily visual checks (visible damage, unusual noises or vibrations, dust or dirt present, etc.).
• Monthly inspection of cables, fasteners, and seals.
• Regular software backups.
• Annual performance review.
• Professional service inspection every 1–2 years depending on operating hours and environment.

• e-Series: IP54
• UR Series: IP65

Cobots are designed to work alongside human operators and are known for their compact footprint, shorter deployment times and easy programming and changeovers. They are ideal for high-mix, low-volume production. They offer a lower barrier to automation for small and medium sized businesses, where ROI on industrial robots is uncertain due to fluctuating production volumes. Large businesses also choose cobots when they value flexibility over maximum speed, quick deployment, smaller footprints and faster ROI for lower-volume applications.

Cobots are typically used to automate repetitive tasks, which can be physically demanding or hard to recruit and retain staff for, across industries. Common industries include metals and machining, logistics and warehousing, food and beverage, automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals and medical device manufacturing, all the way through to nuclear decommissioning and more. The most common cobot applications regardless of industry are palletising and depalletising, machine tending, pick-and-place and assembly/ screwdriving.

The price varies based on model, but a complete installation often includes additional equipment such as gripper/ end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), vision system, pedestal/ fixturing and safety scanners (if necessary). We recommend using our robot configurator or speaking to a member of our team to get an accurate quote for your application.

To choose the right cobot for your needs, we recommend defining the task, determining your payload and reach requirements, assessing cycle time and throughput, as well as the space available. These factors should help you choose the right model for your application. Our expert team are on hand to talk you through your options and advise the best choice for your project.

The best applications for cobots are those that involve repetitive, physically demanding work that is difficult to staff. They are well suited to tasks that are subject to frequent product changes, that require human interaction and maximum flexibility.

We recommend building your business case around the following factors:

• Cost savings
• Productivity improvements
• Health & safety benefits
• Quality and consistency
• Stabilising operations where labour is difficult to recruit and retain
• A simple ROI calculation

Our expert team is happy to talk you through these points.

At RARUK Automation, we offer leasing options for up to 2 weeks for you to try a cobot on your site.

• The UR5e was renamed the UR7e, to reflect its new 7.5 kg payload capacity – made possible by a software update.
• The UR10e was renamed the UR12e, to reflect its 12.5 kg payload capacity, which it has been capable of since an upgrade in 2021.
• The robots are mechanically the same, they have just been renamed.

PolyScope 5 is the software platform most UR users know today on e-Series robots. It’s mature, stable and supported by a large ecosystem of URCaps and third-party integrations. PolyScope X is a new platform designed to make building robot applications easier for operators, with simpler workflows, templates and a modern interface. Visit our robot software page for a full breakdown.

PolyScope is the operating software and user interface used on Universal Robots cobots. It’s the software that allows users to program, configure, operate and monitor a UR robot through the teach pendant.

Yes, it is recommended to keep your Universal Robot updated. If your robot is part of a validated production system, we recommend reading the release notes first and checking compatibility with any URCaps, vision systems, palletising software or third-part integrations. To be safe, it is also advisable to make a full backup before updating.

A common approach is:

Production systems running reliably: Update during planned maintenance periods.

New installations: Start on the latest supported version.

Security or critical bug fixes: Update promptly after testing.

How to update PolyScope 5:

1. Backup your robot.
2. Download the update from the Universal Robots download portal.
3. Copy to a USB drive (do not rename the file).
4. Insert the USB into the teach pendant.
5. Start the update by navigating to the update menu and searching for available updates.
6. Allow the robot to reboot.
7. Power on the robot afterwards.

How to update PolyScope X:

1. Open the main menu.
   Go to Settings 🡪 Update.
2. Insert a USB drive containing the update package (from the Universal Robots download portal).
3. Select “Check for update”.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

In most circumstances, no. All UR cobots are kinematically calibrated at the factory before shipment. This calibration compensates for small manufacturing and assembly tolerances so the robot knows its position accurately and can move precisely. In the rare case that recalibration is required, this can be undertaken at UR’s headquarters in Odense, Denmark.

Because the robot contains moving wear components, Universal Robots recommends a service check at least every two years. These inspections can identify wear, check performance and help avoid preventable failures.

The standard warranty on Universal Robots cobots is 15 months from shipment. This can be extended through Warranty Extension and UR Care Premium add-ons.

Yes, Universal Robots are popular for their easy installation and programming. Their software, safety features and programming environment are designed to reduce deployment complexity.

Yes, many applications are straightforward for an end-user to handle the installation on their own, although it may be advisable to consult a systems integrator to carry out a risk assessment and CE marking. For larger, more complex systems involving multiple conveyors, vision systems, PLC integration or safeguarding measures, using an experienced integrator for the project can offer peace of mind and speed up deployment.

We recommend that our customers complete our 2-day certified UR Core Training, which we run in our authorised training centre in Shefford, Bedfordshire. We also offer Advanced and Service and Maintenance training for those looking to further their skills.

Yes. In fact, one of the biggest advantages of a Universal Robot cobot is that it can be used for multiple jobs, either at different times of the day or by changing programs when production requirements change. With automatic tool changers, dual gripper configurations and 7th axis systems, it is very easy for UR robots to complete multiple tasks within one application.

The honest answer is: it depends on how much of a solution you need. The robot arm is often only part of the total project cost. Speak to one of our experts for a full breakdown of likely costs.

The payback period for a UR cobot depends on the application, costs saved, shifts worked and how much productivity it adds. It could be as little as 6 – 12 months for highly repetitive tasks that are difficult to staff, such as palletising or machine tending. ROI is boosted by multi-shift or after-hours operation, resulting in additional output.