Universal Robots makes a strong start to 2013 – expands UK distributors and enters U.S. market

March 5, 2013 - PRLog -- Danish automation company Universal Robots has made a strong start to 2013 announcing two additional UK distributors and news of overwhelming interest from both distributors and end-users in North America as the U.S. market emerges from recession. The robots are now on sale in 40 markets globally.

The two new UK distributors are:

Global Robots (http://www.globalrobots.com/) based in Bedford, Bedfordshire

Olympus Technologies (http://www.olympustechnologies.co.uk/) based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire

These are in addition to existing distributor R.A Rodriguez Ltd.

“The UK is an important market for us but one which has been slow to capitalise on the benefits of automation”, said Kristian Hulgard, Sales Manager for the UK and Nordic markets. “However, as the recession eases and businesses look to invest in new equipment again we have seen renewed interest from SME’s in our robots and that is why we set out to expand the distribution network in 2011.”

“Nobody else has a collaborative robot that’s easy to programme, can be easily moved from spot to spot throughout a factory, and is relatively low in cost. We expect this to appeal to both our existing customers and those looking to invest in automation for the first time “ said Andy Kirkwood from Global Robots.

“A distinguishing feature of Universal Robots is that their collaborative robots can in many cases be used with no additional protection. The UR robots also offer great value for money with their capabilities in terms of precision handling, flexibility and payload.” Said Gavin Jamieson from Olympus Technologies. “The ease of set-up and intuitive programming with the UR robots is simpler than most robots and we think will have great appeal to both current robot users and those taking their first steps into automation.”

The robots:
Universal Robots is a result of many years of intensive research in robotics. The product portfolio includes the UR5 and UR10 models that handle payloads of up to 5 and 10 kilos respectively. The six-axis robot arms are in compliance with the ISO Standard for collaborative robots; as soon as an employee comes into contact with the robot arm, the robot arm will automatically stop operating. This means that subject to a risk assessment, the robots have proved safe to operate without safety shielding in 80 per cent of currently installed applications. The collaborative robots can quickly be moved around the production sites and are easily integrated in all industries – from the small machine shop to the large auto assembly line. Return on investment is typically 3 – 8 months.

The company:

Universal Robots is a first mover within a new segment of collaborative robots focusing on user friendliness and flexibility. The company is headquartered in Odense, Denmark where all development and production is carried out.
www.universal-robots.com