ARTHUR: A Technological Revolution in Arthritis Treatment
Arthritis, a debilitating condition affecting millions of people worldwide, may have found a new ally in the fight against pain and inflammation: ARTHUR (Arthritis Ultrasound Robot). This groundbreaking ultrasound robot, developed by the Danish company ROPCA ApS in collaboration with KUKA, a leader in robotics, is built on the foundation of KUKA’s LBR Med medical robotic arm. Promising to revolutionize the way this complex disease is treated, ARTHUR offers a more precise, personalized, and potentially more effective therapeutic approach.
Arthritis encompasses a range of conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. Current treatments vary widely, from medications and physical therapy to surgical interventions in severe cases. However, identifying the optimal therapy and ensuring its precise delivery often present significant challenges. It is within this context that ARTHUR emerges, merging cutting-edge robotic technology with the therapeutic benefits of ultrasound. By offering millimeter-level precision, ARTHUR ensures that ultrasonic energy is delivered optimally to maximize therapeutic outcomes.
Unlike a human therapist, ARTHUR is a sophisticated robotic system specifically designed to administer ultrasound treatments in a controlled and precise manner. Equipped with a high-precision robotic arm and an advanced imaging guidance system—such as MRI or diagnostic ultrasound—ARTHUR is capable of targeting affected joints with extraordinary accuracy. Its core lies in its unparalleled ability to locate inflamed or damaged tissue within a joint. Utilizing the integration of medical imaging and advanced robotic programming, ARTHUR directs therapeutic ultrasound waves specifically to the problematic area, significantly reducing exposure to surrounding tissues.
Therapeutic ultrasound has long been used to alleviate pain and inflammation by stimulating blood circulation and promoting tissue healing. Yet, the effectiveness of these treatments has historically depended on the skill of the therapist administering them. ARTHUR changes this paradigm entirely by ensuring millimeter-accurate energy delivery, thus maximizing the therapeutic benefits of each session.
The potential benefits of integrating ARTHUR into arthritis treatment are profound. It represents a milestone in the intersection of medical technology and patient care. By delivering targeted therapy with unparalleled precision, ARTHUR not only increases the likelihood of effective treatment but also sets a new standard for what is possible in the realm of robotic-assisted healthcare. For patients battling the daily challenges of arthritis, ARTHUR offers not just a glimpse of relief but a promise of a transformative approach to managing this chronic condition.
SIMPLE ROBOT PROGRAMMING IN MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES: THE SUCCESS STORY OF ROBERT BÜRKLE AND THE SRCI INTERFACE
Industrial automation is no longer a luxury reserved for large corporations. Today, even mid-sized companies are embracing innovative technologies to streamline their operations. A prime example is the German manufacturer Robert Bürkle GmbH, which has successfully integrated industrial robots into its production lines thanks to the Standard Robot Control Interface (SRCI).
Based in Freudenstadt, in the Baden-Württemberg region, Robert Bürkle specializes in manufacturing laminating systems for credit cards and photovoltaic modules, as well as painting systems for the furniture and wood-processing industries. In particular, the company faced a growing need for automation in handling lightweight panels used in caravan manufacturing—some weighing up to 250 kilograms. Robots became essential.
However, Bürkle encountered a major challenge: a shortage of skilled professionals in robot programming. Traditional programming methods required in-depth knowledge of each robot manufacturer’s proprietary system, making integration complex and costly.
To overcome this, Bürkle adopted the SRCI interface, which allows robots to be programmed directly through the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)—eliminating the need for specialized knowledge of each robot brand. SRCI provides a library of PLC function modules that simplify robot control and integration.
The company installed a Yaskawa MOTOMAN GP225 handling robot, capable of lifting up to 225 kilograms with a reach of 2,702 mm. Thanks to SRCI, the PLC programmer was able to work within a familiar environment and complete commissioning quickly. The company also leveraged a digital twin to optimize system design and fine-tuning, improving efficiency even further.
This implementation reflects a broader trend toward standardization and simplification in industrial robotics. Developed by Siemens in collaboration with Profibus & Profinet International (PI), SRCI aims to create a universal interface between PLCs and robots, making programming and operation more accessible across different platforms.
Universal Robots has also integrated SRCI into its software, enhancing the connectivity of its collaborative robots and enabling seamless integration with Siemens PLCs. This simplifies setup and accelerates deployment in production lines built around the Siemens ecosystem.
Robert Bürkle’s experience shows that adopting standardized interfaces like SRCI can be a game-changer for mid-sized companies looking to automate without relying on niche programming expertise. Standardization not only reduces costs and implementation time but also opens the door to broader adoption of industrial robotics.
As more robot and PLC manufacturers embrace standards like SRCI, integrating robots into industrial environments will become increasingly accessible, efficient, and scalable—empowering companies of all sizes to embrace the future of automation.
THE FUTURE OF LOGISTICS: AUTONOMOUS ROBOTS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN
Modern logistics is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the integration of autonomous robots into the supply chain. These robots, powered by artificial intelligence, are revolutionizing how goods are stored, sorted, and delivered—cutting costs and speeding up operations. Industry giants like Amazon and Walmart are leading the way, adopting cutting-edge technologies to boost efficiency and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are at the heart of this shift. Equipped with sensors, cameras, and AI algorithms, these mobile units can navigate complex environments and perform tasks without human intervention. In logistics, they’re being used for everything from transporting goods within warehouses to sorting items and preparing orders for shipment.
One of the most significant advantages of AMRs is their ability to reduce operational costs. By taking over repetitive and physically demanding tasks, they help companies lower labor expenses while maintaining high productivity. Their capacity to work around the clock—24/7—also means faster order fulfillment and shorter delivery times, which translates into better customer satisfaction.
Accuracy is another key benefit. Thanks to advanced computer vision and AI, these robots can perform tasks with a level of precision that minimizes errors in sorting and packing. This not only improves quality control but also reduces returns and associated costs.
Space optimization is yet another area where AMRs shine. Unlike traditional systems, these robots can navigate narrow aisles and make better use of vertical storage, allowing for higher storage density and more efficient use of warehouse space.
The numbers speak for themselves. The global market for autonomous robots in logistics and warehousing is projected to grow from $2.96 billion in 2023 to $18.56 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.6%. Adoption of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) has surged by 70%, with over 65% of large-scale distribution centers now using them to enhance operational efficiency. Meanwhile, the use of mobile collaborative robots has increased by 75%, further driving warehouse automation.
The integration of autonomous robots is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic shift that’s redefining the supply chain. By improving speed, accuracy, and space utilization, these robots are helping companies meet rising consumer expectations while staying agile and cost-effective. As technology continues to evolve, the role of autonomous robots in logistics is only expected to grow, ushering in a new era of smart, responsive, and highly efficient supply chains.
ROBOTIC WELDING: ROBOTS OR INDUSTRIAL ROBOTS? HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SOLUTION FOR YOUR PRODUCTION
In today’s manufacturing landscape, process automation has become a key driver of productivity, quality, and workplace safety. In the field of welding, the integration of robotics has revolutionized how companies approach this critical operation. However, not all robotic welding solutions are the same. Two main approaches exist: collaborative welding, using cobots, and industrial welding, using high-performance traditional robots. Choosing between them depends on a variety of technical and operational factors.
Collaborative Welding: Flexibility Meets Automation
Collaborative robots, or cobots, are designed to work safely alongside humans without the need for safety fences or enclosures—under controlled conditions. They are particularly well-suited for companies seeking a gradual transition to automation, especially those with low to medium production volumes.
One of the main advantages of cobots is their ease of programming and reconfiguration. Thanks to intuitive interfaces and manual teaching systems, even operators with no prior experience in robotics can quickly learn to use them. This makes it easy to adapt the welding cell to different parts and tasks with minimal changeover time.
Cobots also have a compact footprint and can be easily integrated into existing workshops. They are an ideal solution for manufacturers of custom metal structures, short production runs, maintenance work, or on-demand manufacturing.
Industrial Welding: High-Volume Precision and Productivity
On the other hand, when it comes to repetitive welding processes with high technical demands and large-scale production, industrial robots remain the most efficient option. Equipped with high-load, high-speed, and high-precision arms, these robots are built for continuous operation with minimal downtime.
These systems require a more robust infrastructure, including safety enclosures, offline programming, positioning tools, and often sensors or vision systems. However, the return on investment is justified by the consistency, quality, and productivity they deliver—especially in industries such as automotive, heavy machinery, and mass production.
Which Solution Should You Choose?
The decision between a collaborative or industrial welding robot depends on several factors: production volume, available space, need for flexibility, budget, and staff expertise.
If your company needs a versatile, easy-to-deploy solution with low risk, a welding cobot is an excellent entry point into automation.
If your environment demands sustained performance, extreme precision, and efficiency in large batches, industrial robotic welding is the better choice.
In both cases, the key is to align the robotic solution with your production goals, the types of parts to be welded, and your company’s growth strategy. When implemented correctly, robotics not only enhances the welding process but also boosts competitiveness and adaptability in the face of evolving market challenges.
DESIGNED TO CARE, PROGRAMMED TO COLLABORATE WITH YASKAWA HC
In the evolving landscape of industrial automation, collaborative robots—commonly known as cobots—are redefining the way humans and machines interact. The HC series by Yaskawa exemplifies this transformation, offering a new standard in safety, adaptability, and user-friendliness. Designed to work side by side with human operators, these robots eliminate the need for physical safety barriers, provided that a proper risk assessment is conducted. This is made possible through advanced technologies such as Power and Force Limiting (PFL), which automatically halts the robot upon detecting contact with a person or object, significantly reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, the design of the HC series avoids pinch points, further enhancing workplace safety.
Barrier-Free Integration for Modern Workspaces
One of the most compelling advantages of the HC series is its ability to operate without physical enclosures. This feature allows for seamless integration into existing production lines, optimizing space and enabling quick reconfiguration of workflows. Such flexibility is particularly valuable in industries characterized by high product variability or limited floor space, where adaptability is essential to maintaining operational efficiency.
Balancing Safety and Productivity
A standout feature of the HC series is its dual-mode operation. When workers are present, the robot functions at safe, reduced speeds. However, once the area is clear, it can switch to higher speeds to maximize productivity. This dynamic adjustment ensures that performance is tailored to the specific demands of each task, without compromising safety. It’s a perfect balance between human collaboration and industrial efficiency.
Intuitive Programming for All Skill Levels
Yaskawa has also prioritized ease of use in the HC series. With tools like the “Smart Pendant”—an intuitive touchscreen interface—users can learn and program basic movements in as little as 30 minutes. Moreover, the direct teaching function allows operators to manually guide the robot arm to new positions, making it accessible even to those with no prior experience in robotics. This democratization of programming empowers a broader range of workers to engage with automation technology.
Versatility in Every Application
The HC series is engineered for a wide array of applications, including assembly, material handling, palletizing, quality inspection, and welding. Its robust design and ability to operate in challenging environments—such as those with dust or moisture—make it ideal for sectors like automotive, electronics, and food processing. This versatility ensures that a single robot can be deployed across multiple tasks, enhancing return on investment and operational agility.
Conclusion: A Smarter Path to Industrial Automation
The Yaskawa Motoman HC series represents a forward-thinking approach to industrial automation. By integrating safety, flexibility, and ease of use, these cobots not only improve process efficiency but also foster a safer and more collaborative work environment. As industries continue to evolve, the HC series stands out as a reliable and adaptable solution for the challenges of modern manufacturing.
EXPLORING THE FANUC TEACH PENDANT – KEY TO MODERN INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION
At the heart of industrial automation, the FANUC Teach Pendant stands as an essential tool for programming and operating industrial robots. This portable device allows operators to interact directly with the robots, facilitating tasks from initial setup to maintenance and troubleshooting.
Understanding the FANUC Teach Pendant
The Teach Pendant goes beyond a conventional remote control; it is a comprehensive platform that integrates hardware and software, enabling precise and efficient handling of FANUC robots. Its intuitive user interface features a color touchscreen and physical buttons, allowing efficient navigation through the robot’s menus and functions. The programming controls facilitate the creation and modification of programs, specifying the robot’s movements, actions, and sequences. Manual control allows operators to move the robot in various directions, useful for tasks requiring precision or during initial setup. Real-time monitoring and diagnostics provide essential information about the robot’s status, errors, and diagnostic data, crucial for preventive maintenance and troubleshooting. The teaching mode enables operators to physically guide the robot through a specific task, recording these movements for subsequent automatic execution.
FANUC has also designed enhanced versions like the iPendant Touch, which incorporates an advanced graphical interface with 4D visualization and customization options via HTML screens. Additionally, the Tablet Teach Pendant offers more intuitive programming through its drag-and-drop functionality.
Essential Training for Operators
To maximize the use of the Teach Pendant, FANUC offers meticulously designed training programs, covering fundamental to advanced aspects. The Basic Operator Course focuses on fundamental tasks such as controller cabinet description, robot safety, Teach Pendant operation, safe robot movement, and technical support procedures. The Standard Programming with Teach Pendant course, spanning four days, delves into creating basic programs, executing and testing programs, creating and recovering backup files, and familiarizing with FANUC’s technical support procedures. These training programs combine theoretical lectures with laboratory practices, ensuring that students acquire real skills in handling and programming FANUC robots.
Practical Strategies for Mastering the Teach Pendant
Skill acquisition in using the Teach Pendant is enhanced through various learning strategies. Practical sessions involve direct interaction with FANUC robots and the Teach Pendant in simulated scenarios, allowing operators to familiarize themselves with operations in a controlled environment. Interactive workshops, led by experienced instructors, offer deep immersion into aspects such as programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing robot performance. Online learning modules provide flexibility to learn at one’s own pace, comprehensively covering Teach Pendant operations.
Expert handling of the FANUC Teach Pendant is essential for any professional involved in industrial automation processes. Through a deep understanding of its functions and adequate training, operators can ensure efficient and safe robot operation, significantly contributing to productivity and competitiveness in the modern industrial environment.
FROM JOB CREATION TO PRODUCTIVITY IN THE AGE OF AUTOMATION
In a world where efficiency and competitiveness are essential, industrial automation emerges as a key tool for transforming productivity. However, in countries like the United Kingdom, the adoption of robotic technologies still faces significant challenges.
The Reality of Automation in the United Kingdom
According to recent data from the International Federation of Robotics, the UK ranks 23rd in robot density worldwide, with only 119 robots per 10,000 workers, compared to a global average of 162. Excluding the automotive sector, this figure drops to 69 robots per 10,000 employees.
This low adoption of automation is reflected in the country’s productivity. In the fourth quarter of 2024, British productivity was 0.8% lower compared to the previous year and 19% lower than that of the United States.
Beyond Job Creation
One of the obstacles to adopting automation is the focus on job creation. While generating jobs is important, it is crucial to recognize that automation does not aim to replace workers but to complement their skills. Robots can handle repetitive and dangerous tasks, allowing employees to focus on work that requires creativity and critical thinking.
Additionally, automation can help address labor shortages and skill gaps in the manufacturing industry. By automating certain functions, companies can maintain production without relying solely on a workforce that is often hard to find.
Attracting New Generations
The manufacturing industry faces the challenge of attracting young talent. The perception of monotonous and physically demanding jobs deters many. However, integrating advanced technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence can change this image. Offering a modern and technologically advanced work environment can be key to capturing the interest of new generations.
Looking Beyond Initial Costs
One reason many companies, especially SMEs, hesitate to adopt automated solutions is the perception of high initial costs. But focusing solely on the purchase price of a robot or automated system is a limited view. This is where the concept of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) comes in.
TCO includes not only the acquisition price but also installation, training, operation, maintenance, energy consumption, and eventual replacement costs. In other words, all the expenses the company will incur over the robot’s useful life.
Adopting this approach allows companies to see the bigger picture: a seemingly more expensive solution may be much more cost-effective in the medium and long term if it reduces downtime, improves energy efficiency, or decreases reliance on external maintenance.
In a context of inflation, skilled labor shortages, and pressure to maintain competitive margins, thinking in terms of TCO is strategic thinking.
The Way Forward
To boost productivity and ensure competitiveness, it is essential to rethink perceptions of automation. Instead of viewing it as a threat to employment, we should highlight its ability to revolutionize the industry, optimize the work environment, and stimulate innovation.
Investing in automation not only benefits large companies but also offers small and medium-sized enterprises the opportunity to expand and adapt to global market demands. By adopting these technologies, the UK and other countries can ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for their manufacturing sector.
It is time to shift the focus from job creation to productivity improvement through automation, recognizing that collaboration between humans and machines is the path to a more efficient and resilient industry.
AUTOMATION IN MOTION: STRATEGIC USES OF AMR IN INDUSTRY 4.0
In the era of intelligent automation, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) have transitioned from a futuristic vision to becoming key components of modern industrial operations. Unlike automated guided vehicles (AGVs), AMRs do not require fixed infrastructure such as magnetic tapes or predefined routes, allowing them to adapt in real-time to environmental changes using sensors, cameras, LIDAR, and advanced navigation algorithms.
Their ability to collaborate with human workers and other technologies has driven their integration across various sectors, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and retail. Below, we review five key applications where autonomous mobile robotics are transforming workflows with efficiency, safety, and flexibility.
Material Transport in Manufacturing Environments One of the most widespread uses of AMRs is the internal transport of raw materials, parts, and semi-finished products between workstations. Unlike fixed production lines, AMRs enable flexible and dynamic distribution, adapting to changes in layout or production demand. For example, automotive manufacturers use fleets of AMRs to supply assembly cells just-in-time (JIT), optimizing delivery times and reducing work-in-process inventory.
Automatic Inventory Replenishment in Smart Warehouses In modern logistics centers, AMRs perform replenishment tasks by detecting low stock levels in picking or production areas. Equipped with cloud-connected inventory management systems, the robots can identify which products need restocking and from which location to retrieve them. This functionality is crucial for high-turnover e-commerce operations, where inventory efficiency directly impacts customer responsiveness.
Human-Robot Collaboration in Picking Operations Thanks to artificial vision and autonomous navigation, many AMRs are designed to work alongside human operators in collaborative picking tasks. The robot handles movement and container transport, while the worker picks the products. This approach reduces physical strain on staff, minimizes errors, and speeds up order preparation, especially in warehouses with a wide variety of items.
Internal Deliveries in Hospitals and Pharmaceutical Centers In critical environments like hospitals, AMRs transport medications, biological samples, food, or sterilized clothing between departments without disrupting clinical activity. Their ability to navigate crowded corridors and avoid obstacles makes them ideal for repetitive and sensitive tasks. Additionally, by reducing human contact in certain transfers, AMRs help lower the risk of cross-contamination or medication delivery errors.
Industrial Waste Management and Recycling AMRs are also used for selective waste collection within industrial plants, where they can identify different types of waste (metals, plastics, paper) and transport them to recycling points. Using IoT sensors, some models even monitor container fill levels to optimize collection routes. This application not only improves waste management efficiency but also strengthens companies’ sustainability and regulatory compliance goals.
Technology with Purpose: A Commitment to Efficiency, Safety, and Workplace Well-being The integration of autonomous mobile robots into production chains goes beyond technological improvement: it represents an investment in operational sustainability, workplace safety, and the dignification of human roles in the sector. By taking on monotonous, hard, or high-risk responsibilities, AMRs allow employees to focus on strategic, creative, and supervisory tasks where human judgment is indispensable. This not only enhances work quality but also reduces fatigue, incidents, and job dissatisfaction. In a scenario where industrial competitiveness demands constant agility and adaptability, AMRs are not a trend but an essential tool for building smarter, more resilient, and human-centric factories.
WELDING WITHOUT MARGINS FOR ERROR: THE AUTOMATED PRECISION OF THE MOTOMAN HP20-6 CELL WITH RM2-500 STX
In an industrial environment where precision, repeatability, and efficiency define competitiveness, advanced automation solutions become a strategic necessity. One of the most outstanding for arc welding processes is the Motoman HP20-6 welding cell equipped with the RM2-500 STX positioner, a comprehensive solution designed to meet the highest quality and production demands in sectors such as automotive, metalworking, railways, and heavy machinery.
What makes this welding cell special?
The Motoman HP20-6 is not just a robot; it is the core of an automated work cell capable of radically transforming the way a company approaches arc welding. With six axes of movement and a load capacity of up to 20 kg, this model stands out for its combination of speed, precision, and reach, allowing it to work in complex areas without compromising the quality of the weld seam.
What truly enhances this cell is its integration with the RM2-500 STX positioner, a dual-station unit that allows precise handling and rotation of parts during the welding process. This positioner supports up to 500 kg per station and is designed to maintain the ideal welding angle, reducing downtime and enabling continuous operation without interruptions. The ability to load one piece while welding another is a critical factor in maximizing performance.
Competitive advantages: beyond automation
Constant productivity, without fatigue: Unlike human labor, the Motoman HP20-6 cell can operate during extended shifts without loss of performance, ensuring sustained production rates.
Superior welding quality: Thanks to its high-precision path control and the stability of the RM2-500 STX positioner, typical variations of the manual process are eliminated, ensuring clean seams and uniform penetrations.
Operational safety: The enclosed and programmed environment reduces direct human contact with the electric arc and emissions, improving plant safety.
Long-term cost reduction: Fewer reworks, less material waste, and a significant reduction in human errors translate into accelerated return on investment.
Integration flexibility: Compatible with various MIG/MAG welding sources and vision systems, this cell can adapt to multiple manufacturing requirements.
An investment with guaranteed return
For companies looking to scale their production without compromising quality, this cell represents a turnkey solution that not only improves efficiency but also elevates the technical standard of the final product.
Ready to weld your way into the future? At Eurobots, we connect you with robotic solutions that make a difference. Acquire the Motoman HP20-6 cell with RM2-500 STX and turn your plant into a symphony of automated precision. Visit us at eurobots.net and make your next project speak the language of perfection. Because in a world where every millimeter counts, the future is built with precision.
EVOLUTION, POWER, AND PRECISION IN INDUSTRIAL ROBOTICS: FANUC R-2000iB VS. R-2000iC
In the competitive world of industrial automation, FANUC has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers of industrial robots. Among its most well-known models are the R-2000iB and R-2000iC series, specifically designed for heavy load handling, spot welding, and other robust applications in sectors such as automotive, metallurgy, and general manufacturing. Although both belong to the same family of six-axis robots, each series represents a different stage in FANUC’s technological evolution.
FANUC R-2000iB: Established Reliability
Launched in the early 2000s, the R-2000iB series was designed for heavy-duty tasks with a high load-to-weight ratio, proven reliability, and robust construction. This series became a benchmark in the automotive sector for its excellent performance in spot welding, handling large components, and stacking. Thanks to its compact design, iB models can be installed in confined spaces without compromising reach or load capacity.
FANUC R-2000iC: Improved Performance with Optimized Structure
The R-2000iC series, a direct successor to the iB, was launched to incorporate a lighter and more rigid mechanical architecture, along with greater energy efficiency. While maintaining the same application logic, the iC series models include kinematic improvements, smoother trajectories, greater repeatability precision, and a design that facilitates maintenance. The iC is also optimized to integrate with the R-30iB controller and its variants.
Technical Comparison and Capabilities
Feature R-2000iB-165F R-2000iC-165F
Maximum Payload 165 kg 165 kg
Maximum Reach 2,655 mm 2,655 mm
Repeatability Precision ±0.3 mm ±0.2 mm
Compatible Controller R-J3iC, R-30iA R-30iB, R-30iB Plus
Robot Weight 1,170 kg 1,090 kg
Mechanical Structure More robust, heavier Lighter, more efficient
Installation Floor Floor or inverted (depending on model)
Energy Efficiency Standard Optimized
Highlighted Applications by Series
R-2000iB
Spot welding: With reinforced arms and great reach, it is ideal for traditional automotive lines.
Handling of car bodies or heavy structures: Used to move bulky parts with stability.
Loading/unloading machines: In demanding industrial environments.
Popular reference: R-2000iB/165F, one of FANUC’s best-selling models, widely used in the global automotive industry.
R-2000iC
Faster and more precise handling: Thanks to the improvement in structure, it responds better to dynamic trajectories.
Spot welding with lower consumption: More energy-efficient and compatible with next-generation controllers.
Picking of large loads with artificial vision: Easy integration with 2D and 3D vision systems.
Advanced reference: R-2000iC/165F, with the same payload as its predecessor but with better repeatability and efficiency.
Also noteworthy is the R-2000iC/210F, which supports up to 210 kg, ideal for ultra-heavy loads with a reach of 2,655 mm.
Integration and Control
Both series are designed to integrate with FANUC software such as:
ROBOGUIDE for offline simulations.
iRVision for artificial vision.
Force Sensors for force-sensitive tasks (such as assembly)
The main difference lies in controller compatibility:
The iB series links with older controllers like the R-30iA
The iC series leverages the advantages of the R-30iB, which includes better processing, modern interfaces, and lower energy consumption
FANUC R-2000iB/165F
Axes: 6
Payload: 165 kg
Reach: 2,655 mm
Repeatability: ±0.3 mm
Weight: 1,170 kg
Controller: R-30iA / R-J3iC
FANUC R-2000iC/165F
Axes: 6
Payload: 165 kg
Reach: 2,655 mm
Repeatability: ±0.2 mm
Weight: 1,090 kg.
Controller: R-30iB / R-30iB Plus.
Both the R-2000iB and R-2000iC are excellent solutions for demanding industrial environments. The choice between one or the other will depend on the type of plant, budget, integration needs with other systems, and maintenance policies.
R-2000iC: Perfect for modern installations that prioritize efficiency, precision, and easy integration with advanced technologies.
In any case, both series reflect FANUC’s commitment to the continuous evolution of industrial robotics
MOBILE ROBOTS OR HUMAN WORKERS? A DICHOTOMY THAT NO LONGER MAKES SENSE
For years, the discussion about whether machines will replace people has marked the debate in industrial automation. However, in the current context of accelerated technological transformation, posing this dilemma as a direct competition between mobile robots and human personnel is not only simplistic but counterproductive. In reality, intelligent collaboration between both actors is proving to be the true driver of industrial progress.
More than competition: a strategic alliance
The “robots vs. humans” approach is an increasingly obsolete proposition. Leading automation companies have already understood that the future of productivity and efficiency does not depend on replacing people with machines, but on leveraging the best of both worlds. While mobile robots (AMR, for its acronym in English) provide precision, speed, and continuous availability, human operators offer judgment, adaptability, and problem-solving ability in complex contexts.
Tangible advantages of integrating mobile robots
The acquisition of autonomous mobile robots can generate significant benefits from day one, especially in logistics, industrial, and manufacturing environments. Some of the most notable advantages are:
Reduction of downtime and unnecessary movements: AMRs optimize routes and perform internal deliveries with millimetric efficiency, allowing human operators to focus on higher-value tasks.
Greater job security: Mobile robots can take on repetitive or dangerous tasks, minimizing risks for personnel.
Operational scalability: Faced with increases in demand, scaling with mobile robots is faster and more flexible than hiring and training new employees in the short term.
Real-time data and traceability: Modern AMRs generate key information for continuous improvement, such as circulation heat maps, logistics flows, and delivery times.
In which tasks do mobile robots excel?
Mobile robots are especially effective in tasks where repetitiveness, precision, and autonomy are key. Some examples of outstanding applications include:
Internal logistics: Transport of materials, parts, and tools between workstations.
Hospital environments: Delivery of medicines, samples, and food autonomously and safely.
Distribution centers and e-commerce: Optimization of picking and product replenishment.
Industrial manufacturing: Supply of production lines and movement of semi-finished products.
Robots and humans: a powerful synergy
Far from replacing staff, mobile robots are designed to collaborate with them. Collaborative robotics — both fixed and mobile — prioritizes safety and smooth integration with the human environment. Modern AMRs have advanced sensors, SLAM mapping, and dynamic navigation that allow them to move in shared spaces without interfering with human activities.
Moreover, delegating the most routine or physical tasks to robots frees human teams to focus on functions that require technical judgment, analysis, or interpersonal contact.
Do not give up human value: train and empower your team
Investing in mobile robotics should not imply a reduction in human talent, but an opportunity for its revaluation. Training staff in the use, supervision, and maintenance of robots can open new professional doors within the organization. Operators cease to be “labor” to become technical supervisors, system integrators, or responsible for operational data analysis.
By training your team in this technological transition, you not only improve their employability but also reinforce their commitment and sense of belonging in an evolving environment.
Integration, not substitution
The true qualitative leap in the industry does not come from choosing between people or robots, but from learning to combine them intelligently. Mobile robots are not a threat but a strategic tool to make companies more competitive, operations safer, and people more valuable.
Incorporating technology without losing sight of the human factor is the key to sustainable, efficient, and human automation.
USED INDUSTRIAL ROBOTS: A SMART SOLUTION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
In a world where sustainability and industrial efficiency must go hand in hand, the reuse of industrial robots emerges as a key strategy to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing. Beyond being an economical alternative, purchasing second-hand robots promotes responsible practices that benefit both companies and the planet.Conservation of Resources and Waste Reduction The manufacturing of a new industrial robot requires a large amount of raw materials and energy. By opting for refurbished robots, companies decrease the demand for these resources, thus promoting a circular economy model. Additionally, reuse prevents well-functioning robots from ending up in landfills, reducing the accumulation of electronic waste and extending the life of highly sophisticated technological equipment. Energy Efficiency and Lower Emissions Many modern industrial robots are designed to operate with high energy efficiency. However, their initial production generates a significant carbon footprint. By reusing these devices, companies can indirectly reduce the emissions associated with the manufacturing of new models. Moreover, robots can operate under conditions that minimize the consumption of auxiliary resources such as lighting and climate control, further decreasing the environmental impact.Process Optimization and Waste Reduction One of the greatest benefits of industrial automation is its ability to improve precision and repeatability in manufacturing processes. This not only increases the quality of the final product but also reduces the amount of waste generated by errors or rework. By integrating used industrial robots into their production lines, companies can maintain high levels of efficiency without compromising sustainability.The reuse of industrial robots not only represents an economic advantage but also a strategic decision to reduce the environmental impact of the manufacturing industry. By conserving resources, improving energy efficiency, and optimizing production processes, companies can move towards a more sustainable and responsible model. Betting on used industrial robots is undoubtedly a smart solution for a greener future.Make a Difference with URC! If you are looking for a reliable and efficient option to integrate used industrial robots into your company, URC is your best ally. With a wide variety of refurbished robots from leading brands such as KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, and Yaskawa, we offer solutions tailored to your needs. Join the sustainable automation revolution and discover how URC can help you optimize your processes while reducing your environmental impact. Visit us at URC and find the perfect robot for your business!