SMC recently unveiled its innovative LEHR series of electric grippers, tailored for seamless integration with Universal Robots’ collaborative arms, marking a significant advancement in industrial automation. These grippers, designed for both basic and longitudinal applications, promise adaptability across various industrial settings, including constrained spaces. With gripping forces ranging from 60 to 140 N and equipped with M8, 8-pin plug-and-play connectors, the LEHR series simplifies the operational workflow by requiring only a single electrical connection.
Intuitive Operation and Robust Design
SMC emphasizes the ease of use facilitated by the URCap software, certified for Universal Robots. This dedicated software enables intuitive operations through the cobot’s teach pendant, enhancing the integration of sensor signals into automation tasks. Installation is straightforward, requiring only the transfer of the URCap software to a USB flash drive, which is then inserted into the cobot’s teach pendant. The LEHR series boasts a battery-less absolute encoder and a 24VDC motor type, underscoring SMC’s commitment to reliability and user-friendly design. Additionally, the grippers feature an IP20-rated housing with a rounded protective cover and a simplified tool changing process, ensuring durability and flexibility in challenging environments.
SMC and Universal Robots at the Robotics Summit & Expo
SMC plans to showcase its new LEHR series at the upcoming Robotics Summit & Expo, taking place May 1-2 in Boston. This event, produced by The Robot Report and WTWH Media, is anticipated to draw 5,000 attendees and over 200 exhibitors from the commercial robotics development sector. The summit will feature over 75 speakers across 45 technical sessions, with keynotes from industry leaders such as Agility Robotics, Amazon, Disney, Medtronic, and Teradyne, the parent company of Universal Robots. Attendees are encouraged to register by March 8 to avail a 25% discount on full access passes.
Universal Robots’ Market Impact and Future Outlook
Universal Robots, a pioneer in the development of cobot arms, reported a revenue of $304 million in 2023. Despite a 7% decline from the previous year, the fourth quarter marked the company’s highest revenue quarter ever, demonstrating a robust demand for its UR20 and UR30 models. This surge in sales underscores the growing market appetite for advanced cobotic solutions. Ujjwal Kumar, the newly appointed president of Teradyne’s robotics group, is slated to deliver a keynote at the Robotics Summit, sharing insights into the industry’s transformation and the role of robotics in accelerating this change.
The collaboration between SMC and Universal Robots through the launch of the LEHR series electric grippers represents a leap forward in industrial automation, promising enhanced flexibility, efficiency, and ease of use. As the robotics industry continues to evolve, such innovations are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing and beyond, driving operational excellence and fostering technological advancement.
