A free event to encourage Liverpool businesses to invest in robots to improve productivity is coming to Liverpool. Tony McDonough reports

A global robot manufacturer that has installed 50,000 ‘cobots’ in businesses across the world is holding a free showcase event for firms in Liverpool.

Universal Robots (UR) built its first collaborative robot (cobot) in 2008 and has since developed a portfolio of different models that can perform multiple applications and tasks in a variety of industries.

Large manufacturers such as carmakers have been using robotics in their factories for a number of years. UR’s free event, taking place at Partnership for Learning, a charity based at South Road in Speke in south Liverpool on Wednesday, May 11, will demonstrate to small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) how cobots can transform their businesses.

There is a fear that automation can lead to a loss of jobs. However, in reality technological innovation more often increases productivity, frees up people to perform other tasks and leads to higher revenues, more investment and more jobs.

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UR claims its productivity roadshow will help SME manufacturers to address labour shortages, improve output and make their operations more competitive. It is suitable for businesses with limited or no experience with collaborative automation, or for those wanting to take the next step in their automation journey.

It is particularly applicable to SME manufacturers who routinely carry out tasks such as machine tending, quality inspection or palletising, all of which can quickly and simply be automated.

People attending the event can test drive cobot applications, receive advice on automating tasks within their own business and get to know the people driving automation innovations in their city.

“We’re so excited to get to Liverpool and show the power of cobots for UK manufacturers that want to build a smarter, more efficient and resilient business,” says Mark Gray, country manager – UK & Ireland, Universal Robots.

“We want to demonstrate that anyone can introduce automation to their business, not just large corporations with expert robotic engineers. We’ll show just how easily automation can slot into existing operations and empower employees, all with minimal training.”

The UR team will be demonstrating the full range of collaborative robots, from the table-top sized UR3e all the way up to the UR16e for heavy duty tasks. They will also be showcasing UR+ approved partners and applications, including:

• Robotiq – Displaying how UR can bolster your grippers/ tooling function.
• Sick – vision systems and safety.
• Schmalz – vacuum grippers and tooling.
• Igus – cable management kit.

Although the event is free, those businesses wanting to attend will need to pre-register by clicking here.

UR is part of Teradyne Inc and is headquartered in Odense, Denmark. It has offices in the US, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, the Czech Republic, Romania, Russia, Turkey, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Mexico.