Clearpath Robotics adds a cobot arm from Universal Robots to a mobile robot platform. (Credit: Clearpath Robotics)

Clearpath Robotics, a global provider of mobile robots for research and development, is now a Universal Robots Certified System Integrator (CSI). With this new relationship, the UR3, UR5 and UR10 collaborative robot arms will be available from Clearpath Robotics with out-of-the-box ROS functionality and support.

This partnership does include UR’s new e-Series that was introduced at Automatica 2018, according to a Clearpath spokesperson. The 6-axis UR3e, UR5e, and UR10e don’t look much different on the outside from the older models. But the new robots offer more precision and sensitivity, thanks to a built-in force/torque sensor at the wrist, new safety features, a 500Hz bus frequency and a new software interface.

Clearpath Robotics is a manufacturer of mobile robot platforms and has one of the largest teams of ROS engineers in the world. Its ROS-enabled UR manipulator solutions include UR manipulators, fully configured computer, 3D depth sensor and example code for 3D path planning with obstacle avoidance, interface screen, electrical and hardware integration, pre-loaded and tested ROS software libraries with support for ROS, RViz and MoveIT!

This out-of-the-box ROS capability makes it easy for users to integrate different third-party equipment, including LiDARs, cameras, GPS, IMUs etc. and control everything through one platform. Clearpath Robotics has integrated UR manipulators with its mobile platforms, including Husky, Warthog, and Ridgeback. Our UR integrated mobile platforms have been used in many applications including research, survey, mining, safety, agriculture etc.

“The UR product line is very well regarded within the robotics community. Clearpath Robotics has been integrating UR manipulators on its mobile robots for years, we’re excited as the CSI designation allows us to offer increased levels of support and customization,” says Julian Ware, GM, Clearpath Robotics Research.

“Universal Robots has enjoyed working with Clearpath in the arena of mobile autonomous robotics,” says Stuart Shepherd, Regional Sales Director for Universal Robots’ Americas Region. “As the end user market migrates and embraces  this technology more fully, the combination of Universal Robots’ light-weight collaborative robots and Clearpath’s AGC technology offers truly mobile adaptable robot solutions.”