Rethink Robotics has re-entered the robotics industry with a significant announcement in Boston, introducing a series of new collaborative robot arms, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and a mobile manipulator. The company, originally based in Boston, had previously developed notable products like Baxter and Sawyer before closing in 2018. Acquired by HAHN Group shortly after its closure, Rethink Robotics is now under the United Robotics Group, seeking to regain its market position with innovative new offerings.
The company’s recent history includes revitalizing its brand and product lineup, a strategy mirrored by other industry leaders. Universal Robots, also based in Boston, continues to dominate the market, while companies like ABB, FANUC, and KUKA have advanced their collaborative robots with improved strength, reach, and user interfaces. Rethink Robotics’ new approach aims to address previous issues with the Sawyer cobot, including repeatability and precision challenges.
New Collaborative Robot Arms
Rethink Robotics has unveiled the Reacher series, comprising seven models (RE 07, 09, 13, 16, 21, 30, and 30L) that are capable of handling payloads ranging from 7 to 30 kg. These cobots are designed for various industrial tasks such as assembly, machine tending, and material handling. Each model boasts an IP65 rating for operation in wet and dusty environments and offers a precision pose repeatability of ± 0.03 mm. The maximum operational speed varies between 120 to 200 degrees per second, depending on the model.
Introduction of Autonomous Mobile Robots
The company has also entered the AMR market with its Ryder line. The MRE 550 and MRE 1400 AMRs can support payloads of up to 550 kg and 1,400 kg, respectively. Both models feature integrated lift functions and multiple sensing modalities for a 360-degree real-time environmental view. These AMRs utilize simultaneous location and mapping (SLAM) for efficient navigation and obstacle avoidance. Rethink’s open-architecture software allows compatibility with third-party applications, expanding their utility in various industrial scenarios.
Combining Technologies: The Riser Mobile Manipulator
Rethink Robotics has also released the Riser mobile manipulator, which integrates a Ryder AMR with a Reacher cobot and a portable battery box. This system allows the cobot arm to be easily detached and re-attached to the AMR, enhancing its versatility. Each component has its own battery system, with the Reacher offering a 22-hour uptime and the Ryder AMR featuring both manual and wireless charging options. The control box for the Reacher is designed to manage all robot operations, providing a centralized hub for command execution and sensor data processing.
Rethink Robotics’ bold re-entry into the market with their new Reacher cobot arms and Ryder AMRs aims to address past shortcomings and meet current industry demands. By focusing on precision, versatility, and integration, Rethink plans to offer solutions that can compete with existing market leaders. The introduction of innovative products like the Riser mobile manipulator showcases their commitment to advancing robotic technology.
