United Robotics Group (URG) recently announced the launch of its uLink series of service robots for retail, warehouse logistics and manufacturing settings at the VivaTech trade show in Paris.
URG, a German-based organization founded in 2020 that united eight service robotics companies into a single ecosystem by bundling hardware and software expertise under one roof, made the announcement as the organization expanded its CobiotX line of service robots.
Retail, warehouse space with uLink
URG designed uLink to expand its CobiotX program to integrate retail and logistics operations on the global stage. The uLink will offer a modular platform that seamlessly fits into workflow, enhanced with industry-standard accessories. According to URG, uLink is designed to simplify operations and boost safety and efficiency in a range of settings including retail, warehouse logistics, manufacturing and healthcare. The uLink series’ blend of features ranges from a modular design and open API for easier integrations, to sophisticated 3D LiDAR-based navigation and real-time operation data visualization.
“The retail and logistics sector has been experiencing significant transformation for years, linked to the growth of e-commerce, automation and a shortage of talent in the value chain, for example stock fillers in stores or water spiders in a warehouse or production plant,” said Thomas Linkenheil, co-CEO of United Robotics Group.
URG said uLink offers a comprehensive modular robotics offering, equipped with IDE, SDK and fleet management tools for simple integration into existing IT systems, along with LiDARs, motors and sensors that ensure the robot’s responsiveness and security. Its modular platform allows the robot to respond to multiple logistics challenges in retail and warehouse fulfillment, which by nature vary according to sector, size of site and automation needs.
The uLink's accessory interface (or spine) is customizable, allowing the structure to hold up to 60 kg of payload and is equipped with advanced safe navigation control, allowing it to carry out deliveries in a spanned area of <400,000 m².
Accessories for the uLink include:
- A locker for click and collect or confidential deliveries
- A pegboard for tools and parts delivery
- Or trays for transporting stock items
Each of these options can be integrated into the platform through a plug and play mechanism that align with the platform’s interface and allow its functionality to evolve throughout the day. Partner integrators can also create new accessories to respond to specific needs.
“It is important for us to be able to support players in the sector in this evolution and to offer solutions that meet tailor-made needs,” Linkenheil added. “In a highly competitive sector, consumers are looking for a faster, more personalized experience and this logistics solution responds to the ability of teams to be able to provide cutting-edge customer service in store without worrying about certain back and forth and warehouse searches which can take time and impact the in-store experience”.
First Cobiot with an open API to increasing connectivity, flexibility.
The uLink, along with United Robotics Group’s CobiotX robots and other robotic offerings, is designed with a user-friendly interface based on no-code principles. These design elements enable users without robotics expertise to quickly adopt the robot into daily operations. In addition, the robot features an open API platform that allows the robot to communicate with existing operations and other connected systems including automatic doors and elevators and can work with other AMRs and AGVs.
The launch of uLink marks United Robotics Group’s expansion of robotics offerings in logistics and warehouse management and industrial production. The robot will be deployed in retail and logistics settings including department stores, supermarkets, warehouses and fulfillment centers, factories and manufacturing settings as well as airports and healthcare facilities.
The uLink is connected to an online dashboard that facilitates workflow management and decision making between front and back of house teams. It has a battery life of up to 14 hours of operations on one charge and features a smart, wireless charge function developed with a German battery manufacturer that allows the robot to automatically return to the charging base between missions. The robot adheres to the highest safety and data privacy standards including EU machine directives “Performance Level D” and GDPR regulations.
The robot, along with United Robotics Group’s logistics and warehouse management fleet, including RBWatcher and Mobile Palletizer are on display at the company’s stand at VivaTech 2024 in Paris.
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