Challenging margins, labor shortages, accelerated demand for adaptation—the automotive industry is under constant pressure to increase throughput, reduce its footprint, and respond to fluctuating demand without interrupting production. The need for flexible, future-proof automation has never been greater. Teradyne is now responding to these challenges with Universal Robots, an innovative solution: from picking to inspection, the new UR8 Long collaborative robot combines a long reach, compact design, and collaborative flexibility to deliver automation where it is most needed.

For tasks in space-constrained cells

With a reach of 1750 millimeters, a light net weight of 44.7 kilograms, and a compact footprint of 204 millimeters, the UR8 Long handles tasks in space-constrained cells without the need to reconfigure the line. Automotive engineers will also appreciate the in-house MotionPlus technology, which enables smooth, stable movement for material flow and careful inspection. In addition, external axis coordination ensures synchronized movement with slides, positioners, and rotary tables, unlocking more advanced automation configurations. Enhanced Freedrive capabilities enable precise manual guidance of the robot arm with low latency, facilitating fine-tuning of tool alignment, definition of inspection paths, and refinement of trajectories—all without the layered interfaces or external motion tools typically found on conventional robots.

Reach, repeatability, and return on investment in a compact package

According to the manufacturer, the UR8 Long offers the performance required for modern production lines with minimal integration effort and a faster ROI. The UR8 Long is also supported by a global partner ecosystem and a premium service offering, and is a scalable solution designed to help automotive manufacturers achieve more with less without slowing down. With UL 1740-compliant safety features and a collaboration-ready design, UR8 Long can be used alongside employees to increase productivity while improving the ergonomics of the plant. From deployment to uptime, UR8 Long is designed to make operations smoother, safer, and stronger.

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