Cobots: A Cost-Effective Solution for SMEs

Automation was once thought of as a costly investment, only possible for large organisations. Today, collaborative robots (cobots) from Teradyne Robotics’ company Universal Robots, have proven time after time that small businesses can implement automation too. Depending on the application (and the outcome of a risk assessment) cobots typically don’t need the expensive guarding required by traditional industrial robots. Other factors, such as their flexibility for redeployment and the fast ROI they offer, mean that cobots are a simple solution for businesses looking to automate repetitive tasks in their production processes.

So, let’s delve into it…

One Cobot Can Tend Multiple Workstations

On the market today, there are many complementary products that enhance the flexibility of a UR cobot. From tool changers and base changers to a collaborative 7th axis, a cobot can easily switch between applications and can even move between workstations. This increases output and maximises efficiency, particularly for companies with several smaller production runs.

A base changer makes it easy for a robot to be picked up and moved to a new workstation, without the need for an Allen key or time-consuming redeployment. Meanwhile, a collaborative 7th axis enables the robot to travel between workstations without any human interaction - increasing the horizontal operating range up to 10 metres.

Movotrak CTU 7th axis - from Thomson

Compact Design Means No Floorplan Changes

Universal Robots are designed with small footprints, meaning that they can easily fit into an existing production layout without the need for costly re-design and, in most cases, the need for safety infrastructure. Whether mounted to a tabletop, a pedestal or a mobile robot base, cobots typically take up a modest amount of space. The smallest in the range – the UR3e – has a footprint of Ø 128 mm.

Rapid ROI

Many companies that have purchased a Universal Robot report achieving ROI in as little as 12 months*. For certain applications, such as welding and injection moulding, companies can achieve payback much sooner. This is possible due to the flexibility, low operating costs and minimal downtime they offer – meaning better efficiency and increased output for businesses.

Cobots are particularly beneficial in low-to-mid volume, high-mix production where traditional automation struggles to deliver ROI. Universal Robots are known for being easy to program, meaning that they are ideal for batch changes and seasonal production.

Robotiq Palletising Solution for a Universal Robot

At RARUK Automation, we have helped businesses of a range of sizes, across many different industries, start or take the next steps in their automation journey. Discover our case studies today, to see the range of applications that our customers have successfully automated with collaborative robots. Browse case studies.

Thanks to collaborative robots, automation has never been more accessible for small and medium businesses. With the added peace of mind of feasibility trials, training and technical support, we strive to make the automation process simple and painless for our customers. Start your automation journey today.

*Source: https://www.universal-robots.com/2025/end-of-line-cobots/