Killed by Robots

AI Artificial Intelligence / Robotics News & Philosophy

"Rethink Robotics' Revolutionary Comeback"

Rethink Robotics’ Revolutionary Comeback

Rethink Robotics has taken a monumental step to reestablish itself in the realm of robotics by unveiling an impressive lineup of products at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2024. This revitalization marks a splendid milestone for the company, signaling a fresh start with an invigorated identity and renewed ambition.

A Fresh Lineup of Robots

The core of this relaunch lies in the debut of the Rethink Reacher collection, featuring seven groundbreaking collaborative robots, or cobots, each engineered to master various industrial tasks. Known as RE 07, RE 09, RE 13, RE 16, RE 21, RE 30, and RE 30L, these cobots are designed to handle loads between 7 and 30 kg (15–66 pounds). Crafted with top-notch design and robust hardware, they promise unmatched precision, quickness, and resilience. With ± 0.03 mm pose repeatability, they rise to the occasion for intricate endeavors. Their swift agility, with speeds spanning from 120 to 200 degrees per second, paired with collision sensing technology, not only ensures a safe workspace but also provides a user-friendly interface, making them simple to operate.

The Era of Autonomous Robots

Introducing the Rethink Ryder, two autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) crafted for roles like lab automation and stock management. Their sleek, compact design navigates the tightest of spaces effortlessly. Thanks to both manual and wireless inductive charging, coupled with multi-pack battery systems, they promise prolonged operational performance. In parallel, Rethink Robotics presents the Rethink Riser, a mobile manipulation unit (MMR) that melds the Ryder AMR with a Reacher cobot arm and a separate battery pack. Such an ingenious pairing allows one AMR to cater to numerous stationary cobot roles, boosting productivity in tasks like intermittent pick-and-place operations and machine handling.

Advanced Features and Integration

Rethink Robotics’ new offerings are crafted for seamless integration into myriad workplace environments. Both the Reacher cobots and the Riser MMR provide connectivity options with an array of accessories, from grippers and vision systems to rails and other end-of-arm tools. This adaptability offers tailored solutions for tasks like machine tending, palletizing, and bin picking. The open software architecture supports third-party applications and features a simultaneous location and mapping (SLAM) system for navigating dynamically, identifying pallets, and planning paths effectively. Such sophisticated technology ensures these machines adapt efficiently to any manufacturing or logistical demands.

Vision and Commitment

Since its inception in 2008 by visionary Rodney Brooks, Rethink Robotics has been at the forefront of collaborative robotics innovation, introducing trailblazers like Baxter and Sawyer. Today, the company remains steadfast in its quest to transform the world of collaborative robots by delivering versatile and reliable automation solutions. Their mission is clear: to offer products that ease seamlessly into diverse settings, boosting efficiency and safety while freeing people from monotonous chores.

The Resurgence and New Identity

With this relaunch comes a brand-new identity and invigorated vision. After a phase of rigorous growth and enlightening experiences, Rethink Robotics stands ready to cater to the North American market with products that are not just better, but faster and sturdier. This rebranding embodies a commitment to perpetual enhancement and customer satisfaction, ensuring companies can adopt cutting-edge technology with confidence and ease.

In essence, Rethink Robotics’ grand showcase at IMTS 2024 heralds a promising new chapter, introducing an extensive collection of collaborative robots, autonomous mobiles, and mobile manipulators. Their focus on precision, swiftness, endurance, and intuitive interfaces sets them on a path to reshape the landscape of industrial and logistics robotics forever.