MathWorks, the world’s leading developer of mathematical computing software, has joined the UR+ program. The program is tailored for certified products that seamlessly integrate with Universal Robots (UR) collaborative robots and is the largest and most comprehensive ecosystem in the industry. MathWorks’ programming and mathematical computing platform, MATLAB, is UR+ certified. MATLAB provides software tools and algorithms for designing, simulating, testing, and deploying robotics applications, including Universal Robots collaborative robots.
Robotics engineers use MATLAB for specialized or complex collaborative robot applications. These applications, which combine machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, optimization, sensor fusion, and advanced signal processing, are difficult to program using UR’s demonstrator or graphical programming tools. MATLAB’s AI-enabled capabilities allow collaborative robots to move more efficiently through proven robotic algorithms and dynamic perception of changing workspaces. Engineers can connect MATLAB to the robot program’s simulation software URSim or UR hardware to verify their UR cobot applications. MATLAB’s support for Universal Robots is compatible with the entire E-series and CB series.
Christopher Savoia, UR+ ecosystem Manager at Universal Robots, said: “We are excited to have MathWorks join our UR+ solution ecosystem and look forward to seeing this partnership help robotics engineers simplify complex cobot deployments.”
Robotics engineers use MATLAB for professional or complex collaborative robot applications. These applications are difficult to program using the UR instructor or graphical programming tools.
The off-line programming and simulation of cobots in MATLAB can minimize the downtime of field programming of cobots. Robotics engineers can also use MATLAB Coder™ and Simulink Coder™ to generate C++ code directly on embedded targets such as GPU boards to deploy robotic algorithms and AI models for independent, accelerated execution on UR hardware.
Dominic Viens, Director of Marketing for Design Automation at MathWorks, said: “With Universal Robots’ market-leading position and the ability of MATLAB and Simulink to accelerate the pace of innovation, integrators and end users will now have the ability to implement more complex automated workflows.” UR Hardware support package shortens time to market for advanced collaborative robot applications that integrate multiple complex technologies. This enables small and medium-sized manufacturers to adopt deep technology stacks at a fraction of the cost of external consultants.”