OnRobot Showcases Sander Tool for Cobots

The OnRobot Sander is an electrically actuated orbital sander for automated finishing applications, including sanding and polishing. According to Kristian Hulgard, general manager for the Americas at Onrobot, the release comes at a time when small- and medium-sized businesses that engage in tasks such as wood working are facing unprecedented labor shortages. Typically, automation would be either unnecessary or out-of-reach for companies of this nature. However, with a lack of available workers, less expensive robotic options, and technological advances that allow for more intuitive programming, much of that is changing. The Sander incorporates a variety of features directly out of the box: a plug-and-play sanding tool, compatible with various cobots from Universal Robots and other major suppliers; standard sanding and polishing pads; programming software; a grit changer that enables automated switching between different sanding grits; and an optional force/torque sensor. In addition, it is powered by a brushless electric motor with operating costs as little as 5% of that of pneumatic sanding systems, OnRobot says.