Universal Robots launches free online training in robot programming

Universal Robots developed online training modules to lower the automation barrier. The hands-on modules are offered free of charge, open to all, and built to deliver hands-on learning via interactive simulations to maximize user engagement. This unique online learning tool will enable operators to learn how to set up and program a collaborative robot (cobot) without real life access to a robot or a training class. Anyone interested in learning about the concepts of cobots can log in to the Universal Robots Academy and get the introduction necessary to master basic programming skills.

The UR Academy modules takes the student through basic tasks such as programming the UR robot arm to place parts in a box arriving on a conveyor. Photo courtesy of Universal Robots.

“We want to raise the robot literacy and the reason for speeding up the entry of cobots is not only to optimize production here and now,” says CTO and founder of Universal Robots, Esben Østergaard. “We are facing a looming skills gap in the manufacturing industry that we need to bridge by all means possible. Facilitating knowledge creation and access to our robots is an important step in that direction.”

The online training modules are available in English, Spanish, German, French and Chinese, consists of six e-learning modules that make up the basic programming training for UR robots. This includes configuring end-effectors, connecting I/Os, creating basic programs in addition applying safety features to an application.

“This learning resource is now also reaching small and medium-sized manufacturers that up until now regarded robotics as costly and complex, says Stefan Stubgaard, Global Product Manager at Universal Robots. “By simply logging into the Academy they experience first-hand how simple the setup can be and they can easily envision what production tasks could be automated with the cobots. We will definitely be adding more modules to complement our basic offering going forward.”

www.universal-robots.com/academy/