Viam software to enable UR cobots for industrial applications

Force- and power-limited robots have long been considered limited in their utility for industrial processes. Viam Inc. has partnered with collaborative robot leader Universal Robots A/S as it expands its software engineering platform.

Viam has developed an AI-powered robotic surfacing system that will use UR Series cobots to accelerate manufacturing processes, reduce delays, and ensure consistency. The partners said their solutions can automate physically demanding tasks, starting with shipbuilding.

“Viam’s intelligent software layer combined with Universal Robots’ cobots can enable rapid adoption of automation,” stated Eliot Horowitz, founder and CEO of Viam. “They are a true industry leader in robotic hardware and will help us to scale our solutions globally, both in the marine sector and in manufacturing broadly.”

Viam offers robot architectures for production

As manufacturers struggle with ongoing labor shortages, Viam said its platform enables the automation of the most challenging tasks. It also unlocks new growth opportunities for companies and their teams, the company noted.

Viam claimed that its “all-in-one” robotic solutions can transform production. It added that its software can run on a wide range of devices, from small sensors to the largest robotic arms.

The company has robotics laboratories at both its New York headquarters and in Italy. Viam was a 2023 RBR50 honoree for the innovation of an open-source robot architecture with an integrated cloud service. In March, it raised $30 million in funding to scale its platform.

Universal Robots looks to new cobot applications

“We’re excited to partner with Viam,” said Jean-Pierre Hathout, the new president of Teradyne Robotics Group. “Viam’s AI-powered software opens new applications for our collaborative robots and sets the stage for rapid innovation in the marine sector and across industries in the years ahead.”

Universal Robots said it has sold more than 100,000 cobots worldwide. The Odense, Denmark-based unit of Teradyne Robotics noted that its user-friendly platforms are supported by the PolyScope software and an extensive partner ecosystem. In September, the company released the UR8, its longest cobot arm, with a slim profile.

However, Teradyne’s robotics group earlier this month cut about another 14% of its staff worldwide, saying revenue growth had not matched expectations. As flagship hardware partner with Viam, UR could find new customers for its cobots.

Viam and UR target marine applications

In the marine sector, Viam said its AI-powered block-sanding system enables consistent and efficient fiberglass sanding. Traditionally, that is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process.

Viam asserted that its automation is helping yacht manufacturers and boat builders to streamline operations. Paired with UR’s robotic arms, the system can adapt to diverse component sizes across marine manufacturing, from smaller parts to larger hulls.

Through Viam’s hardware-agnostic intelligence layer, builders can easily switch out robot arms based on their needs. The company said this allows it to offer versatility, reduce manual effort, and deliver a measurable return on investment (ROI).

In addition to marine applications, Viam said its adaptive system can extend to gelcoat and paint application, wood sanding, and polishing. They are all key processes in furniture, construction, and industrial manufacturing.

Viam and UR’s robotic block-sanding solution made its European debut at Metstrade 2025 this week in Amsterdam.