Dobot collaborative robot

Dobot collaborative robot overview – series, applications and selection

Collaborative robots fromDobot RoboticsThey are designed for safe collaboration with people and are used in numerous industries, such as automotive supply, food and beverage, consumer electronics, metal processing, healthcare, modern retail environments, and education. They combine a compactrobot armWith integrated safety features and user-friendly software, even smaller companies can achieve automation without complex large-scale systems. Schweikert Automation offers a selection of current solutions.Dobot robotavailable – from the industrial CR and CRA series to special variants for harsh environments.

What distinguishes a collaborative robot from Dobot?

ADobot collaborative robotIt is designed to perform tasks in close proximity to humans. These cobots typically feature:

• Collision and force monitoring, in order to react safely in the event of unexpected contact.
• Rounded geometriesand a compact design that reduces the risk of crushing injuries.
• Simple programming, e.g. via graphical interfaces, teach-in or drag-to-teach.
• Diverse end effectorssuch as grippers, suction cups or special tools to cover different tasks.

Compared to traditional industrial robots, Dobot cobots can often be used without complex protective enclosures. At the same time, they remain precise enough for repeatable handling tasks – crucial, for example, when loading CNC machines or handling delicate components. Specific limits (e.g., permissible forces or speed settings) depend on the model and should always be taken from the manufacturer's official datasheets.

Dobot CR and CRA series: Industrial cobot arms for manufacturing and handling

In this category you will primarily find cobots of theCR and CRA seriesDobot offers a range of robots, including models such as the CR3A/CR3AS, CR5A/CR5AS, CR7A, CR10A/CR10AS, CR12A, CR16A, as well as force-controlled CRAF variants and IP-protected CRA IP68 versions. The CR series covers several payload levels – approximately 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, and 16 kg – and is designed for precise, repeatable positioning. The CRA series is described by the manufacturer as a new generation of collaborative robots, featuring optimized joints and updated control software (e.g., DobotStudio Pro) to reduce cycle times and increase safety and scalability.

Typical areas of application for theseDobot robot armsSchweikert Automation includes:

• Loading and unloading machines(CNC, injection molding, bending machines),
• Pick-and-place tasksin assembly and logistics,
• Screwing, joining and assembly workin diverse manufacturing,
• Packaging, palletizing and labelingin end-of-line automation,
• Quality checks and testing processes, for example through camera systems and sensors.

For harsh operating conditions – such as in metal processing, with cooling lubricants or dust exposure –CRA-IP68 modelsCRAF models such as the CR5AP, CR10AP, and CR20AP are available. They are designed for environments requiring enhanced protection against dust and moisture. For high-end manufacturing tasks like complex grinding or force-controlled assembly, CRAF variants offer advanced force control. Selecting the most suitable model depends on payload, reach, environmental conditions, and cycle-time-critical requirements.

Other collaborative Dobot solutions: MG400, Nova series and desktop cobots

In addition to classic industrial cobots, Dobot offers furthercollaborative robots, which may be of interest depending on the application:

• MG400The MG400 is an ultra-compact, desktop-compatible robot arm with a small footprint (smaller than A4). Designed for smaller, flexible production cells, the manufacturer explicitly describes it as a collaborative robot that can quickly learn new tasks.
• Nova seriesCobots with low payload capacity (e.g., Nova 2, Nova 5) are specifically designed for commercial applications such as catering, beverage dispensing, retail, or physiotherapy services. They are characterized by light weight, ease of use, and adaptable design.
• Dobot Magician and Magician E6: compact desktop robots for education and research, which can be used to simulate industrial automation scenarios on a small scale.

These systems are particularly interesting if you want to implement production processes, training environments or showcases in a confined space – for example, for employee qualification, prototype production or as a demonstrator for customer projects.

Dobot Magician & Magician E6 – Training, Research and Gripper Solutions

Many users are also searching fordobot magician,dobot magician e6or specifically afterdobot magician grabberThe Dobot Magician is a four-axis desktop robot arm suitable for STEAM and technical education. Among other things, it can perform 3D printing, laser engraving, and writing and drawing tasks, combining mechanics, electronics, and programming in one system.Dobot Magician E6This concept is extended to a six-axis desktop cobot that can depict more complex movement sequences and automation scenarios in teaching and research laboratories.

A wide range of accessories and end effectors are available for the Magician – including pneumatic grippers, vacuum grippers, pen holders, conveyor belts, and vision modules. These allow for the simulation of practical scenarios such as sorting, order picking, or quality control. Suitable electric and pneumatic grippers for industrial cobots can also be found in the shop in the [category name] category.DH Robotics GripperThis allows you to plan both desktop robotics and industrial cobots from a single source.

Typical applications of Dobot robotics in industry and education

Under the general termDobot RoboticsThe manufacturer summarizes its solutions for industry, commercial applications, and education. Dobot collaborative robots are used in the following areas, among others:

• Automotive supplier: Screwing, joining, gluing, testing or loading and unloading CNC machines.
• Food and beverage industry: Handling of packaging, cartoning, labeling or serving and dispensing solutions with Nova cobots.
• Consumer electronics and metal processing: precise handling of sensitive components, polishing, welding or machine operation.
• healthcareAssistance with laboratory processes, sample handling and repetitive tasks to relieve staff.
• Education and Research: Use of Magician, Magician E6 or MG400 in laboratories, schools and universities for practical robotics training.

Cobots typically take over monotonous, physically demanding, or ergonomically unfavorable tasks. Employees can then focus more on supervisory, skilled activities. This can help reduce error rates and simultaneously increase the attractiveness of the workplace.

How to choose the right Dobot robotic arm for your application

For the selection of a suitableDobot robot armYou should consider some basic criteria:

• Payload and rangeModels like the CR3A/CR3AS are designed for lighter parts and compact cells, while the CR10A, CR12A, or CR20A are designed for greater reach and higher payloads. Search queries such as “dobot 10“For example, this indicates interest in cobots in the medium payload range.
• Environment and protection classFor standard environments, classic CR or CRA models are usually sufficient. In harsher environments (dust, humidity, cooling lubricants), CRA IP68 variants are an option.
• Application typeForce-controlled processes such as grinding or pressing benefit from CRAF models, while pure transfers and pick-and-place tasks can often be covered with CR/CRA series.
• Programming and integrationCheck whether the control software (e.g. DobotStudio Pro or DobotLab) fits your IT and OT structures and whether the required interfaces (fieldbuses, digital I/Os, camera systems) are available.
• End effectors and accessoriesThe choice of gripper, any conveyor technology, or vision systems is crucial for process stability. Schweikert Automation provides support in this area with suitable components and consulting services.

Schweikert Automation offers both new and used robot solutions. For certain projects, a used robot may be suitable.Dobot robotIt may be economically viable, for example in pilot projects or with a limited budget. However, in safety-critical applications or highly dynamic processes, a new system with up-to-date software and security features can offer advantages.

Typical questions about Dobot Robotics and collaborative robots

How safe is human-robot collaboration with a Dobot cobot?

Dobot collaborative robots feature various safety functions, such as collision sensors and force/torque monitoring, which react to unexpected contact. Speed ​​and power can also be limited via the controller. Whether additional measures such as scanners, light curtains, or separating protective devices are necessary in your specific application depends on the respective risk assessment. This assessment should always be carried out in accordance with standards and ideally in collaboration with an experienced integrator.

What are the differences between the Dobot CR, CRA, and CRAF models?

TheCR seriesis an established range of cobots with varying payload capacities, suitable for many standard applications.CRA seriesThe manufacturer describes it as a new generation of collaborative robots, with redesigned joints and updated system software designed for greater efficiency, safety and scalability.CRAF modelsThis series is complemented by force-controlled functions for demanding joining or grinding processes. Which series is right for you depends on accuracy requirements, cycle times, environmental conditions, and your budget.

When does a desktop cobot like the Dobot Magician E6 make sense?

ADesktop Cobotlike the Dobot Magician or theDobot Magician E6This is a good option if you want to test robotics on a smaller scale or train employees before purchasing larger industrial systems. In laboratories, schools, and universities, complete automation processes can be modeled using such systems. This allows operators to test procedures, safety concepts, and programming without having to make early, large investments in heavy industrial robots.

You can find more information on theDobot Robotics manufacturer website.