In a surprising turn of events, Rethink Robotics, once a pioneer in collaborative robotics, is making a dramatic return to the robotics scene with a completely revamped product line and a renewed focus on industrial applications. The company, now under the umbrella of the HAHN Group's United Robotics Group, is not only reestablishing its presence in Boston but also expanding its offerings beyond collaborative robots (cobots) to include autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and mobile manipulation systems.

Rethink Robotics, founded in 2008, was known for its innovative Baxter and Sawyer cobots. Despite raising $150 million in funding, the company faced challenges with precision due to its use of series elastic actuators, leading to its closure in 2018. The HAHN Group acquired Rethink's IP and trademarks shortly after, but struggled to gain traction in industrial applications with the retooled Sawyer cobot.

Now, Rethink is betting on a fresh start in Boston, one of the world's leading robotics hubs. Julia Astrid Riemenschneider, vice president of business development for industrial robots international at United Robotics Group, emphasized the significance of this location choice: "Everyone knows Rethink Robotics as being in Boston." The company is currently housed at MassRobotics but plans to establish its own office space within the next 3-6 months.

The robotics landscape has evolved significantly since Rethink's initial closure. Competitors like Universal Robots (UR) have solidified their market leadership, while traditional industrial robotics giants such as ABB, FANUC, and KUKA have strengthened their cobot offerings. Rethink Robotics is well aware of these challenges but remains optimistic about its new direction.

"For industrial applications, Sawyer had issues with repeatability and accuracy and made that strange noise," Riemenschneider admitted. "For most industrial applications, it just wasn't hardened enough. But our new motto is 'Better, faster, stronger.' Rethink Robotics is industry-ready now."

At the heart of Rethink's comeback is its new Reacher cobot arm line, which includes seven models capable of handling payloads from 7 to 30 kg (15 to 66 lb.). These cobots boast impressive specifications, including an IP65 rating for wet and dusty environments, precision with ± 0.03 mm pose repeatability, and maximum speeds ranging from 120 to 200 degrees per second, depending on the model.

The Reacher cobots are designed for versatility, targeting applications such as assembly, machine tending, material handling, palletizing, welding, and quality inspection. They also feature collision detection and compatibility with various accessories, including grippers, vision systems, and rails.

In a significant expansion of its product portfolio, Rethink Robotics is also introducing its first-ever autonomous mobile robots. The Rethink Ryder line includes the light-duty MRE 550 AMR, capable of handling payloads up to 550 kg (1,212 lb.), and the heavy-duty MRE 1400 AMR, designed for payloads up to 1,400 kg (3,086 lb.). Both AMRs come equipped with integrated lift functions and use advanced sensing and mapping technologies for efficient navigation and obstacle avoidance.

Perhaps the most intriguing addition to Rethink's new lineup is the Riser mobile manipulator. This innovative system combines a Ryder AMR with a Reacher cobot and a portable battery box. The company claims that its key innovation lies in the ability to easily detach and reattach the arm to the AMR, though details on this feature are still forthcoming.

The Riser system showcases Rethink's ambition to offer integrated solutions that can address a wider range of industrial automation needs. With separate battery packs for the cobot arm and AMR, and options for manual or wireless inductive charging, the Riser aims to provide flexibility and extended operational times in various industrial settings.

As Rethink Robotics re-enters the market, it faces the formidable task of competing with established players in a rapidly evolving field. The company's decision to broaden its product range beyond cobots to include AMRs and mobile manipulators could be a strategic move to differentiate itself in a crowded market.

The success of Rethink's comeback will likely depend on how well its new products perform in real-world industrial applications, as well as the company's ability to leverage its Boston location to attract top talent and forge strategic partnerships within the robotics ecosystem.

While the road ahead may be challenging, Rethink Robotics' bold return and expanded product line signal a renewed commitment to innovation in the robotics industry. As the company works to reestablish its presence in Boston and beyond, the robotics community will be watching closely to see if this reinvented Rethink can live up to its promise of being "Better, faster, stronger" and truly industry-ready.