FANUC cobot offers post-lockdown manufacturing solution

FANUC has released a new lightweight collaborative robot, the CRX-10iA, which is now available in the UK.

The 39kg cobot was launched at IREX (International Research and Exchanges Board) in 2019. It prides itself on being a compact collaborative robotic solution, which can aid manufacturers looking to increase productivity while adhering to current social distancing guidelines.

The CRX-10iA is certified according to ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 10218-1, so the technology has been designed with safety in mind. Movement automatically stops upon light contact with humans and, if an object is struck hard, the cobot instantly backs away from it. The smooth and elegant design also provides protection from pinching, making it an ideal partner for production workers.

Andy Armstrong, Sales and Marketing Manager at FANUC UK, said: “Excitement has been building over the CRX-10iA ever since it was showcased at the end of last year. Bringing our lightweight collaborative robot to market, at a time when manufacturers are looking at their production lines; and trying to figure out how to adhere to social distancing without impacting productivity, is critical.

“As with all cobots, safety is key. We have also made installation and set up as straightforward as possible. An intuitive touchscreen panel enables programming to be done through a ‘drag and drop’ function, which means that those new to automation can create work programs quickly and easily.

“It is even possible to teach the cobot the desired motion sequence though manually guiding it to the appropriate points, which we hope will help to make process as painless as possible for those new to the technology.  

“There’s also a free downloadable eBook on successful cobot implementation for those new to collaborative technology,” he added.

The CRX-10iA benefits from regular software updates and the ability to add various application updates such as grippers, sensors, or camera, to ensure the cobot can adapt to the unique conditions of a production line. This is underpinned by a long service life, with FANUC expecting all mechanical components to operate maintenance-free for the first eight years of use (provided the CRX-10iA is used correctly).

“UK manufacturing is at a critical juncture,” explained Armstrong. “By introducing automation into processes, we can boost productivity to an internationally competitive level. The CRX-10iA represents an extension of our broad portfolio of industrial robots and automation solutions. This ensures there is an option for anyone looking to increase business productivity.”

The cobot will be on display at FANUC’s open house exhibition at its UK headquarters (Antsy Park, Coventry) from 29 September – 1 October 2020.

For more information on FANUC UK, visit: www.fanuc.eu/uk/en