FANUC proudly presents the new CR- 35 i A model, the first human-collaborative robot with a payload of 35kg, setting a new milestone and easily surpassing anything available on the market.
Collaborative robots can no longer be considered as solutions for light tasks only. Thanks to the CR -35 i A with a payload of 35kg, this collaborative robot can also be used to perform heavy industrial applications. One of the first applications in Germany, for the automotive industry, is in a test setup where the CR- 35 i A will be used immediately in a key workstation.
The 35kg payload of this new robot is really necessary to perform heavy and unpopular tasks, just like at the start of industrial robots. The CR- 35iA will mainly be used for heavy, routine tasks and in work areas with unfavorable ergonomic conditions. However, the robot will no longer be shielded by fencing. People can collaborate with the robot and contribute with their cognitive and sensory abilities, so that they can perform their tasks together in a pleasant way.
Of course, the new robot comes with the full range of safety features that all FANUC robots come with as standard. Areas with differently classified safety zones (DCS) can be defined and actively used within the robot’s workspace. The robot also retains its full functionality, while the operator retains full control over the robot’s operation.
Possibilities through the use of numerous standard and/or software and hardware options, which are available on conventional FANUC robots, open up new opportunities. For example, i RVision , the FANUC integrated vision system, can be used directly in 2D/3D mode. ROBOGUIDE simulation software, with which the robot range or possible tasks for the robot can be assessed and/or programmed, can also be easily used in combination with the CR- 35 i A. Since the programming is based on the standard user interface, extensive new training of operators is not necessary.
There are two general types of scenarios where the CR- 35 i A is the ideal choice. One is its automatic and autonomous operation in a workspace next to a human operator, ensuring maximum safety. The second scenario is the ability to place two robot workstations closer together. Collaborative robots, such as FANUC’s CR- 35 i A, are designed for applications that involve close collaboration with humans. For example, in a joint robot/human workstation, the robot will do the heavy lifting. Collaboration between robots and humans in assembly stations is also possible.
The CR -35 i A will create new application possibilities.
FANUC tested the characteristics of the collaborative robot in a 3kg payload version. It was presented to the public at the “Jimtof” trade fair in Japan and at the IMTS trade fair in Chicago. The most important function is the “Contact Stop”. The soft cover on the robot meets the ISO10218-1 category 3 safety standard, as verified by the TÜV. Another important function is the “Push to Escape”, which allows the robot to be pushed in any direction by a human operator.
FANUC has given every aspect of the CR- 35 i A robot great thought, including the robot’s color. Research has shown that the color shade chosen for the robot’s “Soft Cover” is perceived as particularly pleasant by human operators. This is yet another example of how engineering and industrial design can complement each other.
It is expected that these new robots will also be used in new application areas. Simple tasks that are easily performed by human power will be taken over by CR- 35 i A robots. This is a cost-saving step towards automation. The automotive industry is at the forefront of interest in collaborative robots. Engine production and assembly stations are the main areas where they could be used. Experience shows that there are marketing opportunities in the loading and unloading of machine tools and in packaging stations where robots can take over handling tasks. Human workers can then perform inspections, tests or transport tasks.
