Fanuc launches collaborative robot with 35kg handling capacity

To date, collaborative robotics technology has been concentrated on the 5-15kg light duty ‘universal robot’ realm. Now, the TÜV certified CR-35iA can assist with high payload handling, assembly, component feeding and workpiece loading and unloading tasks that have historically had to be carried out manually.

With health and safety regulations stipulating 25kg as the maximum load an operator may handle, there is a real requirement for a robotic solution to handle loads that exceed this limit. The CR-35iA comes into its own here, particularly in difficult-to-access areas where conventional assist machinery cannot fit or where a six-axis robot adds dexterity. 

Another unique selling point of the CR-35iA is the way in which it detects human presence. Whilst most other collaborative robots are encased in a sensing cover that stops the robot when a human gets too close, Fanuc’s collaborative robot ensures safety through the use of intelligent sensors, which automatically stop the robot if it touches a human operator. This means the CR-35iA can go closer to the jig and other peripherals when required. 

The first CR-35iA is currently undergoing pre-production tests with one of the world’s largest automotive companies.