CRX10 Robot
The CRX-10iA/L is part of the FANUC CRX series, a line of advanced collaborative robots designed for safe, flexible, and efficient operation in shared workspaces. Developed by FANUC, one of the world’s leading industrial automation companies, the CRX-10iA/L represents a new generation of cobots (collaborative robots) that combine high performance with intuitive usability. With a payload capacity of 10 kg and an extended reach, this model is widely used in manufacturing, logistics, and assembly industries where human–robot collaboration enhances productivity.
Design and Engineering
The CRX-10iA/L features a sleek, lightweight, and durable structure, making it adaptable to various industrial environments. Its six-axis articulated arm provides a high degree of freedom and precision, allowing complex movement patterns suitable for a wide range of automation tasks. The robot’s design prioritises safety and user interaction, enabling humans to work alongside it without the need for traditional protective barriers under appropriate conditions.
The CRX-10iA/L can be mounted on the floor, ceiling, or at an angle, offering flexibility for different workspace configurations. The arm’s clean white design with soft edges not only reflects a modern aesthetic but also enhances safety during close human contact.
Technical Specifications
- Payload Capacity: 10 kg
- Reach: Approximately 1,418 mm (CRX-10iA/L variant)
- Axes: 6 axes
- Repeatability: ±0.05 mm
- Weight: Around 40 kg, ensuring easy portability and installation
- Mounting Options: Floor, wall, ceiling, or inclined surfaces
- Safety Features: Integrated sensors and force-limiting technology compliant with international safety standards for collaborative robotics
The high precision and extended reach of the CRX-10iA/L make it suitable for operations that require both dexterity and reach within compact production setups.
Key Features
- Collaborative Safety: Equipped with advanced torque and proximity sensors, the robot automatically stops when it detects an obstacle or human contact, ensuring safe coexistence in shared workspaces.
- Ease of Programming: The CRX-10iA/L is designed for intuitive programming through a drag-and-drop interface available on a tablet-based teach pendant. This allows users without prior robotics experience to teach the robot simple tasks manually by guiding its arm.
- Reliability and Durability: Built on FANUC’s industrial-grade platform, the robot offers high reliability with minimal maintenance requirements. It is engineered for long operational life, even in continuous production environments.
- Flexible Integration: The robot is compatible with various grippers, vision systems, and end-of-arm tooling, allowing seamless adaptation to different industrial applications.
- Lightweight Construction: Its low weight facilitates easy relocation and redeployment, making it ideal for dynamic production environments where processes may frequently change.
Applications
The CRX-10iA/L is designed for a wide range of industrial and commercial tasks, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking affordable automation solutions. Common applications include:
- Machine tending: Loading and unloading components into CNC machines or moulding equipment.
- Material handling: Transporting parts between workstations and conveyors.
- Packaging and palletising: Handling finished products in packaging lines.
- Assembly operations: Performing repetitive assembly and fastening tasks with high precision.
- Inspection and quality control: Integrating with vision systems to detect defects or perform measurements.
- Testing and laboratory automation: Conducting routine sample handling in controlled environments.
Because of its safe collaborative operation and compact size, the CRX-10iA/L is also suitable for deployment in mixed production environments where humans and robots share tasks.
Advantages
- User-friendly operation: Simplified setup and programming make it accessible even to operators with limited robotics knowledge.
- Reduced downtime: Quick installation and configuration help maintain continuous productivity.
- Enhanced workplace safety: Built-in collision detection and force control reduce the risk of accidents.
- Space efficiency: Its flexible mounting and compact design make it ideal for constrained factory spaces.
- High precision: The ±0.05 mm repeatability ensures consistent accuracy for delicate assembly and inspection operations.
- Scalability: The CRX series supports multiple payload and reach options, enabling companies to scale their automation needs without major system overhauls.
Limitations
While the CRX-10iA/L offers numerous advantages, certain constraints must be considered before deployment:
- The 10 kg payload may be insufficient for heavy industrial applications requiring larger load capacities.
- Despite simplified programming, complex multi-robot systems still require professional integration and calibration.
- The initial investment cost can be substantial for small enterprises, though operational savings often offset it over time.
- Environmental factors such as dust, humidity, and extreme temperature may require additional protective measures for long-term performance.