Posted to News on 28th Jan 2010, 21:45
Lightweight parallel kinematic robot features 6kg payload
Fanuc Robotics' M-3iA lightweight parallel kinematic robot has a 6kg payload in comparison with the 0.5kg payload of the earlier M-1iA robot. Available in four- and six-axis configurations, the delta robot is compact and readily integrated within automated machinery.
Aimed particularly at assembly and packing applications, the M-3iA benefits from its parallel link structure in that it can be installed in confined areas. Its cylindrical work envelope, 0.5m deep by 1.35m diameter, is concentric to the robot mounting base, making it straightforward to position and guard.
All joint motors are mounted well away from the wrist, which avoids them being exposed to high acceleration and, dependant on the application, aggressive materials. Joints and mated components are sealed to IP67 - indeed, the wrist can operate in a dust- or oil mist-laden atmosphere.
Food and pharma features
Realising the importance of this high-speed configuration for picking and packaging applications, Fanuc Robotics has produced a Food and Pharmaceutical version. The Fanuc Robotics M-3iA Food robot has a white epoxy finish for protection from aggressive media, which also enables the arm to be disinfected with acid and alkaline fluids. Food-grade grease completes the specification.
Fanuc Robotics claims to have developed a unique approach to applying a three-axes wrist to a parallel link design that enable the wrist to maintain accurate positioning even during high-speed movement. With wrist speeds of 4000 degrees per second for the four-axis model and 2000 degrees per second for the six-axis model, the M-3ia has a repeatability of 0.1mm.
The M-3iA/6S four-axis model has a hollow wrist for routing hoses through the centre of the gripper, thereby reducing interference, hose breakages and downtime while permitting very fast workpiece rotations.
Applications requiring more complex positioning are suitable for the six-axis M-3iA/6A with its ability to pick up components, assemble them at an angle and rotate them - effectively replicating a human operator but at far greater speed and high repeatability over an indefinite period.
The Fanuc Robotics M-3iA is controlled by the intelligent R-30iA controller with integrated functions including iRVision, Robot Link and Collision protection. All that the robot requires to benefit from iRVision is a camera and a cable to connect it to the controller - a housing is provided in the robot body to position a camera above the wrist of the M-3iA.
Follow the link for more information about industrial robots from Fanuc Robotics.
