Posted to News on 5th Jun 2020, 09:43
New human collaborative robot from Yaskawa
Yaskawa is introducing a new generation of human collaborative robots which it says "Combines key features to ensure powerful, robust and safe application capabilities". The Yaskawa Motoman HC20DT robot is the latest arrival in an expanding range of Motoman Smart Series robotic systems: it is a 6-axis robot which can handle payloads of up to 20kg with a reach of up to 1700mm and the highest levels of safety. Yaskawa states that its new model has COBOT potential for applications such as automated palletising and that depending on the application, it can be switched between safe / collaborative mode in phases of man-robot interaction, with a return to high industrial speed when the absence of an operator is detected by additional safety devices.
Operator safety is assured by features including power and force limiting technology that stops the robot in case of contact with an operator, while the robot arm geometry is designed to avoid finger pinch points. Further, the robot arm can be guided by an operator, and robot positioning and gripper operation can be registered via "Teach' and "Tool' buttons. These features are said to contribute to time saving during programming and where the application requires additional protective measures, such as safety fences, these can be added in line with risk assessments. Yaskawa says that its Smart Series technology provides simple, intuitive programming and operation methods for operators.
Among the other important features cited by the manufacturer are its YRC1000 and YRC1000 micro controllers, safety by design with smooth rounded edges, internal cable routing, and a functional safety unit with safe force / torque sensors for all 6 axes. The HC20DT complies with safety standards for industrial robots to ISO 10218-1 (5.10.5 power and force limiting), and demonstrates compliance to ISO TS 15066. It also meets the safety functions for controllers to ISO 13849-1, PLd, Cat 3.
For further information about the Yaskawa Motoman HC20DT robot please visit www.yaskawa.co.uk.
