Fanuc Robotics’ M-3iA “Genkotsu” Robot High-Speed Fan Assembly

The M-3iA robot from Fanuc Robotics America is a larger version of the company’s M-1iA and new M-2iA “Genkotsu” robots.  Available in a 4- or 6-axis model, the M-3iA offers the same unique parallel-link structure, and accommodates payloads up to 6kg. In addition, it has the largest work envelope of any robot in its class (1350mm x 500mm).
   
The M-3iA 6-axis model has a 3-axis, patent-pending wrist for complex assembly tasks.  The extreme flexibility offered by the 3-axis wrist enables the robot to pick up and insert parts at simple or compound angles, and twist parts into place, similar to the flexibility offered by a manual operator. 

A 4-axis M-3iA has a single-axis wrist for simple assembly and high-speed picking operations, offering speeds up to 4,000° per second.  In addition, a hollow wrist allows hoses and cables to be routed internally, which minimizes wear and tear on the tooling cables. 

The M-3iA “Genkotsu” robot offers a wide range of benefits, including:

•    Patent-pending 3-axis, parallel-link wrist maximizes flexibility.
•    Portable and compact size allows operation in small spaces.
•    Six-axis design (3-axis wrist) enables part feeding from the sides of a work zone, increasing the useable workspace.
•    Four-axis design (single-axis wrist) moves parts at extremely high speeds; a hollow wrist allows tooling cables to be routed internally, minimizing wear and tear.
•    Food option with food-grade grease features a special coating to handle acid and alkaline disinfectants, and low-pressure rinsing.
•    Ability to work with primary (unpackaged) or secondary (packaged) food products.
•    IP67 rating for the entire robot means the robot is waterproof and can withstand harsh environments, including dust and oil mist.
•    Collision Guard detects robot collisions with external objects, minimizing damage to the part and robot.
•    Robot Link controls and coordinates up to ten robots through a network exchange of robot positional data.
•    Fanuc Force Sensor is available for intricate assembly applications.