FANUC America has expanded its CRX collaborative robot (cobot) series with the introduction of the CRX-3iA, a lightweight cobot designed for fast redeployment across small and high mix tasks. Weighing only 11 kg (24 lbs.), the CRX-3iA can be carried and set up in minutes, giving manufacturers a portable way to automate jobs such as welding, part handling, small assembly, screwdriving, tool positioning, and inspection-especially in tight spaces or temporary work areas where permanent fixtures are not feasible.
In addition to introducing the newest model in the CRX family, FANUC is rolling out several new capabilities across the full CRX lineup. These enhancements expand the range of applications that cobots can support-from heavier palletizing and high throughput fastening to coordinated welding and advanced motion control-giving manufacturers more flexibility to automate both small and high mix tasks and larger, mass production scale operations.
"The CRX-3iA puts collaborative automation in the hands of operators-literally," explained Eric Potter, General Manager, Robot Application Engineering Segment, FANUC America. "Its lightweight design makes it easy to redeploy in minutes, helping manufacturers automate jobs that were once too small, too scattered, or too costly to justify. Combined with new capabilities across the CRX lineup, we are giving our customers more ways to apply cobots safely and productively across their entire operation."
The CRX-3iA brings a new level of mobility and flexibility to FANUC's cobot family. With a 3 kg payload, 692 mm reach and lightweight design, the CRX-3iA is engineered for rapid repositioning and tight space operation.
CRX-3iA key features:
- Ultra lightweight design: Can be carried by a single person and quickly moved to workstations, temporary set-ups, or field environments
- Flexible installation: Supports magnetic bases and offers easy wall or ceiling mounting with automatic angle detection and no manual input
- High mix task support: Suited for welding, part handling, small assembly, screwdriving, tool positioning, and inspection tasks
- Portable welding capability: Can be manually moved to the welding area for fast repositioning with support for touch sensing, eliminating the need for precise robot placement. Additionally, auto weld point detection and auto path generation accelerate welding set-up.
"These capabilities make the CRX-3iA a practical solution for manufacturers seeking to automate small or variable tasks without committing to permanent fixtures or complex integration," noted a company spokesperson.
Several new features and options that expand the performance and versatility of the entire CRX family include:
- A new solution for out of position welding, FANUC's triangle weave profile counteracts weld puddle sag and replicates the precision of a skilled welder, enabling "vertical up" welding where automation traditionally struggled. It also features an intuitive, easy to use interface.
- Palletizing by the CRX-30iA now supports up to 40 kg payloads. When paired with a new high flow air kit designed for large suction grippers, this enhancement enables collaborative palletizing of heavier cases while maintaining safety and ease of use.
- A new high inertia mode allows CRX cobots to guide heavy loads while a lift assist device carries the weight. This hybrid approach automates previously manual, ergonomically challenging operations while preserving collaborative safety.
- CRX cobots can now operate dual nut runners to double fastener throughput. An optional internal wiring harness supports clean cable routing and maintains collaborative safety standards.
- The CRX lineup will also be available on FANUC's new R-50iA controller, enabling advanced capabilities including: python scripting; higher frequency ROS 2 and streaming motion support for AI-driven application; and advanced cybersecurity protection.
- Support for auxiliary axis part positioners now enable coordinated welding and laser applications.
These enhancements broaden the CRX family's reach into more demanding applications while preserving the simplicity and safety that define collaborative robotics, the company reported.
For more information contact:
FANUC America Corporation
3900 West Hamlin Road
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
888-FANUC-US (326-8287)
www.fanucamerica.com