CRS's F3 robot given European launch

Citation

(1998), "CRS's F3 robot given European launch", Industrial Robot, Vol. 25 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.1998.04925aad.002

CRS's F3 robot given European launch

CRS's F3 robot given European launch

Canadian-based CRS is a leading player in "human scale" robot and machine vision technology. This technology mimics the human arm and eye, but with greater accuracy and consistency.

The F3 is thought to be the world's most advanced light duty industrial robot and its skills should be particularly useful in the automotive, electronics, biotechnology and clinical markets. Specifically, key applications will include identifying candidates for new drugs, the automated testing of blood samples, visually inspecting automobile parts, guiding spray paint robots and life testing electronic machines.

Technically, what stands the F3 apart from its competitors is its unique design, in which motors and power control are integrated into one digital system. When this is coupled with CRS's powerful new robot programming language, RAPL-3, the result is enhanced reliability, unparalleled dexterity and the best ease of use in its class. RAPL-3 features true multi-tasking, advanced data representation and wide interfacing capabilities which allow the F3 to communicate easily with peripheral devices.

The F3's six-axis arm has high torque, low maintenance brushless servo motors, absolute encoders and high stiffness harmonic drives. Its payload is 3kg (6.6lbs) and its repeatability is 0.05mm. With a larger operation envelope than its rivals, the F3 also boasts a sealing rating of IP54, allowing it to cope with harsh industrial environments. In addition, the F3's average joint speeds are up to 65 per cent faster than its competitors, significantly reducing process cycle times, resulting in increased production rates and a shorter investment payback period.

For maximum flexibility, the F3 can be equipped with ORIS (object recognition and identification system), CRS's machine vision-based robot guidance package. ORIS is arealtime, grey scale image processing system capable of identifying and locating different workpieces anywhere within the workspace. ORIS calculates contours by sophisticated gradient analysis techniques which allow the system to pick out and identify individual objects, even within a crowded field of view or under poor lighting conditions.

Tony Evans, Managing Director of Affordable Automation (UK distributors for CRS), commented: "CRS have done us a great honour in deciding to launch this groundbreaking robot here. Its innate flexibility means that our customers will be able to automate an even broader range of tasks, with significantly enhanced speed and reliability."

For further information contact Affordable Automation Ltd, Unit 21, The Bridgewater Centre, Robson Avenue, Urmston, Manchester, M41 7TE. Tel: 0161 747 1890; Fax: 0161 747 1891