This blog is translated from German with DeepL.
A new collaborative robot makes its debut
In early 2020, Fanuc introduced the new CRX collaborative robot series. With this, Fanuc is launching a new era in automation. One of the first models delivered in Switzerland is owned by Gimelli Engineering AG.
We at Gimelli Engineering AG compared the Fanuc CRX with the Panda from Franka Emika and found that with the CRX we have found the perfect complement for our Robotic Lab.
The CRX robot is available in a short (CRX-10iA) and a long (CRX-10iA/L) version, with 1249mm and 1418mm reach respectively. The maximum payload capacity of the robot is 10kg. The robot can be used collaboratively with a maximum speed of 1000mm/sec or industrially with additional safety devices with a maximum speed of 2000mm/sec.
Source: Fanuc Switzerland GmbH left CRX short version (CRX-10iA) and right CRX long version (CRX-10iA/L)
Just like the Panda, the CRX can be set up in just a few steps and is quickly ready for use. The slim design of the robot arm enables space-saving installation. Even the long arm version CRX-10iA/L can work in confined spaces: Thanks to the under-flip movement, it does not have to turn around, but can simply work on both sides of its base.
Source: Fanuc Switzerland GmbHRobot arm of a CRX
Programming the CRX
When programming the CRX robot, you can choose between Fanuc’s in-house programming language in code form, or programming directly on the teach tablet using drag & drop.
Source: Fanuc Switzerland GmbH
Programming via teach tablet by drag & drop
Thus, the robot can be controlled like a conventional industrial robot or, like most collaborative robots, by teaching points in apps. However, the CRX can also be programmed and simulated completely remotely from a computer using the Roboguide programming software, which is a major strength of Fanuc.
Compared to the Panda robot, all programming options are open to you with the CRX and you do not need any additional software for more advanced functions. However, this increases the complexity of the system and is again completely due to the industrial application. Which is also the biggest difference between the two robots. While the CRX with its robust design and high payload is used in industrial and automation applications, the Panda with its sensitivity is rather used for highly sensitive tasks.
Comparison of the CRX and Panda technical data
Fanuc CRX-10iA / | Franka Emika – Panda | |
Degrees of freedom | 6 | 7 |
Payload | 10 kg | 3 kg |
Maximum reach | 1249mm / 1418mm | 855mm |
Pose repeatabillity | +/- 0.05 mm | +/- 0.1 mm |
Cartesian speed | 1000* / 2000mm/sec | 2000mm/sec |
Weight | 38kg / 40kg | 18kg |
Protection | IP67 | IP30 |
* in collaborative mode
Source: Gimelli Engineering Robotic Lab
