Collaborative Robot for Parts Handling

The Certified Education Training group at FANUC America Corporation (Rochester Hills, MI) is dedicated to finding systems that help change the perceptions of careers in manufacturing and address the critical challenges caused by a shortage of skilled workers. They recently introduced industry-leading certifications that provide students and manufacturers with measurable skillsets that are aligned with today’s advanced automation technologies to increase workforce readiness at all levels, and their interactive education cart cell features a CR-4iA collaborative robot equipped with iRVision® to pick and place a product from a bin. The robot can be stopped by tapping its side and then, with a simple push of a button, it will return to picking product from a bin. Ideal for both industrial and educational operations, this cell highlights the CR-4iA robot’s capabilities to interact safely with a person while handling parts.

A family of collaborative robots, including the CR-4iA, CR-7iA, CR-7iA/L and the larger CR-35iA, are all equipped with highly sensitive contact detection that allows them to share workstations with people. This is a major safety and cost benefit that allows the robot to perform more strenuous tasks or repetitive operations without the need for expensive industrial safety barriers. “Now, more than ever, manufacturers use automation to maximize their productivity,” said Paul Aiello, the director of FANUC Certified Education Training (CERT). “That’s why high paying careers in advanced automation are in demand. Our CERT program provides manufacturers and educators a STEM-based curriculum centered on robotics and automation training, preparing students for high-tech careers in advanced manufacturing.”

Their educational outreach extends to all levels of instruction, from early childhood education through the university level. Over 650 schools offer their programs for robotic programming and over 130 of their CNC training programs. Nearly 600 instructors are currently teaching students how to use their machines and systems in high schools, community colleges, technical schools, and universities.

FANUC America Corporation, 3900 West Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48309, 248-377-7000, www.fanucamerica.com.