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What are the defining characteristics of SCARA robots, and what are the latest advancements in current models?
SCARA Robots: One popular type of robot used for pick-and-place applications is the four-axis robot, known as the Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm (SCARA). These robots are securely mounted in a fixed position with the arm set on the Z-axis and are widely used for pick-and-place due to their high speed and accuracy. Other applications for SCARA robots include sorting, dispensing, inspection, assembly, and insertion tasks.
In May of this year, Fanuc expanded its SCARA robot product line, offering companies looking to automate assembly, packaging, pick-and-place, and inspection processes with more reach and payload options. The new models include the SR-3 i A, SR-6 i A, SR-12 i A, and SR-20 i A, which offer payload capacities of 3, 6, 12, and 20 kg, respectively. Regarding reach, the models range from 400 to 1,000 mm.
The SR-3 i A and SR-6 i A SCARA robots feature a compact footprint and a space-saving design to achieve maximum efficiency. Two three-axis variants of these models—the SR-3 i A/H and SR-6 i A/H—offer powerful performance and a cost-effective alternative for small linear rail products. The higher-payload SR-12 i A and SR-20 i A are reportedly flexible, featuring a larger vertical stroke and environmental options suitable for harsh conditions.
All models are equipped with Fanuc’s R-30iB Compact Plus controller, which includes integrated iRVision® and iRPickTool conveyor tracking features, among other software programs. With the company’s latest SCARA iRProgrammer user interface, operators can set up and program the robot on a tablet or PC; the teach pendant is optional.
Epson Robots introduced a single development environment for its IntelliFlex series of SCARA part-feeding robots. At the end of last year, Epson Robots launched a single development environment for its IntelliFlex™ SCARA part-feeding robot series, including updates to its RC+® 7.0 development software, two new robot feeders—the IntelliFlex 80 and 380—and user programming for Allen-Bradley® PLC platforms to control Epson robots.
According to Epson, version RC+ 7.5.0 "helps drive the standard for simplified automation robot solutions," designed to help users quickly and easily implement robotic solutions. "Epson RC+ 7.5.0 addresses two distinct automation trends—high-mix, low-volume part feeding with the IntelliFlex 80 and 380, and increased PLC adoption via added instructions," said Rick Brookshire, Director of Product Management for Epson Robots.
Equipped with Epson’s IntelliFlex software and the Vision Guide click-style visual guidance interface, the company's four IntelliFlex feeding system series can accommodate a variety of parts ranging from 3 to 150 mm. The two new models offer part support for 3 to 15 mm (IntelliFlex 80) and 15 to 60 mm (IntelliFlex 380).
Epson Add-On Instructions allow Allen-Bradley PLC users to seamlessly integrate Epson robots using the PLC programming environment they are already familiar with, for applications ranging from simple pick-and-place tasks to more complex ones. The Add-On instructions are compatible with Epson’s full range of SCARA and six-axis robots.
