In an industry where speed and flexibility are crucial, how can you ensure that automation operations do not compromise space efficiency and operator safety? The RoboFeed C series offers an answer to this challenge, proposing a collaborative cell on a mobile trolley, designed to integrate easily with machine tools and facilitate the management of production processes, even on small batches. Thanks to advanced solutions such as automatic lifting and integration with OnRobot grippers, this system stands out for its ability to adapt to different production requirements. Discover how these innovations can transform your approach to industrial automation.
What is RoboFeed C series
The RoboFeed C series, designed by Assistec, represents a state-of-the-art solution in the field of collaborative robotics. Equipped with the latest generation Fanuc Cobot, the RoboFeed C stands out for its mobility and flexibility and is able to respond perfectly to modern production requirements, especially in contexts that require the rapid movement of the robotic island between machine tools and the handling of small production batches. What makes this series special compared to other CNC automation solutions?
- Compact dimensions and space optimisation: RoboFeed C-series configurations are designed to minimise footprint, with compact dimensions allowing efficient use of shop floor space. This allows the machine tools to be used in manual mode without the need for reconfiguration or retooling.
- Safe collaboration between man and robot: RoboFeed C series is designed to operate without barriers or cumbersome physical protection. Thanks to the advanced safety capabilities of the Fanuc Cobot, operators and robots can work in complete safety, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted production.
- Loading and storage capacity: With a loading space of 0.90 m2 and a robust design, the RoboFeed C series can handle significant workloads. The C20 and C21 versions (which we will look at in more detail shortly) differ in their loading capacity, with capacities of 10 kg and 20 kg respectively, and a reach radius of 1418 mm, ideal for the automation of complex, repetitive processes.
- Flexibility and mobility: RoboFeed C is trolley-mounted, which makes it easily transportable between locations. This flexibility makes it particularly suitable for workshops that need frequent production reconfigurations, as it ensures a rapid transition from one machine tool to another.
- Fast programming and self-learning: A distinctive feature is the ease of programming, thanks to the self-learning system and the tablet with customised software developed by Assistec. The operator can move the robotic arm manually, allowing the system to learn the dimensions and reduce programming time, optimising the work of the toolmaker.
The RoboFeed C series offers two main configurations, each designed to meet specific loading and automation needs: C20 and C21. Both configurations retain common features, such as compact dimensions, ease of movement and operational flexibility, but differ in terms of loading capacity and the type of Fanuc Cobot installed.
C20: compactness and precision
The C20 configuration is equipped with the Fanuc CRX10iA/L Cobot, an ideal solution for those seeking a balance between compactness and operational precision. Here are the technical details:
- Wrist capacity: 10 kg, sufficient for handling medium-sized components.
- Robotic reach: 1418 mm, providing a large working area, facilitating interaction with multiple machine tools without the need for frequent repositioning.
- Dimensioni:
- Height: 870 mm
- Width: 1280 mm
- Depth: 1050 mm These compact dimensions make the C20 particularly suitable for workshops with limited space.
- Useful loading area: 0.90 m2, an area large enough to store unfinished and finished parts, optimising production cycles.
- Unit weight: 250 kg: which ensures stability during operations without compromising mobility.
- Installed power: 1.6 KVA, energy efficient, reducing overall consumption.
C21: versatility and increased capacity
The C21 configuration is designed to handle more demanding applications, thanks to the presence of the Fanuc CRX20iA/L Cobot, which offers a higher loading capacity. Here are the distinguishing features:
- Capacity at the wrist: 20 kg, twice as much as the C20 model, making it ideal for handling heavier or more complex components.
- Robotic reach: Like the C20 model, the C21 offers a reach of 1418 mm, while maintaining the same large working area.
- Dimensioni:
- Height: 870 mm
- Width: 1280 mm
- Depth: 1050 mm The dimensions are identical to those of the C20 model, maintaining compactness and optimisation of space.
- Payload area: 0.90 m2, in line with the C20 configuration, to ensure large storage capacities.
- Unit weight: 250 kg, despite the increased load capacity, the weight remains the same, ensuring the same mobility.
Installed power: 1.6 KVA, which confirms a low energy impact even for heavier loads.
RoboFeed C-series and OnRobot grippers: are they compatible?
RoboFeed C series collaborative robots integrate perfectly with OnRobot electric grippers, offering advanced solutions for industrial automation. Compatibility with these products allows the versatility of our solutions to be fully exploited, optimising workpiece gripping operations on CNC machine tools. The 2FG7 gripper, suitable for both models of the C series, with its compact design and ease of use, stands out for its exceptional flexibility and precision, ideal for numerous industrial applications. The MG10 magnetic gripper (compatible with C20) is an ideal choice for applications on large metal surfaces, guaranteeing safety and reliability thanks to its integrated intelligence and adjustable gripping force. Thanks to these solutions, the RoboFeed C series becomes a versatile system, capable of adapting to electrical automation needs and significantly improving production efficiency.
RoboFeed C series: a system that is always up-to-date
The C series is designed to keep pace with the needs of all production sectors, while remaining true to its versatile and functional soul. The latest innovations introduced in the Robo Feed C series concern the automatic lifting system, which revolutionises the way the cobot is moved from one machine tool to another. This eliminates the need for manual intervention by the operator, reducing physical effort and improving operational efficiency. At the heart of this technology is the automatic lifting actuator supplied by LINAK, a leader in electric actuators. The system allows the collaborative cell to be easily lifted and positioned at the pre-determined point, which simplifies logistics and makes the whole process smoother, minimising downtime. As you can imagine, this solution offers significant advantages:
- ease of positioning – the operator can move the cell with extreme precision to the desired location without additional effort;
- energy autonomy – thanks to the integrated battery, a continuous connection to the power grid is not necessary, increasing flexibility of use;
- improved ergonomics – the elimination of physical exertion on the part of the operator contributes to a safer and more comfortable working environment.
RoboFeed C series: practical applications
The RoboFeed C series is an ideal solution for companies in need of flexible, fast and safe production. Its advanced automation features, combined with the ability to operate in collaborative environments without safety barriers, make it perfect for improving production efficiency in the manufacturing sector, adapting to a wide range of needs. Both configurations, C20 and C21, represent highly versatile solutions, capable of adapting to different production needs. The C20 is particularly suited to workshops requiring medium load capacity, while the C21 is ideal for heavier applications without compromising operational flexibility and mobility. For example, in the case of the HT C20, it has proved particularly effective in the production of parts for agricultural machinery, leading to a reduction in cycle time, facilitating programming by in-house operators and introducing significant advantages in terms of safety and space optimisation. Another success story is that of Microtools, a company that custom-designs and manufactures tube and profile machining equipment. The introduction of the C21 within its production system has enabled Microtools to significantly improve process efficiency and increase market competitiveness. Thanks to their compact size, both solutions can be easily integrated into modern production environments, with tangible benefits on efficiency and production capacity.
