What if collaborative robots could be carried between workstations in minutes to automate welding, assembly, inspection, and high mix manufacturing tasks?
FANUC America has introduced a new ultra lightweight collaborative robot alongside expanded capabilities across its CRX cobot lineup, targeting flexible automation for both small scale and high throughput industrial operations. The newly launched CRX 3iA collaborative robot weighs only 11 kg and is designed for rapid redeployment across temporary setups, compact workspaces, and variable production environments.
The cobot supports a 3 kg payload with a 692 mm reach and is aimed at applications including welding, screwdriving, inspection, part handling, tool positioning, and small assembly operations. Its lightweight construction allows a single operator to reposition and deploy the robot quickly without requiring permanent fixtures or complex installation infrastructure.
The platform also supports wall and ceiling mounting with automatic angle detection, while compatibility with magnetic bases enables fast temporary installation. For welding applications, the robot includes touch sensing, automatic weld point detection, and automated path generation to simplify setup and positioning.
Beyond the cobot, the company has expanded the overall CRX platform with several automation features targeting heavier industrial workloads and advanced motion control. The updated lineup now includes enhanced palletizing support for payloads up to 40 kg, dual nut runner operation for higher fastening throughput, and a new high inertia mode that allows collaborative robots to guide heavy loads while external lift assist systems carry the weight.
“The CRX 3iA puts collaborative automation in the hands of operators literally,” says Eric Potter, General Manager, Robot Application Engineering Segment at FANUC America. “Its lightweight design makes it easy to redeploy in minutes, helping manufacturers automate jobs that were once too small, too scattered or too costly to justify.”
Click here for the official announcement.
