Epson to Launch Two New Compact Six-Axis Robots

TOKYO, Japan, - -Seiko Epson Corporation (“Epson,” TSE: 6724) will release a new series of vertical six-axis industrial robots on December 21, 2012. There are two models in the new series, the C4 and the C4L. The C4 can handle payloads up to 4 kg and boasts a 20% shorter cycle time (with a 3-kg payload) than its predecessor, the C3, which Epson released in July 2009. The C4L is a slim, long-arm (900 mm) model that maximizes space efficiency. Epson will simultaneously launch a pair of new options, the RC700 industrial robot controller and the Vision Guide 7.0 machine vision system.

The C4 series will succeed the C3 series of manipulator robots that were designed for precision assembly of small parts. Like their predecessors, the C4 and C4L are highly compact and operate at high speeds with outstanding precision, making them ideal for tasks such as electronics assembly and automotive parts transport. However, the C4 and C4L deliver even higher throughput and can handle even heavier payloads. Epson increased the acceleration of these industrial robots by using its unique technology to control vibrations even when transporting heavy payloads, making what were already the best-in-class cycle times even shorter. The C4 has a 600-mm horizontal reach (to wrist center), while the C4L is an extended-reach model that has an arm length of 900 mm. These speedy, slim, lightweight manipulators can also be used in machine-tending applications, to load and unload lightweight objects to and from processing machines or small molding machines.

The RC700 robot controller is a versatile, powerful controller for the C4 and C4L that combines the functions of the previous RC180 and RC620 robot controllers. A single RC700 can be used in a wide variety of systems, from simple single-robot uses to complex multiple-manipulator systems.

Vision Guide 7.0 is a new machine vision option that enables industrial robots to rapidly and accurately recognize the shape, location, and orientation of workpieces. Since it obviates the need for special positioning equipment, this vision system provides the greatest benefit when used on production lines that frequently change, such as those used to manufacture multiple product types in short production runs. With Vision Guide 7.0, Epson provides a variety of the most sought-after functions, including a defect inspection function that can be used in visual inspections or to detect flaws, high resolution that enables large workpieces to be handled with high accuracy, and a color camera that can sort workpieces by color.

C4 series features and benefits

1. Speed and accuracy that raise throughput
-The 600-mm arm model has a cycle time of 0.43 seconds when carrying a payload of 3kg. This is 20% shorter than the cycle time of the same class of C3 robot, an achievement enabled by a unique Epson technology that suppresses vibration.
Note) The standard cycle times (for a 1kg payload) are as follows:
-600-mm arm model: 0.37sec. 900-mm arm model: 0.57sec.
-The maximum payload was increased from 3kg to 4kg.
-Repeatability is ±0.02 mm


2. A compact body and improved design flexibility
-The slim, compact body means less interference with peripherals, walls, and ceilings
-A small, dexterous wrist (end-effector) with a large working envelope that moves smoothly and can work at various angles
-The model with a 900-mm arm is slim and lightweight


Availability

-Product name: C4 compact 6-axis robot
Arm length: 600 mm
Price: Open
Date of availability: December 21, 2012

-Product name: C4L compact 6-axis robot
Arm length: 900 mm
Price: Open
Date of availability: December 21, 2012


* See the attachment for the main specifications of the C4 and C4L. PDF (63KB)
(http://global.epson.com/newsroom/2012/pdf/121203.pdf)


----
About Epson
Epson is a global imaging and innovation leader whose product lineup ranges from inkjet printers and 3LCD projectors to sensors and other microdevices. Dedicated to exceeding the vision of its customers worldwide, Epson delivers customer value based on compact, energy-saving, and high-precision technologies in markets spanning enterprise and the home to commerce and industry.
Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 81,000 employees in 97 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and the communities in which it operates.
http://global.epson.com/