Mitsubishi Electric's new robot range supports digital transformation in manufacturing

These new robots enhance industrialautomation through high-speed operation, easy installation, andexceptional efficiency. Compact and lightweight, they are ideal formanufacturers aiming to boost productivity while navigating spaceand weight constraints.

MELFA RH-20CRH, Right: MELFA RH-10CRH. These newrobots provide manufacturers with greater flexibility in adopting digitalmanufacturing while addressing skilled workforce shortages. Source: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

Engineered with versatility in mind, the MELFA RH-CRH series is aperfect fit for a wide range of applications, including assembly, coating,and precision conveyance. With maximum reach radii ranging from 600mm to 1000mm and payload capacities of up to 10kg and 20kg, respectively, the RH-10CRH and RH-20CRH offer performance and adaptability to meet various production needs. The RH-10CRH is designed for transportation and assembly in the food and automotiveindustries, while the RH-20CRH specializes in handling and packaging heavy items. Their lightweight design and compact structure allow forseamless integration into even the most restricted workspaces,maximizing operational flexibility.

The MELFA RH-CRH series robots are equipped with innovative battery-less motors, which removes the need for periodic battery replacements.This reduces maintenance downtime and costs and effectivelyeliminates the risk of losing the robot s positional origin (home position)due to battery exhaustion. As a result, the robots deliver consistentreliability, even during long production schedules or after extendeddowntime periods.

These improvements to productivity are amplified by a simplified designthat significantly reduces the number of components, resulting in up to69% weight reduction compared to previous models. This lowersinstallation and facility costs while enhancing long-term operationalreliability, continuous operation performance, and overall productivity.Furthermore, the integrated wiring and air piping within the robot arm reduce wiring complexity and simplify setup.

The MELFA RH-CRH series also offers advanced functionality, trackingoperations, support for 3D and 2D vision sensors, and force sensing,ensuring precise performance for high-speed tasks. Compatibility withCC-Link IE Field Basic, a gigabit industrial Ethernet network, enablesseamless integration into existing production networks and MitsubishiElectric Factory Automation products, making it ideal for digitaltransformation in manufacturing. Its optional safety features ensuresecure operation in collaborative environments.

"With the MELFA RH-CRH series, we ve created a solution that deliversexceptional performance and addresses the practical challenges ourcustomers face in modern manufacturing, said Keisuke Matsumura,Development Section Team Leader. These robots alone demonstrateour commitment to innovation by helping manufacturers enhanceproductivity and efficiency. Additionally, when combined with otherMitsubishi Electric s software advances - such as MELSOFT VIXIOenabled AI visual inspection, the creation of digital twins usingMELSOFT Gemini - the expansion of automation, additional cost savingsand system benefits can be achieved.