Although the cables are entirely incorporated into the hollow arm and wrist, a number of strategic openings allow easy access. As a result, cables can be replaced or maintained individually through wider openings along the arm itself, while an optional bracket flange ensures compatibility, even without a hollow hand design.
Andy Armstrong, sales and marketing manager at FANUC UK, says: “By putting the cables inside the robot it minimises the chance of wear and tear from external forces. It also makes offline simulations far easier and more precise, as testing the way that each cable will behave in any given situation is extremely challenging.
“As the robot rotates along its six axes, cables can bend in all sorts of unexpected ways,” he continues. “Having them stored away inside the arm, without the risk of snagging or tearing, vastly increases the reliability of the simulation model.”
The R-2000iD comes in two models: the R-2000iD/165FH, which has a maximum load capacity of 165 kg; and the R-2000iD/210FH, with 210 kg payload. Both have a reach of 2,605 mm, with similar dimensions to its predecessor. Crucially, however, the overall footprint is significantly smaller, taking up only 678 by 536 mm.
“Floor space in a production facility is one of the most important factors in the specification of any manufacturing equipment, as it is often at a premium,” says Armstrong. “Positioning the cables inside the R-2000iD contributes to a more succinct, ergonomic robot, which is able to operate in tight workspaces without sacrificing on payload or reach.”
