Epson Robots has added the AX6 to its AX Series of six-axis arms. It is the company's first collaborative robot. Power- and force-limiting features, paired with a proper risk assessment, can allow the AX6 to run without traditional safety barriers. Epson says the arm completes what it calls a "full portfolio of robot safety tools," alongside its speed-focused industrial robots and a middle tier of industrial collaborative models.
The AX6 reaches 900 mm and lifts a 6 kg payload. The carbon fiber arm weighs 17 kg and mounts on a tabletop, ceiling or wall. Epson rates it IP54 and ISO 5 for cleanrooms, which refers to ISO Class 5 under ISO 14644-1. It runs on 100–240 V AC or 48 V DC.
Programming happens in a web interface. Users can build programs with a block language or write Python, and they can upload custom libraries and modules. Positions are taught by pressing a button and moving the arm by hand. The AX6 generates straight-line, curved and joint motions from either environment, and AX Portal software handles setup and application development.
For automation engineers, the pairing of fence-free operation and hand-taught positions matters most in cells where floor space is tight or a line gets reconfigured often.
The tool flange carries five buttons, three of them customizable and two dedicated to teaching. It also has an Ethernet port, pneumatic connections and a multicolor status LED ring. Epson's 3D simulator lets programmers test code before it runs in the workcell. The RC+ development software imports CAD models of existing or planned cells so designers can check reach limits.
"Collaborative robots have lowered the barriers to entry for many new robot users," said Rick Brookshire, director of product development, robot development, at Epson. He said the AX6 lets Epson address applications where space and user interaction are critical.
The AX6 is available now through Epson Robots' distributor partners. An M8 8-pin connector on the J6 axis provides two analog I/O channels, two digital inputs, two digital outputs and a dedicated 24 VDC supply for end-of-arm tooling.
