Machine Vision and Heavy-Duty Applications
Machine vision can significantly expand the CR16A’s capabilities. When combined with a compatible vision system, the robot can use camera data to determine the position and orientation of workpieces, enabling flexible picking, positioning, sorting and inspection applications where components do not always arrive at exactly the same location.
The optional DOBOT VX500 smart camera, for example, combines a 5-megapixel camera with 2.5D vision algorithms and supports applications including visual localisation, measurement, inspection and identification. It is designed for direct integration with the CRA platform.
One of the CR16A’s main strengths is heavy component handling. Its 16 kg payload makes it suitable for workpieces that exceed the capacity of lower-payload cobots, while still leaving sufficient capacity for an appropriately designed gripper. This can be particularly useful in automotive, metalworking, machinery and general manufacturing applications.
For machine tending, the CR16A can automate the loading and unloading of CNC machines, presses, testing systems and other production equipment. It can collect a workpiece from a tray, pallet or conveyor, place it into the machine and remove it once the production cycle is complete.
Its relatively compact 1000 mm working radius can be advantageous in these applications because machine-tending cells often require high payload capacity within a concentrated workspace rather than maximum reach. The robot can therefore be positioned close to the production equipment while handling comparatively heavy components.
The CR16A is particularly well suited to palletising and depalletising tasks. Its 16 kg payload allows it to handle larger boxes, packaged products, containers and other units, while high-speed movement can support repetitive transfer cycles between conveyors and pallets. DOBOT specifically positions its high-payload robots for palletising and material-handling applications.
In pick-and-place and general material-handling applications, the robot can transfer components between conveyors, pallets, fixtures, storage positions and manufacturing equipment. Depending on the end-effector design, its payload capacity can also allow several smaller components to be handled simultaneously.
Assembly applications can include component positioning, insertion, fastening and manipulation of larger subassemblies. The combination of 6-axis movement and ±0.03 mm repeatability enables the robot to approach components from multiple orientations while maintaining consistent positioning.
With suitable tooling, the CR16A can also support screwdriving, dispensing, gluing and polishing processes. Its higher payload allows more substantial process equipment to be carried directly by the robot, expanding the range of applications that can be implemented without sacrificing too much useful payload.
Welding is another supported application within the CRA ecosystem. The robot can carry a welding torch and associated equipment through programmed trajectories, while DOBOT’s welding process packages can help simplify application development. The exact configuration depends on the welding process, torch, cable management, required reach and safety design.
