Epson launches its first industrial collaborative robot

Join Epson on stand 311, hall B5, at automatica 2025, Messe Munchen, Germany, from June 24 to 27, and see Epson's first all-in-one collaborative robot package that includes the new high-performance 6-axis Epson AX6-A901S lightweight carbon robot, with compact Epson RC-A101 controller and versatile AX Portal programming system.

"As the life sciences and pharmaceutical industries continue to grow, demand for highly accurate operations and stringent hygiene management has become paramount," explains Volker Spanier, Head of Robotics, Epson Europe. "To address these important needs, Epson's new collaborative robot has been designed to be clean-room compatible, ensuring high-precision control over intricate tasks performed in laboratories and pharmaceutical settings."

With a payload capacity of 6 kg and an arm length of 900 mm, the AX6-A901S is suitable for both laboratory transportation and production line integration. Its flexible installation capabilities allow it to operate seamlessly in confined spaces.

The Epson RC-A101 controller is designed for installation on Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), with dimensions of W 440 x D 205 x H 135 mm and weighing less than 6 kg. This compact design promotes space-saving installations.

The collaborative robot is compatible with power sources ranging from 100 to 230 VAC and 48 VDC, making it adaptable to various installation environments.

The AX6-A901S features clean transfer capabilities compliant with ISO 14644-1 Class 5 standards and dust/drip proof performance compliant with IP541. Its smooth chassis design, free of screw holes and sharp edges, minimises dust accumulation, thereby reducing contamination risks in clean-room environments.

The robot supports Python programming, which is widely used across industries. This compatibility facilitates smooth introduction and flexible customisation at research and development (R&D) and system integration sites, eliminating the need for users to learn a new specialised programming language.

Volker Spanier concludes: "Epson's commitment to advancing human-controlled robotics is evident in the development of this collaborative robot, which is designed to perform intricate tasks safely and cleanly, addressing the growing demand within the laboratory and pharmaceutical industries.

"Epson's first collaborative robot marks a significant advance in our journey towards improving industrial automation. Our innovative technology not just meets the practical needs of today's manufacturers but also addresses the rigorous demands of the life sciences sector, ensuring safety and precision in every interaction between humans and machines."