Racer999 Is a Hot-Shot Italian Robot

Another small and agile robot hits the plant floor. In keeping with the trend of smaller more dexterous robots, Italian robot maker, Comau Robotics, has introduced the Racer999, a six-axis articulated robot designed to operate in small spaces. Racer999 inherits key features from its older brother, the Racer 7-1.4, which was released last year.

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With a reach less than a meter, Racer 999 was designed for applications in a limited space. applications include assembly, handling, machine tooling, and packaging. "We created the Racer 999 for those who need small machines that are able to operate with maximum speed and precision in a reduced work area," Alessio Cocchi, marketing manager at Comau Robotics told Design News. "This type of robot also meets the requirements of specific application sectors, especially those connected to handling operations." Cocchi notes that sectors such as machine tools, packaging, and assembly are seeing the highest growth in the number of robots installed."

The Racer999 utilizes the same software as it predecessor, also using many of the same parts. "The conformity of the components helps with spare parts," said Cocchi. "The robot is 30% stiffer than its predecessor, and it uses the same motors. He also noted that Racer 999 is the "fastest robot in its class," and that Comau conducted field test comparisons against competing robots.

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The Racer 999 uses Comau's E-motion software -- the same as its predecessor -- to optimize movements and increase motion fluidity. The goal was to reduce cycle times by up to 25% over the previous generation. The reduced dimensions of the robot over its predecessor and its controller combine to provide reduced energy consumption.

Rob Spiegel has covered automation and control for 15 years, 12 of them for Design News. Other topics he has covered include supply chain technology, alternative energy, and cyber security. For 10 years he was owner and publisher of the food magazine, Chile Pepper.