FANUC’s new robot controller offers cybersecurity, remote maintenance functions

FANUC America Corp. this week introduced the R-50iA, a robot controller that offers cybersecurity along with a wide range of enhancements and new features designed to maximize robot performance. People can see FANUC’s controller in action at the International Manufacturing Technology Trade Show in Chicago next month.

The controller is designed to be intelligent and compact, claimed Rochester Hills, Mich.-based FANUC America. It is available in three cabinet sizes: the R-50iA Mate-Cabinet, the R-50iA A-Cabinet, and the R-50iA B-Cabinet, which offers a smaller size.

Robot controller includes feature enhancements

FANUC said its new controller features enhanced performance, which improves the signal output and sensor tracking on the robot’s motion path, enabling higher precision. The company said this can serve robotic applications such as dispensing and other demanding tasks that require exceptional control.

The company also built vision improvements into the R-50iA. These include an all-new camera design with a 5 million-pixel resolution. FANUC said this is four times the current vision capability, significantly increasing the robot’s field of view.

In addition, FANUC’s R-50iA is equipped with unified Gigabit Ethernet communication. As a result, operators can control the newly designed waterproof camera, complete with LED illumination, using just a single Ethernet cable.

The company added that its integrated vision has a common user interface for the iPendant TabletTP and PC, making it easy to use with any device.

The R-50iA also includes a new amplifier that FANUC designed to be energy efficient. It incorporates components to minimize energy consumption during operation. A low-power fan ensures efficient cooling without drawing excessive power, FANU said. 

To increase user-friendliness, the R-50iA controller features a new “eco mode” switch to reduce the robot’s energy consumption, contributing to sustainability. 

FANUC’s R-50iA controller gets new features

The company highlighted three new features in its latest robot controller, with the first being cybersecurity. FANUC’s new controller has obtained third-party certification for international cybersecurity: IEC62443-4-1 and 4-2. 

The controller provides multiple layers of defense to secure data exchange, whether it’s remote access (SSH), file transfers (SFTP), or web communication (HTTPS). The R-50iA also includes password-based user authentication, which FANUC said simplifies the management of user groups in the field. It also ensures authorized access while effectively preventing unauthorized entry. 

Second, the company built enhanced and flexible setup support functions into the R-50iA controller. These are intended to make it easier to build automated systems and facilitate integration with the robot. 

A key feature is the new controller’s ability to execute Python scripts, which are widely used for system integration. Python examples make customization more straightforward, allowing data output during program execution and ultimately saving valuable time and integration costs, said FANUC.

In addition, the R-50iA controller serves as a core element in automation. It supports software PLC functions adhering to international standards and communicates signal processes in six different languages, including ladder logic and structured text.

Finally, FANUC touted its controller’s remote maintenance capabilities. The company said it’s now possible to connect a smartphone to the R-50iA controller for support, remote maintenance, and software downloads.

Confidential and secure communications protect sensitive information. FANUC’s experienced service representatives can provide live guidance on robot settings, alarm conditions, and programs.

FANUC has been a pioneer in automation and robotics for nearly 50 years. The company was a 2024 RBR50 Innovation Award winner for reaching another milestone with the production of its one-millionth industrial robot. The robot was a FANUC R-2000iC/210F that is designed to lift heavy payloads up to 210 kg (462.9 lb.) in a variety of applications.

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