Mitsubishi Electric has introduced its MELFA RH-10CRH and RH-20CRH SCARA robots, designed to enhance industrial automation and support digital transformation in manufacturing. The new models aim to provide manufacturers with increased flexibility while addressing workforce shortages, offering high-speed operation, compact design, and simplified installation.
The MELFA RH-CRH series is suited for applications such as assembly, coating, and precision conveyance. The RH-10CRH, with a maximum reach radius of 600mm and a payload capacity of up to 10kg, is targeted at transportation and assembly tasks in industries such as food and automotive. The RH-20CRH, with a reach of up to 1000mm and a payload capacity of 20kg, is designed for handling and packaging heavier items. The robots’ compact and lightweight structure allows for easy integration into confined workspaces.
A key feature of the MELFA RH-CRH series is its battery-less motor, which eliminates the need for periodic battery replacements, reducing maintenance costs and the risk of losing positional data due to battery exhaustion. The design also incorporates a reduced number of components, leading to up to 69% weight reduction compared to previous models. This contributes to lower installation and facility costs while improving operational reliability and efficiency.
Additional features include integrated wiring and air piping, which simplify setup, as well as support for 3D and 2D vision sensors, force sensing, and advanced tracking operations. The robots are compatible with CC-Link IE Field Basic, a gigabit industrial Ethernet network, allowing seamless integration with Mitsubishi Electric’s factory automation systems. Optional safety features support secure operation in collaborative environments.
Keisuke Matsumura, Development Section Team Leader at Mitsubishi Electric, stated that the MELFA RH-CRH series is designed to address practical challenges in modern manufacturing while enhancing productivity. He added that when combined with Mitsubishi Electric’s software solutions such as MELSOFT VIXIO for AI visual inspection and MELSOFT Gemini for digital twin creation, the robots can contribute to expanded automation and additional system efficiencies.