FANUC Robotics' New DualARM System Maximizes Welding Productivity

ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich., Feb. 25 -- FANUC Robotics America, Inc. has introduced the DualARM System(TM) for arc welding applications. The new system is designed to help metalworking manufacturers realize maximum productivity and cost-savings from their robotic arc welding work cell.

The DualARM System combines two ARC Mate robots with one R-J3iB Controller, requiring only one teach pendant to control the entire welding system. With DualARM control, the system is able to achieve coordinated motion between the robots and headstock positioners, saving manufacturers the time and expense required by systems with two independent single-arm controllers.

"The DualARM System provides the optimum solution for dual robot processing on a single positioner," said Mike Sharpe, manager, FANUC Robotics' materials joining group. "Using one intelligent controller for two ARC Mate robots and a positioner improves weld quality and simplifies setup and programming. The bottom line for welding customers is ultimate flexibility, ease-of-use and the capability to increase arc-on-time."

The DualARM System provides metalworking manufacturers several key advantages, including:

-- Provides a single point of control since both robots are controlled with a single teach pendant and CPU. This allows for easy operation, maintenance, programming and implementation.

-- The use of two robots to weld parts is an ideal option for automotive components including axles, IP's and chassis.

-- Helps expand the boundary for handling applications with heavy-duty payloads such as large automotive parts and truck frames.

-- Optional Lincoln Power Wave(TM) series with ArcLink(TM) interface allows setup of the entire welding system with a single teach pendant.

-- Controller cabinets provide space for extra I/O or auxiliary axis hardware.

-- Increases safety by allowing operators to disable one robot to verify programs.

FANUC Robotics America, Inc. designs, engineers and manufactures innovative robots and robotic systems for a wide range of industries and applications. After 20 years of success, FANUC Robotics maintains its position as the leading robotics company in North and South America. A subsidiary of FANUC Ltd. in Japan, the company has facilities in Chicago; Los Angeles; Charlotte, N.C.; Cincinnati and Toledo, Ohio; Toronto; Montreal; Aguascalientes, Mexico; and Sao Paulo, Brazil. FANUC Robotics can be found on the Internet at www.fanucrobotics.com or by calling 800-47-ROBOT.

NOTE TO EDITORS: A photo of the DualARM System can be found on PR Newswire's web site at: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030225/DualARMSystem