Mitsubishi Electric Automation is expanding its lineup of industrial robots with the launch of its new RV-35/50/80 FR series, designed to handle heavier payloads and reach farther than previous models.

The advanced robotics series, unveiled today, features a maximum reach of 2100 mm (around 82.7 inches) and a top payload capacity of 80 kg (176.4 lbs). This gives the robots the muscle and range for demanding applications like palletizing and machine tending of large, heavy workpieces.

"The RV-35/50/80FR series is going to be a game changer for Mitsubishi Electric," said Curtis Sylliaasen, product manager for robotics at the company. "These heavier-payload robots give us the ability to do applications that were previously inaccessible to us, such as end-of-line palletizing and machine tending for large parts."

Mitsubishi said the new series offers class-leading speed and precision to meet the performance requirements of modern manufacturing. The expanded work envelope compared to prior robot families opens up more automation opportunities for OEMs and end-users across industries.

Seamless Factory Integration Beyond its impressive payload and reach capabilities, the RV-35/50/80 FR robot line is designed for seamless integration into factory environments and processes.

The robots can connect directly to a wide range of factory automation equipment, allowing users to integrate the robot's functionality with manufacturing IT systems. A full suite of safety functions like position and speed monitoring are included.

Customers can also utilize Mitsubishi Electric's MELFA Smart Plus card for simplified installation and programming of the powerful new robots.

The new series launch comes as Mitsubishi Electric, with over a century of expertise in factory automation systems, continues pushing the boundaries of industrial robotics.

Just yesterday, the $34.8 billion manufacturing giant announced it will lead the Series B funding round for Realtime Robotics and add a senior representative to Realtime's board. Mitsubishi, which previously participated in Realtime's Series A, said it plans to further integrate the startup's motion planning technology into its digital twin simulations and software to optimize manufacturing processes.

With its new high-payload, long-reach robot lineup hitting the market, bolstered by strategic investments in cutting-edge robotics firms, Mitsubishi Electric is staking its claim as a innovation leader in industrial automation.