Automate 2026: AMRs, cobots, humanoids, orchestration platforms, software systems & more

FANUC America will demonstrate a new approach to complex welding automation using its all-new CRX-3iA collaborative robot, highlighting how lightweight, portable cobots can be deployed for challenging, out-of-position welding applications in field-like environments. The demo features the CRX-3iA performing vertical-up welding on a structural steel I-beam, which is a task traditionally difficult to automate due to limited access, complex joint orientation and weld-pool control challenges. Using FANUC’s newly developed Triangle Weave vertical-up welding profile, the collaborative robot counteracts weld-puddle sag and replicates the motion and precision of a skilled welder. This capability enables consistent, high-quality vertical-up welds in applications where automation has historically struggled, all through an intuitive, easy-to-use interface and without the need for fixed automation infrastructure The CRX-3iA weighs just 11 kg (24 lb.), allowing an operator to manually position the robot directly onto the workpiece. The welding cell incorporates dynamic mount angle detection, allowing the CRX-3iA to automatically compensate for non-traditional mounting orientations. FANUC,
fanucamerica.com, Booth 1001 & 1401

Portable vertical-up welding with cobots

FANUC America will demonstrate a new approach to complex welding automation using its all-new CRX-3iA collaborative robot, highlighting how lightweight, portable cobots can be deployed for challenging, out-of-position welding applications in field-like environments. The demo features the CRX-3iA performing vertical-up welding on a structural steel I-beam, which is a task traditionally difficult to automate due to limited access, complex joint orientation and weld-pool control challenges. Using FANUC’s newly developed Triangle Weave vertical-up welding profile, the collaborative robot counteracts weld-puddle sag and replicates the motion and precision of a skilled welder. This capability enables consistent, high-quality vertical-up welds in applications where automation has historically struggled, all through an intuitive, easy-to-use interface and without the need for fixed automation infrastructure The CRX-3iA weighs just 11 kg (24 lb.), allowing an operator to manually position the robot directly onto the workpiece. The welding cell incorporates dynamic mount angle detection, allowing the CRX-3iA to automatically compensate for non-traditional mounting orientations. FANUC, fanucamerica.com, Booth 1001 & 1401

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