Dobot CR20A robotic arm

DOBOT CR20A: Heavy-duty cobot for industry and logistics

The DOBOT CR20A is a 6-axis collaborative robotic arm for automation tasks involving high loads and large workspaces. With a maximum payload of 20 kg, an operating radius of 1,700 mm, and a repeatability of ±0.05 mm, this cobot is particularly well-suited for palletizing, packaging, machine tending, welding, and heavy material handling. It expands the CRA series with a model designed for processes where more compact cobots do not offer sufficient payload or reach.

20 kg payload for demanding handling processes

The high payload allows the CR20A to move larger boxes, containers, metal components, and workpiece carriers. However, when designing the system, it is not just the weight of the workpiece that counts. Grippers, vacuum technology, welding torches, cables, and adapters must also be factored into the total load. The available payload range should therefore be planned with sufficient headroom, especially when high accelerations or unfavorable centers of gravity occur.

The CR20A is attractive for companies where manual processes are ergonomically demanding or where heavy components must be moved regularly. Typical applications include removing components from trays, loading machines, or stacking packaging units. Further application areas can be found on our page dedicated to assembly and handling.

1,700 mm reach for large workspaces

The operating radius of 1,700 mm makes it possible to reach multiple transfer points, machine openings, or pallet positions from a single central installation point. For example, the cobot can pick up products from a conveyor belt and place them on a pallet, or move workpieces between a processing machine, a testing station, and a storage area.

Despite the large reach, the system layout must be planned carefully. Base height, gripper design, interference contours, and desired pallet height influence the actual usable workspace. For high stacking, the robot can be combined with a suitable lifting column or palletizing station. This increases vertical reach without having to reposition the robot for every layer.

Economical automation of palletizing and packaging

Palletizing is one of the most important areas of application for the DOBOT CR20A. With a suitable vacuum or mechanical gripper, the robot can pick up boxes, containers, or bins from a conveyor belt and stack them according to a defined pattern. The large operating radius supports common pallet formats and allows for flexible placement positions.

For a stable solution, box weight, surface texture, pallet patterns, and cycle time must be considered together. Smooth or porous packaging requires different suction grippers. For changing formats, a multi-circuit vacuum system or a flexibly adjustable gripper may be useful. You can find suitable components in the DOBOT accessories section.

Machine tending and heavy workpieces

For CNC, milling, turning, or testing machines, the CR20A can pick up raw parts, insert them into a fixture, and remove processed components once the process is complete. Its 20 kg payload provides reserves for larger workpieces and robust grippers. Via machine communication, the door, clamping device, and processing clearance can be coordinated with the robot's sequence.

Defined storage positions, secure gripping points, and reproducible workpiece positions are crucial for integration. If parts are lying in containers in a disorganized manner, a 2D or 3D vision system can be used for localization. Additional safety measures are often required for heavy or sharp-edged workpieces.

Welding and machining of large components

Due to its large workspace, the CR20A is also suitable for long weld seams and the machining of larger metal structures. A welding torch can be guided along long paths without the robot having to be repositioned frequently. The repeatability of ±0.05 mm supports uniform motion sequences and reproducible process quality.

Gluing, dispensing, or polishing are also possible applications. It is crucial that tool weight, process forces, and cable routing are included in the planning. For force-dependent tasks, an additional force-torque sensor can improve process control.

Stable movements with high dynamics

The maximum TCP speed of the CR20A is 2 m/s. According to the manufacturer, an advanced motion algorithm reduces residual vibrations by 50 percent during rapid emergency stops. This supports stable motion paths and reduces post-vibration when handling large loads.

Actual cycle time, however, depends on the overall process. Gripper movement, vacuum build-up, machine time, safety zones, and workpiece supply can influence the cycle more than the robot's speed alone. A simulation or a proof of concept therefore provides more reliable results than considering individual data sheet values.

Simple integration into existing systems

The CR20A supports PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP or RTU, and RS485. The controller also provides 24 digital inputs and 24 digital outputs. This allows the cobot to communicate with PLCs, HMIs, sensors, conveyor technology, and machine controls.

The dual-channel end-effector design facilitates the direct connection of multiple tools or additional components. DobotStudio Pro offers block-based programming, LUA scripting, offline programming, and various process packages. An overview of other models and solutions can be found on our DOBOT manufacturer page.

Correctly assessing safety and protection class

The robot body of the DOBOT CR20A has an IP54 protection rating. The CRA series also features an independent safety controller with PLd Cat. 3 and more than 20 safety functions. An electromagnetic brake reduces potential downward movement of the end-effector in the event of a power failure.

Despite the collaborative design, operation without a safety fence is not automatically permitted. Weight, speed, tool, and workpiece determine the actual risk. Scanners, safety zones, or an enclosure may be required, especially in the case of heavy loads, welding processes, or sharp-edged components.

Buying and integrating the DOBOT CR20A

Terra Robotics provides support in selecting the right gripper, designing the workspace, and integrating the robot into existing production processes. Before starting a project, payload, reach, cycle time, pallet or machine layout, interfaces, and safety requirements should be defined. A proof of concept with real workpieces will show early on whether gripping safety and process performance can be achieved reliably.

Further solutions for manufacturing and logistics can be found in the industry section. For a concrete feasibility check, you can submit your application case via the contact form for robotics projects.