What does the 'payload capacity' of a FANUC robot signify?

The 'payload capacity' of a FANUC robot signifies the maximum weight that the robot can lift and manipulate effectively. This measurement is crucial for determining the types of tasks and loads the robot can handle in various applications, such as assembly, material handling, or packaging. Understanding the payload capacity is essential for ensuring that the robot operates within its design limits, thus preventing overload situations that could lead to mechanical failure, reduced performance, or safety hazards.

A robot's payload capacity is defined based on its design parameters, including its motor capabilities, structural integrity, and overall balance. This ensures that the robot can perform its tasks efficiently and reliably, making it a critical factor for planning automated systems in manufacturing and other industries. While speed and travel distance are important for operational efficiency, they do not directly relate to the robot's ability to handle loads, which is specifically what payload capacity indicates.