Concepts and Benefits of Industrial Robotic Arms
Industrial robotic arms are innovative technology products designed to provide durable and stable performance. In the industrial sector, robotic arms have become invaluable tools that contribute to creating efficient manufacturing processes with high productivity. Explore with RX Tradex the details of these powerful robotic arms and their applications in industrial production.
1. What is an Industrial Robotic Arm?
An industrial robotic arm is designed to mimic the human arm to perform tasks in the manufacturing sector. Its strength lies in its ability to be programmed for flexible operations, improving industrial production by handling complex tasks that humans might struggle with due to inconsistent performance. The robot’s joints are designed to be as flexible as human joints, allowing operation in confined spaces. These robotic arms are increasingly used across various industrial sectors, from small to large-scale operations. Essentially, the robotic arm’s mechanism relies on the movement of joints and a central controller. Upon receiving commands, the joints operate directly. Nowadays, robotic arms are used not only for moving goods but also for assembly, repair, and parts replacement.
2. Structure of Industrial Robotic Arms
Industrial robotic arms typically have 4 to 6 joints, depending on the type of work and required operations. They are composed of three main parts:
2.1. The Robot Arm (Hardware)
The robot arm is a key component, directly performing manufacturing tasks. It includes joints, motors, and sensors. The arm can have multiple axes, enabling flexible and diverse movements. Industrial robot arms have 4 to 6 joints with 6 degrees of freedom, allowing various movements. Made from durable materials like cast iron and steel, the arm ensures reliable and effective operation.
2.2. Control System
The control system manages the robot’s movement programs. Pre-programmed routines are executed through this system, which processes external signals and directs the motors according to the commands, forming a kinematic sequence. The control system’s complexity varies from simple to advanced levels.
2.3. Management and Operation System
The management and operation system, installed on a computer, is programmed by technicians to control the robotic arm’s actions. It connects with the control system to transmit and receive data, ensuring that the hardware operates according to the programmed routines and responds accurately during operations.
3. Operating Principle of Robotic Arms
The operating principle of robotic arms relies on software and control systems programmed to execute tasks in industrial production. The control system directs the hardware movements, performing tasks such as lifting, assembling, and moving, ensuring continuous and stable motion for higher productivity. Programming software plays a crucial role in defining how the robotic arm operates. Programs and commands determine tasks from simple actions like picking and placing items to complex processes like welding or assembly. Modern robotic systems may include machine learning technology to enhance performance and adaptability, making the robot more efficient and flexible in various production environments.
After programming, the operational program is sent to the central controller. During operation, the controller continuously receives data from position and force sensors. Position sensors monitor joint angles and positions, while force sensors measure forces and torques. This information allows the control system to adjust the motors, ensuring precise, stable, and flexible movements.
4. Benefits of Robotic Arms in Industry
The introduction of industrial robotic arms meets essential standards in advancing automation processes, offering significant benefits:
4.1 Flexibility
Robotic arms offer outstanding flexibility through programmable routines, easily adapting to various tasks from assembly to painting and welding. This flexibility allows manufacturers to quickly adjust to changes in product requirements or processes.
4.2 Accuracy
Robotic arms ensure high precision in production with advanced sensors and control algorithms. They perform tasks with minimal error, achieving consistent quality and meeting high standards, especially in detailed and precise fields like electronics and automotive.
4.3 Safety
Using robotic arms improves workplace safety by replacing humans in hazardous or harsh conditions, reducing the risk of workplace accidents. The predefined operation range of robotic arms ensures safer operations throughout their use.
4.4 Speed
Robotic arms operate swiftly and efficiently, enhancing production speed. They can perform tasks continuously without rest, reducing completion times and boosting overall productivity.
4.5 Quality Improvement
Robotic arms enhance product quality by minimizing human error and external factors. Their precision and consistency ensure that products meet high standards and stability.
4.6 Cost Reduction
Though initial investment in robotic arms may be high, they reduce operational costs over time by saving on labor and optimizing time. Improved efficiency and product quality also contribute significantly to reducing costs related to defect handling and repairs.
5. Common Applications of Industrial Robotic Arms
5.1 Palletizing Goods
Robotic arms are widely used for palletizing goods, optimizing storage and transportation processes. They can pick and stack items in various configurations efficiently, enhancing workflow and reducing storage space.
5.2 Mechanical Welding
Robotic arms are essential for mechanical welding tasks, providing high-precision welds and ensuring uniform and strong joints. They can perform different welding techniques in challenging environments, improving product quality and reducing welding errors.
5.3 Quality Inspection
Robotic arms play a crucial role in quality inspection with integrated sensors and vision systems. They perform accurate and quick checks to detect defects or deviations, ensuring products meet quality standards before leaving the production line.
5.4 Picking and Placing Products
Picking and placing products is a fundamental but vital application of robotic arms. They handle tasks from production lines, transport items to required locations, and place them with high precision, enhancing production efficiency and optimizing product arrangement.
6. Installation Process of Industrial Robotic Arms
Step 1: Consult with Experts
The installation of industrial robotic arms begins with consulting industry experts. Engineers and consultants assess production requirements, workspace, and technical factors to determine the most suitable robotic arm. They discuss necessary features, integration with existing systems, and specific application requirements with the client. This stage is crucial to ensure that the chosen and configured robotic system best meets production needs.
Step 2: Fabrication and Installation
Once consultation is complete, the next step is the fabrication and installation of the robotic arm. Engineers install the robot at the designated location, ensuring all mechanical and electrical components are correctly connected. This process includes mounting joints, installing motors, connecting wiring, and setting up the control system. Proper installation is essential for effective and safe operation in the production environment.
Step 3: Post-Installation Monitoring
After installation, the final step is post-installation monitoring. Experts conduct tests to ensure that the robotic arm operates as expected and meets production requirements. They check the robot’s functions, adjust settings if needed, and train operators on how to use and maintain the robot. This monitoring ensures that the system operates smoothly and efficiently throughout the production process.
For successful production automation, businesses must carefully select the appropriate robotic arms.
7. Considerations When Choosing Industrial Robotic Arms
7.1 Number of Robot Axes
For factory robotic arms, more axes provide greater flexibility. However, businesses should consider their specific needs. Robots with fewer than 5 axes are suitable for simple tasks like lifting and placing products. For complex operations requiring extensive movement, robots with more than 5 axes are recommended.
7.2 Reach of the Robot Arm
Reach refers to the maximum distance the robot arm can extend, measured in two dimensions:
- Horizontal reach: From the base center to the farthest point of the gripper.
- Vertical reach: From the lowest to the highest point the arm can reach. Factories should choose arms with horizontal or vertical reach based on their production needs.
7.3 Robot Speed
This specification, provided by the seller during product consultation, is measured in degrees per second. Ensure that the robot’s speed meets the production requirements and can increase productivity during peak times.
7.4 Payload Capacity
Payload capacity measures the maximum weight the robot arm can lift, including the weight of the goods and grippers. The robotic arm must have a payload capacity greater than the heaviest product in the production facility.
7.5 Accuracy
Accuracy relates to the smoothness of repetitive robot operations. Arms designed with higher accuracy may cost more due to factors such as base, speed, and reach.
8. Types of Industrial Robotic Arms
8.1 Articulated Robotic Arms
Articulated robotic arms are among the most common types used in industrial automation. They have a single mechanical arm mounted on a base with a rotating joint. These arms can automate various tasks such as welding, painting, assembly, material handling, and more.
8.2 Rectangular Robotic Arms
Rectangular robotic arms, similar to human arms, allow mechanical movement and configuration. Common in industrial automation, they typically have four to six axes for a wider range of motion. They can handle welding, painting, assembly, and material handling applications.
8.3 Cartesian or Gantry Robotic Arms
Cartesian robotic arms, also known as gantry robots, have a single arm that moves up and down vertically. They include a rotating joint at the base and a prismatic joint to connect the segments. These compact robots perform small and simple tasks like assembly and machine tending.
8.4 Delta Robotic Arms
Delta robots, designed around a single arm with vertical movement, are compact and handle small tasks such as assembly or machine tending. They feature a rotating axis and extendable arm for vertical and sliding motion.
8.5 Polar or Spherical Robots
Polar robots, also known as spherical robots, have two rotating joints and one linear joint, forming a spherical working space. They are used for applications like molding, casting, welding, and material handling.
8.6 SCARA Robots
Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm (SCARA) robots feature three axes (X, Y, and Z) with rotational movement. SCARA robots are more efficient in horizontal movements compared to rectangular robots, making them suitable for biomedical applications, handling, and assembly tasks.
9. Trends in Industrial and Automation Robotics
Robotic arms are becoming a leading trend in industry and automation due to their ability to enhance productivity and reduce costs. Advances in robotics technology, including collaborative robots (cobots) and artificial intelligence, enable robotic arms to perform a wider range of complex tasks, from assembly and welding to quality inspection and material handling. Industries are increasingly adopting robotic arms to improve production efficiency, minimize errors, and optimize processes. Robotic arms not only save time and labor costs but also enhance product accuracy and consistency, driving sustainable development and competitiveness in modern manufacturing environments.To explore this technology in detail, visit NEPCON Vietnam 2024 to witness leading technology solutions aimed at optimizing production automation. Meet industry experts, gain valuable insights, and interact directly with suppliers at their booths for a comprehensive and visual understanding. Register to participate here!
