ROBOT ARMS / MANIPULATORS

A robot arm, also known as a robotic manipulator, is a mechanical device designed to mimic the movements and functions of a human arm. It consists of a series of joints with actuators (like motors) and segments (or links) that allow it to move and perform tasks with precision. A robot arm is typically equipped with various tools or end-effectors, such as grippers or welding torches, to perform different functions.

A wide range of applications can benefit from robotic arms or manipulators, especially those that require precision, consistency, and efficiency. The ability of robot arms to be programmed for repetitive tasks makes them essential in environments where accuracy and safety are critical. In industrial settings, robot arms are commonly employed for jobs like welding, painting, assembly, and material handling, where they can work faster and more accurately than humans. Robot arms are also used in fields like healthcare, where they assist in surgeries or handle delicate materials, and in research, where they conduct experiments or handle hazardous substances.

The primary difference between an industrial robot and a collaborative robot (cobot) arm is their interaction with humans and their environments.

Industrial Robots: These are typically larger, faster, and designed to operate in isolated or controlled environments, often within safety cages. They perform tasks like welding and heavy lifting with high speed and precision but require safety measures to keep humans at a distance, as they can be dangerous due to their power and lack of sensitivity to human presence.

Collaborative Robots (Cobots): These are designed to work alongside humans safely. They are equipped with sensors and safety features to detect human presence and stop or slow down to avoid injury. Cobots are generally smaller, more flexible, and easier to program, making them suitable for tasks that require close human-robot collaboration, such as assembly, packaging, or quality inspection. Their design prioritizes user-friendliness and safety, enabling them to assist humans directly without extensive safety barriers.

Here are some of the most common types of robotic arms or manipulators:

• Articulated Robot Arm: This is the most common type, featuring multiple joints (often 4 to 6) that resemble a human arm. Each joint can move independently, allowing for a high degree of flexibility and a wide range of motion. These are widely used in manufacturing for tasks like welding, assembly, and material handling.
• SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm): SCARA robots have a rigid, vertical axis and flexible horizontal joints, making them ideal for tasks that require precise lateral movements, such as pick-and-place operations, assembly, and packaging.
• Cartesian Robot Arm (Gantry Robot): Cartesian robots move in straight lines along the X, Y, and Z axes, providing high precision and stability. They are commonly used for CNC machines, 3D printing, and other applications requiring linear motion.
• Delta Robot Arm: Delta robots have three arms connected to a common base, working in parallel to provide high-speed and precise movements. They are often used in lightweight applications like sorting, packaging, or pick-and-place tasks in food and pharmaceuticals.
• Cylindrical Robot Arm: This robot arm has a rotary base and moves linearly along a cylinder, providing a cylindrical work envelope. They are used for tasks that require repetitive vertical or horizontal movements, such as machine loading and unloading.
• Polar (Spherical) Robot Arm: Polar robots have a rotating base, a telescopic arm, and a rotary joint, allowing them to move in a spherical work envelope. They are often used in tasks like material handling, welding, and painting.
• Collaborative Robot Arm (Cobot): Cobots are designed to work alongside humans safely, with built-in sensors and safety features that prevent injury. They are flexible, easy to program, and used for tasks that require human-robot interaction, such as assembly, packaging, and quality inspection.