Aug 7
2018
Robotic Arms: How They Operate
A robotic arm works more or less like the human arm, the main difference is that this one responds according to specific programming. A robotic arm can be designed to either operate on its own as an independent device or as an integral part of a complex robot. Manipulation of robotic arms movements is made possible by connective joints which allow for various actions such as rotation, horizontal or parallel movements.
Types of Robotic Arms
The classification of robotic arms depends on a robotics’ mechanical structure. Features, such as joints, mode of work and so on, are highly considered. Many distinctive robots are made of seven metallic parts joined together by six joints. A computer through programming that is specific to the particular robotic arm regulates the movement of these joints. There are six main categories of robotic arms. These are:
- Cartesian Robot
This robotic arm has three joints which appear more or less like Cartesian axes. These robotic arms are the most ideal for pick and place tasks. They are widely used in assembling industries and arc welding.
- Cylindrical Robotic Arm
As suggested in the name, this is a robotic arm that works by making cylindrical coordinate movements. Normally, cylindrical robotic arms have several joints fixed on one primary rod. These joints make rotational movements. These robotic arms are ideal for assembling firms and spot welding.
- Spherical/Polar Robotic Arm
These are robotic arms that move in a spherical rotation that is within the designed range. Polar robotic arms are used in gas welding and spot welding.
- Scara Robotic Arms
These are the most common robotic arms, probably the kind the everyone thinks of when they think robots. Scara robotic arms have two parallel rotary joints. The joints enable them to make complete movements along a plane and are ideal for pick and place types of jobs like assembling.
- Articulated Robotic Arms
These types of robotic arms are used for welding and drilling. They have an ease of flexibility which allows them easy access to many parts of the work environment. They are used for assembling jobs, gas and arc welding, die-casting and spray painting.
- Parallel Robotic Arms
These have two parallel faces that create a prismatic movement. Their movements are made possible by the closely fitted rotational joints.
Robotic Hands
There are robotic arms that require very close simulation of the human hand to achieve the desired task appropriately. Such robotic arms have a robotic hand which is more like the hand of a human being. Robotic hands, also known as end effectors are important for robotic arms that are aimed for more specific tasks such as gripping, picking and placing, and rotation of parts.