Industrial robots are multi joint robotic arms or multi degree of freedom machine devices oriented towards the industrial field. They can automatically perform tasks and are machines that rely on their own power and control capabilities to achieve various functions.
How to select industrial robots?
For senior mechanical and electrical engineers in the automation industry, choosing the right robot may be a simple task. But for designers or factories who are preparing to purchase and import robots for the first time, they may feel a bit confused. How to choose a suitable industrial robot? Below is a brief introduction to the principles that need to be considered in the selection of industrial robots:
Task requirements: Firstly, it is necessary to clarify the type and difficulty of tasks that the robot needs to complete, such as welding, spraying, assembly, transportation, etc., in order to select a suitable robot model.
Applicable workpiece size and weight: Based on the shape, size, weight and other factors of the workpiece, select the appropriate robot load capacity and workspace size to ensure that the robot can meet the process requirements.
Accuracy requirements: select the robot model that meets the requirements according to the accuracy required by the process, such as position, angle, torque control accuracy, etc.
Control method: Select the appropriate robot control method based on the actual application scenario, such as remote control, programming control, handheld operation control, etc.
Technical support: Choose a robot manufacturer with comprehensive after-sales service, reliable technical support, and training services to ensure convenient and efficient use and maintenance in the later stage.
Cost effectiveness: Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of robots, including all aspects of procurement, maintenance, upgrading, replacement, etc., to ensure that the input-output ratio is within a reasonable range.
Safety requirements: According to on-site safety requirements, select robots with safety protection functions to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.
Maximum operating range:
When evaluating the target application, it is important to understand the maximum distance that the robot needs to reach. Choosing a robot is not just based on its payload - it also requires a comprehensive consideration of the exact distance it reaches. Each company will provide a map of the operating range of the corresponding robot, which can determine whether the robot is suitable for a specific application. The horizontal motion range of the robot, pay attention to the non working area near and behind the robot.
The measurement of the maximum vertical height of a robot is the distance (Y) from the lowest point that the robot can reach (usually below the base of the robot) to the maximum height that the wrist can reach. The maximum horizontal actuation distance is the distance (X) from the center of the robot base to the farthest point that the wrist can reach horizontally.
Speed:
This parameter is closely related to each user. In fact, it depends on the Cycle Time that needs to be completed in the assignment. The specification table lists the maximum speed of this model of robot, but we should know that considering the acceleration and deceleration from one point to another, the actual running speed will be between 0 and the maximum speed. This parameter is usually measured in degrees per second. Some robot manufacturers also label the maximum acceleration of the robot.
Braking and Moment of inertia:
Basically, each robot manufacturer provides information about their robot braking system. Some robots are equipped with brakes on all axes, while other robot models are not equipped with brakes on all axes. To ensure precise and repeatable positions in the workspace, it is necessary to have a sufficient number of brakes. Another special situation is that when an unexpected power outage occurs, the axle of the load-bearing robot without brakes will not lock, which poses a risk of accidents.
At the same time, some robot manufacturers also provide the Moment of inertia of the robot. In fact, for the safety of the design, this will be an additional guarantee. You may also notice the applicable torque on different shafts. For example, if your action requires a certain amount of torque to complete the work correctly, you need to check whether the maximum torque applicable on that axis is correct. If the selection is not correct, the robot may shut down due to overload.