Joint Arm Robot, Definition, Types and Uses

A joint arm robot is a type of robotic arm consisting of several articulated joints that can move and rotate independently of each other. Joint arm robots are also commonly referred to as articulated robots or robotic arms. The robot can be controlled either manually or through a computer program to perform various tasks with precision and accuracy.

Joint Arm Robot- Definition

A joint arm robot is a type of robotic arm consisting of several articulated joints that can move and rotate independently of each other. Joint arm robots are also commonly referred to as articulated robots or robotic arms. The robot can be controlled either manually or through a computer program to perform various tasks with precision and accuracy.

Types of joint arm robots:

Joint arm robots are very popular in industrial and service sectors and have been categorised on the basis of their design, capabilities and deployments in different sectors. Some of the types are as such;

Cartesian robots:

Cartesian robots, also known as gantry robots, are robotic systems that move along three linear axes (X, Y, and Z) in a rectangular or Cartesian coordinate system. They typically consist of a stationary base and a moving platform, which supports the end effector or tool that performs the desired task. Cartesian robots are known for their precision and accuracy in tasks such as pick-and-place operations, material handling, and assembly tasks. They are often used in manufacturing and industrial environments where high repeatability and speed are required.

Examples of Cartesian robots include the ABB IRB 2600, which is commonly used for material handling and welding applications, and the FANUC M-710iC/70, which is designed for high-speed and high-precision applications such as packaging and assembly.

SCARA robots:

SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) robots are robotic systems that have two rotary joints and one linear joint, allowing them to move in a horizontal plane with a flexible reach. They are designed for tasks that require precise and repeatable motion, such as assembly, packaging, and material handling. The name “selective compliance” refers to the robot’s ability to be compliant in one direction (typically vertical) while being rigid in other directions.

SCARA robots have a cylindrical work envelope and are often used in industrial settings, such as automotive and electronics manufacturing. They are also used in applications such as 3D printing and inspection. SCARA robots are known for their speed and precision, and their ability to perform repetitive tasks with high accuracy.

Examples of SCARA robots include the Mitsubishi RH-6FH, which is designed for high-speed pick-and-place applications, and the Epson LS6, which is designed for assembly and material handling tasks.

Top of FormArticulated robots:

Articulated robots are robotic systems that have rotary joints, which allow them to move in a wide range of motion and reach a variety of positions and orientations. These robots are typically made up of a series of rigid links connected by joints, which allow them to move along multiple axes. The joints can be driven by various actuators, such as electric motors, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, or piezoelectric devices.

Articulated robots are used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, including assembly, welding, material handling, painting, and inspection. They are known for their flexibility, speed, and versatility, as well as their ability to work in confined spaces.

Examples of articulated robots include the FANUC R-2000iC, which is commonly used in automotive manufacturing for welding and material handling, and the KUKA KR 60, which is used in applications such as packaging, palletizing, and machine tending. Another example is the ABB IRB 6700, which is designed for high-speed assembly and material handling tasks in a variety of industries.

Joint-arm robots: uses

Jointed-arm robots, also known as articulated robots, are versatile robotic systems that have a wide range of applications across many industries. Some common applications and uses of jointed-arm robots include:

1. Manufacturing and assembly: Jointed-arm robots are often used in manufacturing and assembly tasks, such as welding, painting, and material handling. They can perform these tasks with speed and precision, improving efficiency and reducing errors.

2. Packaging and palletizing: Jointed-arm robots can be used in packaging and palletizing applications, where they can quickly and accurately place products in containers or onto pallets.

3. Inspection and quality control: Jointed-arm robots can be equipped with sensors and cameras to perform inspection and quality control tasks. They can detect defects and deviations in products, ensuring that they meet the required standards.

4. Medical and surgical procedures: Jointed-arm robots are used in medical and surgical procedures, where they can provide precise and minimally invasive interventions. They are commonly used in procedures such as laparoscopy, orthopaedic surgery, and neurosurgery.

5. Entertainment and education: Jointed-arm robots are used in entertainment and educational applications, such as theme parks and museums. They can provide interactive and engaging experiences for visitors.

6. Exploration and research: Jointed-arm robots are used in exploration and research applications, such as space exploration and underwater exploration. They can perform tasks that are too dangerous or difficult for humans, such as inspecting hazardous environments or collecting data in remote locations. Top of FormBottom of Form

Characteristics;

The joint arm robots have some basic statistics such as;

1. They can vary in size, from small tabletop units used in research labs to large industrial robots used in manufacturing plants.

2. Some joint arm robots have additional end-effectors, such as grippers, suction cups, or cameras, which allow them to perform specific tasks with greater precision and flexibility.

3. Joint arm robots can be programmed to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple repetitive actions to complex operations that require multiple steps and decision-making.

4. One advantage of joint arm robots is their ability to work in hazardous or dangerous environments, such as in nuclear plants or deep-sea exploration.

5. Joint arm robots can also be used for inspection and quality control, as they can perform tasks with greater accuracy and consistency than humans.

As with many other types of robots, the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms is making joint arm robots more sophisticated and autonomous, allowing them to perform increasingly complex tasks with minimal human input.

Conclusion:

Joint arm robots also commonly referred to as articulated robots or robotic arms consists of several articulated joints. The robot can be controlled either manually or through a computer program to perform various assigned tasks in many sectors such as manufacturing, service, packaging, medical etc. with precision and accuracy in a professional manner.