The robotic arms that we distribute are intended for research laboratories, universities, development research units. Here we present a comparison between four large robotic arms, with 6 or 7 axes and ROS compatible.
What Applications For Robotic Arms In Research?
In the laboratory or in the R&D department, robotic arms are used in different fields of study:
- Exploration (terrestrial or space), analysis or surveillance, by adjusting a robotic arm on a mobile base
- E-health, within particular research on smart prostheses (arms controlled by thought)
- Assistance to the elderly or disabled person, with the programming of robotic arms to perform daily tasks (brewing coffee, folding clothes, etc.)
- Solidity tests of different products (smartphone screens, smart textiles), etc.
Robotic Arms With 6 Or 7 Degrees Of Freedom
One of the first criteria to take into account when buying a robotic arm is the number of degrees of freedom. The degree of freedom is the ability of a system to move along an axis of translation or rotation.
A robotic arm with 6 axes can reach any point in space, with any given orientation. This makes this type of robot optimal for many tasks.
For example:
- Grab a tool from the bottom, turn it over and replace it
- Open a drawer, grab an object and close the drawer
- Write on a desk or even a wall
A robotic arm with 7 degrees of freedom (DoF) is the closest to the human arm. More agile and faster than a 6DoF arm, it can reach landlocked or enclosed areas, not always accessible by a robot with 6 degrees of freedom.
Strength And Extension
The force ( maximum load ) and the extension of the arm ( maximum range ) are the two other criteria to be taken into account next. In the project you are working on, will the robotic arm lead to carry heavy objects or apply a force to any mechanism? Please note, the higher the loading capacity of a robotic arm, the more it will lose precision.
The extension is the radius of action of the arm, the distance between the base of the arm and its end when the latter is stretched.
Speed And Accuracy
These parameters will be very important if the robotic arm must be brought to interact with small objects for example (or if of course, there is a speed constraint in the application on which you are working).
Thus, the repeatability of the robot (average error when the arm returns to the same point several times), will take on its importance in pick and place applications in a laboratory. If the robot needs to be part of an experiment on home assistance, the high maximum speed will probably not be included in the list of decisive criteria for purchase.
Other Decision Criteria In The Purchase Of A Robotic Arm
We have added five other factors to our checklist:
- Number of grippers available on the market
- Compatibility of the robotic arm with ROS
- A collaborative robot or not (human-robot interaction and nearby work possible in complete safety)
- Protection index (against humidity, dust, blows)
- CE marking (compliance of the robot with EU legislation)
- Budget
Leave a Reply