Kawasaki Robotics has taken a bold step in robotic education with the launch of Astorino, a platform designed to inspire and train the next generation of engineers and programmers. Without fanfare or boasting, Astorino presents itself as a pragmatic and accessible solution for classrooms and laboratories.
What is Astorino?
Astorino is a 6-axis educational robot, but it stands out from the crowd. Here are the key aspects:
1.
3D Printing: Its structure is 3D printed, making it surprisingly lightweight (only 12 kg) and affordable. 3D printing not only reduces production costs but also makes it an ideal companion for hands-on learning.
2.
Programming Similar to Industrial Robots: Astorino allows students to program robotic movements and operations similarly to Kawasaki’s industrial models. Learning to program Astorino is like opening a door to programming any of the company’s robots.
3.
Safety Priority: Equipped with stepper motors and specifically designed for educational environments, Astorino ensures student safety. They can experiment without fear of breaking it.
Why is it Important?
1.
Affordable Cost: With a base price of $5,000, Astorino is a bargain compared to other educational robots. Schools and universities can acquire multiple units without breaking the bank.
2.
Student Engagement: Accessibility increases participation. More students can interact directly with Astorino during lab sessions, fostering active learning.
3.
Customization and Flexibility: Kawasaki provides STL files for 3D printed spare parts. If something breaks, students can print their own replacement. Empowerment in action!
Astorino is a modern 6-axis robot based on 3D printing technology. Its main goal is to offer educational institutions a hands-on experience in robot programming, especially in industrial and technical environments. Let me share some interesting details:
1.
Accessibility and Cost: Astorino is designed to be affordable. Unlike traditional industrial robots, its base price is approximately $5,000. This makes it much more accessible for schools and universities, allowing more students to interact directly with it during lab sessions.
2.
3D Printing and Lightness: A distinctive feature of Astorino is its 3D printed construction. Weighing only 12 kg, it is considerably lighter than standard robots. This 3D printed structure also helps keep production costs low. Additionally, it operates on a 110V power outlet, making it adaptable to different educational environments.
3.
Safety and Learning: Astorino is specifically designed for educational environments where safety is a priority. It uses stepper motors instead of servomotors, reducing the risks associated with robotic movements. Students can learn to program complex movements and operations safely, as Astorino behaves similarly to larger industrial models but without the same risks.
4.
Customization and Repair: Kawasaki provides STL files for 3D printed spare parts, allowing students to manufacture new components if necessary. If a part breaks, they can print a replacement themselves. This flexibility and customization are essential in educational settings.
This innovation aims to address the growing need for practical experience in robotics, especially in the field of robotic engineering. With its focus on accessibility, safety, and flexibility, Kawasaki is contributing to the development of fundamental robotics skills among students.
Astorino does not seek to revolutionize the world of robotics but aims to transform the way students learn and get inspired. It is a small giant that reminds us that innovation does not always need fireworks; sometimes, it just needs to be accessible and safe.
If you need more info, don’t hesitate to call us: we will be ready to help you and to find the best solution for you project.