HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN A SCARA ROBOT IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR APPLICATION?

SCARA robots are a category of industrial robots known for their efficiency, precision, and versatility in automation applications. Due to their unique design and specific characteristics, not all applications are suitable for SCARA robots. In this article, we will explore the conditions and situations where a SCARA robot is the ideal choice, based on their advantages, characteristics, and practical use cases.

What is a SCARA Robot?

A SCARA robot is a type of robotic arm with a horizontal, articulated arm design, characterized by its high speed and precision in linear movements. This type of robot differs from other industrial robots, such as Cartesian robots or articulated robots, due to its rigidity in vertical movements and its flexibility in horizontal movements.

Unlike articulated robots (with more than six degrees of freedom), SCARA robots have four degrees of freedom: three in the horizontal axis and one in the vertical axis. This configuration makes them ideal for assembly and object manipulation tasks in a two-dimensional space, making them very efficient in repetitive tasks.

Advantages of SCARA Robots

1.High Speed and Precision:
SCARA robots are known for their speed and ability to perform precise movements. This is crucial for tasks that require repeatability, such as assembling small components or inserting parts.
2.Low Operating Cost:
Compared to more complex robots, SCARA robots are generally more affordable both in terms of acquisition and maintenance. Their mechanical simplicity allows for less downtime and lower operating costs.
3.Compact and Efficient:
The design of SCARA robots occupies less space, making them ideal for production environments with limited space. Additionally, being highly efficient in rapid handling tasks, they help improve the overall performance of the production line.

When is it Appropriate to Use a SCARA Robot?

1.High-Speed Assembly Tasks:
SCARA robots are an excellent choice when high-speed assembly applications are required. Tasks such as placing electronic components on a circuit board or assembling plastic parts in the automotive industry are ideal examples. Thanks to their high speed, SCARA robots can perform these processes in quick cycles without sacrificing precision.

For example, FANUC offers its SCARA SR-3iA robot, which is widely used for assembling electronic components due to its ability to work quickly with high precision. This model can reach speeds of up to 3.5 meters per second, making it suitable for high-demand production environments.

Another example is the Yaskawa Motoman SG400 SCARA robot, designed for assembly in the automotive industry. Its speed and precision make it ideal for assembling parts on production lines.

2.Handling Small Parts:
Another area where SCARA robots excel is in handling small or lightweight parts. The design of these robots allows them to perform tasks that require quick and precise movements, such as assembling microcomponents or packaging small products. Additionally, their ability to work with light and precise loads makes them ideal for these tasks.

The Omron Adept SCARA robot is an excellent example of a precision SCARA robot, ideal for handling small components in electronics or pharmaceutical manufacturing. With a payload capacity of up to 3 kg, the Adept SCARA is perfect for assembly and sorting tasks.

3.Pick-and-Place Applications:
Pick-and-place applications are very common in the manufacturing and packaging industry. SCARA robots are perfect for these applications due to their ability to move objects quickly across a restricted workspace. Their rigidity in the vertical axis ensures that parts do not slip or fall during the handling process.

The KUKA KR 3 AGILUS is another SCARA model used in pick-and-place applications. Its compact design and precision make it ideal for tasks that require handling small parts in the electronics, food, and packaging industries.

4.Limited Workspaces:
When space is a limiting factor, SCARA robots are ideal. Their compact structure and horizontal plane movement make them perfect for factories with limited space. If the application does not require complex three-dimensional movements, the SCARA robot is an excellent option to maximize efficiency in a small workspace.

For example, Universal Robots offers the UR3e, a collaborative SCARA robot that is ideal for assembly and handling tasks in environments with limited space. Its small and flexible design allows it to be easily integrated into existing production lines, optimizing space without compromising work capacity.

Considerations for Choosing a SCARA Robot

Although SCARA robots are suitable for many applications, they are not always the best option. Some factors to consider when choosing a SCARA robot include:

• Payload: SCARA robots are primarily designed to handle light to medium loads. If your application requires handling heavy objects, a robot with a higher payload capacity may be necessary.

• 3D Movement: If the application requires high flexibility in three dimensions or complex movements in a three-dimensional environment, an articulated robot may be more suitable.

• Precision and Repeatability: If the task demands very high precision, SCARA robots can be an excellent choice due to their ability to perform precise movements in a limited space.

Real Use Cases

A good example of SCARA robot use is the Denso Wave SCARA, which is used in the automotive industry to assemble small components on high-speed production lines. In this environment, precision and speed are essential to maintain production efficiency.

Another notable case is the use of the FANUC SR-3iA in pick-and-place applications in electronic device manufacturing. This robot has proven to be ideal for handling small components with high precision and speed.

A SCARA robot is an excellent choice for tasks that require high speed, precision, and efficiency in a limited workspace. They are ideal for assembly applications, handling small parts, and pick-and-place tasks. However, before deciding on a SCARA robot, it is important to consider the specific needs of the application, such as payload, the need for 3D movement, and the required precision. With proper use, SCARA robots can significantly improve productivity, reduce operating costs, and increase efficiency in production lines.