Industrial robots are multi-functional units, programmed for automation of welding, assembling and other repetitive tasks. This is why these robots have become an integral part of automated systems in manufacturing industries.
Each unit is linked together through several individual joints, and the assembly or the so-called robotic arm is mounted to a base. The overall system is operated by a controller.
There is a wrist attached to the end of the robot arm which facilitates gripping and handling. A series of movements and positions are required for carrying out a task. While the configuration of different industrial robots varies, general functionality remains the same.
1. Vertically Articulated
These robots have a multi-joint arm connected by rotary joints. These arms are thus called jointed type. The arm is linked to the robot base with the help of a twisting joint.
Several companies manufacture these robots, including Fanuc, Motoman and ABB. You’ll find a number of vertically articulated robots on our website.
2. Cartesian
Cartesian robots are limited in their movement in the x, y and z orientation. These units are also called rectilinear robots as all the joints in the robot arm are linear joints. These robots have a square work envelope.
3. Cylindrical
Cylindrical robots have a rotary joint at the base and two linear ones linking the unit together. They get the name due to their work envelope being cylindrical.
4. Polar
In polar robots, the arm is linked to the base by a twisting joint, as well as linear and rotary joints. However, the work envelope is spherical in shape.
5. SCARA
SCARA robots present one of the most popular configurations. The term is an acronym for Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm.
These robots are ideal for precision work carried out within one plane. The work envelope in the units is again cylindrical. These robots have two horizontal joints. An example is the Sony’s SRX-611 used SCARA robot.
6. Delta
The Delta configuration has a rotational joint as well as parallelograms. Their work envelope is dome-shaped.
Most of these robots are suitable for common industrial applications such as spot and arc welding, assembling and disassembling, clamping and transfer activities. However, the specific robot type useful for your industry can only be determined through specific application requirements.
If you’re looking for more affordable options, try our used and refurbished robots. You’ll find a number of robots for sale through our website.