Robot arms are integral automated tools employed across diverse industries today. They handle tasks like assembly, quality inspection, packaging, and welding with high precision. This makes them invaluable in manufacturing. Their deployment has led to improved productivity and quality control within manufacturing facilities worldwide. However, with different applications come diverse motion and workspace requirements. This leads to varied robot arm designs. A 6 axis robot arm is one such specialized model, providing an expansive motion envelope.
What is a 6 Axis Robot Arm?
Axes and Degrees of Freedom are important to understand robot arm movement. An axis refers to one linear or rotary dimension of movement. Examples include moving up/down or rotating left/right. DOF is the number of independent axes or dimensions a robot can move in simultaneously.
A 6-axis robot arm has six joints corresponding to the six degrees of freedom. It allows motion similar to a human arm. The six axes include three for positional movement and the other three for rotational movement. This wide range of independent movement through its 6 axes makes a 6 axis robot arm significant.
How Does a 6 Axis Robot Arm Move?
A 6 axis robot arm boasts versatile positioning and orientation abilities. It can achieve complex multi-dimensional movements through coordinated motion across its six axes/joints. Here’s an overview of its movements:
- Forward/Backward: One axis facilitates linear motion to and fro along its length.
- Up/Down: Vertical movement is enabled by another axis oriented for up/down positioning.
- Left/Right: A lateral axis drives movement side to side perpendicular to the first two axes.
- Yaw: One rotational axis facilitates turning movements left or right about its center vertical axis.
- Pitch: Another axis enables tilting movements backward and forward. It’s similar to nodding one’s head.
- Roll: The sixth and final axis facilitates rotational movement around its endpoint horizontal axis. It’s similar to rolling one’s wrist.
Other Types of Robot Arms
A 6 axis robot arm provides maximum independent movement capabilities. However, there are various other designs too. They are optimized for different applications and workspaces. The number of rotational and translational axes is commonly used to classify key types. It’s also how they differ from the 6-axis arm variant. Other types include:
1. Axis Robot Arm
A 3-axis robot arm has rotary joints. They are for rotation around its base and vertical reach. They also facilitate rotation along with linear motion to and fro. It is limited to positional movement in three dimensions.
2. Axis Robot Arm
Adding a fourth wrist rotation axis to the three enables the basic orientation of its end effector.
3. Axis Robot Arm
With one more rotational axis at its elbow, a 5-axis robot provides one additional degree of freedom over a 4-axis type.
4. Axis Robot Arm
A 7 axis robot arm has an extra rotational axis that allows the robot to move and pivot sideways. This sideways motion mimics human-like dexterity and handling.
Han’s Robot Supplies Reliable 6 Axis Robot Arm
Han’s Robot is one of the reputed collaborative robot suppliers with years of industry experience. With a global reach, the brand exports its versatile cobots to over 100 countries and regions. It is dedicated to developing intelligent robotic solutions for various industries. These include manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and more. The brand’s Elfin Collaborative Robot is suitable for various industrial applications like assembly, welding, etc. Key features of this 6 axis collaborative robot include:
- Dual-joint Module Design: Its unique kinematic structure provides exceptional flexibility.
- Optimized Singularity: The arm design avoids singularities for increased reliability.
- Flexible DOF: It features a coaxial 4/6-axis structure.
- Modular: Fully self-developed modular components maximize compatibility.
- Repeatability of ±0.02mm: Ensures precise positioning accuracy.
- Tool Speed up to 3.0m/s: Fast cycle times boost productivity.
Conclusion
Overall, a 6 axis robot arm provides the widest independent movement ability through six axes corresponding to six degrees of freedom. It allows positional movement through three axes and boasts rotational ability through another three axes. Han’s Robot offers a reliable 6-axis solution through its Elfin Collaborative Robot. The versatile cobot is well-suited for various industrial automation needs. Visit Han’s Robot’s website to learn more about it or the company in general.