Industrial robots - process automation in manufacturing, logistics and assembly

Industrial robots are machines designed for use in automated production that execute programmed and, if required, additional sensor-guided motion sequences. The number of degrees of freedom (DOF) determines the usability of the robots like a human arm. The industrial robots can be equipped with grippers, vacuum suction cups or tools and perform a wide variety of tasks in production, assembly and logistics.

It doesn't always have to be a robot in the high-end segment or more. Thanks to the plastic used in the joints and the injection moulding process, igus® can manufacture industrial robots at a low price and pass this price on to the end customer in the industry. This also opens up opportunities for small and medium-sized companies to automate dangerous or monotonous work.

Structure of robolink® industrial robots - individual parts or complete robot arm?
The individual parts of the robolink® series form a modular system consisting of a connection base, motor-driven joints with plastic gearboxes, connecting elements of different lengths and, if required, an integrated control system with control panel. Together with other igus® products such as the energy chains, chainflex® cables and stand, the robolink® modular system forms a complete industrial robot as an "out-of-the-box" solution.

The control system in the robolink® DCi
For the control system and programming, igus® GmbH uses technology from Commonplace Robotics GmbH. With 1/256 microsteps, the control system enables fluid movements of the robot arm and, with its interactive 3D user interface, offers an intuitive environment for entering and adapting the movement steps.

Applications with robolink® industrial robots

Joints for industrial robots
The joints are also characterised by lubrication-free plastic gearboxes, low-friction igus® bearing technology and a wide range of modular versions. Detailed data sheets are available from igus® GmbH for the exact specifications.

Selection criteria for industrial robots 
When selecting the robolink® industrial robot for a specific application, the working range, the required payload, the required reach, the cycle times to be achieved, the required working accuracy, the media supply and the ambient conditions must be taken into account.
The working range results from the maximum reach of the industrial robot and the dimensions and orientation of the attached tool. The working range can be increased by installing the robot on a separate movement axis. The control system for this movement is usually integrated into the robot control system.
The payload is made up of the weights of the tool and workpiece. The torque results from the distance between the tool flange and the centre of gravity of the payload. When the speed and direction of movement of the payload changes, this results in a moment of inertia that the design of the robot arm must be able to withstand.

Areas of application for industrial robots
Robots are used in every industry. Whether for industrial assembly, pick & place or quality inspection, robolink® industrial robots can be used wherever monotonous or even dangerous work takes place.