Small 6 axis robot

Types of small 6 axis robots

A six-axis industrial robot has 6 joints or axes of movement that mimic a human arm's rotation and flexibility. Although 6-axis robots come in various sizes to suit different applications, small 6-axis robots are compact alternatives to traditional-sized industrial robots.

Small 6-axis robots are typically made with a durable plastic material that can withstand the wear-and-tear common in manufacturing environments. The robot arm is lightweight and easy to move but still has a payload capacity sufficient for simple assembly tasks. The robot can easily be transported from one area to another if the payload capacity is not exceeded.

Small 6-axis robots are powered by a DC motor, which is directly connected to the gears in each joint. Small 6-axis robots have a working range of around 360 degrees, thanks to the integration of encoders, allowing the joints to rotate freely. The encoders provide feedback regarding the joint's position so that the robot can be accurately controlled from a central computer system.

The precision and repeatability of these robots are responsible for their popularity in the manufacturing industry. Despite their smaller size, these robots can perform tasks like soldering, assembly, gluing, or painting with an accuracy of +/- 0.1 mm. Their smaller size also allows them to reach tight spaces that larger industrial robots cannot.

Small 6-axis robots are programmed using a teach pendant and can be easily integrated into existing production lines. They have built-in safety features like collision detection and emergency stop buttons. Operators can quickly learn how to use the robot arm because these robots are user-friendly and intuitive.

Specifications and maintenance of small 6 axis robots

Industrial robots typically come with a number of characteristics that help in determining performance and application areas. They include the payload, reach or working radius, precision, joint configuration, control system, mounting style, and safety features.

• Payload: A 6 axis small robot's payload capacity indicates the maximum weight it can support or handle during operation. They can handle payloads from a few grams to several tons. Lighter payload robots work well for assembly tasks, while heavy ones are great for handling heavy objects.
• Reach/working radius: This is the maximum distance the robot can extend its arm to reach or move objects. A small 6 axis robot with a long reach can access further points, making it suitable for tasks that involve working with distant or hard-to-reach areas.
• Precision: The precision of an industrial robot refers to its ability to position or orient an object accurately. High-precision robots are typically used in tasks that require great accuracy, like delicate assembly or machining operations.
• Joint configuration: A small 6-axis robot with complex joint configurations (like spherical joints) enables it to move in multiple directions and imitate the motion of a human arm. This feature allows the robots to perform tasks in confined spaces or with complicated movements.
• Control system: The robot's control system determines how it is programmed and controlled to perform specific tasks. Some robots use teach pendant programming, while others are programmed using a PC-based software interface. Smaller robots that are easy to program and have flexible control systems are ideal for dynamic manufacturing settings.
• Mounting style: Robots with different mounting styles to suit various operational needs. The fixed vertical positioned robots are mounted on the floor, while the horizontally articulated type can be mounted on walls. Those that are consolidated on a mobile platform are ideal for collaborative applications.
• Safety features: They are crucial in determining how and where an industrial robot can be used safely. Most small robots are fitted with external speed and stop sensors that enable them to sense dangerous situations and react appropriately to avoid accidents.

At this point, it is also important to highlight the maintenance practices that help keep small 6-axis robots in good condition. Regular inspection is necessary to detect any signs of wear or damage. Users should make it a routine to periodically inspect the robot's joints, arms, gripper, and cabin for any abnormalities. To ensure smooth operation , the robot's moving parts should be lubricated regularly. Users can apply lubrication to the joints, arms, and bearings.

It's also advisable to perform software updates on the robot's control system when necessary. The updates ensure the robot receives the latest features and enhancements. At times, the robot might develop mechanical or technical issues that affect performance. In such situations, users can benefit greatly from the manufacturer's manual. The manual provides instructions for proper use and maintenance of essential parts.

More importantly, users should establish a maintenance schedule. The schedule should include periodic inspections, lubrications, and software updates. Following the schedule can help extend the robot's lifespan and improve its performance.

Applications of small 6 axis robots in various industries

Small 6 axis robots are designed to mimic the rotational movement of a human arm around a shoulder joint, including up to six degrees of freedom. These compact robots are very flexible and can be applied in multiple industries for various applications.

The ability of the small 6 axis robots to perform tasks such as inspection, assembly, packaging and quality control make them very useful in manufacturing industries. They are integrated into assembly lines in factories to help with the mechanical aspects of manufacturing products, especially those of a smaller size. These robots replace the need for manual laborers to complete these tasks efficiently and with consistent quality.

Small 6 axis robots are also increasingly being adopted into the food and beverage industry to handle, package and sort products safely and efficiently. They are especially useful for companies that produce food items that require careful handling. In this case, a robot with a precision grip that can gently hold and release products would fulfill the requirement best.

Robot arms are also used in the medical field for minimally invasive surgeries. Small 6 axis robots in medicine can be programmed to assist doctors and surgeons during complicated procedures. They can perform precise and controlled movements, provide stability during surgery and help with suturing and cutting. In addition to this, some robots have a built-in capability of disinfecting spaces essential for hospitals and healthcare centers.

Small 6-axis robots are also used in the retail industry. Small 6-axis picking robots are installed in warehouses to help with sorting products and preparing orders efficiently. The robots quickly and accurately pick items off shelves and prepare them for shipment, saving time. They are also used at cashier counters to help process customer checkouts faster. Retail stores with inventory systems that require restocking on a regular basis find these robots useful as they help streamline the supply chain.

How to choose small 6 axis robots

Choosing the right small 6 axis robots for sale can make all the difference in an investment. Here's a comprehensive, in-depth guide to help business buyers select the ideal small six-axis robot:

• Application Needs Assessment

  Business buyers should evaluate the task requirements, such as handling, assembly, or welding. Consider the payload and robot's reach needed to perform specific tasks. Additionally, buyers should analyze the desired level of precision and speed their application demands. Also, buyers should determine if they need a robot with complex end-effectors or one that can perform multiple tasks with interchangeable tools.

• Robot's Specs

  A buyer should consider the robot's payload capacity to ensure it can handle the weight of the objects it will manage. The robot's reach and workspace should also be sufficient to cover the area where the tasks will be performed. Moreover, buyers should look for robots with the accuracy and repeatability needed for their specific tasks. They should also consider the speed of the robot to ensure it can keep up with the production demands.

• User-Friendliness & Programming

  Business buyers should consider the ease of programming and user interfaces when selecting a small six-axis robot. Choose a robot with intuitive programming languages and controls that allow for straightforward task setup and configuration. Additionally, buyers should look for robots with user-friendly teaching methods, such as walk-through programming or graphical programming interfaces.

• Integration & Compatibility

  Choose a robot that offers communication protocols and interfaces that can integrate seamlessly with existing systems, devices, or machinery on the production floor. Moreover, small robots with interchangeable end-effectors are more versatile. Sometimes, end-effectors may need to be customized to suit specific applications, so a focus on interchangeable robots is ideal.

• Safety Features

  Safety is paramount when selecting a small 6-axis robot, especially if it will work alongside human operators. Look for robots equipped with safety features such as collision detection and emergency stop mechanisms. Additionally, consider robots that comply with relevant safety standards and regulations.

Small 6 axis robot Q and A

Q1 Can a six-axis robot be upgraded with additional components?

A one-of-a-kind flexible industrial robot is designed to make the installation of additional components simple and low-cost. For example, a small 6 axis robot might be set up to work with various end-of-arm tools, voice-directed warehouse automation, artificial intelligence, automated guided vehicles, machine learning, and other automated solutions. Robots can work with end-of-arm tools like grippers and suction cups for picking, packing, and other material handling applications. Machine learning and AI can help robots identify objects in a cluttered space. On the other hand, AGVs can work with robots to automate moving materials between warehouses and manufacturing facilities. Working with a savvy supplier who makes easily upgradable robots can streamline processes and reduce costs.

Q2 What is the maximum payload a small six-axis robot can handle?

The maximum payload a small six-axis robot can handle depends on the design and dimensions of the robot, including its motors, joints, and materials. Light-duty robots are made to handle payloads of around 3 to 10 kg. Robots at the higher end of this range might be used for assembly tasks, working collaboratively with humans to assemble products in the electronics industry. Other six-axis robots designed for medium duty can handle payloads of 10 to 20 kg, while those made for heavy-duty applications can exceed 20 kg. Heavy-duty six-axis robots are often used in industries like automotive for welding and other tasks where a high payload is needed.

Q3 How does the programming of small six-axis robots work?

Small six-axis robots are usually programmed using one of three methods. Off-line programming lets a programmer develop a robot’s program without interrupting the robot's current work. The program can then be uploaded to the robot. Teach-pendant programming uses a hand-held device to program the robot while it's working. This method is interactive but can result in less-efficient programming. Another method is the open-chain coding method, where a programmer develops a code in a specific programming language, such as Python, and uploads it in an open-loop way. This method is more efficient, and programmers can develop sophisticated programs for complex tasks.