Articulated robot

Definition

An articulated robot is a type of robotic manipulator characterized by its jointed arms, which allow for a wide range of motion and flexibility. These robots are designed with multiple degrees of freedom, enabling them to perform complex tasks that require precise movement and positioning. The structure typically resembles a human arm, with rotating joints that allow the robot to reach and manipulate objects in various environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Articulated robots can have anywhere from two to more than ten joints, allowing for intricate movements similar to those of a human arm.
2. These robots are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, assembly, and welding due to their ability to perform repetitive tasks with high precision.
3. The flexibility of articulated robots allows them to be programmed for various applications, including picking and placing objects, painting, and even surgical procedures.
4. Articulated robots often utilize advanced sensors and feedback systems to enhance their performance and ensure accuracy in their tasks.
5. One significant advantage of articulated robots is their ability to operate in constrained spaces while maintaining high dexterity, making them ideal for complex operations.

Review Questions

• How does the design of an articulated robot contribute to its ability to perform complex tasks?
  • The design of an articulated robot, featuring multiple joints that provide several degrees of freedom, directly contributes to its ability to perform complex tasks. Each joint allows for different movements, enabling the robot to reach various positions and orientations. This flexibility makes articulated robots suitable for intricate operations such as assembly or painting, where precise control over movement is crucial.
• Discuss the advantages of using articulated robots in industrial applications compared to other types of robots.
  • Articulated robots offer several advantages in industrial applications over other types of robots. Their high degree of freedom allows them to navigate around obstacles and access confined spaces, making them versatile for various tasks. Additionally, they can be programmed for a wide range of operations, enhancing efficiency and productivity in manufacturing processes. Their precision in repetitive tasks reduces errors and increases quality control, which is vital in high-stakes environments.
• Evaluate the impact of advancements in kinematics and sensor technology on the performance capabilities of articulated robots.
  • Advancements in kinematics and sensor technology have significantly enhanced the performance capabilities of articulated robots. Improved kinematic models enable better predictive control over the robot's movements, allowing for smoother operation and greater adaptability to dynamic environments. Meanwhile, sophisticated sensors provide real-time feedback on the robot's position and surroundings, facilitating more accurate manipulation and interaction with objects. This combination leads to greater efficiency and safety in applications ranging from industrial automation to delicate surgical procedures.

Related terms

Degrees of Freedom: The number of independent movements a robot can make, determined by the number and type of joints it possesses.

End Effector: The component at the end of a robotic arm that interacts with the environment, such as a gripper or tool.

Kinematics: The study of motion without considering the forces that cause it, essential for understanding how articulated robots move.