In practical work, a handling robot is essentially a robotic arm. The development of robotic arms is due to their increasingly recognized positive effects.
Firstly, it can partially replace manual operation;
Secondly, it can complete the transfer and loading/unloading of workpieces according to the requirements of the production process, following certain procedures, times, and positions;
Thirdly, it can operate the necessary machinery for welding and assembly, thereby greatly improving the working conditions of workers, significantly increasing labor productivity, and accelerating the pace of industrial mechanization and automation.
The advantage of handling robots is that they can be programmed to perform various expected tasks. They combine the strengths of both humans and machines in terms of structure and performance, particularly demonstrating artificial intelligence and adaptability. Currently, handling robots are mainly classified into the following types:
1. Multi-joint robot
Multi-joint robots are flexible, have low motion inertia, are highly versatile, can grasp workpieces close to the base, and can work around obstacles between the robot body and the working machinery. With the needs of production, increasingly higher requirements are being placed on the flexibility, positioning accuracy, and working space of multi-joint arms.
2. T-shaped assistive robot
The T-shaped assisted robot moves forward, backward, left, and right using guide rails, making it more suitable for environments with limited operating space. Equipped with an air tank, it can continue operation for one cycle even in the event of an air shortage. When the air pressure drops to a certain level, a self-locking function is activated to prevent the workpiece from falling. A safety system is also included, preventing the operator from releasing the workpiece during handling or if it is not placed on a safe surface.
3. Rigid-arm assisted robot
When torque is generated, pneumatic balancers or cable-assisted robots cannot be used; therefore, rigid-arm assisted robots must be selected. They can lift workpieces weighing up to 500 kg, with a maximum radius of 3000 mm and a maximum lifting height of 2500 mm.
Currently, there are over 100,000 material handling robots in use worldwide, widely applied in machine tool loading and unloading, automated production lines for stamping machines, automated assembly lines, palletizing and handling, and container handling. Some developed countries have established maximum limits for manual handling; tasks exceeding these limits must be completed by material handling robots.
