Robotics

Robotic controllers

Robotic controllers consist of several components. In a broad sense, they can be described as a computer system or combination of hardware and software. They act as the robot’s brain. The controller computes the necessary trajectory. A program (or code) tells the robot what to do. Teach pendants can provide the controller with its robotic programs. Data is issued to the CPU or central processing unit of the robot. Industrial robots can be programmed to perform repetitive tasks with precise movement. A very high level of quality consistency is achieved, over a longer production time span.

Servo motors

Servo motors can be applied to make advanced robotic arms move very smoothly. These can be described as high precision motors with mechanical and miniature electronic parts. This motor type has several advantages over regular motors. Servo motors feature a high torque density, making them considerably powerful. Tasks involving precision and speed are performed effortlessly. Efficiency loss is minimized thanks to strain-wave technology. This results in virtually no backlash. Servo motors provide for a high degree of movement flexibility. Built-in actuators are always alert for tiny position fluctuations. They depend on encoder feedback and adapt in fractions of a second.

Servo motor construction and applications

Because of their compact and relatively light construction, servo motors can be used to control small robotic arms. These can perform delicate operations in confined spaces. Servo motors run quietly, contributing to safety on the factory floor. Staff can remain aware of their surroundings. Their accuracy and reliability make servo motor driven robotic arms suitable for tasks involving precise movement. Typical applications include handling and conveyor systems, and food and beverage industries.

Servo drives

Maxodeals also stocks a vast selection of servo drives or servo amplifiers. Usually, they provide brushless servo motors with current and voltage to produce motion. Based on closed loop feedback, speed, torque, and position signals are delivered to the motor. Common applications include laboratory automation, CNC machining, and robotics. Depending on the type, drives are controlled by digital or analog inputs. Anticipated faults can be factored in, thanks to a feedback monitoring device. Negative feedback is employed to return a signal back via its own control loop and/or to the primary controller. For example, in motion control applications, the difference between the actual and a desired value of the shaft position is registered. The drive tells the motor which adjustments are necessary.

Analog and digital servo drives

Analog servo drives have the advantage of being favorably priced compared to digital amplifiers. They aren’t subject to processing time, but manual configuration is required. Digital servo drives often come with expansive capabilities and diagnostic advantages. Network commands allow for communication with servo controllers in multi-axis applications. Integrated memory space enables sequence and motion index storage. I/O logic permits autonomous functioning without a dedicated controller. When selecting a drive, consider the ethernet fieldbus board configuration and the facility’s network protocol.

Teach pendants

A teach pendant is a handheld control panel, connected to the robot controller. It’s used to remotely control industrial robots. Operators can edit settings without a fixed terminal. Both wired and wireless models are available. Buttons or a touchscreen allow for easy access to the programming commands. Usually, a red alarm button allows the system to be switched off immediately in case of an emergency.