Industrial manipulators are mechanical devices designed to assist with lifting, moving and positioning heavy or oddly shaped objects. These machines improve efficiency and reduce the physical strain on workers across industries like automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and healthcare. In this article, we will explore the different types of industrial manipulator, their components, and their specific applications.
Types of industrial manipulator
Industrial manipulator:
An industrial manipulator is a flexible, arm-like machine designed to handle heavy loads that may be too difficult for human workers to lift manually. It is commonly used in industries like manufacturing and logistics, where objects need to be moved over long distances or rotated to specific orientations. These manipulators often have multiple degrees of freedom, allowing for movement in several directions, including outside their center of mass.
Arm:
The arm is a key component of an industrial manipulator. It consists of joints and flexible links that allow for motion. The arm is responsible for positioning the “end-effector,” the tool that interacts with objects. Various designs of manipulator arms exist, from simple two-joint systems to more complex multi-jointed configurations, providing different levels of flexibility and precision.
Articulated arm:
An articulated arm mimics the movement of a human arm, offering a wide range of motion through its multiple joints. This type of manipulator is ideal for tasks that require high flexibility and precision, such as in automotive assembly lines, where parts must be positioned accurately.
Hydraulic arm:
Hydraulic arms rely on fluid power to control movements. These arms are capable of lifting very heavy objects and are often found in industries such as construction, mining, and shipbuilding. By using pressurized fluid, hydraulic arms can provide smooth, controlled movements even under substantial loads.
Articulated manipulator:
Articulated manipulators feature multiple joints for a greater range of motion and degrees of freedom. These manipulators are widely used in welding, painting, and packaging industries. Their ability to reach various angles makes them suitable for complex tasks requiring high precision.
Balancer:
A balancer suspends loads in the air, allowing operators to position them with minimal effort. Operators can manually guide balancers or power them using electricity, pneumatic systems, or hydraulics. They are essential in industries like automotive, aerospace and electronics, where operators must frequently handle heavy or delicate materials.
Cable balancer:
Cable balancers use one or more cables to suspend loads. Fine Handling’s Air Balancer, for example, uses two cables for enhanced safety and control. These devices are particularly useful in repetitive assembly tasks, reducing operator fatigue while increasing precision and safety.
Jib crane:
A jib crane consists of a vertical pillar and a horizontal boom or jib, with a hoist for lifting or lowering loads. Jib cranes are commonly used in smaller workspaces, such as workshops or manufacturing cells, where their compact design and versatility offer easy lifting solutions for a variety of tasks.
Lift:
Lift assist systems, often referred to as turntables or scissor lifts, mechanically lift and rotate heavy loads to reduce worker strain. These devices are frequently used in production environments to enhance ergonomics and productivity.
Manipulator:
Industrial mobility solutions lift, move and place various kinds of loads. They operate using electricity, pneumatic power sources, or manual control.
Material handling equipment:
The assortment of machines used to move, store, and protect goods throughout their lifetime from production to disposal.
Pneumatic cylinder:
A device that turns the potential energy of compressed air into mechanical energy or force that creates a linear motion.
Pneumatic manipulator:
Pneumatic manipulators utilize compressed air to power movements, offering precise control over loads. They are typically used in environments where cleanliness is a priority, such as in food processing or pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Vacuum lift:
Vacuum lifters rely on suction to pick up and transport materials. They are highly effective in handling non-porous materials like glass, metal sheets, or plastic panels. Pneumatic, electrical or hydraulic power drives these devices, and industries like construction, manufacturing, and logistics widely use them.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of industrial manipulators and their applications is crucial for improving operational efficiency and ensuring worker safety. When selecting a manipulator for your operations, consider factors such as load capacity, movement precision and the specific needs of your industry. For further reading, check out guides from leading manufacturers like Fine Handling or consult industry standards from organizations like ISO.