I recently had a discussion with a friend of mine regarding robotics...
Al
We would love to use robotics, but our parts are very complex, and cannot be removed by a simple robot.
My Response
6-Axis articulated robotics are becoming increasingly common because of the following reasons:
1. They can perform complex movements - This allows injection molders to remove complex geometries from the mold, as well as simplify automation by allowing the robot to peroxide some of the secondary operations.
2. They are very reliable - Believe it or not, many 6-axis robotics are as reliable as their 2, 3, and 4-axis counterparts.
3. They are inexpensive - I have seem some 6-axis robots that are less expensive than many popular 4-axis robots.
Additional Thoughts
6-axis robotics tend to be slower than their 2, 3, and 4-axis counterparts. In most cases, the difference in speed tends to be less than 1 second increase for 6-axis robotics.
-Andy
Hello Andy.
I had one 6-axis robot ABB, and its accuracy was very good 0,05mm repeatable. But problem is, when you want to use 6-axis robot for inserting molding, because they have a problem with axis releasing during loading the inserts.
Milan
Hello Milan,
Robots are like molding machines... some are better suited for specific applications.
I have worked with many companies who have had great success with insert molding.
One deficiency articulating robots have is the amount of weight they can handle... this can also translate to a limitation in the amount of force they can apply when loading an insert.
-Andy