Robotic Arm Design
Overview
Robotic arm design requires a deep understanding of mechanics, electronics, and software. My approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to create optimized solutions for specific applications.
Design Process
1. Requirements Analysis
- Payload capacity and reach requirements
- Working envelope analysis
- Speed and precision specifications
- Environmental considerations
2. Kinematic Design
- DH parameter optimization
- Joint configuration selection
- Workspace analysis
- Singularity avoidance
3. Dynamic Analysis
- Inertia calculations
- Torque requirements
- Vibration analysis
- Control system tuning
Technical Specifications
6-DOF Industrial Arm
- Payload: 10 kg
- Reach: 1.2 meters
- Repeatability: ±0.02 mm
- IP Rating: IP54
- Control: EtherCAT communication
Collaborative Robot (Cobot)
- Payload: 5 kg
- Reach: 900 mm
- Force Sensing: Integrated at each joint
- Safety: Power and force limiting
- Programming: Lead-through, GUI, SDK
Software Architecture
Control Stack
- Application:
- Motion API:
- Trajectory:
- Planning:
- Kinematics:
- Hardware:
- Interface:
Programming Interfaces
- ROS Integration: Full ROS 2 support with custom packages
- Python API: High-level control and automation scripting
- C++ SDK: Real-time control capabilities
- Web Interface: Remote monitoring and configuration
Case Study: Pick and Place Optimization
Challenge
Achieve 60 picks per minute with 99.9% accuracy in a constrained workspace.
Solution
- Custom end-effector design with vacuum and gripper combination
- Advanced path planning algorithms
- Vision system integration for part detection
- Real-time trajectory optimization
Results
- Speed: 65 picks per minute (8% above target)
- Accuracy: 99.95% success rate
- ROI: 18 months payback period