CNC Robotics for Producing Robots: Useful Guide
Automation is taking a lead in almost every sector and the major benefits are enjoyed by the manufacturing industry. CNC robotics have now made the process of precision machining very simple and quick.
The guide below explores everything about CNC robotics in detail, so let's read below to learn more.
What is CNC Robotics?
CNC robotics is a robotic method that improves and helps to boost the CNC machining process. A CNC robot is a very advanced invention that is designed for machining.
It is a type of equipment that looks after the entire project on its own using the protocols programmed. These machines do not wait for any input from the operator.
It offers various advantages to the manufacturing process and helps to manufacture a high volume of products in less time.
Why Choose CNC Robotics for Producing Robotic Parts?
There are multiple reasons that make CNC robotics a suitable method for producing robotic parts, and these are discussed below:
Increased Speed
CNC robotics is known to produce parts in a very short time. The process of machining is very fast and versatile enough to machine complex components. Custom robotic parts can be manufactured using CNC robotics in very little time.
Compatibilità dei materiali
CNC robotics, when used for robot parts, offers high compatibility with materials. It can work with a wide range of plastics as well as metals.
These parts are meant to move and lift items, which requires them to be strong and stiff. Hence, CNC robotics are suitable for manufacturing robotic parts as they work very well with different materials.
Surface Finish
CNC robotics exercises a lot of control while machining a surface and hence creates components with excellent surface finish.
The components of robots are not only precise but also capable of going through surface finishing operations if needed.
Accuracy & Precision
CNC robotics can help create components that are the same as the specifications required. The precision of CNC robotics is very high, which makes it a suitable option for machining robotic components.
Economicamente vantaggioso
It is a highly cost-effective process that is equipped with multiple tools. It is versatile and takes very little time to manufacture components. Hence, the one-time investment in the machine later on will offer high affordability in the long run.
Greater Complexity
Components of complex geometries and shapes are manufactured using CNC robotics. The parts that have slots, curves, and pockets can be matched very easily through the process of CNC tools; even the holes can be drilled.
CNC Machines vs CNC Robotics
Lavorazione CNC and CNC robotics are different in many ways, and these processes can be compared in detail. Some of these comparisons are discussed below.
- The performance of the machine is assessed by looking at the precision and accuracy of machining. CNC robotics have improved over time and have been able to give precision, which ranges between 0.1 to 0.2 mm. At the same time, CNC machining can achieve precision ranging between 0.02 to 0.05mm.
- CNC robotics offers versatility. It can cover multiple tasks at the same time due to its high automation. CNC machines, on the other hand, carry out specific operations like drilling, turning, and mulling efficiently. Robotics can move along multiple paths, and this aspect is not achieved in CNC machining.
- The tools in CNC robotics are less rigid, which results in a risk of deflection when hard materials are machined. In the case of CNC machining tools, however, they are highly rigid, which makes them suitable for harder materials.
- CNC robotics offers an extensive workspace and, when required, can add additional external axes to their workpiece. On the other hand, CNC machines have specific workspaces for machining components.
- CNC machines and robots are both expensive, but the performance of the robots gives a high value for money compared to CNC machines.
Types of CNC Robots Available in Different Industries
There are various types of CNC robots, each with unique capabilities. The common ones are discussed below.
Cartesian Robots
Cartesian robots are linear robots that work on their axis, namely x, y, and z of the cartesian system. These are used because they offer highly flexible configurations and can be modified in terms of size, precision, and speed.
These robots have a high range and are large in size, which makes them suitable for heavy workpieces. These robots are used in the assembling process, material handling, pick and place, loading and unloading, screw driving and fastening, packaging, etc.
Articulated Robots
Articulated robots have rotary joints; they possess 2 to 10 axes and offer excellent freedom of motion. They are suitable for handling multiple types of pieces in varied sizes and can be used for versatile applications.
The process of material handling, assembling, arc welding, machining, loading, and packaging are the common applications.
SCARA Robots
SCARA robots have four axes and can work on high-speed and repeatable operations. These robots work like human arms but at great speed and precision.
These robots improve the productivity of the process, reduce the cost, and ensure the safety of the workers. These robots conduct the tasks of assembling, picking and placing, packaging, machining, and inspection.
Collaborative Robots
Collaborative robots are suitable for performing repeated tasks, and they can conduct multiple processes in no time with enhanced productivity.
These robots tend to perform tasks like loading, unloading, assembling, etc. They work in collaboration with the staff.
Delta Robots
Delta robots are the types of robots that are used in applications associated with high speed. These are usually attached to work areas at the top to conduct tasks like assembling, sorting, picking and placing, disassembling, packaging, and sorting.
Common Robotic Parts Used in CNC Robotics
There are different types of robotic parts that are used in CNC robotics, and some of these are as follows:
CNC Robotic Arm
A CNC robot arm is the most important part of CNC robotics machining because it helps perform operations. It is used in many industries, and it is made using materials that are high-strength, like some high-end plastics, steel, and alluminio.
End Effectors
End effectors are such devices attached to the robotic arm ends so that the robot can perform multiple tasks. These end effectors have different functional vacuums, followed by grabbers and grippers, which help to conduct different operations.
Custom Jigs and Fixtures
Robotic operations need jigs and customized fixtures to hold the workpieces. These fixtures also help to locate the workpiece in a precise way every time. They are highly cost-effective and conduct different processes during machining.
Sensors and Controllers
Robots consist of sensors and controllers. These also include PCBs, which help them perform their operations. CNC robotics can be used to manufacture these components using different shapes and sizes without the need for chemical etching.
Will CNC Robotics Replace CNC Machines?
CNC manufacturing robotics also offers versatile advantages, but it can't match the speed and precision of the CNC machines that are present in the modern world.
Robots offer high versatility, but CNC machines offer a high specialization in fabricating components of specific types of parts.
The accuracy of the CNC milling and lathe machining is commendable and cannot be matched by robots also due to their low rigidity.
Although the demand for CNC robotics is growing, they cannot replace CNC machines entirely due to some limitations. Hence, they can work in collaboration with CNC machines.
DEK - CNC Machining Services for Your Robotic Parts
Noi di DEK are well-equipped with highly specialized and innovative CNC machines that help us manufacture robotic parts for your projects.
So, if you are looking for high-quality, precise robotic parts customized as per your requirements, get in touch with us, and we will manufacture them for you.
Conclusione
The guide above has a detailed discussion of CNC robotics and its comparison with CNC machining. As you have gone through it, you must have understood it in detail. It will help you have the components designed by having a thorough understanding of it.
