Use of Robotics in the Metalworking Industry
Thanks to a wide variety of models, robots have successful applications in welding processes, cutting, and painting in the metalworking industry. Various programs provided for industrial robots significantly reduce the time required for work and the implementation of new products into production.
Application of Robotics in Mechanized Processing
In metalworking, CNC machines have been used for milling various materials for a long time. However, this type of equipment has some drawbacks, particularly a low level of accuracy. At the same time, industrial robots have serious advantages:
- Lower cost of industrial robots compared to CNC machines.
- A wide range of capabilities for performing various tasks, simplifying complex processes and operations.
- Industrial robots can be supplemented with special equipment that ensures a flexible configuration system thanks to a module responsible for linear movement.
When replacing CNC machines with industrial robots, CAD/CAM programs may be required to achieve high accuracy. In some cases, reverting to CNC machines may be advisable, as some tasks can only be performed with their assistance.
Technologies for Achieving Required Accuracy in Processing
To ensure high processing accuracy and automate work processes, certain problems may arise, but many of them are successfully resolved.
Improving Accuracy
Typically, industrial robots demonstrate a repeatability accuracy of the trained position within 0.05 mm and above. However, accuracy during movement may be lower. To eliminate errors, software has been developed that minimizes mistakes and maintains accuracy at a level of 0.05 mm or even lower.
Use of G-Codes
Changing the programs of industrial robots, similar to entering data into CNC machines, is accomplished using G-codes.
Eliminating Microvibrations
To improve positioning accuracy in industrial robots, gear reducers with low deadplay are used. Although the pulsations of the reducer are usually minimal, slight microvibrations can still occur, reaching amplitudes of up to 0.2 mm. This can negatively affect the quality of processing.
To avoid such problems, manufacturers have begun to apply an additional signals method. This allows reducing pulsations, which, in turn, minimizes microvibrations to nearly zero.
Application of High-Precision Measurement
To prevent the formation of roughness during mechanized processing, a special method of tool measurement has been developed. Industrial robots are equipped with position projection sensors and the capability for standard tool measurement, which adjusts the robot's coordinate system.