Six-Axis Robots Continue to Thrive

One of the most popular robot types in the industrial space is the six-axis articulated-arm robot. Six axes allow a robot to move in the x, y, and z planes, as well as position itself using roll, pitch, and yaw movements. This functionality is suitable for complex movements that simulate a human arm. Other advantages of six-axis robots include mobility (easy to move and/or mount) and a wide horizontal and vertical reach.

In primary and secondary packaging operations, six-axis robots are most commonly used for case and tray packing, cartoning, depalletizing and palletizing, and even truck loading.

The RS013N six-axis robot from Kawasaki Robotics.New from Kawasaki Robotics is the latest model in its R series of six-axis robots, the RS013N. Says the company, “By offering a 13-kilogram payload capacity, a wide working range, a small footprint, and IP67-classified design, the new RS013N sets the industry benchmark for small-to-medium payload robots.”

The robot’s design includes a new arm structure and drive unit and a lighter main to unit to enable high speeds (speed data not available through equipment spec sheet). According to Kawasaki, the RS013N’s 1,460-mm reach is the largest in its class. In addition to the expanded work area, the robot offers wiring and installation options that contribute to its overall flexibility. The robot’s internal Ethernet wiring is said to enable easy connection to a vision system or other peripheral devices, and its floor, ceiling, and wall-mount options provide installation flexibility for almost any layout.

Stäubli offers three new robots for the medium-payload range: the TX2-140 (pictured), the TX2-160, and the TX2-160L.Another new six-axis robot technology, introduced by Stäubli in January, comprises three new robots for the medium-payload range: the TX2-140, the TX2-160, and the TX2-160L. The TX2-140 has a reach of 1,510 mm, the TX2-160 of 1,710 mm. Both have a load capacity of 40 kg. The TX2-160L, a long-arm version of the TX2-160, has a reach of 2,010 mm and a load capacity of 25 kg. The new models extend the company’s existing TX2 generation, bringing the total to nine models.

Stäubli specifies the repeatability of all three machines at ±0.05 mm, which it says, “puts the robots on par with the most accurate in the world market.”

Streamlined for cleanroom compatibility, the machines have a compact design and feature a large and efficient work envelope. “There are no ungainly external cables or hoses to disrupt the contours; all media and supply lines run internally inside housing that is completely sealed to protection-class IP65 standards (optionally with IP67 overpressure unit),” says the company. In addition to cleanroom applications, the robots can also be used for standard applications and in sensitive production environments.