An industrial manipulator can assist operators with lifting, moving and positioning workpieces.

However, choosing a suitable manipulator requires more than simply checking the maximum lifting capacity.

The equipment needs to match the workpiece and the movement required by the production process.

1. Workpiece Weight

Determine the maximum weight of the workpiece.

The tooling used to grip or support the workpiece should also be considered when determining the total handling load.

Do not select equipment based only on the average workpiece weight.

2. Workpiece Shape

The shape of the workpiece affects how it can be supported.

A simple rectangular component may require a different gripping method from a long, irregular or difficult-to-access component.

The tooling should provide suitable support without interfering with the production process.

3. Required Movement

Consider exactly how the workpiece needs to move.

Does the operator need to:

• Lift vertically?

• Move horizontally?

• Rotate the workpiece?

• Tilt it?

• Position it precisely?

• Move it around an obstacle?

The required movement helps determine the manipulator structure.

4. Working Range

The manipulator needs to reach all required positions.

Important dimensions include the lifting height, horizontal reach and available operating area.

The working range should be evaluated together with the surrounding machines and workstations.

5. Drive System

Different applications may use different drive systems.

Pneumatic manipulators can be suitable where compressed air is readily available.

Electric or servo systems may be considered when more controlled movement is required.

The choice should be based on the application rather than simply choosing the most advanced system.

6. Tooling

The tooling is one of the most important parts of the complete manipulator system.

Possible approaches include mechanical gripping, hooks, vacuum lifting or application-specific tools.

The tooling needs to match the workpiece and required movement.

Conclusion

Selecting an industrial manipulator is an application engineering task.

Load, shape, movement, working range, drive system and tooling should all be considered together to determine the most suitable configuration.