Manipulator is a kind of mechanical device, which can be either active or man-controlled; industrial robot is a kind of automated equipment, manipulator is a type of industrial robot, and industrial robots also have other methods. So even though the two have different meanings, they refer to overlapping parts.
So in short, there are many ways of industrial robots, and the robotic arm is only one of them.
Industrial Robotic Arm
An industrial robotic arm is a fixed or mobile machine typically composed of a series of interconnected or sliding parts designed for gripping or moving objects. It features active control, programmable repeatability, and multiple degrees of freedom (axes). The primary method of operation involves linear motion along the X, Y, and Z axes to reach the desired target position.
Industrial Robot
According to ISO 8373, an industrial robot is a machine device that actively performs tasks. It operates autonomously, utilizing its own power and control capabilities to execute various functions. While it can follow commands from humans, it is also capable of running pre-arranged programs. Additionally, modern industrial robots can operate based on guidelines set by artificial intelligence technology, allowing for more advanced and adaptive functionalities.
The Difference Between Robots and Robotic Arms
Manipulators are widely used mechanical devices in various fields, including industry, healthcare, military, and space exploration. They come in various configurations, such as four-axis, five-axis, six-axis, multi-axis, 3D/2D robots, independent manipulators, and hydraulic manipulators. Despite the diversity of types, they all share the ability to receive instructions and accurately locate points in three-dimensional (or two-dimensional) space for operations.
The key difference between a robot and a robotic arm is that a robot can not only follow human instructions but also execute tasks based on pre-programmed commands. Additionally, robots can operate according to guidelines specified by artificial intelligence. In the future, robots are expected to assist with or even replace more human operations, particularly in repetitive and high-risk tasks.
Definitions of Robots in Different Regions
The definitions of robots vary between European and American countries and Japan. In Europe and the United States, robots are viewed as machines that must be controlled by a computer and programmed to function as multi-purpose active devices. In contrast, Japan considers robots to be high-end active machines, which leads to the inclusion of robotic arms in their definition of robots. European and American standards define a robot as one that has six axes or more, while those with five axes or fewer are not classified as robots. Meanwhile, Japan recognizes a three-axis machine as a robot.
Currently, the global understanding of robots has converged significantly, with a shared definition that describes robots as automated machines capable of performing various functions using their own power and control capabilities.
The Difference Between Robots and Manipulators in Application Scope
Robotic arms are extensively utilized in industrial settings, primarily relying on drive and control technologies. These arms typically operate in a series configuration.
Robots, on the other hand, can be categorized into series and parallel structures. Parallel robots (PM) are commonly employed in applications that demand high rigidity, precision, and speed, often in confined spaces. They are used for tasks such as sorting, handling, motion simulation, operating parallel machine tools, metal cutting, and controlling robot joints and spacecraft interfaces.
Series and parallel robots complement each other in their applications. Series robots offer a larger working space and help mitigate the coupling effect between drive shafts. However, each axis in a series configuration must be controlled independently, necessitating the use of encoders and sensors to enhance movement accuracy.
