A scara robot is an articulated robot that has four axes of motion. The first two axes produce swivel motion like a folding screen, while the third and fourth axis produce vertical and rotational movement respectively. They are ideal for applications that require precise and rapid movement, such as dispensing adhesives and tending machines. They can also perform inspection and sorting tasks for materials moving on conveyors.
Adding a SCARA robot to your production line can save money, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. However, it’s important to understand the cost of an automation solution. This includes initial installation, training, and ongoing maintenance. This will help you determine whether or not this type of robot is the right fit for your application.
In most applications, the end-of-arm-tool (EOAT) — or a tool attached to the robot arm — determines the maximum payload and inertia of the system. Depending on the application, this could be anything from a simple gripper to multipurpose end-of-arm tools that can hold dispensers or screwdrivers. The weight and inertia of the EOAT determines whether or not a specific SCARA robot is an optimal choice, as well as if it can meet the application requirements such as speed and repeatability.
SCARA robots are typically the fastest on the market because they have less joints and are configured in a way that J1 and J2 control the X-Y motion, while J3 and J4 control the Z and rotational movements. This configuration simplifies inverse kinematic calculations, requiring less computational time than cartesian robots.
One of the primary benefits of a SCARA robot is its ability to be installed in tight spaces where other types of industrial robots cannot. Their small footprint makes them ideal for smaller production facilities. Additionally, they do not require extensive mounting hardware and can be bolted directly to the floor.
Moreover, a scara robot is very durable. Its rigid design and compact dimensions make it able to handle shocks and vibrations, as well as other physical effects. This is especially true if the robot is mounted on a base, which adds additional strength and stability to the system.
A SCARA robot can be used in a wide range of applications, from small pick and place jobs to large assembly operations. They are particularly good at assembly processes that involve insertion and pressing of small parts or the driving of screws with their rotational axis. They are also very effective at dispensing and materials handling, such as transferring products from a box to a conveyor belt or loading and unloading machine process stations that are enclosed.
In addition to their speed, SCARA robots offer excellent precision and repeatability. These characteristics are essential in most manufacturing applications. They can be programmed to achieve a very high level of accuracy, even in a highly dynamic environment such as a manufacturing process that uses a flexible workpiece. In addition, they can be integrated with a vision system to provide better guidance.