From assembly lines to complex manufacturing processes, industrial robots come in various types, each with capabilities suitable for specific applications. In this article, we explore the different types of industrial robots, highlighting key aspects to consider for your automation needs, and offering insights into selecting the right tool for your applications.

Articulated Robots (with 3 to 7 axes)

Industrial robots with only revolute (rotational) joints are known as articulated robots, whose design is to mimic the movement of a human arm. Most articulated robots have 6 joints (axes) though they can range from 3 to 7. Due to their flexibility, broad range of motion, and adequate payload and workspace capabilities, articulated robots dominate the market of industrial robots today. They are widely used in the automotive and manufacturing industries, largely because of their adaptability to perform a variety of tasks. Their versatility continues to grow as engineers innovate new applications for articulated arms.

SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) Robots

SCARA robots are commonly used for assembly, pick and place, and material handling operations, due to their high speed and precision. Their rigid structure makes them reliable and consistent, though their reach is considerably limited compared to articulated arms of a similar size. SCARA robots typically feature three revolute joints and one linear joint, enabling them to move swiftly and rigidly in both horizontal and vertical directions. For applications requiring fast and repetitive motions, such as electronics assembly or small part manufacturing, SCARA robots can be your ideal choice.

Delta Robots (Parallel Robots)

Delta robots feature three arms (or legs!) connected to a central body. Each arm forms a parallelogram hence the alternative name, parallel robots. The arms work simultaneously to move the robot’s mechanical interface (flange) while keeping the flange in horizontal orientation. Delta robots are designed for tasks requiring high speed and acceleration, with motors housed in the main body to reduce the inertia of the moving arms. They are well-suited for picking, packing, and sorting operations in industries like food and pharmaceuticals. Their lightweight and high-speed design makes them perfect for handling small, lightweight items efficiently.

Linear Robots (Cartesian and Gantry Robots)

Linear robots, also known as Cartesian or gantry robots, move along the X, Y, and Z axes in a Cartesian coordinate system. The difference between Cartesian and gantry robots is that gantry systems typically feature a dual X or Y axis to support the crossing orthogonal axis, leading to increased payload capacity. Linear robots are highly effective in applications that require precise and fast straight-line movements. They can also be equipped with revolute joints as end-effectors, enabling more complex tasks. Their precision and efficiency make them a reliable candidate for operations like pick and place, CNC machining, and 3D printing.

Other Types of Industrial Robots…

In addition to the types mentioned, there are several less common industrial robots which represent early designs in robotics. These include cylindrical, polar (spherical), and pendular robots. While these models were once prominent, they have mostly been replaced by the more versatile SCARA and articulated robots, which have proven to be more effective in today’s automation environments.

Collaborative Robots (typically with low to medium payload)

A (still) fast growing trend in automation is the use of collaborative robots, or cobots. Initially, cobots are seen as the opposite to industrial robots which often operate in isolation from humans for safety. Cobots are designed to work alongside people without the need for safety barriers. They feature round edges, force sensors, and hand-guiding capabilities, allowing them to perform tasks safely near human workers. Cobots are gaining popularity and have even become the preferred choice in some traditional industrial robot applications, such as palletising, packaging, and welding. Certainly they are also widely used to assist humans with assembly, quality inspection, and machine tending tasks.

Conclusion

In the field of automation, efficiency, precision and flexibility are key factors that determine the performance of an industrial robot. This article reviews the main types of industrial robots, exploring their designs, features, and suitability for different tasks. By learning the strengths and designated applications of the various robots, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of their capabilities and limitations, helping you make informed decisions in automation.