CNC processing is customized for robots
First, CNC machining can produce parts with extremely fast delivery cycle. Almost after you have prepared the 3D model, you can start making components with CNC machines. This makes it possible for rapid iteration of prototypes and rapid delivery of customized robot parts for professional applications.
Another advantage of CNC processing is that it can accurately produce parts that meet the specifications. This manufacturing accuracy is particularly important for robotics, and this part allows the robot to move accurately and repeatedly.
Surface finish is another reason for machining robot parts with CNC. Interacting parts need to have low friction, and precision CNC machining can produce surface roughness as low as RA 0.8 μ M, or lower after polishing and other post-treatment operations.
Finally, the material type used by robots is the ideal material for CNC processing. Robots need to be able to move and lift objects stably, and they need strong and hard materials. These necessary properties are best achieved by processing certain metals and plastics. In addition, robots are usually used for customization or small batch manufacturing, which makes CNC machining a natural choice for robot parts.
Types of robot parts processed and manufactured by CNC
1. Mechanical arm
Robot arms are very different in form and function, so many different parts need to be used. However, they have one thing in common, that is, they can move or operate objects - which is no different from human arms! Different parts of the robot arm are even named after our own parts: shoulder, elbow and wrist joints rotate and control the movement of each part.
2. End effector
The end effector is an attachment connected to the end of the robot arm. The end effector allows you to customize the functions of the robot according to different operations without building a new robot. They can be grippers, grippers, vacuum cleaners, or suction cups. These end effectors are usually metal (usually aluminum) CNC machined parts. One of the components is permanently connected to the end of the robot arm. The actual gripper, suction cup or other end effector is matched with this component, so it can be controlled by the robot arm. This setting with two different components makes it easier to replace different end effectors, so the robot can adapt to different applications. You can see this in the figure below. The bottom disc will be bolted to the robot arm so that you can connect the hose that operates the suction cup to the air supply device of the robot. The top and bottom discs are examples of CNC machined parts.