Top 10 Handling Robot Brand & Manufacturers

What is a Handling Robot?

A handling robot is a type of robotic device designed to pick up, move, and place objects. These robots are equipped with end - effectors such as grippers, suction cups, or magnetic attachments to interact with various objects. They are programmed to perform repetitive or complex material - handling tasks with high precision and speed, and are used in a wide range of industries including manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing.

History of Handling Robots

• Early Origins: The concept of handling robots dates back to the mid - 20th century. The first industrial robots were developed for tasks such as material handling in the automotive industry. These early robots were relatively simple and had limited dexterity. They were mainly used for tasks like loading and unloading heavy parts, which were dangerous or physically strenuous for human workers.
• Technological Advancements in the 20th Century: As computer technology and control systems evolved, handling robots became more sophisticated. The development of advanced sensors, such as vision systems and force - torque sensors, allowed robots to better detect and interact with objects. The use of more precise actuators and mechanical designs improved the robots' ability to handle a wider variety of objects with greater accuracy and speed.
• Modern Developments: In modern times, handling robots have seen significant growth and diversification. With the rise of e - commerce and the need for efficient logistics, robots are now used in warehouses for order - picking and packing. They can work alongside humans in collaborative settings, thanks to the development of safety features and collaborative robotics technology. Additionally, artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms are being integrated to enable the robots to adapt to new tasks and objects more quickly.

Purpose of Handling Robots

• Automating Material - Handling Tasks: The primary purpose of handling robots is to automate the movement of materials and products. In manufacturing plants, they can transfer components from one workstation to another, reducing the need for manual labor and increasing production efficiency. For example, in an electronics factory, a handling robot can pick up and place circuit boards onto a production line.
• Improving Precision and Consistency: Handling robots are known for their high precision. They can place objects with exact positioning, which is crucial in industries where tight tolerances are required. This precision ensures consistent quality in the production process. For instance, in the assembly of delicate mechanical parts, robots can handle components with millimeter - level accuracy.
• Increasing Productivity and Throughput: By operating at a high speed and without breaks, handling robots can significantly increase the productivity and throughput of a production or logistics facility. They can handle multiple tasks simultaneously or in a rapid sequence, enabling faster processing of orders and goods movement. In a warehouse, a fleet of handling robots can pick and pack orders much more quickly than human workers alone.
• Enhancing Workplace Safety: These robots can take over tasks that are hazardous to human workers, such as handling heavy or sharp objects, working in extreme temperatures, or in environments with toxic substances. By reducing human exposure to such risks, handling robots contribute to a safer workplace.

Principle of Handling Robots

• Programming and Control: Handling robots are controlled through programming. The movements and actions of the robot are pre - programmed using a programming language or a graphical user interface. The program defines the path the robot should take, the speed of movement, and the actions of the end - effector. Some advanced robots can also be reprogrammed or adjusted on - the - fly to adapt to different tasks or object geometries.
• Sensing and Feedback: To interact with the environment and objects effectively, handling robots are equipped with various sensors. Vision sensors, such as cameras, are used to identify the position, shape, and orientation of objects. Force - torque sensors on the end - effector provide feedback about the force applied during gripping and handling, allowing the robot to adjust its grip strength to avoid damaging objects.
• End - Effector Operation: The end - effector is a crucial part of the handling robot. Depending on the type of object to be handled, different end - effectors are used. Grippers can be designed with two or more fingers to grasp objects of different shapes and sizes. Suction cups are used for flat or smooth - surfaced objects, and magnetic end - effectors are suitable for handling ferromagnetic materials. The operation of the end - effector is coordinated with the robot's movement to ensure a smooth handling process.[!--empirenews.page--]

Features of Handling Robots

• High Precision and Accuracy: Handling robots can achieve extremely high precision in object handling. They are capable of repeating the same task with a high degree of accuracy, often within a fraction of a millimeter. This precision is maintained over long - term operation, ensuring consistent quality in production and handling processes.
• Speed and Efficiency: These robots can operate at high speeds, allowing for rapid material handling. They can quickly pick up, move, and place objects, significantly reducing the cycle time of handling tasks. Their efficient operation also means that they can handle a large volume of objects in a short period, increasing overall productivity.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Many handling robots are designed to be flexible and adaptable. They can be programmed to handle a wide variety of objects with different shapes, sizes, and weights. Some robots can even be reconfigured or equipped with different end - effectors to handle new types of materials or products. Additionally, advanced robots can adapt to changes in the work environment, such as the layout of a warehouse or the position of objects.
• Collaborative Capabilities (in Some Models): Some handling robots are designed to work collaboratively with humans. These collaborative robots, or cobots, are equipped with safety features such as force - limiting sensors and collision - detection mechanisms. They can operate in the same workspace as humans, sharing tasks and enhancing overall work efficiency. For example, a cobot can assist a human worker in a warehouse by picking up heavy objects and passing them to the human for further processing.
• Automation and Integration: Handling robots can be integrated into existing manufacturing and logistics systems. They can communicate with other equipment such as conveyors, storage systems, and production machines to form an automated workflow. Through the use of standard communication protocols and interfaces, robots can receive commands, send status updates, and synchronize their operations with the overall system.

Types of Handling Robots

• Articulated - Arm Handling Robots: These are the most common type of handling robots. They have a series of joints and links, similar to a human arm, which provides a wide range of motion. Articulated - arm robots can reach objects in different orientations and positions, making them suitable for complex handling tasks such as assembly and packing. They are used in industries like automotive manufacturing, electronics production, and food processing.
• Cartesian - Coordinate Handling Robots: Cartesian robots operate in a rectangular coordinate system, with movements along the X, Y, and Z axes. They are known for their high precision and are often used for tasks that require accurate positioning, such as pick - and - place operations in a factory setting. These robots are typically used for handling small and medium - sized objects and can be easily programmed for repetitive tasks.
• SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) Robots: SCARA robots have a unique design with two parallel rotary joints that provide compliance in a specific direction. They are excellent for high - speed, precision handling tasks such as assembling small parts. SCARA robots are commonly used in the electronics and semiconductor industries, where rapid and accurate placement of components is crucial.
• Delta Robots: Delta robots are designed with a parallel - link structure that allows for extremely fast and precise movements. They are often used for high - speed picking and packing applications, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The unique design of delta robots enables them to handle objects with a high throughput rate and excellent accuracy.

Precautions for using Handling Robots

• Proper Installation and Setup: Handling robots must be installed correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This includes proper leveling, alignment, and connection to power and control systems. Incorrect installation can lead to misalignment of the robot's components, affecting its performance and accuracy. Additionally, the work area around the robot should be properly configured to ensure safe operation and avoid collisions with other objects or people.
• Programming and Training: Before using a handling robot, operators need to be properly trained in programming and operating the robot. Incorrect programming can lead to inefficient operation, damage to objects, or even safety hazards. It's important to understand the capabilities and limitations of the robot's programming language and control system. Additionally, operators should be trained to handle any error messages or unexpected behaviors that the robot may exhibit.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Object and Environment Compatibility: Check the compatibility of the objects to be handled with the robot's end - effector and handling capabilities. Some objects may be too heavy, fragile, or have an unusual shape that requires special handling considerations. Also, consider the environment in which the robot will operate. Factors such as temperature, humidity, dust, and vibrations can affect the robot's performance and lifespan. Ensure that the robot is suitable for the specific operating conditions.
• Safety Precautions: Handling robots can pose a safety risk, especially if they are operating at high speeds or handling heavy objects. Implement safety measures such as safety fences, emergency stop buttons, and safety sensors to prevent accidents. Collaborative robots have specific safety requirements, such as force - limiting capabilities and safe operating speeds when working near humans. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
• Maintenance and Inspection: Regular maintenance is essential for the proper functioning of handling robots. This includes routine cleaning to remove dust and debris, checking and tightening mechanical connections, and inspecting the condition of sensors and actuators. Lubricate the robot's moving parts according to the manufacturer's recommendations to reduce friction and wear. Regularly update the robot's software to ensure optimal performance and security.

Things to consider when purchasing Handling Robots

• Payload and Reach Requirements: Determine the maximum weight and size of the objects the robot will need to handle (payload), as well as the required reach and workspace. Make sure the robot's specifications, such as its maximum payload capacity and reach distance, can meet your application's needs. Consider both the current requirements and any potential future changes in the objects to be handled.
• Speed and Precision Specifications: Analyze the speed and precision requirements of your handling tasks. Different robots have different speed and accuracy capabilities. If your application requires high - speed operations, such as in a high - volume order - picking warehouse, you'll need a robot that can handle objects quickly. For tasks that demand high precision, like assembling small electronic components, a more accurate robot with a fine - tuned end - effector is essential.
• Type of End - Effector and Flexibility: Consider the type of end - effector needed to handle your objects. If you're handling a variety of objects with different shapes and surfaces, you may need a robot that can be equipped with multiple types of end - effectors or a versatile gripper. The flexibility of the robot to adapt to different handling requirements, such as changing object sizes or handling methods, is also an important factor.
• Collaborative or Isolated Operation: Decide whether you need a robot that can work collaboratively with humans (cobot) or an isolated robot for an automated process. Cobots have additional safety features and are designed to work in close proximity to humans, but they may have lower payload and speed capabilities compared to traditional industrial robots. Consider the nature of your work environment and the tasks that need to be performed to make the right choice.
• Budget and Cost - Effectiveness: Establish a budget for the handling robot purchase. The cost of robots can vary significantly depending on their type, capabilities, and brand. Consider not only the initial purchase price but also the long - term costs such as maintenance, software updates, and potential expansion or customization. A more expensive robot with advanced features may be a more cost - effective choice in the long run if it significantly improves productivity and reduces labor costs.
• Brand and Reputation: Choose a reputable brand with a good track record in manufacturing handling robots. Read customer reviews and ask for recommendations from other users or industry experts to assess the quality, durability, and performance of different models. A well - known brand is more likely to provide reliable customer service, including technical support, spare parts, and software updates.

Terms of Handling Robots

• Payload Capacity: The maximum weight that a handling robot can lift and move. It is a critical specification and determines the types of objects the robot can handle. Payload capacity is usually measured in kilograms or pounds and should be considered based on the heaviest object the robot will be expected to handle in the application.
• Reach and Workspace: The reach of a handling robot refers to the maximum distance it can extend its end - effector to access an object. The workspace is the three - dimensional area within which the robot can operate. These parameters are important for determining whether the robot can cover the necessary area and access all the objects in a given work environment, such as a production line or a warehouse.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Repeatability: The ability of a handling robot to repeat the same movement and position with a high degree of accuracy. It is usually measured in millimeters and indicates the robot's precision. A lower repeatability value means the robot can place objects more precisely and consistently, which is crucial for tasks that require high - accuracy handling.
• End - Effector Force and Grip Strength: The force that the end - effector can exert when gripping an object and the maximum grip strength it can achieve. These parameters are important for handling objects of different weights and materials. The end - effector should have enough force to hold and move the object securely without damaging it.
• Robot Programming Language and Interface: The programming language used to control the handling robot and the interface through which the programming is done. Some robots use proprietary programming languages, while others support more common languages or have a graphical user interface (GUI) for easier programming. The programming language and interface affect the ease of use and the flexibility of the robot's operation.