Concept validation of compact lightweight robot

Purpose and goal

The purpose of the project was to validate that a lightweight robot with carbon fiber links could solve real problems in manufacturing SME´s. An important part of this process was to interview potential customers to better understand their needs. In the next step these needs and the specific design opportunities that the applied technology delivered was combined into a detailed design. The robot should be movable, safe and precise enough to be used in production environments. These goals have all been met.

Expected results and effects

The results have confirmed the viability of the project. A fully functional CAD design now exists and the next step is to order the specified components. A six axis robot construction has been fully verified and a control system that manages the flexibility of the construction has been implemented on Robot Operating System. The robot fully complies with all technical specifications defined with regards to range, safety, precision, repeatability, payload and weight. The economics also confirms that this can be a viable product in a commercial context.

Planned approach and implementation

During the project various expertise has been active within the areas of marketing, sensors, control systems and modelling. The work has been executed in sub projects with clear responsibilities and deliverables for each participant. The overall coordination and project management has been handled by Niklas Salomonsson. Specialist form Uppsala University, Unibap AB and Robotdalen have also made valuable contributions. Works has progressed according to the project plan and milestones.