Large mobile robot
A new robot system can move up to 150 kilograms
The WZL's innovative large mobile robot enables the flexible manipulation of heavy payloads.
A previous limitation of industrial robots that are firmly anchored to the floor is their limited working space. In contrast, mobile manipulators allow an unlimited working area. This results in the option of being able to move the robot location flexibly between assembly stations. This capability is particularly important for future-oriented production, as resources can be deployed in a more targeted manner according to the current workload. The significantly increased flexibility of mobile manipulators compared to conventional robotics considerably expands the areas of application and addresses the limitations of rigid automation solutions. The large mobile robot was manufactured by Broetje-Automation. It can move payloads of up to 150 kg with its manipulator, a Comau NJ-165-3.0.
Thanks to an extensive and state-of-the-art sensor system, the large robot can perceive its surroundings and act autonomously. Future integration into the existing 5G campus network of the 5G Industry Campus Europe will enable the large robot to communicate wirelessly and in real time with other robots and factory cloud systems. The hybrid Siemens controller in the large robot enables control via a real-time-capable Linux operating system. The precise actuation options and high flexibility of this platform enable efficient handling of heavy loads and at the same time allow the implementation of flexible assembly systems in an extended load spectrum. With this pioneering large robot, the Chair of Production Metrology and Quality Management at the WZL plans to conduct research in the field of holistic motion planning in particular. This involves simultaneous movement of the manipulator with the base, which has not yet been possible for industry.
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