What is a cartesian robot and how is it used in automation?
A cartesian robot system that uses XYZ coordinates to move multiple axes—typically three—to a specific location within its workspace. Cartesian robots can be extremely beneficial for engineers that are looking to automate their warehouses, improve their current systems, or solve unique design challenges. In this blog post, we will explore a few applications where cartesian robots have an advantage in comparison to other automated systems, along with the types of motor controllers and drivers needed—we will even offer a tool that will help you design your own custom cartesian robot at the end.
Believe it or not, cartesian robots are actually used often in everyday life. Whether it is a two-axis gantry robot, such as a crane, which can move large parts of a multiple story-high building, or even a 3D printer within a much smaller area of operation, both still rely on the same mechanics to complete the process. The benefits of a cartesian robot are endless since they cater to most applications that require automated assistance—pick and place, labeling, measuring, and other processes that require both speed and precision with an outstanding return on investment. The ability to automate these procedures with a cartesian robot system will allow you to turn an operation that would normally take an assembly line of three to four people into a process that requires just one, or possibly even no one, depending on how intricate the system is, i.e. peripheral AI.
Another aspect to consider is that most robotic arms will be defined to certain sizes which will limit its workspace, whereas a gantry can be multiple meters long!
In the picture to the right, you can see the new igus® XXL Gantry, which is a large DIY, 3-axis linear cartesian robot that has an action radius of 2,000 x 2,000 x 1,500 millimeters and is particularly suitable for palletizing applications of up to 10 kilograms.
Dozens of assembled, turnkey cartesian robots are available for purchase within our online shop. If you would like to customize a gantry according to your own specifications and requirements, you may also use our brand new cartesian/gantry configurator tool (beta version). If you have any questions or would like a free consultation, please feel free to contact Matt Mowry, drylin Product Manager, by phone at (800) 521-2747 or via this contact form.
Another aspect to consider is that most robotic arms will be defined to certain sizes which will limit its workspace, whereas a gantry can be multiple meters long!
In the picture to the right, you can see the new igus® XXL Gantry, which is a large DIY, 3-axis linear cartesian robot that has an action radius of 2,000 x 2,000 x 1,500 millimeters and is particularly suitable for palletizing applications of up to 10 kilograms.
Keep In Mind—The Power Source and Control System
When it comes to motor controllers, you will typically need something that can control the power running through the motor, and depending on the application, you may need a controller that can also read data from the motor. There are generally two types of controllers:- Motor cards, also known as motor driver, motor amplifier, power amplifier, output stage, etc.
- PLC or master controller, which is a device that would do most of the reading and processing data such as controlling the speed, reading the encoder, processing other signals like limit switches.
Dozens of assembled, turnkey cartesian robots are available for purchase within our online shop. If you would like to customize a gantry according to your own specifications and requirements, you may also use our brand new cartesian/gantry configurator tool (beta version). If you have any questions or would like a free consultation, please feel free to contact Matt Mowry, drylin Product Manager, by phone at (800) 521-2747 or via this contact form.
