Delta robots are one of the main types of industrial robots. They can also be referred to as spider and parallel robots due to their construction. Delta robots are designed for low payload applications including automated packaging, robotic assembly, and automated pick and place. They are commonly used to serve the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and electronic industries. These factory robots have become quite popular when it comes to automating with industrial robots, especially for assembly processes. The FANUC M-2ia is one of the more common delta robots, helping manufacturers increase productivity while also saving on floorspace. The rapid growth of delta industrial robot arm can be explained by their many advantages with some of the key ones listed below.
Speed
Delta robots are faster than most other types of robot manipulators. In fact, they are 30% faster than SCARA robots. The reason for their incredible operating speeds is because of their design. Other types of industrial robots have a serial-link construction while delta robots have a parallel-link construction. This means their axes are connected mechanically in parallel as opposed to axes joined in a series. The parallel-link design allows for incredibly fast speed, acceleration, and higher cycle duties.In addition to having their axes connected in parallel, their speed also comes from the weight distribution of their motors. The motors used to control their arms are located in the main robot body as opposed to the industrial robotic arm. This makes all their weight stationary, allowing for extremely light arms. This helps to increase their speed and agility for an obstruction free work envelope.
Selecting the right robotic gripper also plays a key role in the overall operation speed of delta robots. Due to their low payload capacities, delta robots are typically integrated with vacuum end-effectors. These help users to get the most speed from their delta robot.