BionicSoftArm: One robot arm, many
possible variations
The strict separation between the
manual work of the factory worker and
the automated actions of the robot is
being increasingly set aside.
Their work ranges are overlapping and
merging into a collaborative working
space.
In this way, human and machine will be
able to simultaneously work together
on the same workpiece or component
in the future – without having to be
shielded from each other for safety
reasons.
The BionicSoftArm is a compact
further development of Festo's
BionicMotionRobot, whose range of
applications has been significantly
expanded. This is made possible by its
modular design: it can be combined
with up to seven pneumatic bellows
segments and rotary drives. This
guarantees maximum flexibility in
terms of reach and mobility, enabling
it to work around obstacles even in
the tightest of spaces if necessary. At
the same time, it is completely flexible
and can work safely with people. Direct
human-robot collaboration is possible
with the BionicSoftArm, as well as its
use in classic SCARA applications, such
as pick-and-place tasks.
Flexible application possibilities
The modular robot arm can be used for
a wide variety of applications, depending
on the design and mounted gripper.
Thanks to its flexible kinematics, the
BionicSoftArm can interact directly and
safely with humans.
At the same time, the kinematics make
it easier for it to adapt to different
tasks at various locations in production
environments. Elimination of costly
safety devices such as cages and light
barriers shortens conversion times and
thus enables flexible use – completely
in accordance with adaptive and
economical production.
www.festo.com
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