The document outlines key specifications to consider when selecting a robot for various applications. It discusses factors like payload capacity, repeatability, reach, speed and flexibility that are important for machine tending, product testing, assembly, finishing, dispensing and other tasks. Force feedback and easy programming are also highlighted as critical for applications that require consistent motions or applying precise forces. The document concludes by noting that collaborative robots can be programmed directly from the controller to meet application-specific tooling needs.

1. Robot Application Key Tool Specs
Machine Tending Payload Repeatability Reach Stroke & Payload
The robot payload should be at least 1.2 times your
heaviest part weight. Include the gripper weight in your
payload calculation
The robot should be able to repeat within 0.1mm. To
insure repeatability use mechanical stoppers.
Make sure the robot can reach the machine vice and the
drop off location of the machine.
Gripper needs to be able to handle the raw and finished
part, think flexible Grippers.
Product Testing Repeatability Speed Force Feedback
The robot has to be consistent and repeatable to deliver
valuable test results.
Speed control can make all the difference for your test
cycle time.
Most robotic product testing applications will require
force feedback.
Assembly Repeatability Payload Reach / Rotation Flexibility
Robot has to be consistent in its motions to assemble in
tight tolerances.
Power tools and other devices can be used.
Assembly, usually related to screwing apps, might require
extensive or infinite rotation of the robot wrist.
A wide range of objects need to be handled so a great
flexibility is required. Force feedback can also be needed
if the robot repeatability is not sufficient.
Finishing Payload Ease of programming Force Feedback
The robot payload is directly related to the amount of
force that needs to be applied on the part. A large
payload translates to large forces being able to be applied
by the robots.
Finishing regularly requires the programming of complex
trajectories. You need to be able to program these
trajectories.
All finishing applications will require force feedback in
order to feel the resistance and imperfection of the
surface to finish.
Dispensing Reach Speed Specific tool
The robot needs at a minimum to be able to reach the
whole surface of the part. Usually a bit more is preferred
if it must perform other functions.
Speed control can make a big difference in your
dispensing application. Look for rigid actuators.
You probably already have specific requirements for your
dispensing application. You need to find a dispensing tool
that can be programmed from the robot controller.
Key Robot Specs
Getting Started with Collaborative Robots; Shopping for your Robot
Robot Specifications Cheat Sheet
Revision date: 29/02/2016 robotiq.com
Robotiq Inc.
(1-888-ROBOTIQ)