ATM is now offering the innovative new Nachi MR20 seven-axis robot. In moulding shops it is common to see six-axis robots operating as part of an automated cell together with injection moulding machines. The uptake of six-axis robots has been a natural progression from more traditional three-axis Cartesian robots, given the additional dexterity and flexibility offered by the six-axis units. The only potential drawback when using a six-axis system is the extra floor space required to enable effective use of the large robot envelope.
The new MR20 robot features an unusual seven-axis design that enables the robot to emulate the motions of a human arm and perform more complicated tasks at high speed in restricted work areas. The robot can be situated close to the side of the injection moulding machine and use the dexterity of the seven-axis configuration to reach into the mould tool space. Another benefit of the new seven-axis system is the capability to avoid entering 'singularity' positions, which is a problem that can sometimes arise with six-axis systems and requires consideration during path programming.
Driven by Nachi's AX20 series controller, the MR20 features a horizontal reach of 1260mm, a 30kg payload and repeatability of +/-0.1mm. The MR20 is suitable for use alongside injection moulding machines, as well as in general machine tending, material handling and case packing applications. When coupled with Nachi's NV-AX vision system, the MR20 robot can also be used in bin picking and assembly applications.
ATM Automation also provides Cartesian and six-axis robot systems, plastics joining technologies, gripper and tooling systems, and complete systems, all of which are backed by the company's 40 years' experience in automation within the plastics industry.
