Robotics PT-II
Robotics PT-II
Q.9 What are Robot end effectors? Explain in detail its types as per
requirements.
Robot end effectors, also known as robot end-of-arm tools or end-of-
arm devices, are the components attached to the end of a robotic arm
or manipulator.
They are responsible for interacting with the environment, performing
specific tasks, and enabling the robot to carry out its intended
application.
There are two main types of end-effectors:
(i) Grippers
(ii) Tools
Grippers: Grippers are the most widely used end effectors in robotics.
They are designed to grasp and manipulate objects of various sizes,
shapes, and materials. Grippers can be categorized into several types
based on their operation mechanism:
Mechanical Grippers: These grippers use mechanical jaws or
fingers to physically grasp objects. They can be pneumatic,
hydraulic, or electrically actuated.
Vacuum Grippers: Vacuum grippers utilize suction cups or
vacuum pads to hold and manipulate objects with smooth
surfaces, such as glass or plastic sheets.
Magnetic Grippers: Magnetic grippers use electromagnetic forces
to attract and hold ferromagnetic objects.
Adhesive Grippers: Adhesive grippers employ sticky materials or
suction with controlled airflow to grip and release objects.
Tools: Tools are end effectors specifically designed for performing
specific tasks, such as cutting, welding, painting, or drilling. These
tools can be attached to the robot's end effector to enable the execution
of specialized operations.
Welding guns, cutting tools and spray-painting guns are examples of
tool end-effectors.
Q.10 Write a detailed note on Mechanical type grippers.
Mechanical grippers can be further categorized based on their design
and actuation mechanism. Mechanical grippers, including two-finger
grippers, three-finger grippers, and robotic hands, are widely used in
various industrial applications.
Two-Finger Grippers:
Two-finger grippers, also known as parallel grippers, consist of two
opposing jaws or fingers that move towards each other to grasp an
object. These grippers typically have symmetrical finger movement,
providing a balanced grip on the object.
Advantages:
Simplicity: Straightforward design, easy to implement and
operate.
Versatility: They can handle a wide range of object sizes and
shapes,
Precision: Offer precise control over the gripping force, allowing
for delicate handling of fragile objects.
Limitations:
Two-finger grippers may not be able to fully envelop objects with
complex shapes or irregular surfaces.
Three-Finger Grippers:
Three-finger grippers, as the name suggests, consist of three fingers
arranged in a triangular configuration. The fingers can move
independently or together to grasp objects. This design provides greater
flexibility in grasping objects with irregular shapes or multiple contact
points.
Advantages:
Enhanced Dexterity: The additional finger enables more flexible
grasping, allowing for better manipulation of objects
Improved Stability: Due to triangular configuration, offers
stability and balance during gripping, reducing the chances of
slippage.
Limitations:
Operating a three-finger gripper requires more sophisticated
control algorithms compared to two-finger grippers.
Robotic Hands:
Robotic hands are advanced mechanical grippers that aim to mimic the
human hand's dexterity and functionality. They consist of multiple
fingers, typically three or more, with multiple joints and sensors.
Robotic hands are designed to grasp objects with a higher level of
precision and adaptability, enabling complex manipulation tasks.
Advantages:
Human-like Manipulation: Robotic hands offer a high degree of
dexterity and can perform delicate grasping and manipulation
tasks.
Object Recognition: Some robotic hands incorporate sensors,
such as force sensors or tactile sensors, which allow for object
recognition and fine control during grasping.
Limitations:
Complexity: Robotic hands are more complex in design and
control compared to simpler gripper types, requiring advanced
algorithms and more intricate mechanical components.
Cost: The advanced features and capabilities of robotic hands
often come with a higher cost compared to other gripper types.
Q11. Discuss Engelberger’s design principles followed for assessing
gripping Requirements.
The following list is based on Engelberger's discussion of these factors:
1. The part surface to be grasped must be reachable. For example, it
must not be enclosed within a chuck or other holding fixture.
2. The size variation of the part must be accounted for, and how this
might influence the accuracy of locating the part. For example, there
might be a problem in placing a rough casting or forging into a chuck
for machining operations.
3. The gripper design must accommodate the change in size that occurs
between part loading and unloading. For example, the part size is
reduced in machining and forging operations.