How to build low-cost robotic systems using igus robolink – Part 4: Cabling

This week’s video is the fourth and final part in a series demonstrating how quick and easy it is to build your own versatile robotic systems using modular, low-cost and easy-to-assemble robolink kits from motion plastics specialist, igus.

As manufacturers continue to utilise robotics to increase productivity and safely automate all kinds of repetitive tasks, from automotive assembly to pharmaceutical pick-and-place, robolink from igus offers engineers a low-cost, easy-to-assemble modular alternative to costly bespoke robotic systems for rapid development of lean automation systems.

Engineers can select from and combine a wide variety of modular robolink kit elements, including articulated joints and arms, gears, drives, motors and tools, such as grippers or cameras, to meet their application requirements and construct complete powerful and low-cost robotic automation systems. With many components made from self-lubricating tribopolymer engineering plastics, the design is lightweight, corrosion-resistant and virtually maintenance-free. Power, control and data are provided by cabling that is safely and reliably routed either through the arm or alongside it in flexible energy chains. The robot’s movement is controlled via motors and direct drive wave or worm gears, or by rope/wire drives. Fully assembled robotic arm units can be programmed and controlled via configuration-based open source software, available free-of-charge from igus.