Recent research from the University of Nottingham reveals that laser trackers can enhance the accuracy and lower the operating costs of industrial robots.

Published in the journal Robotics, this new study looks into ways to sharpen the positioning of industrial robots that have been upgraded to improve their movement precision—the smallest distance they can shift.

Motion precision in industrial robots hinges on their sensors, the quality of control equipment, and the software they use.

Replacing industrial robots can be challenging due to their robust construction and the specialized design changes needed for increased accuracy. This approach helps minimize downtime, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

To boost a robot’s motion precision, researchers have added an active gripper capable of finer movements than originally designed.

Using tracker technology has significantly enhanced the accuracy of the modified robots, ensuring they meet necessary operational standards.

This improvement involves installing a high-resolution joint in the robot, with a laser tracker providing precise 3D feedback for the end-effector—a component that interacts with the surrounding environment.

The study highlights that businesses can extend the lifespan of older robots using laser trackers, leading to fewer production mistakes and less need for costly replacements.

Measurements from 30 points showed an impressive 82% boost in positional accuracy using this method compared to the original robot setup.

“The insights from this research are crucial as they enhance the operational capabilities of industrial robots while requiring minimal adjustments,” stated Dr. Mojtaba Ahmadieh Khanesar, a Research Fellow from the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Research Group.

“The techniques confirmed in this study could be beneficial across various fields such as packaging, quality control, and 3D printing,” he added.