If you have ever watched a factory automation video, you have probably seen robotic arms moving without a moment’s rest, picking up objects, transferring them, placing them in designated positions, and repeating the same motions over and over. This equipment, which moves as freely as a human arm while repeatedly performing accurate tasks, is what we call an articulated robot. Articulated robots make up a large share of the robots used in industrial settings and are among the most common types, having become essential equipment across virtually every manufacturing sector, including automotive, assembly, food processing, and logistics. The reason they can be applied so broadly is that their structure allows them to respond flexibly to a wide variety of work environments.
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The Key Component That Drives Articulated Robots: The Actuator
Key Summary An articulated robot is a device with multiple joints (axes), letting it change posture in various directions to perform tasks. The component that plays the central role in driving each joint is the actuator, which converts energy into actual physical movement and carries out software commands at each joint.
An articulated robot is a device with multiple joints. It helps to picture the way the human shoulder, elbow, and wrist are connected. Because it has multiple joints (axes), it does not move in just one direction. It can shift its posture up, down, left, right, and at various angles to perform tasks. This is why articulated robots are used across a wide range of applications, from simple repetitive tasks to complex processes requiring accurate position control.
So how does an articulated robot generate these movements? The key lies in the fact that each joint operates in organic coordination with the others. The component that plays the central role in driving each joint is the actuator. An actuator is a part that converts energy, whether electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic, into actual physical movement. It takes commands delivered by software and carries them out at each joint, enabling the robot to perform a variety of motions such as load-bearing and rotation.
Even among robots of the same articulated type, the driving characteristics required at each joint can vary depending on the purpose of the task, load conditions, and the intensity of repetitive work. For this reason, when selecting an actuator, it is important to consider not only specifications but also how well the actuator is suited to the actual application environment and work method.
Better Articulated Robot Design Begins at the Actuator
Key Summary Bonsystems offers the BCSA V4 Series, developed on the basis of its proprietary cycloid tooth profile design technology. Characterized by a compact, slim form factor, it is divided into the RI Type for agile upper-body applications and the RO Type for balance maintenance or heavy-load operation.
Reflecting these practical requirements, Bonsystems offers the BCSA V4 Series actuator, developed on the basis of its proprietary cycloid tooth profile design technology. Our products are characterized by a compact, slim form factor that increases design freedom and enables more practical application in terms of equipment configuration and maintenance.
The BCSA V4 Series is broadly divided into two lineup options depending on the application environment. For humanoid upper-body applications where agile and delicate movement is critical, the RI Type, featuring fast responsiveness and a compact size, is a suitable choice. For industrial equipment or humanoid lower-body drive units that require balance maintenance or heavy-load operation, the RO Type offers high torque output and greater design freedom thanks to its slim profile.
In this way, Bonsystems offers a diverse actuator lineup so that customers can select the type best suited to the motion characteristics and conditions required of their automation equipment.
Bonsystems listens closely to the voices of those working in the robotics industry and provides a range of robot solutions, from drive unit design to actuator manufacturing. If you have development challenges related to robot actuators or robot drive unit design, please reach out through the Bonsystems website.
FAQ
Q: Does having more joints always mean it is better?
A: It is true that more joints increase the degrees of freedom in movement, allowing the robot to handle more complex paths and respond to a wider range of angles and directions. However, each additional joint also requires its own actuator and control elements, which can increase the complexity of design and control accordingly. That is why it is important to configure a robot’s joints to match the nature of the tasks it needs to perform. We recommend first clearly identifying your work environment and required specifications, then developing the robot with a configuration based on those needs.
Q: Can joint robots work alongside humans in the same space?
A: This depends on the type of robot. General industrial articulated robots are often assigned to tasks that are difficult for humans to perform, such as heavy-load operations or the handling of hazardous materials. Given the nature of these tasks, it is standard practice to install safety fencing to physically separate robots from workers. Collaborative robots are designed with additional safety features, such as collision detection and output limiting, to allow them to work alongside people in the same space. If your work environment requires close proximity between robots and operators, these factors should also be carefully evaluated when making your selection.
Q: What are the advantages of Bonsystems’ cycloid actuators when applied to articulated robots?
A: The BCSA Series is engineered to deliver high torque output even in a slim form factor, allowing for greater freedom in space utilization and layout when designing joint robots. This means the actuator can adapt flexibly even in environments where equipment miniaturization or weight reduction is required. Its high durability also enables stable operation in environments with prolonged, repetitive work cycles. Bonsystems offers a diverse lineup so that customers can select the appropriate type based on their application environment and working conditions. If you have questions about choosing the right actuator for your robot, you are welcome to consult with our specialists.
