What types of robotic arms are available?
Common robot architectures include articulated, SCARA, Cartesian or gantry, delta, and cylindrical designs. Their different joint arrangements create different workspaces and motion characteristics. An articulated arm is versatile in three-dimensional tasks; a SCARA often suits planar assembly; and a gantry can cover a rectangular area with linear axes.
What this means in practice
Delta robots use a parallel structure that can suit rapid handling of lightweight objects. A collaborative robot describes intended collaborative capabilities and operating arrangements rather than a single mechanical architecture. Many collaborative arms are articulated, but an articulated arm is not automatically suitable for collaborative operation.
Match the geometry to the task
Robot architecture determines how easily the tool can approach a workpiece and maintain its orientation. A wide rectangular handling area may suit a gantry, while reaching around equipment may favor an articulated design. SCARA and delta systems can be effective when their motion pattern matches the required task.
Compare architectures using the same process layout, tooling, and output target. Also consider installation height, access for maintenance, moving cable arrangements, and product changeovers. A simpler mechanism can be preferable when it performs every required movement reliably; extra flexibility becomes valuable when the workflow actually uses it.
Key points
Articulated: flexible positioning and orientation around equipment.
SCARA: compact handling and assembly where the required movement fits its geometry.
Cartesian and delta: consider workspace shape, load, and task-specific motion requirements.
Practical example and next step
Choose the architecture from the process. Define object size, access directions, orientation changes, throughput, and available space before comparing models. A flexible six-axis arm may be unnecessary for a simple linear transfer, while a planar robot may not reach an angled machining fixture.