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Delta robots - robots for high speed manipulation

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V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler Delta roboti – roboti za rukovanje velikom brzinom

ISSN 1330-3651
UDC/UDK 681.51:004.896

DELTA ROBOTS – ROBOTS FOR HIGH SPEED MANIPULATION

Viera Poppeová, Juraj Uríček, Vladimír Bulej, Peter Šindler

Subject review
This paper is oriented to parallel kinematic robots definition, description of their specific application, comparison of robots made by different producers and
determination of velocity and acceleration parameters, kinematic analysis – inverse and forward kinematic. It brings information about development of Delta
robots atAcademia, including the University of Žilina and Delta robots in the market. Two models of Delta robots called M-1iAand M-3iAhave been developed
by FANUC Robotics during the last several years. These robots are ideal to automate tasks which so far were too fast and too complex for standard robots. In
addition, this new family of robot series offers the motion flexibility of a human wrist, fast cycle times, ultra compact arm and high precision. It is also possible
to support intelligent functions using Computer Vision System. In this paper is described the development of training workplace with Fanuc Delta robot
FANUC M-1iA0.5Awith examples of robot application.

Keywords: Delta robot, parallel kinematic structure, parallel robot, training workplace

Delta roboti – roboti za rukovanje velikom brzinom

Pregledni članak
Ovaj je rad usmjeren definiranju paralelnih kinematičkih robota, opisu njihove specifične primjene, usporedbi robota raznih proizvođača i određivanju
parametara brzine i ubrzanja, kinematičkoj analizi – inverznoj i unaprijednoj kinematici. Obaviještava o razvoju Delta robota na Akademiji, uključujući i
Sveučilište u Žilini, te o Delta robotima na tržištu. Dva su modela Delta robota, M-1iA i M-3iA razvijena u FANUC Robotics zadnjih nekoliko godina. Ti su
roboti idealni za automatiziranje poslova koji su bili previše brzi i složeni za standardne robote. Uz to, ova nova serija robota nudi fleksibilnost pokreta ljudskog
zgloba, brzo vrijeme ciklusa, krajnje kompaktnu ruku i visoku preciznost. Također je moguća podrška inteligentnim funkcijama korištenjem Computer Vision
sustava. U radu se opisuje razvoj mjesta za obuku s Fanuc Delta robotima FANUC M-1iA0.5A, uz primjere o primjeni robota.

Ključne riječi: Delta robota, paralelna kinematička struktura, paralelni robota, trenažno radno mjesto

1 kinematic chain mechanism whose end-effector is linked to

Introduction the base by several independent kinematic chains.
Uvod Parallel robots can also be defined as follows:Aparallel
robot is made up of an end-effector with n degrees of
freedom, and of a fixed base, linked together by at least two
Mechanical systems that allow a rigid body (called end-
independent kinematic chains. Actuation takes places
effector) to move with respect to a fixed base play a very
through n simple actuators.
important role in numerous applications. A rigid body in
space can move in various ways, in translation or rotary This type of mechanism is interesting because when the
motion. These are called its degrees of freedom (DOF). The actuators are locked, the manipulator remains in its position
position and the orientation of the end-effector (called its (this is an important safety aspect), and because of the
pose) can be described by its generalized coordinates. As number of actuators sensors are minimal.
soon as it is possible to control several degrees of freedom of The basic idea behind the Delta parallel robot design is
the end-effector via a mechanical system, this system can be the use of parallelograms (Fig. 1). A parallelogram allows
called robot [1, 3]. an output link to remain at a fixed orientation with respect to
From this aspect, robot represents an integrated an input link. The use of three such parallelograms restrains
mechatronic system consisting of three subsystems: completely the orientation of the mobile platform which
sensorial, control and decision-making, and actuation remains only with three purely translational degrees of
subsystem. freedom. The input links of the three parallelograms are
mounted on rotating levers via revolute joints. The revolute
The sensorial subsystem establishes a feedback with
joints of the rotating levers are actuated in two different
the environment. The control and decision-making
ways: with rotational (DC or AC servo) motors or with
subsystem represents the 'thinking' centre of the robot, its
linear actuators. Finally, a mechanism is used to transmit
'brain'. Together, the sensorial and control subsystems make
rotary motion from the base to an end-effector mounted on
up a cognitive system. Finally, the actuation subsystem is
the mobile platform.
used to affect the environment, making such an impact on it
that the environment changes [2]. The use of base-mounted actuators and low-mass links
allows the mobile platform to achieve large accelerations up
It was concluded that the serial robots are inappropriate
to 50 times the gravity (g) in experimental environments
for tasks requiring either the manipulation of heavy loads, or
and (12 - 15)g in industrial applications.
a good positioning accuracy, or to work with high dynamic
parameters. There are two kinds of Delta Robot: high-speed robot
(objects that weigh up to 1 kg) and robots to handle heavy
objects. Both of them have a low inertia structure.
2 Delta robots are not for every application. In many
Delta robots cases a tabletop serial-link robot may be a much better fit
Delta roboti than a delta robot. Delta robots are best-suited for high-
speed pick-and-place applications involving lightweight
A generalized parallel manipulator is a closed-loop parts with simple geometries and the reason is timing.

Technical Gazette 18, 3(2011), 435-445 435

Delta robots – robots for high speed manipulation V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler

generally be used to calculate the twist from joined

velocities. For a given pose of the end-effector, we may, for
example, use a numerical inversion algorithm, to determine
the Jacobian from its inverse:

W 'k = Wk + J 0 × (q '- J -1 × Wk ). (2)

Wk is the twist in the k iteration and J0 is the Jacobian matrix

in a nominal position.

Accelerations:
We note that parallel robots may present excellent
characteristics as to acceleration. The high-speed Delta
robot, for example, presents a maximal acceleration at about
2
500 m/s .
General methods exist to obtain accelerations for
closed-loop mechanisms although for parallel robots it is
1 - Base element 9 - Working element
2 - Shaft 10 - End-effector joint generally easy to obtain these relations directly. Indeed,
3 - Fixed parts 11 - Fixed motor from equation (1) we obtain by differentiation:
4 - Arm 12 - Control system
5a, 5b - Linking bars 13 - Actuator
6a, 6b - Revolute joints 14 - Telescopic arm (optional) q " = J -1 × W '+ J -1' × W . (3)
7a, 7b - Revolute joints 15 - First extremity
8 - Movable element 16 - Second extremity For the various categories of parallel manipulators, the
Figure 1 Delta robot parts (extract from US Patent 4,976,582)[6] determination of the acceleration equations thus amounts to
Slika 1. Dijelovi Delta robota (izvadak iz US Patent 4,976,582)[6] the determination of the derivate of the inverse kinematic
Jacobian matrix; the problem is more complex for
However, there are some applications that cannot redundant robots [1].
manage these high speeds and accelerations due to the
weakness of the parts involved in the process. Some 2.2
products could be damaged if accelerated at 15g or more. Kinematic analysis
For the gripping of the products, vacuum cups are the Kinematička analiza
preferred ones because of their light weight and fast
actuation. If we want to build our own Delta robot, we need to solve
It is possible to find a Delta robot in many different two problems. First, if we know the desired position of the
kinds of industries. Some of them are: end effector (for example, we want to catch some object in
- Manufacturers of solar panels use Delta robots to place the point with coordinates X, Y, Z), we need to determine the
photovoltaic silicon wafers onto glass substrates. corresponding angles of each of the three arms (joint angles)
- Manufacturers of energy-efficient lighting use Delta to set motors (and, thereby, the end effector) in proper
robots to place lenses into LED arrays. position for picking. The process of such determining is
- They are also used to snap together several plastic parts known as inverse kinematics.
and place the finished assembly into a box. And, in the second case, if we know joint angles (for
example, we have read the values of motor encoders), we
Although Delta robots excel at pick-and-place need to determine the position of the end effector (e.g. to
applications, they can perform other operations like make some corrections of its current position). This is a
dispensing a thermal adhesive onto heat sinks for solar forward kinematics problem [7].
collectors, assembling small gears with feedback from force To be more formal, we can look at the kinematic scheme
sensors and a Delta robot is being used as a microscope of a delta robot. The platforms are two equilateral triangles:
stand at the Necker hospital in Paris [11]. the fixed one with motors is green, and the moving one with
the end effector is pink. Joint angles are theta1, theta2 and
2.1 theta3, and point E0 is the end effector position with
Determination of the jointed velocities and the twist coordinates (x0, y0, z0). To solve inverse kinematics problem
Određivanje brzina rotacije spojnih zglobova we have to create the function with E0 coordinates (x0, y0, z0)
as parameters which returns (theta1, theta2, theta3). Forward
It is usually possible to determine analytically the kinematics functions gets (theta1, theta2, theta3) and returns
1
inverse kinematic Jacobian matrix J– that linearly relates (x0, y0, z0).
the jointed velocities θ ' to the twist W of the end-effector, for
example:
2.2.1
Inverse kinematics
q ' = J -1 × W . (1)
Inverzna kinematika
But it is generally difficult, for 6 DOF robots, to invert First, let's determine some key parameters of the robot's
J–1 in order to obtain an analytical formula for the kinematic geometry. Let's designate the side of the fixed triangle as f,
Jacobian matrix: a numerical procedure will therefore the side of the end effector triangle as e, the length of the

436 Tehnički vjesnik 18, 3(2011), 435-445

V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler Delta roboti – roboti za rukovanje velikom brzinom

upper joint as rf, and the length of the parallelogram joint as 2.2.2
re. These are physical parameters which are determined by Forward kinematics
the design of Delta robot. The reference frame will be Unaprijedna kinematika
chosen with the origin at the centre of symmetry of the fixed
triangle, as shown below, so z-coordinate of the end effector In this case the three joint angles theta1, theta2 and theta3
will always be negative. are given, and we need to find the coordinates (x0, y0, z0) of
Because of the robot's design the joint F1J1 (Fig. 2) can
end effector point E0. As we know angles theta, we can
only rotate in YZ plane, forming a circle with the centre in
easily find coordinates of points J1, J2 and J3 (Fig. 3). Joints
point F1 and radius rf. As opposed to F1, J1 and E1 are so-
J1E1, J2E2 and J3E3 can freely rotate around points J1, J2 and J3
called universal joints, which means that E1J1 can rotate
respectively, forming three spheres with radius re.
freely relatively to E1, forming a sphere with the centre in
Now let's do the following: move the centres of the
point E1 and radius re.
spheres from points J1, J2 and J3 to the points J'1, J'2 and J'3
using transition vectors E1E0, E2E0 and E3E0 respectively.
After this transition all three spheres will intersect in one
point E0. So, to find coordinates (x0, y0, z0) of point E0, we
2 2
need to solve the set of three equations like (x – xj) + (y – yj)
2 2
+ (z – zj) = re , where coordinates of sphere centres (xj, yj, zj)
and radius re are known.

3
The development of Delta Robots in Academia
Razvoj Delta robota u Akademiji

Delta robot design has attracted a great interest not only

in industry but also in university laboratories. A number of
variants have been proposed in the literature but most of
those that have been prototyped stay close to the original
design. One such modified Delta robot was built at the
University of Maryland. Another modified version was
constructed at the University of Genoa. In that design, the
parallelograms are replaced by equivalent mechanisms.
Yet another highly-optimized version, NUWAR, was
built at the University of Western Australia. The NUWAR
2
is claimed to reach accelerations up to 600 m/s and differs
Figure 2 Delta robot joint moving parameters [7]
from the other delta robot versions in its non-coplanar
Slika 2. Parametri gibanja spojeva (zglobova) Delta robota [7] arrangement of the axes of its rotary actuators (Fig. 4).
Three linear-motor versions were also constructed at
Ferdinand-von-Steinbeis Schule, ETH Zurich, and the
Intersection of this sphere and YZ plane is a circle with
University of Stuttgart.
the centre in point E'1 and radius E'1J1, where E'1 is the
projection of the point E1 on YZ plane. The point J1 can be
found now as intersection of two circles of known radius
with centres in E'1 and F1 (we should choose only one
intersection point with smaller y-coordinate). And if we
know J1, we can calculate θ1 angle [7].

Figure 4 Delta robot developed at the University of Western Australia [13]

Slika 4. Delta robot razvijen na univerzitetu Western Australia [13]

There was a lot of delta robots developed at the

universities but the greatest concentration of this kind of
robot is found at its birthplace, l'École Polytechnique
Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). There is a haptic device
built by EPFL's Virtual Reality andActive Interfaces Group.
Figure 3 Coordinates of end effector (E0 calculation) [7]
Slika 3. Koordinate krajnjeg efektora (E0 izračun) [7] Their Delta Force Feedback Device is commercially
available for about 20,000 USD. Another typical Delta

Technical Gazette 18, 3(2011), 435-445 437

Delta robots – robots for high speed manipulation V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler

robot was also constructed at he EPFL's Automation

Institute. And of course, several Delta robots were built by
the Parallel Robotics Group headed by Prof. Reymold
Clavel.

3.1
The design of a training delta robot at the University
of Žilina
Projekt delta robota za vježbanje na Univerzitetu Žilina

At the University of Žilina we have designed own Delta

robot (Fig. 5). The design of the upper fixed platform was
based on the requirements of just-mounting construction,
which would be sufficient for our purpose. Therefore we
have selected construction with standard aluminium
profiles and Minitec dural components. All connections are
designed with the screw connections – with brackets and
with the profiles (profiles of basic dimensions of 45×90
mm, 45×45 mm, and angles 60°×45 mm).

Figure 6 Detailed view on one kinematic chain includes rotary arm,

parallelogram and moving platform
Slika 6. Detaljni pogled na jedan kinematički lanac uključuje
kružnu ruku, paralelogram i pokretnu platformu

In the first case we can use for example the gearbox with
output shaft and the last bearing strong enough to carry the
whole arm. In the second case we can apply the structure
composed of drive unit, gearbox, coupling and specialized
bearing unit. The bearing unit is needed to restrain the forces
from the rotary arm.
We decided for the second alternative. Then the main
shaft, which carries the mass and the forces applied on the
arm, is separated from the output shaft of the gearbox or
drive unit. This main shaft is connected to the base frame by
two special bearing units. The mechanical coupling is
inserted between the system of the drive unit (contained the
bearing too) and the main shaft of the rotary arm. For the
Figure 5 Design of delta robot Caertec rk 2010 at the University of Žilina rotary arm fixing in the static position the electromagnetic
Slika 5. Projekt delta robota Caertec rk 2010 na Univerzitetu Žilina brake is linked to the main shaft.

The rotary arms are designed from thin-walled

rectangular profiles. They are mounted on the drive shaft by
shrink connection.
The structure of parallelogram contains two slim
parallel rods connected together by the joints with 3DOF.
The moving platform is similarly dealt with a simple
design, meeting the requirements for attaching the end
effector or any member. Affixed parallelogram is designed
as pivot and thrust bearings.
Because of the fact that the robot contains three
identical rotary arms (Fig. 5 and Fig. 6), it was necessary to
design the appropriate frame (console) which provides the
fixation of the first revolute joint of each arm in required
position. The angle between the planes perpendicular to the
axes of every neighbourhood arms is set to 120°.
Suitable design of the console should fulfil certain
standards not only of strength and stiffness but also in terms
of efficient assembly. To ensure the reliable mechanism
running and torque transmission, suitable rotary shaft
bearings are needed for the first axis of the arms. There are
two ways how to solve this requirement by using:
! components with integrated bearing, Figure 7 Robot cell with the training Delta robot Caertec rk 2010
! special bearing unit. application
Slika 7. Ćelija robota s primjenom Delta robota Caertec rk 2010

438 Tehnički vjesnik 18, 3(2011), 435-445

V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler Delta roboti – roboti za rukovanje velikom brzinom

As a drive for the rotary arm is used the servo drive

Q1AA04010D with low inertia made by company ALL
motion. It was selected according to the calculated minimal
torque.
With respect to the drive unit we have selected the
suitable gearbox too. We have chosen the gearbox AE050-
100 made by company ALL motion. It can be characterized
by enough torque to ensure the required movement, low
inertia and low backlash.
After the design phase of delta robot we have done also
the structural design of the main frame for carrying it. In this
way we have obtained the basic scheme of robotic cell with Figure 9 Hitachi Seiki Delta robots [6]
the delta robot in the middle. A work table or belt conveyors, Slika 9. Delta roboti Hitachi Seiki [6]
magazines and fixture devices can be placed under the robot
(Fig. 7). represents Demaurex in Japan.

4 ABB FlexibleAutomation
Delta Robots in the Market ABB Flexible Automation launched its Delta robot in
Delta roboti na tržištu 1999 under the name IRB 340 FlexPicker (Fig. 10). Three
industry sectors were aimed at the food, pharmaceutical,
The history of the Delta robot marketing is long, and electronics industries. The FlexPicker is equipped with
complicated, and intriguing. It all started in 1983 when the an integrated vacuum system capable of rapid pick and
two Swiss brothers Marc-Olivier and Pascal Demaurex release of objects weighing up to 1 kg. The robot is guided
created the company Demaurex based in Romanel-sur- with a machine vision system by Cognex and an ABB S4C
Lausanne, Switzerland. controller. Optionally, the robot may be equipped with a
motion controller and vision system byAdept Technology.
Demaurex Delta robots After nearly ten years research and experience in the
After purchasing a license for the Delta robot in 1987, field of packaging technology came FlexPicker IBR 360
their major objective became to commercialize the parallel with the second generation of Delta ABB robots. This
robot for the packaging industry (Fig. 8). After several second generation is even more efficient with higher speed
years, Demaurex succeeded in occupying a major place in and carrying capacity and smaller footprint.
this new difficult market. The company product went
through a number of modifications and finally, they sold
500 Delta robots worldwide.

Figure 10 ABB Flexible Automation IRB 340 FlexPicker [10]

Slika 10. IRB 340 FlexPicker firme ABB Flexible Automation [10]

Figure 8 Demaurex's Line-Placer installation for ABB has installed around 1800 Delta robots all over the
the packaging in an industrial bakery [9] world and it is the leader in the field of advanced packaging
Slika 8. Demaurexova Line-Placer instalacija za pakiranje u
jednoj industrijskoj pekari [9] technologies.

SIG Group
The patent on the Delta robot was bought by the Demaurex, in order to ensure its long term stability,
brothers Demaurex from EPFL in 1996 and some years later changed its line of production from naked Delta robots to
ABB acquired a license to manufacture Delta robots. Many complete robot cells. However, in order to gain a world
other brands such as Renault Automation Comau, GROB- market, the small Demaurex started looking for a partner.
Werke, Krause & Mauser Group, have acquired the license And it is thus that Demaurex became acquired by the Swiss
as well. Group SIG at the end of 1999.
The SIG Group consists of three branches, of which the
Hitachi Seiki SIG Pack branch, only, employs some 2000 workers, a
Demaurex sold licenses to the Japanese company company big enough to offer Demaurex the so much needed
Hitachi Seiki for the production of smaller Delta robots for access to the world market. Presently, three different Delta
drilling operations (Fig. 9). In fact, Hitachi Seiki Company robot models are offered by the SIG Pack Systems. Whereas

Technical Gazette 18, 3(2011), 435-445 439

Delta robots – robots for high speed manipulation V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler

for placing products into assortment-packs with vision-

guided high-speed Delta robotsAdept Quattro.
Adept Technology, Inc. is a global, leading provider of
intelligent vision-guided robotics systems and services.
Founded in 1983, Adept Technology is the largest U.S.-
based manufacturer of industrial robots. In the year 2007 a
high-speed Delta robot, under the name of Quattro, was
developed [9].
The Adept Quattro (Fig. 13) is specifically designed
for high-speed applications in packaging, manufacturing,
assembly, and material handling. It is the only Delta robot in
the world that features a patented four-arm design,
advanced control algorithms, and large work envelope, thus
Figure 11 SIG Pack Systems models C33 and CE33 [6]
Slika 11. Modeli C33 and CE33 firme SIG Pack Systems [6]
making the Adept Quattro the ideal overhead-mount robot
for smooth motion, high-throughput applications. The
Adept Quattro is powered by ultra-compact controls and
the C23 and C33 are manufactured by Demaurex, the CE33 embedded amplifiers, which reduces the cycle time and
is built by the SIG Pack Systems (Fig. 11). improves footprint efficiency.
BOSCH
In 2004, the German company Bosch Group purchased
the SIG and SIG Pack Division Demaurex and included it in
their packaging technologies.
Sigpack System products have always been known for
their superior quality and reliability, and nowadays is one of
the world's leading suppliers of handling and packaging
systems. Many Delta robot models have been developed by
BOSCH, for example:
! XR31: higher performance and higher reliability,
! XR22: a combination of compact design and high
accuracy,
! Paloma D2 built in stainless steel in order to meet
hygiene standards and regulations for food industry
(Fig. 12).

Figure 13 Adept Quattro s650H [9]

Slika 13. Adept Quattro s650H [9]

Thanks to using advanced tracking software, Adept

Quattro is able to locate, select and place fast-moving
objects. Regarding its maintenance, parallel robotics allows
fixed engine and does not require moving electrical wires,
which means a longer and easier maintenance. The
composite material chosen for the robot arm driving
mechanism and the end-effector have been designed for
greater strength and power. Lubrication in the joints or drive
mechanisms is not required.
Using cutting edge technology in vision systems, Adept
Figure 12 Paloma D2 – BOSCH Delta robot [11]
Slika 12. BOSCH Delta robot Paloma D2 [11] Quattro is able to pick-and-place fast moving and randomly
located objects with high accuracy.
In addition, this Delta robot has three DOF with an
These robots have been placed in the following optional fourth DOF, which is helpful during selection and
production lines: placement tasks. Robots are also able to manage three
! MonoPacker LDM: A very flexible system used to robots hierarchically [9].
place large volumes of products in containers directly
from the manufacturing process. Fanuc Robotics
! Feed Placer: A system with a vision-guided high-speed In 1956 FUJITSU Fanuc was founded as a subsidiary of
Delta robot that accepts aligned or randomly oriented FUJITSU LTP to develop numerical controls. In 1972,
incoming product flow on a wide belt conveyor and it FUJITSU LTD spun off FUJITSU Fanuc and the name was
places the product directly into the moving flights of changed to FUJITSU FANUC LTD. The first industrial
wrapper, cartoner or thermoformer with smooth robot was developed and installed in 1974. The company
efficiency. grew rapidly, changed its name and the USA and EUROPE
FANUC were established in 1977 and 1978 respectively.
Astor Assortment Placer: A high flexible system used Nowadays, FANUC Robotics has installed over 200.000

440 Tehnički vjesnik 18, 3(2011), 435-445

V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler Delta roboti – roboti za rukovanje velikom brzinom

5
The development of training workplace with Fanuc
Delta robot
Razvoj mjesta za obuku s Delta robotom Fanuc

The Delta robot FANUC M-1iA 0.5A at the

University of Žilina is a novel lightweight robot for
electronics, measuring devices and other precision
industries. It is extremely useful for ultra compact
production cells thanks to the compact and lightweight arm
and the compact and powerful Mate OpenAir Controller.
This new robot provides a higher productivity for
assembly and picking applications, a lightweight
mechanism with better cycle times and a unique 6-axes
parallel link arm mechanism that allows to automate
Figure 14 Exposition of Delta robots M-1iA FANUC Robotics difficult tasks such as complex insertion, gluing and more.
at World's Fair Automate 2011 in Chicago However, FANUC M-1iA 0.5A will be used at the
Slika 14. Izlaganje Delta robota M-1iA FANUC Robotics laboratories of the University of Žilina to prove the
na svjetskom sajmu Automate 2011 u Chicagu advantages of parallel robots, and to show the students how
a robot can be programmed and utilized [4].
robots in all over the world and it is the world leader in In addition, FANUC M-1iA 0.5A is a compact and
industrial robotics. intelligent controller thanks to the integrated iRVision
Two models of Delta robots have been developed by which can locate and check work pieces for flexible parts
FANUC Robotics, M-1iA (Fig. 14) with 6 or 4 DOF, and M- feeding applications and other intelligent tasks. This vision
3iA (Fig. 15) also with 6 or 4 DOF. These robots are ideal to system allows four possible processes: normal 2D Vision,
automate tasks which so far have been too fast and too depalletising 2 ½ D Vision (includes a calculation of Z-
complex for robots. In addition, this new family of the robot height and some special depalletising functions), 2D
series offers the motion flexibility of a human wrist, fast Multiview Vision and Visual Line Tracking 2D Vision [12].
cycle times, ultra compact arm and precision. It is also The workplace has been designed for education in
possible to support intelligent functions using iRVision [5, robotics at the University of Žilina. The frame, as the main
12]. structure, has been analyzed carefully (including static and
dynamic analysis) to develop a wide range of tasks
requiring high accuracy. With respect to the dynamics of the
robot motion, the table is fixed to the floor with 4 screws.
To start the calculations, we will simplify the model.
After the first results, a 3D model of the frame will be
analysed in a numerical methods program with the dynamic
forced as the Robot operates. Several iterations will be
carried out until finding the optimal solution.
! Conditions: The maximum deformation of the frame
cannot exceed 0,5 mm due to the high accuracy
required by some tasks such as the assembly of an
electronic device.
! Simplifications:
- 2 D model
- Infinite stiffness of columns
- The robot is supported on the very beam of the frame.

As a result of the simplifications mentioned above and

applying the highest forces produced by the robot
(Emergency stop) at the same time we obtain the following
diagrams (Fig. 16).

Figure 15 Characteristics of Delta robots M-3iA FANUC Robotics

at World's Fair Automate 2011 in Chicago
Slika 15. Karakteristike Delta robota M-3iA FANUC Robotics
na svjetskom sajmu Automate 2011 u Chicagu Figure 16 Diagram of forces for simplified model
Slika 16. Dijagram sila pojednostavnjenog modela

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Delta robots – robots for high speed manipulation V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler

Figure 19 The third modal of dynamic analysis

Slika 19. Treći model dinamičke analize
Figure 17 Strain diagrams of simplified model
Slika 17. Dijagrami deformacije pojednostavljenog modela

As Fig. 17 shows, the critical points are B and C. Then,

we calculate the deformation in B and we will decide, using
Rexroth Catalogue, which profile's size is the appropriate
one. The Castigliano's second theorem has been used to
calculate the deformation.
The maximum deformation of the frame cannot exceed
0,5 mm due to the high accuracy required by some tasks
such as the assembly of an electronic device.
The static analysis was carried out using ANSYS®
software. After introducing the input parameters of the
materials, meshing and setting the boundary conditions it is
possible to execute the analysis. The main purpose of the
static analysis is to check the reliability and stiffness of the
whole structure.

Figure 20 Resonance frequencies of the frame

Slika 20. Rezonancijske frekvencije konstrukcije

Conclusions of calculations and analysis

- The simplified version is a good model to start
designing.
- The frame is stiff enough to develop a wide range of
tasks.
- The frame must be screwed into the ground.
- It is important to avoid resonance frequencies so as not
to damage either the robot or the frame.

The workplace has been designed taking into account

some ergonomic rules such as NV SR c. 309 2007 and
MPSVR 718 202 (Slovakia). Both rules come from
European rules thus they are valid in whole Europe.
The emergency stop buttons must be at visible and
reachable locations. There is no rule specifying the exact
Figure 18 Meshing of the frame place of these buttons. Therefore the 2 emergency stop
Slika 18. Mrežasta struktura konstrukcije
buttons are placed near the waist and near the knees
respectively because these are considered as good positions.
The dynamic analysis was carried out using ANSYS® Furthermore, five tasks and their pallets have been
software too. The same model of static analysis was used. designed to show the abilities of the FANUC M-1iA 0.5A.
The main purpose of this analysis was to determine the These tasks have also been thought to be programmed by the
resonance frequencies of the structure in order to avoid students thus the difficulty increases. Finally, a magazine
using the robot at these precise frequencies. has been designed to store the current task pallets and it has
been created to house ten pallets.

442 Tehnički vjesnik 18, 3(2011), 435-445

V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler Delta roboti – roboti za rukovanje velikom brzinom

Characteristics:
- End-effector: Vacuum end-effector.
- iRVision: No.
- Objects: 4 equal-sized balls.
- Initial object position: Known.
- Objective: Replace the balls as fast as possible in order
to prove the agility of the robot.
- Degrees of freedom: 3.

Detailed task by steps is shown in Figure 22.

Task No 2: Stacking cubes

Characteristics:
- End-effector: Gripper
- iRVision: No
- Objects: 8 small cubes
- Initial object position: Known
- Objective: Stack 8 cubes placed in a magazine in order
to show the dimensions of the workspace and the
Figure 21 Design of workplace with FANUC Delta robot M-1iA [4] dexterity of the robot.
Slika 21. Projekt radnog mjesta s FANUC Delta robotom M-1iA [4] - Degrees of freedom: 4

5.1 Detailed task No 2 by steps is shown in Fig. 23.

The design of Delta robot application tasks
Projektiranje zadataka za primjenu Delta robota

The workplace will be specially designed to carry out

five different tasks at the laboratories of the University of
Žilina [4]. The end-effector and the pallet must be changed
depending on the task.
The first task is oriented to high manipulation with
small objects – the balls are being replaced as fast as
possible in order to prove the agility of the robot. The second
task: 8 cubes are saved to the magazine in order to show the
dimensions of the workspace and the dexterity of the robot.
The third task is centred on robot application in automatic
assembly without computer vision (CV) system
application. Further task is oriented to objects sorting in a
magazine with the CV system application. In the last task
the keys are assembled to sloping keyboard by using the CV Figure 23 Description of Task No 2 [4]
system. Slika 23. Opis zadatka br. 2 [4]
The tasks have been designed to be programmed by the
students and thus the difficulty of these tasks increases. Task No 3: Assembling an electronic component

Task No 1: Replacing balls Characteristics:

- End-effector: Gripper.
- Objects: Base, connector RS232, 2 sockets.
- Initial object position: known.
- Objective: Assemble a testing board to prove the high
dexterity and accuracy of FANUC M-1iA.
- Degrees of freedom: 5.

Detailed task No 2 by steps is shown in Fig. 24.

Task No 4: Sorting a magazine

Characteristics:
- End-effector: Vacuum end-effector.
- iRVision: Yes.
- Objects: 3 square-shaped and 3 round-shaped pieces
made of metal sheet.
Figure 22 Description of Task No 1 [4] - Initial object position: Unknown (pieces stacked in a
Slika 22. Opis zadatka br. 1 [4] magazine).
- Objective: Stack the square-shaped pieces in magazine

Technical Gazette 18, 3(2011), 435-445 443

Delta robots – robots for high speed manipulation V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler

A and the round-shaped ones in magazine B, in order to - iRVision: Yes

prove the reliability of the iRVision. - Objects: Keyboard keys
- Degrees of freedom: 4. - Initial object position: Unknown (alleatory)
- Objective: Assemble the numbers of a sloping
Detailed task by steps is shown in Fig. 25. keyboard in order to prove the high dexterity of
FANUC M-1iA0.5Aby using iRVision system
- Degrees of freedom: 6

Detailed task by steps is presented in Fig. 26.

6
Conclusions
Zaključci

The parallel kinematic structure is a closed-loop

kinematic chain mechanism whose end-effector is linked to
the base by several independent kinematic chains.
Parallel structures are interesting due to their great
stiffness and high positioning accuracy compared to serial
robots. This kind of kinematic structure can be used in many
Figure 24 Description of Task No 3 and final result [4] fields but most of them are used as robots or as numerically
Slika 24. Opis zadatka br. 3 i konačni rezultat [4] controlled machine tools. Specific applications such as
spatial, medical, joysticks and simulators are also possible.
Delta robot design has attracted great interest not only
in industry but also in university laboratories. A number of
variants have been proposed in the literature but most of
those that have been prototyped stay close to the original
design. The use of base-mounted actuators and low-mass
links allow the mobile platform to achieve large
accelerations up to 50 times the gravity (g) in experimental
environments and 12g in industrial applications.
This paper informs about the development of
mechanical subsystem of training Delta robot called
Caertec rk 2010 at the University of Žilina.
Two models of Delta robots have been developed by
FANUC Robotics, M-1iA and M-3iA. These robots are
ideal to automate tasks which so far have been too fast and
too complex for robots. In addition, this new family of robot
series offers the motion flexibility of a human wrist, fast
Figure 25 Description of Task No 4 [4] cycle times, ultra compact arm and precision. It is also
Slika 25. Opis zadatka br. 4 [4] possible to support intelligent functions using Computer
Vision System (iRVision).
The workplace with Delta robot M-1iA FANUC
Robotics has been designed at the University of Žilina. The
frame, as the main structure, has been analyzed carefully
(including static and dynamic analysis) to develop a wide
range of tasks requiring high accuracy. Furthermore, 5 tasks
and their pallets have been designed to show the abilities of
the FANUC M-1iA 0.5A. These tasks have also been
thought to be programmed by the students thus the difficulty
increases. Finally, a magazine has been designed to store the
current task pallets and it has been created to house 10
pallets.
It is very important to work with iRVision as well as
create the end-effector to develop the mentioned tasks. In
the future is possible to automate the pallet feeding by using
a belt conveyor and work with other companies to improve
the knowledge about parallel robots.
Figure 26 Description of Task No 5 [4]
Slika 26. Opis zadatka br. 5 [4]
Acknowledgement
Zahvala
Task 5: Assembling a keyboard This article was created by the solution of project - code
ITMS 26220220046: "The Development of Parallel
Characteristics: Kinematic Structure Prototypes for Application in the Area
- End-effector: Vacuum end-effector of Machine Tools and Robots" supported by the operational

444 Tehnički vjesnik 18, 3(2011), 435-445

 V. Poppeová, J. Uríček, V. Bulej, P. Šindler Delta roboti – roboti za rukovanje velikom brzinom

program Development and research, financed from the

European foundation for regional progress.

7
References
Literatura
[1] Merlet, J.-P. Parallel Robots. Dordrecht: Springer Academic
Publisher, 2006, ISBN-10 1-4020-4133-0
[2] Kolíbal, Z. The theory of basic kinematic chain structures and
its effect on their application in the design of industrial robot
positioning mechanisms. CERM, Brno, 2001.
[3] Zhang, D. Parallel Robotic Machine Tools. Oshawa: Springer
Science and Business Media, LLC 2010, ISBN 978-1-4419-
1116-2, e-ISBN 978-1-4419-1117-9
[4] Alba and Romeo, X. Design of the workplace for a Delta
Robot. Diploma work, University of Žilina and UPC
Barcelona, 2011.
[5] FANUC M-1IA0.5AOperation manual B-83084EN/02
[6] Bonev, I. Delta Parallel Robot – the Story of Success, 2003.
http://www.parallemic.org/Reviews/Review002.html.
[7] Zavatsky, M. Delta robot kinematics, 2009.
http://forums.trossenrobotics.com/tutorials/introduction-
129/delta-robot-kinematics-3276/.
[8] http://robotech.freehostia.com/
[9] Adept 2011.Adept Qattro Parallel Robots.
http://www.adept.com/products/robots/parallel
[10] http://www.abb.com
[11] http://www.boschpackaging.com
[12] http://www.fanucrobotics.es
[13] http://www.mech.uwa.edu.au

Authors' addresses
Adrese autora

Viera Poppeová, Assoc. Prof., Ing., PhD.

Juraj Uríček, Assoc. Prof., Ing., PhD.
Vladimír Bulej, Ing., PhD.
University of Žilina
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
Department of Automation and Production Systems
010 26 Žilina, Slovakia
Tel.: +421 41 513 2809
E-mail: viera.poppeova@fstroj.uniza.sk

Peter Šindler, Ing.

University of Žilina
Faculty of Electrical Engineering
Department of Mechatronics and Electronic
010 26 Žilina, Slovakia
Tel.: +421 41 513 1626
E-mail: peter.sindler@fel.uniza.sk

Technical Gazette 18, 3(2011), 435-445 445

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