GadgetTechnology

Difference Between XYZ Systems Vs. Cartesian Systems

XZY Systems

Currently, there are a number of XYZ systems, and each has been designed for specific purposes. One of the interesting things about these systems is that they are being used in the fiber-optic, industrial robot, photonics vision systems. They are also being used in the manufacturing industry both in the medical component manufacturing and the electrical component manufacturing phase. It has other industrial applications as well.

Some of the XYZ systems include but are definitely not limited to these;

  1. XY Tables;

These tables are stacked linear actuators that make use of brushless drive motors or precision ball screws. They provide horizontal motion for a number of automated machinery in manufacturing facilities. It has been revealed that automated machinery and robotic arms have just a limited range of motion, but their bases remain the same. With XY tables, they would be able to move horizontally along the two axes. They can also be referred to as XY stages.

Cartesian Systems

Basically, the Cartesian system is made up of about two or three axes, the X, Y, or the X-Y-Z. Most of the time, they incorporate an end effector with a component for orienting the workload. One of the outstanding features is that when the Cartesian system is used, the workload is cantilevered or anchored between the outer axis, which is often times the X and Y axis. This is quite different from the gantry system where the workload is mounted on the Y-axis.

Currently, cartesian systems are being used in a number of applications with the stroke on each axis about one meter or less. Some of the common use of this system in industries include;  the assembly process, dispensing process, picking and placing of heavy parts. They’ve been made available in seemingly endless configurations and have been customized to meet the exact parameters. Prior to this time, cartesian systems or robots have been designed by end-users and integrators, but things have changed now as there are pre-engineered systems that are capable of reducing significantly the assembly, engineering, as well as start-up time when compared to the previous systems.

What You Should Consider When Choosing An XYZ System

When it comes to selecting a cartesian system or robot, there are a number of factors that should be taken into consideration. These factors will ensure that you get the best system or robot for your application.

  1. 1. Orientation happens to be the first factor that you would need to take into consideration when choosing an XYZ system. The application often times will determine the orientation with the focus being on whether the parts would need to be handled or if there is a need for the process to take place from below or above. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the system or robot does not interfere with other moving parts as this may be hazardous. Luckily, these cartesian systems have been designed in X-Y-Z and X-Y configurations to meet the space and application requirements.
  2. Stroke, load, and speed; these are the basic parameters on which each XYZ system is selected. For an application to be moved to a specific part, a certain load is required. However, they are independent, and as the load increases, the maximum speed decreases. Also, if the outer actuator is anchored, strokes will be limited by the load. These things mentioned make sizing a cartesian robot a difficult task.

In addition, you should pay attention to find out if the load, stroke, and speed specifications can be achieved at a time.

  1. Accuracy and precision; basically, linear actuators happen to be the basis of the accuracy and precision of an XYZ system. The features of the linear actuator will determine its accuracy and precision. Some of the features to look out for include; whether it comes with a steel or aluminum base, its drive mechanism belt, linear motor, pneumatic, etc. Additionally, how these actuators are mounted & fastened has a part to play in its accuracy. Bear in mind that a cartesian robot that is pinned and precision-aligned during assembly will have a greater accuracy level than one that is not pinned. Also, it would be easier and better when it comes to maintaining the accuracy level over a period of time.

Related Articles

Back to top button