5 Tips for Getting Started in Robotics
By Erin Kemal
The robotics and automation industry is rapidly expanding, so we have created this blog post to help you get started in the field. As you learn, we hope you will be inspired and see some products that pique your interest.
Tip number 1: Be smart with your money
Starting off in robotics doesn’t need to be expensive. In fact, if you are just starting, it definitely shouldn’t be! At igus®, we are seeing more and more people who are beginners to domain of robotics. Our low-cost automation range of products are perfect for beginners as well as more advanced users looking for the flexibility to try out new ideas and concepts without breaking the bank.
Universities and colleges are prime examples of the sort of customers we are getting regular enquiries from. Products such as the Apiro starter kit is fast becoming the go-to for entry level robotics. The Apiro starter kit comes complete with all the components to create eight different kinds of systems.
The possible systems are:
1 Apiro® room linear robot
2 Apiro® flat linear robot
3 Apiro® mini articulated robot
4 Apiro® pusher
5 Apiro® two-axis picker
6 Apiro® three-axis picker
7 Apiro® 360° picker
8 Apiro® SCARA
Part number RL-A9.0200
Tip number 2: Robots don’t need to be complicated
Our gearbox systems offer flexibility, enabling you to build up a wide variety of kinematics in a modular and flexible way. The Apiro modular system offers different gear ratios but also length variants, so that there are endless possibilities for combinations and applications. This system makes applications such as: lane adjustments, cam adjustments, pusher applications, rotary tables and even Cartesian robots to be configured and built.
The Apiro starter kit comes with assembly videos and the lightweight polymer parts are robust and durable, qualities that are ideal for getting started in robotics.
Tip number 3: Don’t be afraid to try
As mentioned, the beauty of the Apiro system is the flexibility it offers. It allows anyone who wants to start in robotics to try, feel and experiment with a durable system. Also, thanks to the high-performance iglide® polymers that make up the parts that move, you can have peace of mind as you try different configurations. You can get hands on and learn how different robot kinematics work in a simple way.
Tip number 4: Find a system that works for you & do your research
When getting started in robotics, it can be difficult to know which system to invest in, even if a given system is a low-cost option. As you are likely aware, research can be done to overcome this hurdle. You can also get in touch with one of our automation specialists and they can guide you to the most appropriate robot for your application. We can also demonstrate our robots virtually or in-person.
What other advantages does the drygear Apiro system offer?
- Fast return on investment
- Dry-running and maintenance-free operation, thanks to tribologically optimized material compounds and aluminum profiles
- Improved accuracy and repeatability
- More storage space, as no spacers and overlays are required
- Suitable for applications with splashing water
- Axial movements in both vertical and horizontal directions
Not every system will work for you so pick one that does!
Tip number 5: Enjoy!
Getting started in robotics can be fun. So can learning about the capabilities of your robot along the way.
Applying your own creativity and imagination to the right components opens the door for endless possibilities. (And if it doesn’t work, you can dismantle, rethink and try again). Once you are ready to automate, you can add motors to your system! There are infinite possibilities with the Apiro modular robot gearbox system. So, if you are considering getting started in robotics, why not give it a go!
For more articles on Low cost Automation visit our igus Canada Blog & Toolbox.
