An industrial robot is a programmable, automated machine used in industrial settings to perform tasks
such as assembly, welding, painting, material handling, and inspection. These robots enhance
productivity, precision, and safety by automating repetitive, dangerous, or labor-intensive operations.
Classification of Industrial Robots
Industrial robots can be classified based on various criteria:
1. By Mechanical Structure
• Articulated Robots: Have rotary joints, offering flexibility and a wide range of motion,
commonly used for welding, painting, and assembly.
• Cartesian Robots: Operate in straight lines along X, Y, and Z axes, ideal for tasks like pick-
and-place and CNC machine operation.
• Cylindrical Robots: Combine linear and rotational movements, suitable for assembly and
material handling.
• Spherical Robots: Have a spherical workspace, used in limited applications like welding
or inspection.
• Delta (Parallel) Robots: Lightweight, high-speed robots for tasks like packaging and
electronics assembly.
• SCARA Robots: Compact, fast robots with limited vertical movement, mainly for small-
parts assembly.
2. By Driving System
• Electric Drive: Offers high precision and efficiency, used in most modern robots.
• Hydraulic Drive: Provides high power and torque, suitable for heavy-duty tasks like
forging or material handling.
• Pneumatic Drive: Lightweight and cost-effective, used for simple, repetitive operations.
3. By Application
• Welding Robots: Perform arc welding, spot welding, or laser welding in industries like
automotive manufacturing.
• Assembly Robots: Handle precise assembly tasks, often in electronics and small-part
manufacturing.
• Material Handling Robots: Perform pick-and-place, packing, palletizing, or sorting tasks.
• Painting Robots: Ensure consistent and precise coating in industries like automotive or
furniture.
• Inspection Robots: Use sensors or cameras for quality control and defect detection.
4. By Level of Autonomy
• Pre-Programmed Robots: Follow fixed routines, suitable for repetitive tasks.
• Adaptive Robots: Adjust their operations based on environmental feedback, increasing
flexibility.
• Autonomous Robots: Use AI and machine learning to perform complex tasks without
human intervention.
Industrial robots are a cornerstone of modern manufacturing, offering versatility and efficiency across a
range of industries.