Affordable Industrial Robot Arm Enhances Application Flexibility
Programmed with PathPilot and Python, the compact ZA6 robot automates and simplifies applications like machine tending, welding, part transfer, inventory handling, deburring and even polishing.
Photo Credit: Tormach Inc.
Tormach Inc., a supplier of affordable and compact CNC machines, introduces its latest product, the ZA6 robot. The ZA6 robot is built to industrial standards, utilizing EtherCAT servo motors, harmonic gear drives and aluminum castings. It can carry a 6-kg (~13-Ib) payload through a reach of 975 mm (38") with optimal speed and ±0.5 mm/0.020" repeatability. Requiring only 20A of single-phase 220VAC, Tormach says the robot can be installed almost anywhere.
“Since its introduction, the new Tormach ZA6 robot has been sold to customers doing machine tending, welding, part transfer and inventory handling,” Daniel Rogge, president of Tormach, notes. “Applications for moldmakers including deburring and polishing are also possible with the ZA6.”
The ZA6 is claimed to be the only industrial robot to use Python as its programming language. Python is popular, easy to learn, powerful and enables the integration of ZA6 with other Python-driven systems — there are more than 20,000 Python libraries available.
The ZA6 is powered by PathPilot, Tormach’s user-friendly control software. PathPilot does not require expertise in industrial robotics to program the ZA6 in most applications. Committed to helping customers succeed, Tormach also provides resources like a YouTube tutorial series, user forums and technical support.
Tormach’s PathPilot Robot control system is built on the Robot Operating System (ROS) computing platform for robotics research. Because ROS and PathPilot are open-source, this makes the ZA6 particularly attractive to people like ROS researchers or others who need code transparency, or want access to low-level system variables.
The ZA6 includes the robot, electrical cabinet, control computer and PathPilot control software. Tormach also offers the ZA6, and a selection of accessories, for direct purchase via an e-commerce website at www.tormach.com. As with all Tormach products, customers will receive free remote technical support via email, phone and video chat.
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