The landscape of additive manufacturing is ever-evolving, with advancements in technology continuously reshaping how products are designed and produced. ABB, a leader in industrial automation, has recently introduced the Ultra Accuracy GoFa cobots, a new line of collaborative robots that promise to change the game for precision in 3D printing. With remarkable specifications that far surpass earlier models, these cobots could bridge the gap between traditional industrial robots and the emerging 3D printing sector.The Evolution of Cobots in 3D PrintingHistorically, industrial robots have been pivotal in driving innovation in various manufacturing processes, including concrete 3D printing, wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM), and large-scale polymer 3D printing. However, the role of cobots—collaborative robots designed to work alongside human operators—has been less pronounced in the 3D printing industry. For large-format applications, such as pellet material extrusion and directed energy deposition (DED), robots have proven to be ideal motion platforms. For a lone inventor or small-scale manufacturer aiming to print large metal structures, integrating a welding head onto a robotic arm has often been the simplest and most accessible method to begin their 3D printing journey.With the introduction of the Ultra Accuracy GoFa cobots, ABB is poised to change the dynamics of cobots in the additive manufacturing realm.Key Features of the Ultra Accuracy GoFa CobotsThe new family of ABB Ultra Accuracy GoFa cobots comes with a suite of features designed to enhance precision and flexibility in various manufacturing applications:Exceptional Accuracy: With a path accuracy of just 0.03 mm, these cobots significantly outperform previous generations, making them suitable for intricate additive manufacturing tasks.Payload Options: Available in 5, 10, and 12 kg payload capacities, the cobots can accommodate a wide range of tools and attachments, including WAAM, polymer, or concrete extrusion heads.Reach and Speed: The GoFa cobots offer a maximum reach of 1.6 meters and can operate at speeds of up to 2.2 m/s, allowing for swift and efficient production cycles.High Repeatability: Achieving repeatability of 0.02 mm ensures consistent quality in production, essential for industries requiring tight tolerances.Smart Safety Features: Equipped with torque sensors, the robots can prevent collisions and ensure safe operation alongside human workers. Their design also supports various mounting options—on platforms, walls, or ceilings—adding to their versatility in different manufacturing environments.Compact and Lightweight: Weighing between 28 and 51 kg, these cobots offer ease of integration into existing workflows without requiring significant structural modifications.Applications Beyond 3D PrintingWhile the Ultra Accuracy GoFa cobots are specifically designed for additive manufacturing, their capabilities extend far beyond that. ABB envisions these robots being utilized in applications such as pelletizing, screwdriving, and traditional welding. Their six-axis design provides flexibility, making them adaptable for various configurations in manufacturing setups.Andrea Cassoni, ABB’s Global Head of Collaborative Robots, highlights the importance of precision in modern manufacturing:"As industries look to automation to enhance product quality and achieve tighter tolerances, there is a growing need for robots that can perform tasks with exceptional precision."Potential Impact on 3D PrintingThe introduction of the Ultra Accuracy GoFa cobots opens up exciting possibilities for innovative applications and printer designs in the additive manufacturing industry. For example:Compact Manufacturing Cells: Envision a setup where an ABB cobot equipped with an Optomec Aerosol Jet head prints antennas directly onto mobile devices. As one robot completes the printing process, another could handle the removal of finished products, while a third manages the installation of new components—all under the supervision of an operator conducting quality control.Repair Applications: A smaller GoFa cobot could serve as a specialized cladding or welding solution for repairing critical components like turbine blades or other turbomachinery parts within confined spaces.Planar 3D Printing: The robots excel in producing planar components, allowing for stronger parts and enabling complex geometries that traditional gantry systems might struggle to achieve. This approach could result in parts with better integration and support-free structures.A New Era for Robotics in Additive ManufacturingWhile the potential applications for ABB's new cobots are promising, the financial investment required remains a consideration. The standard GoFa models without the accuracy upgrade start at approximately $60,000, which presents a substantial upfront cost for companies looking to integrate these solutions. Nonetheless, the potential for specialized applications—such as those in satellite manufacturing, where compact workspaces and precision are critical—could justify this investment.As the industry moves forward, the question remains whether these cobots will significantly impact the 3D printing market. However, with their cutting-edge features and the promise of enhanced precision and flexibility, ABB's Ultra Accuracy GoFa cobots appear set to usher in a new era of possibilities in additive manufacturing.
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