IMPLEMENTATION OF USING COLLABORATIVE ROBOTS IN THE ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESS

Abstract

The manufacturing sector is increasingly integrating additive manufacturing and robotics, marking a significant evolution in production methods. This paper delves into the field of robotic-assisted additive manufacturing, highlighting the use of robotic arms to enhance the efficiency and precision of the 3D printing process. Central to this research is the adaptation of the Universal Robot UR3e model within a 3D printing system. The study confronts and resolves numerous challenges, such as selecting a suitable printing extruder, determining appropriate material types, and optimizing nozzle dimensions. Essential aspects like developing control software for the robot arm and extruder, interpreting 3D models into robotic instructions, and calibrating the hardware are examined in detail. These processes involve fine-tuning the arm's motion, optimizing material extrusion rates, and conducting comprehensive testing to ensure accuracy and quality of the printed objects. This multidisciplinary approach underlines the complexities of merging 3D printing with robotic technology, necessitating expertise across mechanical, electrical, automation, and software engineering domains. A key focus of this paper is not just the technical implementation but also the practical outcomes. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the compatibility between the G-code program and the RoboDK software, leading to the successful physical realization of the printed products. These experiments demonstrated not only the feasibility of the system but also its potential for producing high-quality, precise 3D printed objects. The results obtained underscore the effectiveness of the integrated system in actual manufacturing scenarios, paving the way for advanced applications in robotic-assisted 3D printing.