PARA: A one-meter reach, two-kg payload, three-DoF open source robotic arm with customizable end effector

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Mechanical Engineering
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Industrial robotic arms are often prohibitively expensive, limiting their adoption.
• Low-cost robotic arms typically lack the necessary power and robustness for industrial applications.
• There is a need for affordable yet capable robotic solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, cost-effective robotic arm solution.
• To demonstrate the industrial viability of 3D printed components in robotics.
• To offer a high-performance robotic arm at a significantly lower price point.

Main Methods:

• Development of a three degree of freedom Printed Articulated Robotic Arm (PARA).
• Utilizing 3D printed parts for construction to reduce manufacturing costs.
• Performance evaluation of payload capacity, reach, precision, and end effector speed.

Main Results:

• The PARA can lift a 2 kg payload at a 940 mm reach.
• Achieved precision of ±2.6 mm at an end effector speed of 250 mm/s (no-load).
• Estimated build cost of approximately $3400, an order of magnitude lower than comparable market models.

Conclusions:

• The Printed Articulated Robotic Arm (PARA) successfully balances cost-effectiveness with performance.
• 3D printing is a viable method for producing robust and functional robotic components for industry.
• This development democratizes access to capable robotic arms for various applications.