Robot Positioner
Suzhou Gulas Robot Automation Technology: an Innovative Robot Positioners Manufacturer
Our team is a steel team with a common dream. Among them are thoughtful planners, experienced marketers, and strong leaders.
Variety of Products
We can manufacture handling robots, welding robots, grinding robots and other industrial robot automation system integration applications for customers. We can also provide customers with robot pipeline kits, robot positioners, robot sensors, robot positioning tracks, robot bases and other products.
Rich Market Experience
Our products are widely used in the fields of device intelligence and cloud services, electronic 3C, and medical industries. Our products have also received favor from overseas markets, such as Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and other countries and regions.
One-Stop Service
We provide digital one-stop solutions and undertake robot automation production line integration and transformation projects. Our one-stop service also includes industrial robot installation and commissioning, after-sales service and maintenance, etc.
Multiple Technical Certifications
We have obtained many patent certificates such as robot design and debugging engineer, electrical automation design and debugging engineer, mechanical design engineer, and IT engineer. Our company is also a member of the Suzhou Robot Association.
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![1.8M Robot Positioner]()
1.8M Robot PositionerWelding positioner, also known as welding turner, turntable, or positioner, is a device used to drag the workpiece to be welded and move the weld seam to the desired position for welding...read more -
![2M Robot Positioner]()
2M Robot PositionerWelding positioner, also known as welding turner, turntable, or positioner, is a device used to drag the workpiece to be welded and move the weld seam to the desired position for welding...read more -
![2.5M Robot Positioner]()
2.5M Robot PositionerWelding positioner, also known as welding turner, turntable, or positioner, is a device used to drag the workpiece to be welded and move the weld seam to the desired position for welding...read more -
![Positioner Pneumatic]()
Positioner PneumaticWelding positioner, also known as welding turner, turntable, or positioner, is a device used to drag the workpiece to be welded and move the weld seam to the desired position for welding...read more -
![Light 2 Axis P Type Positioner]()
Light 2 Axis P Type PositionerHigh precision dual axis P-type positioner is an automated equipment used in robotic arc welding applications to change the posture of workpieces. The positioner is used in conjunction with the...read more -
![Medium 1 Axis Positioner]()
Medium 1 Axis PositionerThe welding unit operation procedure is: after manual assembly, the positioner rotates the robot 180 degrees for welding, while station B takes out the parts for assembly, station A completes the...read more -
![Light 2 Axis L Type Positioner]()
Light 2 Axis L Type PositionerWelding displacement machines are widely used in automotive parts, shipbuilding, chemical equipment, boiler pressure vessels, hydraulic pump valves, various pipe flange processing, and other...read more -
![Heavy 3 Axis Positioner]()
Heavy 3 Axis PositionerThe horizontal three-axis rotary positioner operates through a high-precision three-axis private servo motor, allowing the dual station switching robot to automatically complete welding. According...read more -
![Heavy 2 Axis P Type Positioner]()
Heavy 2 Axis P Type PositionerThe dual axis displacement machine is lightweight and small, with fast action and short operation time. It can be used as an additional axis to be controlled by a robot to rotate the workbench.read more
Brief Introduction to Robot Positioners
Robotic positioners come in many different forms, but their primary duty is the same. Positioners hold a part in a predictable and repeatable position for a welding robot. Often, positioners have two or more axes to rotate and reposition a part so the welding robot can reach the entire piece. Robotic positioners can be made for single station or multi-station designs, and can handle small parts in high volume or large parts at low volume. Robotic positioners can rotate a part when a joint cannot be reached in the correct welding position. For example, when welding large parts in position, a robot cannot perform overhead welding as weld spatter gets lodged in the tip which can lead to system errors. A positioner can rotate the part so the robot can access tricky weld locations without performing overhead welding, reducing the likelihood of system failure.
Common Types of Robotic Positioners
There are many types of robotic positioner but here are the most common:
The most basic type of positioner, turntables sit on the floor or workbench and rotate the workpiece around one axis only (the vertical axis). Turntable positioners are commonly integrated with pre-engineered workcells. These are designed with a base axis that is floor mounted and a table top which can accommodate additional stationary tooling. These positioners rotate in a circular motion, rotating parts from the operator station to inside the cell and are best for small to medium parts. Turntable positioners do not allow for parts to be rotated during the welding process.
A turntable is just a specific type of single-axis rotational positioner. But, single-axis positioners exist for almost any orientation. The most common rotate the workpiece around the horizontal axis in a similar manner to a lathe. Single axis positioners are the most affordable and simple out of all positioner types. Single axis positioners are mounted as a headstock to the floor or on a table top. These positioners are designed for small or simple part welding, but a headstock and tailstock can be combined to support larger parts. For applications needing heavier payloads, two headstocks can be used.
If your workpiece is too long or too heavy for a single positioner, a common approach is to combine two single-axis positioners, with one affixed at each end of the workpiece (known as headstock and tailstock). The control is synchronized so they as easy to program as a single positioner. H-frame positioners are similar to turntables, but they feature an additional headstock and tailstock instead of a table. An additional axis can be added to the floor-mounted base allowing for part movement during arc welding. This can be advantageous by speeding up productions since a robot can continuously weld without needing to stop so workpieces can be repositioned. H-frame positioners are an ideal choice for medium, complex workpieces with requiring multiple welds.
This is where it gets complex. You can find positioners in almost any configuration and orientation. The simplest combine two programmable axes on the same positioner, the most complex can be customized with almost as many axes as you want. Multi-axis positioners consist of a combination of servo axes, headstocks, and bases in order to create specialty positioners. Examples of these include the tilt-rotate and skyhook positioners. These are typically utilized when increased flexibility is needed to accommodate parts and tooling of various sizes and complexities. Large, block-like or cylinder-like parts work best with multi-axis positioners, as they allow robots greater accessibility for optimal welding. It is also common to see these positioners wall or track mounted for enhanced part access.
A very common type of multi-axis positioner is the “ferris wheel.” This includes 3 programmable axes that work independently. To operate correctly, they need to be balanced by having the same weight on both sides, which usually means two of the same type of workpiece. Ferris wheel positioners feature a two-station design for floorspace efficiency. They are best suited for medium to large parts that range from 3 to 5 meters in length and generally have a payload capacity of 1,255 kg per side. This positioner type earned its name since it features two trunnion axes on each side of a major sweep axis that turns the positioner over and under.
Benefits of Robot Positioners
Regardless of type, there are several benefits of incorporating a robotic positioner into your workcell.
Allows for Multitasking
Most robotic positioners can handle two parts at once, allowing for multitasking. One part can be worked on, on one side of the positioner, while on the other side another part is being loaded or unloaded. Two tasks can be done simultaneously, the robot welds a part while the next part is being loaded.
Reduces Footprint
Another benefit of robotic positioners is they can reduce the footprint of the robotic workcell. It may not seem possible, but by integrating a robotic positioner floorspace is saved inside the cell. Positioners will take up less space than workbenches or other types of workstations while raising workpieces off of the floor.
Increased Load Capacity
Some robotic positioners have high payload capacities which can increase the load capacity of the workcell. Ferris wheel positioners can have a payload of over 1,000 kg per side. Integrating a ferris wheel positioner with the robot makes working with large, heavy parts possible inside a workcell.
Better Access to Parts
Since positioners provide 360 degrees of part rotation, they provide six axis robots with better access to parts. With positioners robots can work with complex parts and reach angles that may be outside their range of motion allowing for specific weldments or cuts to be completed.
Speeds Up Cycle Times
With the ability to handle multiple parts simultaneously, throughput is significantly increased resulting in faster cycle times. When one part is finished, the next part is already loaded on the positioner, ready to go. This cuts down on the amount of time in between workpieces and allows for application cycles to be completed faster.
Increased Productivity
As positioners decrease cycle times, productivity rates will increase. The faster parts can be completed the more parts can be moved through the production process. Industrial robots on their own will increase productivity, but when combined with the concurrent capabilities of positioners, hyper productivity can be achieved.
Prevents Downtime
Downtime can cause manufacturing processes to become inefficient, increasing cycle times and costs. Loading and setting up parts while a robot is idle is one contributing factor to production downtime. Positioners prevent idle robots by allowing parts to be loaded and prepared while another part is being worked on. Once one part is complete the positioner automatically rotates the next part into the robot’s work area with no lag time in between.
Advantages of Using Welding Positioners
Increased Efficiency
Welding positioners automate the task of positioning the workpiece, saving time and reducing labor costs. They allow for continuous welding, eliminating the need to stop and manually adjust the position of the workpiece. This results in faster completion of jobs and increased productivity.
Maximize Arc-on Time of Welding Robot
Welding positioners provide a stable platform, enabling the welding robot to continuously weld without having to wait for an operator to adjust the workpiece setup. This increases the arc-on time of the robot, reduces idle times, and increases productivity.
Improved Weld Quality
Welding positioners enable precise positioning of the workpiece, ensuring optimal weld quality. They allow for consistent speed and angle of welding, which reduces the likelihood of weld defects and rework.
Enhanced Safety
By securely holding and manipulating the workpiece, welding positioners reduce the risk of workplace accidents. They eliminate the need for workers to manually handle heavy or awkwardly shaped workpieces, reducing the risk of injuries.
Greater Versatility
With a variety of welding positioners available, you’ll be equipped to handle a wide range of workpieces and welding operations. Whether you’re working with cylindrical parts or large, heavy components, there’s a welding positioner to suit your needs.
Consistency
Welding positioners enable consistent welding results, which is crucial for industries where the quality and integrity of welds are paramount. By ensuring a consistent welding speed and angle, they contribute to uniform weld beads and high-quality final products.
Robot Positioners Recommendations
Customer standards require welders to use the best technology possible to achieve high-quality welds. To meet these demands via the robotic welding process, automation experts suggest welding operators use the following:
Standard Coordinated Motion
A highly advanced software function ensures consistent coordinated motion between all positioner axes, as well as the welding robot. Not only does this simplify programming, but also, it enables fast and consistent travel speeds, while maintaining the highest weld standards.
Integrated Tooling Power, Air and Communications
Certain hardware accessories give robot users the option to manage multiple controller integrations, reducing redundant wiring and I/O modules. This prevents damage to cables and provides easy troubleshooting.
Specifications for Use
It is important for companies to be sure that the positioners in place are uniquely designed for welding and satisfy current specs for withstanding tough conditions –
a) Positioners should be life tested. It is of the utmost importance for a positioner to have the ability to operate at maximum speed for the number of shifts and hours designated.
b) Integrated carbon brushes may be needed on positioners for certain applications. This helps provide the long life and high amperage capacity required for multiple robot utilization and pulsed welding.
c) The positioner’s width and payload capacity should meet current and future needs. Whether a positioner is to be used for a single job or multiple jobs, the equipment purchased should maintain the best possible sweep and cycle time while in use.
Optional Functional Safety Unit
A Functional Safety Unit (FSU) for a positioner works with the FSU of a robot controller to define the permissible range of motion. Operator safety is also ensured in the event a worker crosses into a denied area that is protected by light curtains or area scanners. Similarly, the FSU can prevent damage to the positioner or robot if either attempt to leave its defined work space (even by human programming error).
7 Steps to Identify the Number of Axes Needed for Your Robot Positioner
The way to hone in on how many axes you need is to look more closely at the requirements of your application. Here’s a process you can use to identify some potential positioners that could work for you. It allows you to zoom in on a few potential models and assess them properly. If none of those options are suitable, you can then zoom out again and use the information you’ve learned to pick a better positioner.
*Look at the requirements of your task, focusing particularly on the workspace that is needed. One good way to do this is to build your application within a robot simulator.
*Note which aspects of the task are not possible when using the robot alone. Which parts of the workspace are unreachable? Which motions are impossible?
*With this information, make an educated guess at one or two types of positioner that might suit your needs. Remember to take into account the payload that is required to hold your workpieces.
*Find some positioners on the market that could meet your criteria and test them out in your simulation. For each positioner you try, make sure to save your setup as a new project as you will come back to one of the projects later.
*If one of the models works perfectly, great! Even so, test out a few options to see what properties are really required. Remember that you don’t want to end up with more DoF than you need.
*If none of the models works for your application, use the information you have gathered to refine your requirements.
*Go back to the market and look for one or two models that meet these new requirements. Test again in your simulation before making your choice.
Robotic Welding Fixtures and Positioners Costs & Considerations
Investing in robotic welding fixtures and positioners can involve more than just the upfront cost. It also encompasses development expenses, potential upgrade and adjustment costs, and maintenance and cost-efficiency analysis. Here’s a breakdown of these factors:
Initial Investment
Layout templates/jigs are simple, cost-effective solutions where the operator manually places and secures the workpiece in the fixture. They are typically used for simple weldments and low-volume production where high precision may not be a priority. However, these fixtures may not be suitable for complex weldments or high-volume production due to the potential for human error and slower processing times.
Cost of Development
If you choose to design and build fixtures in-house, you’ll need to account for design hours, materials, fabrication time, and testing. On the other hand, outsourcing your fixture design involves paying for the expertise and services of the design provider.
Upgrading and Adjustments
Fixtures not properly designed or manufactured may require modifications or upgrades, which can add to the overall cost. This is especially common when companies attempt to build quick, makeshift fixtures internally without fully considering all the factors required for true productivity and repeatability. A well-designed, high-quality fixture might require a higher initial investment, but it will save you money in the long run by minimizing the need for adjustments and maximizing operational efficiency.
Maintenance Costs
Like any equipment, fixtures and positioners require regular maintenance to function optimally. This could involve lubrication, replacement of worn-out parts, and general upkeep.
Cost-Efficiency Analysis
The ultimate cost of fixtures and positioners should be evaluated against the efficiency they bring to your operations. This includes increased welding speed, reduced rework, improved weld quality, and minimized downtime.
Potential Return on Investment
While the initial cost of high-quality fixtures and positioners may be high, the potential return on investment can be significant. By increasing productivity, reducing errors, and extending the life of your welding robots, these fixtures and positioners will more than pay for themselves over time.
Our Certificate
Below are the certificates we obtained:
Cooperating Partner
Our company has reached cooperation with the following brands:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does a positioner work?
Q: What controls a robot's movements?
Q: What are the components of robotics manipulator?
Q: How does a robot manipulator work?
Q: What is the role of a robot manipulator?
Q: How many axis can a robot have?
Q: Why would having a robot or robotic arm with multiple axis be beneficial in the manufacturing fields?
Q: Why are sensors installed at the 2 axis robot important?
Q: What does each axis of a robot arm function as?
Q: What is the purpose of a welding positioner?
Q: How do positioners improve weld quality?
Q: What is the difference between a welding positioner and a welding fixture?
Q: How do you calculate torque for a welding positioner?
Q: What is the function of Cartesian robot?
Q: What are the advantages of welding positioners?
Q: Is a positioner used to secure workpieces in the correct position for practicing welds in overhead position?
As one of the leading robot positioner manufacturers and suppliers in China, we warmly welcome you to buy cheap robot positioner made in China here from our factory. All our products are with high quality and competitive price.
1 8M Robot Positioner, Heavy 3 Axis Positioner, Robot Positioner