Robotic Cable Management Best Practices

Robotic cable management is often seen as a supplementary part of the design process, overlooked and saved for the last. In reality, it serves an important role in ensuring peak robotic efficiency, especially in typical six-axis robots. First and foremost, poor robotic cable management can affect the movement of the robotic arm, directly effecting the process’ performance. Tightly bound cables with excessive dress packs or ties can lead to problems such as corkscrewing, with the stress building up as the robot operates.

In order to optimize cable management, plant managers must take immediate steps. Firstly, they should analyze six-axis robots with a three-pronged approach,

• The sixth axis to the third axis
• The third axis to the second axis
• The second axis to the first axis

This approach gives designers maximum control and reduces the bulk of equipment required.

Next, a robotic cable carrier system can help aid management. These devices are spring-loaded so that catch- and pinch- points can be minimized. Once the cables start to wear out after they’ve exceeded their service life, they can be replaced without dismantling the entire system.

Moreover, all cables should follow a continuous path, with no pinching or loose ends. You can protect them from harsh industrial environments by opting for fully enclosed packages as well.

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