A robotic arm is a programmable mechanical manipulator, typically composed of rigid links connected by actuated joints, that positions and orients an end-effector within a workspace. Its degrees of freedom allow it to reach and manipulate objects under the control of motion-planning and kinematics algorithms. Robotic arms range from industrial units performing repetitive high-precision tasks to collaborative arms designed to work safely alongside people. They are a foundational platform across manufacturing, surgery, logistics and research.
Overview
- A robotic arm mimics the articulated structure of a human arm using a chain of rigid links joined by powered revolute or prismatic joints. The number and arrangement of these joints define its degrees of freedom and the volume it can reach.
- At the chain’s tip an end-effector, such as a gripper, welder or specialised tool, performs the actual task. Control software solves kinematics to compute joint configurations and plans collision-free trajectories to move the end-effector where it is needed.
Key aspects
- Degrees of freedom determine the range of positions and orientations the arm can achieve.
- Forward kinematics computes the end-effector pose from joint angles; inverse kinematics solves the reverse, harder problem.
- Actuators and servo motors apply torque at each joint under closed-loop control with position and force feedback.
- Motion planning generates smooth, collision-free paths, while safety systems govern speed and force, especially for collaborative arms.
Applications
- Industrial assembly, welding, painting and material handling.
- Pick-and-place and palletising in logistics and warehousing.
- Surgical and laboratory automation requiring high precision.
- Collaborative tasks alongside human workers in shared spaces.