UFACTORY V2.3.0 xArm Robotic Arm User Manual
- June 1, 2024
- UFACTORY
Table of Contents
V2.3.0 xArm Robotic Arm
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Specifications:
- Models: XI1300, XI1301, XI1302, XI1303, XI1304, XI1305
- Package Contents:
- Robotic Arm x 1
- Control Box x 1
- Power cable for the Control Box x 1
- Power cable for the Robotic Arm x 1
- Communication cable for the Robotic Arm x 1
- Ethernet Cable x 1
- Robotic Arm end effector adapter cable x 1
Product Usage Instructions:
xArm Hardware Installation:
Follow the instructions in the hardware section of the manual to
correctly install the xArm and its components.
Electrical Interface:
Ensure proper connection of power cables and communication
cables according to the provided guidelines.
xArm End-Effector:
Install the end effector on the wrist of the robotic arm to use
special tools for performing work tasks.
UFactory Studio Instructions:
Refer to the software section of the manual for detailed
instructions on using the UFactory Studio software.
xArm Motion Analysis:
Learn about analyzing motion patterns of the xArm for optimized
performance.
Maintenance and Inspection:
Regularly inspect and maintain the xArm as per the guidelines
provided in the manual to ensure longevity and efficiency.
FAQ:
Q: What is TCP motion?
A: TCP motion refers to Cartesian space motion with a target
position in Cartesian space coordinate, following a specified
trajectory (arc, line, etc.).
Q: What is TCP Payload?
A: TCP Payload is the weight of the actual payload (end tool +
other object) in kilograms.
Q: What are Roll, Pitch, and Yaw?
A: Roll, Pitch, and Yaw are sequential rotations around the X,
Y, and Z axes of a selected coordinate system.
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V 2.3.0
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Table
Table ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 Preface
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
User Manual Information ……………………………………………………………………… 5 Product Information
…………………………………………………………………………….. 5 Main Contents of the Manual
………………………………………………………………. 6 Terms and Definitions
…………………………………………………………………………. 6 xArm Motion Parameters
……………………………………………………………………….. 9 Unit Definition
………………………………………………………………………………….. 10 Additional Information
……………………………………………………………………… 11 Safety Precautions
…………………………………………………………………………….. 11 xArm User Manual-Hardware Section
…………………………………………………………. 18 1. Hardware Installation Manual
…………………………………………………………….. 18 1.1. The Hardware Composition of xArm
…………………………………………… 18 1.2. Robot Installation ……………………………………………………………………. 21
1.3. Power Supply for the Robotic Arm …………………………………………… 28 2. Electrical
Interface …………………………………………………………………………… 31 2.1. AC Control Box
…………………………………………………………………………… 31 2.2. DC Control Box
…………………………………………………………………………… 33 2.3. Electrical Alarms and Cautions
………………………………………………. 35 2.4. End-Effector I/O ……………………………………………………………………….. 36
2.5. Control Box Electrical IO ……………………………………………………….. 41 2.6. Communication
Interface …………………………………………………………… 52 2.7. Ethernet TCP/IP
…………………………………………………………………………. 52 3. End-Effector
…………………………………………………………………………………………. 54 3.1. Gripper
……………………………………………………………………………………….. 54 3.2. Vacuum Gripper
…………………………………………………………………………… 57
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xArm User Manual-Software Section …………………………………………………………. 60 1. UFactory
studio ……………………………………………………………………………………. 60
1.1 Hardware Preparation ………………………………………………………………….. 60 1.2 Connect to the
Robotic Arm ……………………………………………………….. 62 1.3 UFactory studio Introduction
……………………………………………………. 68 1.4 Robotic Arm Setting …………………………………………………………………….
69 1.5 Live Control ………………………………………………………………………………. 101 1.6 Blockly Graphical
Programming ………………………………………………… 114 1.7 Python IDE
………………………………………………………………………………… 136 1.8 GCode
…………………………………………………………………………………………. 138 2. xArm Motion Analysis
…………………………………………………………………………. 140 2.1. Motion of the Robotic Arm
……………………………………………………… 141 2.1.1. Joint Motion ………………………………………………………………………….
141 2.2. xArm5 Motion Characteristics ………………………………………………. 153 2.3. Singularity
………………………………………………………………………………. 154 3. Typical Examples
………………………………………………………………………………… 157 3.1. The Use of xArm Vacuum Gripper
…………………………………………….. 157 3.2. The Use of xArm Gripper ………………………………………………………….
159 3.3. The Use of the Digital IO ……………………………………………………… 160 4. Robotic Arm
Motion Mode and State Analysis ………………………………….. 161 Appendix
……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 168 Appendix1-Error Reporting and
Handling ………………………………………………. 168 1.1 Joints Error Message and Error Handling
………………………………. 168 1.2 Control Box Error Code and Error Handling ………………………..
170 1.3 Gripper Error Code & Error Handling ………………………………….. 174 1.4 Python SDK
Error Code & Error Handling ………………………………… 175 Appendix2-Technical
Specifications ……………………………………………………… 178
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1.1 xArm5/6/7 Common Specifications …………………………………………. 178 1.2 xArm 5
Specifications …………………………………………………………….. 179 1.3 xArm 6 Specifications
…………………………………………………………….. 180 1.4 xArm 7 Specifications
…………………………………………………………….. 181 Appendix3-FAQ
…………………………………………………………………………………………… 183 Appendix4-The xArm Software/Firmware
Update Method. ……………………….. 184 1.Online upgrade: when PC has network
connection ……………………… 184 2.Offline upgrade: when PC has no network connection
………………. 185 Appendix5- Maintenance and Inspection ………………………………………………… 187
Appendix6- Repair ……………………………………………………………………………………. 187 Appendix7-Product
Information ………………………………………………………………. 189 1.1 Product Mark
………………………………………………………………………………. 189 1.2 Applied Standards
……………………………………………………………………… 189 1.3 EMC ……………………………………………………………………………………………….
190 1.4 Use Environment …………………………………………………………………………. 190 1.5 Transport,
Storage and Handling …………………………………………….. 191 1.6 Power box placement height
……………………………………………………… 191 1.7 Power Connection ………………………………………………………………………..
191 1.8 Special Consumables. ………………………………………………………………… 192 1.9 Stop Categories
…………………………………………………………………………. 192 1.10 Stopping Time and Stopping Distance
……………………………………. 192 1.11 Maximum Speed …………………………………………………………………………… 193 1.12
Maximum Payload ……………………………………………………………………….. 193 1.13 Specifications
…………………………………………………………………………. 194 Appendix8-DH Parameters of xArm Series
………………………………………………. 195
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Preface
User Manual Information
Translated Version V2.3.0. Apply to Model: XI1300 XI1301 XI1302 XI1303 XI1304
XI1305
Product Information
Package contains: 1. Robotic Arm x 1 2. Control Box x 1 3. Power cable for the
Control Box x 1 4. Power cable for the Robotic Arm x 1 5. Communication cable
for the Robotic Arm x 1 6. Ethernet Cable x1 7. Robotic Arm end effector
adapter cable x1
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2
3
4
5
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Main Contents of the Manual
xArm User Manual Hardware Section (1) xArm hardware installation (2)
Electrical interface (3) xArm end-effector xArm User Manual Software Section
(1) UFactory studio instructions (2) xArm motion analysis (3) Typical examples
Appendix (1) xArm error reporting and handling (2) xArm technical
specifications (3) FAQ (4) The xArm software/firmware update method (5)
Maintenance and Inspection (6) After-sales service
Terms and Definitions
The following terms and definitions apply to this manual.
Control Box End Effector
The control box, core part of the robotic arm, is the integration of the
robotic arm control system.
The end effector, installed on the front end of the wrist of the robotic arm,
is used to install special tools (such as grippers, vacuum gripper, etc.),
which can directly perform work tasks.
Enable Robotic Arm
TCP TCP Motion
Power on the robotic arm and turn on the motor of the robotic arm. After the
robotic arm is enabled, it can start to move normally.
Tool center point.
TCP motion is the Cartesian space motion, with target position in Cartesian
space coordinate and the end follows the specified trajectory (arc, line,
etc.).
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TCP Payload End Payload
The payload weight refers to the actual (end tool +other object) weight in Kg; the X / Y / Z-axis indicates the position of the center of mass of the TCP relative to the default tool coordinate system, with unit of mm.
TCP Offset (Tool Center Point
Offset)
Set the relative offset between the default tool coordinate system at flange center and the actual tool coordinate system, with distance unit of mm.
Roll / Pitch / Yaw sequentially rotates around the X / Y / Z of the selected
coordinate system (base coordinate system).
The following describes the roll/pitch/yaw orientation representation of {B}
relative to {A}:
For example, the coordinate system {B} and a known reference coordinate system
{A} are first superposed. First rotate {B}
around X^ A by , then around Y^A by , and finally around Z^ A
by .
Each rotation is around a fixed axis of the reference coordinate system {A}.
This method is called the XYZ fixed angle coordinate system, and sometimes
they are defined as the roll angle, pitch angle, and yaw angle.
The above description is shown in the following figure:
Roll/Pitch/Yaw
The equivalent rotation matrix is:
R A
B XYZ
,
,
RZ
RY
RX
Note: corresponds to roll; corresponds to pitch; corresponds to yaw.
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Axis-Angle
Rx / Ry / Rz representation also, using 3 values to represent the pose (but
not three rotation angles), which is the product of a three-dimensional
rotation vector [x, y, z] and a rotation angle [phi (scalar)].
The characteristics of the axis angle:
Assume the rotation axis is [x, y, z], and the rotation angle is phi.
Then the representation of the axial angle:
[Rx, Ry, Rz] = [x phi, y phi, z phi] Note:
1. [x, y, z] is a unit vector, and phi is a non-negative value.
2. The vector length (modulus) of [Rx, Ry, Rz] can be used to estimate the
rotation angle, and the vector direction is the rotation direction.
3. If you want to express reverse rotation, invert the rotation axis vector
[x, y, z], and the value of phi remains unchanged.
4. Using phi and [x, y, z] can also derive the attitude representation as
unit quaternion q = [cos (phi / 2), sin (phi / 2) x, sin (phi / 2) y, sin
(phi / 2) z].
For example:
The vector of the rotation axis represented by the base coordinate system is
[1, 0, 0], and the rotation angle is 180 degrees (), then the axis angle
representation of this pose is [, 0, 0].
The rotation axis is [0.707, 0.707, 0] and the rotation angle is 90 degrees (
/ 2), then the axis angle posture is [0.707 ( / 2), 0.707 ( / 2), 0].
The Base Coordinate System
(Please refer to the figure 1)
The base coordinate system is a Cartesian coordinate system based on the
mounting base of the robotic arm and used to describe the motion of the
robotic arm.
(Front and back: X axis, left and right: Y axis, up and down: Z axis)
Tool Coordinate System
(Please refer to the figure 1)
Consists of tool center point and coordinate orientation. If the TCP offset is
not set, the default tool coordinate system is located at flange center.
For tool coordinate System based motion: The tool center point is taken as the
zero point, and the trajectory of the robotic arm refers to the tool
coordinate system.
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User Coordinate System
(Please refer to the figure 1)
The user coordinate system can be defined as any other reference coordinate system rather than the robot base.
Manual Mode
In this mode, the robotic arm will enter the `zero gravity’ mode, since the gravity is compensated, the user can guide the robotic arm position directly by hand.
Teach Sensitivity
Teach sensitivity range is from 1 to 5 level. The larger the set value, the higher the teach sensitivity level, and the less the force required to drag the joint in the manual mode.
Collision Sensitivity
The collision sensitivity range is from 0 to 5 level. When it is set to 0, it means that collision detection is not enabled. The larger the set value, the higher the collision sensitivity level, and the smaller the force required to trigger the collision protection response of the robotic arm.
GPIO
General-purpose input and output. For the input, you can check the potential of the pin by reading a register; For the output, you can write a certain register to make this pin output high or low potential;
Safety Boundary Reduced Mode
When this mode is activated, the boundary range of the cartesian space of the
robotic arm can be limited. If the tool center point (TCP) exceeds the set
safety boundary, the robotic arm will stop moving.
When this mode is activated, the maximum linear velocity of the Cartesian
motion of the robotic arm, the maximum joint speed, and the range of the joint
motion will be limited.
xArm Motion Parameters
Figure 1
The parameters of the robotic arm are shown in Table 1.1 and Table 1.2.
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Table 1.1 Working range of each joint of the robotic arm
Maximum Speed Working Range
Robotic Arm
Joint 1 Joint 2 Joint 3 Joint 4 Joint 5 Joint 6 Joint 7
xArm 5 180°/s ±360° -118°120° -225°11° -97°180° ±360°
None None
xArm 6 180°/s ±360° -118°120° -225°11° ±360° -97°180° ±360°
None
xArm 7 180°/s ±360° -118°120° ±360° -11°225° ±360° -97°180° ±360°
Table 1.2 Range of various motion parameters of the robotic arm
Note:
Speed Acceleration
Jerk
TCP Motion 01000mm /s 050000mm /s2 0100000mm /s3
Joint Motion 0180°/s 01145°/s2 028647°/s3
1. In the TCP motion (Cartesian space motion) commands (set_position () function of the SDK), If a motion command involves both position transformation and attitude transformation, the attitude rotation speed is generally calculated automatically by the system. In this situation, the specified speed parameter is the maximum linear speed, range from: 0 1000mm / s.
2. When the expected TCP motion only changes the attitude (roll, pitch, yaw), with position (x, y, z) remains unchanged, the specified speed is the attitude rotation speed, so the range 0 to 1000 corresponds to 0 to 180 ° / s.
Unit Definition
The Python / Blockly examples and the units standard in the communication
protocol are shown in Table 1.3.
Table 1.3. Default units in Python / Blockly example and
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Parameter XY/Z RollPitch/Yaw J1J2 /J3/J4/J5/J6/J7 TCP Speed TCP Acceleration TCP Jerk Joint Speed Joint Acceleration Joint Jerk
Communication Protocol
Python-SDK millimetermm
degree° degree°
mm/s mm/s² mm/s³ °/s °/s² °/s³
Blockly millimetermm
degree° degree°
mm/s mm/s² mm/s³ °/s °/s² °/s³
Communication milliPrmeotteocrolmm
radianrad radianrad
mm/s mm/s² mm/s³ rad/s rad/s² rad/s³
Additional Information
For UFactory studio software download and xArm developer manual, please refer
to the UFACTORY official website.
Safety Precautions
Introduction
This chapter contains essential safety information, integrators and users of
xArm must follow the instructions and pay special attention to the content
with warning signs. Due to the complexity of the robotic arm system and its
degree of danger, please ensure you fully understand the content of this
manual and strictly adhere to the instructions. When using SDK
(Python/ROS/C++) and graphical interface (UFactory studio), please read the
relevant interface instructions demonstrated in this operation manual.
UFACTORY devotes to providing reliable and safety information, but these
contents do not constitute warranties by UFACTORY. UFACTORY will not have or
accept any liability, obligation, or responsibility
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whatsoever for any loss, destruction, or damage arising from or in respect of
any use or misuse of xArm.
Validity and Responsibility
The information does not cover how to design, install, and operate a complete
robotic arm application, nor does it cover all peripheral equipment that can
influence the safety of the complete system. The complete system must be
designed and installed under the safety requirements outlined in the standards
and regulations of the country where the robotic arm installed.
The integrators of the xArm are responsible for the compliance of applicable
safety laws and regulations in the country, to prevent any hazards in the
operating environment.
Safety precautions include but are not limited to:
Making a risk assessment for the complete system. Make sure to have a safe
distance between people and xArm when interacting with the xArm.
Interfacing other machines and additional safety devices if defined by the
risk assessment.
For software programming, please read the interface documentations carefully
and set up the appropriate safety functions in the software.
Specifying instructions for use to prevent unnecessary property damage or
personal injury caused by improper operation.
Limitations on Liability Exceptions
Any information given in this manual regarding safety must not be construed as
a warranty by UFACTORY that the xArm will not cause
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injury or damage even if all safety instructions are complied with.
Safety Alarms in this Manual
DANGER: This indicates an imminently hazardous electrical situation, which if
not avoided, could result in death or serious damage to the device.
WARNING: This indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious damage to the device.
HIGH TEMPERATURE This indicates a potential hot surface, which if touched,
could result in personal injury.
NOTICE If not avoided, could result in personal injury or damage to the
equipment.
CAUTION: If not avoided, could result in personal injury or damage to the
equipment.
Safety Precautions
Overview This section contains some general warnings and cautions on
installation and application planning for the robotic arm. To prevent
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damage to the machine and associated equipment, users need to learn
all the relevant content and fully understand the safety precautions.
We do not control or guarantee the relevance or completeness of such
information in this manual, for which users should conduct self-
assessment of their specific problems.
General Alarms and Cautions
1. Make sure to use the correct installation settings in this manual for the
robotic arm and all the electrical equipment.
2. Please follow the instructions in this manual, installation, and
commissioning needs to be performed by professionals in accordance with the
installation standards.
3. Make sure the robotic arm and tool are properly and securely bolted in
place.
4. The integrity of the device and system must be checked before each use (e.
g. the operational safety and the possible damage of the robotic arm and other
device systems).
5. Preliminary testing and inspection for both robotic arm and peripheral
protection system before production is essential.
6. The operator must be trained to guarantee a correct operation procedure
when using SDK(Python/ROS/C++) and graphical interface UFactory studio.
7. A complete safety assessment must be recorded each time the robotic arm is
re-installed and debugged.
8. When the robotic arm is in an accident or abnormal operation, the
emergency stop switch needs to be pressed down to stop the movement, and the
posture of the robotic arm will
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slightly brake and fall.
9. The xArm joint module has brakes inside, which will remain manipulator’s
pose when a power outage occurs.
10. When the robotic arm is in operation, make sure no people or other
equipment are in the working area.
11. When releasing the brakes of xArm, please take protective measures to
prevent the robotic arm or operator from damage or injury.
12. When connecting the xArm with other machinery, it may increase risk and
result in dangerous consequences. Make sure a consistent and complete safety
assessment is conducted for the installation system.
1. The robotic arm and Control Box will generate heat during operation. Do
not handle or touch the robotic arm and Control Box while in operation or
immediately after the operation.
2. Never stick fingers to the connector of the end-effector.
1. Make sure the robotic arm’s joints and tools are installed properly and
safely, and check the status for all circuits.
2. Make sure that there is enough space for the manipulator to move freely.
3. Make sure that there is no obstacle in the robotic arm’s working space.
4. The Control Box must be placed outside the working range of the robotic
arm to ensure the emergency stop button can be pressed once an emergency
occurs.
5. If the robotic arm is in operation and needs an emergency stop, make sure
the restart/reset
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motions will not collide with any obstacle.
6. Do not modify the robotic arm (or Control Box). Any modification may lead
to unpredictable danger to the integrators. The authorized restructuring needs
to be in accordance with the latest version of all relevant service manuals.
If the robotic arm is modified or altered in any way, UFACTORY (Shenzhen)
Technology Co., Ltd. disclaims all liability.
7. Users need to check the collision protection and water-proof measures
before any transportation.
When the xArm cooperates with other machinery, a comprehensive safety
assessment of the entire collaboration system should be performed. It is
recommended that any equipment that may cause mechanical damage to xArm be
placed outside the working range during application planning.
Operator Safety
In the operation of the robotic arm system, we must ensure the safety
of the operators first, with the general precautions listed in the
table below. Please take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of
operators.
1. Each operator who uses the robotic arm system should read the product user
manual carefully. Users should fully understand the standardized operating
procedures with the robotic arm, and the solution to the robotic arm running
error.
2. When the device is running, even if the robotic arm seems to stop, the
robotic arm may be waiting for the signal and in the upcoming action status.
Even in such a state, it should
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be considered as the robotic arm is in action. 3. A line should be drawn to
mark the range of
motion of the robotic arm to let the operator acknowledge the robotic arm,
including its end tools (such as gripper and suction cup, etc) operating
range. 4. Check the robotic arm regularly to prevent loosening of the bolts
that may cause undesirable consequences. 5. Be careful when the robotic arm is
running too fast. 6. Be careful about dropping items that can be caused by
accidental power off or unstable clamping of the robotic arm.
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xArm User Manual-Hardware Section
1. Hardware Installation Manual
1.1. The Hardware Composition of xArm
1.1.1. Hardware Composition
The composition of robotic arm hardware includes: Robotic ArmFigure 2-1
Control Box (Figure 2-2) Robotic Arm Signal Cable (Figure 2-3) Robotic Arm
Power Supply Cable (Figure 2-4) Control Box Power Supply Cable (Figure 2-5)
Figure 2-1
Figure 2-2
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Figure 2-3
Figure 2-4
Figure 2-5
The xArm robotic arm system consists of a base and rotary joints, and each
joint represents a degree of freedom. From the bottom to the top, in order,
Joint 1, Joint 2, Joint 3, etc. The last joint is known as the tool side and
can be used to connect end-effector (e. g. gripper, vacuum gripper, etc).
Refer to technical specifications for joint FiguresSee appendix-2.
1.1.2. Emergency Stop Button
By pressing the emergency stop button of the Control Box, a command will be
sent to the Control Box for software deceleration to stop all activities of
the robotic arm and clear all the cached commands in the Control Box; the
power supply for the robotic arm will be removed within 300ms. The emergency
stop should not be used as a risk reduction measure. When an emergency occurs
during the operation of the robotic arm, users need to press the emergency
stop, and the posture of the robotic arm will slightly brake and fall. The
emergency stop button is shown below:
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Emergency Stop: press the emergency stop button to power off the xArm, and the
power indicator will go out. Power-on: when the button is rotated in the
direction indicated by the arrow, the button is pulled up, the xArm power
indicator lights up, and the arm is powered. Note: After pressing the
emergency stop button, the following operations should be performed to re-
start the xArm: 1. Power up the xArm (Turn the emergency stop button in the
direction of the arrow) 2. Enable the xArm (enable the servo motor)
UFactory studioenable the robotic arm: click the button: [Enable Robot]
Python-SDKenable the robotic arm: motion_enable (true)
1.1.3. Control Box Description
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Control Box Buttons and Indicator
ROBOT power indicator Control Box power status
indicator
Network port indicator
Emergency stop button
Parameter Name ROBOT PWR STATE LAN
EMERGENCY STOP
Function The light is on, indicating that the xArm is powered on.
The light flashes, indicating that the control box is powered on.
The light is on, indicating that the xArm is communicating normally.
Press the button to power off the xArm; Rotate the button, the ROBOT power
indicator of the xArm lights up.
1.2. Robot Installation
1.2.1. Safety Guidelines for the Robot Environment
1. Make sure the arm is properly and safely installed in place. The mounting
surface must be shockproof and sturdy.
2. To install the arm body, check that the bolts are tight.
3. The robotic arm should be installed on a sturdy surface that is sufficient
to withstand at least 10 times the full torsion of the base joint and at least
5 times the weight of the arm.
1. The robotic arm and its hardware composition must not be in direct contact
with the liquid, and should not be placed in a humid environment for a long
time.
2. A safety assessment is required each time installed.
3. When connecting or disconnecting the arm cable, make sure that the
external AC is disconnected. To avoid any electric shock hazard, do not
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connect or disconnect the robotic arm cable when the robotic arm is connecting
with external AC.
1.2.2. Robot Installation
1. Brief installation steps: a. Define a robotic arm workspace b. Fix the
robotic arm base c. Connect the robotic arm with the Control Box d. Connect
the Control Box with cable e. Install end-effector
1.2.2.1. Define a Robotic Arm Workspace
The robotic arm workspace refers to the area within the extension of the
links. The figure below shows the dimensions and working range of the robotic
arm. When installing the robotic arm, make sure the range of motion of the
robotic arm is taken into account, so as not to bump into the surrounding
people and equipment (the end-effector not included in the working range).
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Working space of xArm7 (unit: mm) Note The following working range diagrams
are only for safety assessment.
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Working space of xArm5 and xArm6 (unit: mm) Note The following working range
diagrams are only for safety assessment.
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1.2.2.2. Robot Installation
The robotic arm has five M5 bolts provided and can be mounted through five 5.5
holes in the base of the robotic arm. It is recommended to tighten these bolts
with a torque of 20N·m.
Robot Base Mounting (unit: mm)
1.2.2.3. Robotic Arm is Connected to the Control Box
Plug the connector of the Robotic Arm Power Supply Cable and the Robotic Arm
Signal Cable into the interface of the Robotic Arm. The connector is a
foolproof design. Please do not unplug and plug it violently; Plug the Robotic
Arm Power Supply Cable and the Robotic Arm Signal Cable into the Control Box;
Plug the Control Box Power Cable into the AC (110V-240V) interface on the
Control Box and the other end into the socket (as shown in Figure below).
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1.2.2.4. Control Box Networking
Plug the Network Cable into the interface marked LAN on the Control Box, and
plug the other end of the Network Cable into the computer.
1.2.2.5. End-effector Installation
The End-effector flange has 6 M6 threaded holes and one 6 positioning hole,
where the end-effector of two different sizes can be mounted. If the effector
does not have a positioning hole, the orientation of the end-effector must be
documented in a file format, to avoid errors and unexpected results when re-
installing the endeffector. The end-effector flange referenced ISO
9409-1-50-4-M6 standard.
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Mechanical dimensions of end-effector flange (unit: mm)
Drawing of too I/O
1. Make sure the tool is properly and safely bolted in place.
2. If the end-effector does not have a locating hole, the orientation of the
end-effector must be archived as a file.
3. Make sure that the tool is safely constructed
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such that it cannot create a hazardous situation by dropping a part
unexpectedly. 4. Pay attention to the operation specifications of sharp end-
effector tools. 5. If the installed end-effector exceeds the robotic arm
mounting surface at the zero position of the robotic arm, a safety assessment
is required for the zero return operation.
1.3. Power Supply for the Robotic Arm 1.3.1. Preparation before Power On
Ensure the power cable and the communication wire are properly connected
between the Control Box and the robotic arm.
Ensure the network cable or RS-485 cable is properly connected. Ensure the
power cable for the Control Box is properly
connected. Ensure the xArm will not hit any personnel or equipment within
the working range.
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1.3.2. Power On
1. Turn on the OFF/ON button and ensure the indicator lights are lit. 2.
Press the power button, when the status indicatorCONTROLLER
lights up, the control box is turned on. 3. Rotate the emergency stop button
in the direction indicated by
the arrow and is pulled up, at which point the xArm power indicatorROBOT PWR
lights up. 4. Use the UFactory studio / SDK command to complete the operation
of enabling the robotic arm. (enable the servo motor)
1.3.3. Shut Down the Robotic Arm System
1. Shutdown Sequence (1) Press the EMERGENCY STOP button to power off the
robotic arm. (2) Ensure the power indicator light is off.
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2. Shutdown the control box (1) Turn off the power supply of the control box.
(The power switch takes about 5 seconds to turn off the power of the control
box. Please do not restart the control box within 5 seconds after turning off
the power supply)
Unplugging the power cord directly from the wall outlet to shut down the
system may result in damage to the file system of the control box, which may
result in robotic arm malfunction.
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2. Electrical Interface
2.1. AC Control Box 2.1.1. Connect the Control Box to the Robotic Arm
1. The robotic arm power supply cable connects the power port of the robotic
arm and the ROBOT power port of the control box.
2. The robotic arm signal cable is connected to the signal interface of the
robotic arm and the ROBOT signal interface of the control box.
2.1.2. Power Connection
There is a standard IEC plug at the end of the control box’s main cable.
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Connect a local dedicated main outlet or cable to the IEC plug. The control
box is powered by 100V-240V AC (the input frequency is 4763HZ) and its
internal switching power supply converts 100V-240V AC into 12V, 24V DC, which
supplies power to the load of the control box and the robotic arm. Therefore,
it is necessary to check whether the connection between the robotic arm and
the control box is secured before use. The hardware protection and software
protection of the control box can ensure the safety of use largely. The
emergency stop button of the control box allows the user to cut off the power
of the robotic arm in the shortest time possible and protect the safety of
both personnel and the equipment. To power on the robotic arm, the control box
must be connected to the power supply. In this process, the corresponding IEC
C19 wire must be used. Connect to the standard IEC C20 plug of the Control Box
to complete the process, see the figure below.
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2.1.3. Definition of the Robotic Arm Industrial Connector
6-Pin Industrial Connector (Robot Communication )
Industrial connector wire sequence
Functional definition
1
GND
2
485-A Arm
3
485-B Arm
4
GND
5
485-A Tool
6
485-B Tool
2.2. DC Control Box
2.2.1. External Interfaces of Control Box
Except that the DC Control Box is connected to different power sources, the
other electrical interface specifications and functions are the same as the AC
Control Box.
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DC PWR: VP+Connect to 24V-72V DC Input PE: Connect to the control housing
(Leakage Protection), not a must GND: Connect to the ground ROBOT
communication cable:
2.2.2. Cable Connection
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2.2.3. Specification of External Power
Input Output I/O power supply
DC1300 24V-72V DC
24VDC 672Wmax 24V 1.8A(Internal power supply)
24V 3A(External power supply)
2.3. Electrical Alarms and Cautions
Always follow the warnings and cautions below when designing and
installing a robotic arm application. These warnings and cautions are
also subject to the implementation of maintenance work.
1. Never connect a safety signal to a non-safety
PLC.
Failure to follow this warning may result
in serious injury or death due to an invalid safety
stop function.
1. Make sure that all the non-waterproof equipment is kept dry. If water
enters the product, turn off the power supply, and contact your supplier.
2. Use only the original cable of the robotic arm. Do not use the robotic arm
in applications where the cable needs to be bent. If you need a longer cable
or flexible cable, please contact your supplier.
3. All GND connectors mentioned in this manual are only suitable for powering
and transmitting signals.
4. Be careful when installing the interface cable to the I/O of the robotic
arm.
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1. Interfering signals above the level specified in the IEC standard will
cause abnormal behaviour of the robotic arm. Extremely high signal levels or
excessive exposure can cause permanent damage to the robotic arm. UFACTORY
(Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd. is not responsible for any loss caused by EMC
problems.
2. The length of the I/O cable that used to connect the Control Box with
other mechanical and plant equipment must not exceed 30 meters unless it is
feasible after the extension testing.
1. When wiring the electrical interface of the Control Box, the Control Box
must be powered off.
2.4. End-Effector I/O
At the tool side of the robotic arm, there is an avionic socket 12pin female
industrial connector. This connector provides power and control signals for
the grippers and sensors used on a particular robotic arm tool. Please refer
to the figure below:
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There are 12 pins inside the cable with different colors, each color represents different functions, please refer to the following table:
Pin sequence 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Color Brown Blue White Green Pink Yellow Black Grey
Red Purple Orange Light Green
Signal +24VPower +24VPower
0V (GND) 0V (GND) User 485-A User 485-B Tool Output 0 TO0 Tool Output 1 TO1
Tool Input 0 TI0 Tool Input 1 TI1 Analog input 0 (AI0) Analog input 1 (AI1)
The electrical specifications are as follows:
Parameter
Min. Value Typical Value
Max. Value
Unit
Supply Voltage in 24V Mode
20
24
30
V
Supply Current *
–
–
1800
mA
Note: * It is strongly recommended to use a protection diode for inductive loads.
37
Make sure that the connecting tool and the gripper do not cause any danger when the power is cut, such as dropping of the work-piece from the tool.
2.4.1. Digital Output
The digital output is implemented in the form of NPN with an open collector (OC). When the digital output is activated, the corresponding connector will be driven to GND. When the digital output is disabled, the corresponding connector will be open (open collector/open drain). The electrical specifications are as follows:
Parameter Open-circuit Voltage Voltage when sinking 50mA
Sink Current Current through GND
Min -0.5
0 0
Typical –
0.05 –
Max 30 0.20 100 100
Unit V V mA mA
There is no current protection on the digital output of the tool, which can cause permanent damage if the specified value exceeded.
2.4.1.1. Tool Digital Output Usage
The following example illustrates how to use the digital output. As the
internal output is an open collector, the resistor should be connected to the
power supply according to the load. The size and power of the resistor depend
on the specific use.
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Note: It is highly recommended to use a protection diode for inductive loads as shown below.
2.4.2. Digital Input
The digital input is already equipped with a pull-down resistor. This means that the reading of the floating input is always low. The electrical specifications are as follows:
Parameter
Min
Typical
Max
Input Voltage
-0.5
–
30
Logic Low Voltage
–
–
1.0
Logic High Voltage
1.6
–
–
Input Resistance
–
47k
–
Unit V V V
2.4.2.1. Tool Digital Input Usage
The following figure shows the connection with the simple switch.
2.4.3. Tool Analog Input
The tool analog input is a non-differential input. The electrical specifications are as follows:
Parameter Input Voltage in Voltage Mode
Min
Typical
Max
-0.5
–
3.3
Unit V
39
Resolution
–
Input Current in Current Mode
–
Pull-down Resistors in the 4mA to 20mA Current
–
ResRoalnugteion
–
12
–
Bit
–
–
mA
–
165
12
–
Bit
1. In the current/voltage mode, the analog input does not provide over-
voltage protection. Exceeding the limits in the electrical code may result in
permanent damage to the input port.
2. In current mode, the pull-down resistance depends on the range of the
input current.
2.4.3.1. Non-differential Analog Input
The following figures show how the analog sensor can be connected to a non-
differential output.
Voltage mode
2.4.3.2.
Current mode
Differential Analog Input
The following figures show how the analog sensor is connected to the differential output. Connect the negative output to GND (0V), and it can work like a non-differential sensor.
40
Voltage Mode
Current Mode
2.5. Control Box Electrical IO
This chapter explains how to connect devices to the electrical I/O outside of
the control box. The I/Os are extremely flexible and can be used in many
different devices, including pneumatic relays, PLCs, and emergency stop
buttons. The figure below shows the electrical interface layout inside the
control box.
41
2.5.1. General Specifications for all Digital I/O
This section describes the electrical specifications for the following 24V
digital I/Os for the Control Box.
· Dedicated safety I/O.
· Configurable I/O.
For the specific configuration functions of IO, see the following
table:
Configurable Function General Input Stop Moving
Safeguard Reset Offline Task Manual Mode Reduced Mode Enable Robot
CI0-CI7 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
DI0-DIO7 Yes No No Yes Yes No Yes
Configurable Function General Output Motion Stopped Robot Moving Error Warning
Collision Manual Mode Reduced Mode
Offline Task Running Robot Enabled
Emergency Stop is Pressed
CO0-CO7 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
DO0-DO7 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
It is very important to install xArm according to the electrical
specifications. All the I/O must comply with the specifications. The digital
I/O can
42
be powered by a internal 24V power supply or by an external power supply by
configuring the power junction box. In the following figure, PWR is the
internal 24V power output. The lower terminal (24V-IN) is the 24V input
external power input for I/O. The default configuration is to use internal
power, see below.
If larger current is needed, connect the external power supply as shown below.
The electrical specifications for the internal and external power supplies are as follows.
Terminal
[PWR – GND] [PWR – GND] [24V – 0V] [24V – 0V]
Parameter
Voltage Current
Voltage Current
Min. Value
Typical Value
Built-in 24V Power Supply
23
24
0
–
External 24V Input Requirement
20
24
0
–
Max. Value
30 1.8
30 3
Unit
V A
V A
The digital I/O electrical specifications are as follows.
Terminal
[COx] [COx] [COx] [COx] [EIx/SIx/CIx/RI x]
Parameter
Current* Voltage Goes Down
Open Drain FCuunrcrteinotn
Voltage
Min. Value Typical Value
Digital Output
0
–
0
–
0
–
–
NPNOC
Digital Input
0
–
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Max. Value
100 0.5 0.1
–
30
Unit
mA V mA Type
V
[EIx/SIx/CIx/RI
OFF Area
15
–
30
[EIx/SIxx]/CIx/RI ON Area(low level)
0
–
5
[EIx/SIxx]/CIx/RI Current0-0.5
3
–
8
[EIx/SIxx]/CIx/RI
Function
–
–
–
x]
Note: ** For resistive or inductive loads up to 1H.
V V mA Type
There is no current protection on the digital output of the Control Box. If
the specified values exceeded, permanent damage may result.
2.5.2. Dedicated Safety I/O
This section describes the dedicated safety inputs and their configurations of
the safety I/O. Please follow the universal specifications in Section 2.4.1.
Safety devices and equipment must be installed to comply with the safety
instructions and risk assessment (see Chapter 1). All safety I/Os exist in
pairs (redundancy) and must be kept in two separate branches. A single I/O
failure should not result in the loss of safety features. There are two fixed
safety inputs:
· The robotic arm emergency stop input is only used for the
emergency stop of the device.
· The protective stop input is used for all types of safety
protection. The functional differences are as follows.
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Stops the motion of the robotic Programaermxecution Reset Usage frequency Need re-initiation
Emergency Stop Yes Stop
Manual Not frequent Only releasing the brake
2.5.2.1. Default Safety Configuration
Protective Stop Yes
Suspend Auto or manual
No limit No
The robotic arm has been configured by default and can be operated without any additional safety equipment, as the figure below. If there is a problem with the robotic arm, please check the following figure for the correct connection.
2.5.2.2. Connect to the Emergency Stop Button
In most applications, one or more additional emergency stop buttons are
required. The figure below shows how to connect one or more emergency stop
buttons.
45
2.5.2.3. Share Emergency Stop with other Machines
When a robotic arm is used with other machines, it requires to set up a common
emergency stop circuit in most of the time. The following figure shows that
two robotic arms share an emergency stop button (the connection method shown
in the figure below also applies to multiple robotic arms sharing an emergency
stop button).
2.5.2.4. Automatically Recoverable Protective Stop
The door switch is an example of a basic protective stop device. When the door
is open, the robotic arm stops. See the figure below.
This configuration is only for applications where the operator is unable to
close the door from behind. Configurable I/O can be used to set the reset
button outside the door, as to reactivate the movement of the robotic arm.
Another example of an automatic recovery is the use of a safety pad or a
safety laser scanner, see the figure below.
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2.5.2.5. Protective Stop with Reset Button
If you use a protective interface to interact with the light curtain, you need
to reset from outside the safety zone. The reset button must be a two-channel
button. In the example shown below, the I/O of the reset configuration is
“CI0”.(the corresponding configuration must also be done in UFactory Studio)
How to realize the protection reset function with reset button: 1. Configure
“CI0” as the safeguard reset in UFactory studio. The specific steps are as
follows: Enter “Settings” – “Externals” -“Controller I/O” – “IO Function”
Configure CI0 as safeguard reset -“Save”.
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2. If xArm needs to resume motion, connect SI0 and SI1 to GND, and trigger
the motion of xArm by connecting CI0 to GND; if xArm needs to pause the
motion, disconnect SI0 and SI1 from GND. Note DI0-DI7 are not equipped with
the following three functions: stop moving, safeguard reset, and reduced mode.
2.5.3. General Digital I/O Function
2.5.3.1. Configurable Output
The digital output is implemented in the form of NPN. When the digital output
is enabled, the corresponding connector will be driven to GND. When the
digital output is disabled, the corresponding connector will be open (OC/OD).
Users must follow the electrical specifications set in section 2.4.1
`universal specification’. The following example shows how to use the digital
output, as the
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internal output is an open-drain (OD) output, so you need to connect the
resistor to the power supply according to the load. The resistance and power
of the resistor depend on the specific use.
Note: It is highly recommended to use a protection diode for inductive loads
as shown below.
2.5.3.2. Configurable Input
The digital input is implemented in the form of a weak pull-up resistor. This
means that the reading of the floating input is always high. Users must follow
the electrical specifications set in the 2.4.1 `universal specification’. This
example shows how a simple button is connected to a digital input.
49
2.5.3.3. Communicate with other Machines or PLCs
If general GND (0V) is established and the machine uses open-drain output
technology, digital I/O and other can be used device communication, see the
figure below.
2.5.4. General Analog I/O
This type of interface can be used to set or measure voltage (0-10V) going
into or out of other devices. For the highest accuracy, the following
instructions are recommended:
· Use the GND terminal closest to this I/O. · The device and Control box use
the same ground (GND). The analog
I/O is not isolated from the control box.
· Use shielded cables or twisted pairs. Connect the shield to the
“GND” terminal on the “Power” section.
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Terminal
[AIx – AG] [AIx – AG] [AIx – AG] [AOx – AG] [AOx – AG] [AOx – AG] [AOx – AG]
Parameter
Voltage Resistance Resolution
Voltage Current Resistance Resolution
Min. Value Typical Value
Analog Input under Voltage Mode
0
–
–
10k
–
12
Analog Output under Voltage Mode
0
–
0
–
–
100k
–
12
Max. Value
10 12
10 20 –
Unit
V bit
V mA bit
2.5.4.1. Analog Output
The following example shows how to use the analog speed control input to
control the conveyor belt.(Connect to AO0 or AO1)
2.5.4.2. Analog Input
The following example shows how to connect an analog sensor.(Connect to AI0 or
AI1)
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2.6.Communication Interface
The Control Box provides Ethernet interface, as shown in the figure below.
2.7. Ethernet TCP/IP
The control box provides a gigabit Ethernet interface.
Ethernet connection steps:
· The control box and the computer are connected via Ethernet. One
end of the network cable is connected to the network interface of the control
box, and the other end is connected to the computer or
52
LAN network interface. If the connection is successful, the network port
indicator blinks frequently. The default network segment IP address of the
control box is 192.168.1.(2~254). For a specific IP address, please check the
control box label. When communicating with the robotic arm, the IP address of
the computer should be in the same network segment with the IP address of the
control box. Note: To connect with Ethernet, please check if the computer’s IP
address is 192.168.1., check if the network proxy is enabled, and check if
the robotic arm’s IP address conflicts with that of other devices in the LAN.
Please change the computer IP address to the same network segment and close
the computer’s network proxy. To test whether the computer can communicate
with the robotic arm, open the command terminal and input `ping 192.168.1.*
(the IP address of the robotic arm)’. If the ping is working, the
communication between the computer and the robotic arm is successful.
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3. End-Effector
3.1. Gripper
The gripper is the end-effector of the robotic arm, which can grasp objects
dynamically. The value range of the gripper opening and closing is: -10 to
850. The larger the value, the greater the stroke of the gripper, meaning the
smaller the value, the smaller the stroke of the gripper. If the clamping is
not tight, a negative value can be set until it is tightened. The speed of the
gripper should be in 1000-5000. If a speed less than 1000 was set, the gripper
may not work. The speed of the gripper opening needs to be greater than or
equal to the speed of the gripper closing.
3.1.1. Gripper Installation
Installation of gripper: 1. Move the robotic arm to a safe position. Avoid
collision with the
robotic arm mounting surface or other equipment; 2. Power off the robotic arm
by pressing the emergency stop button on
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the control box; 3. Fix the gripper on the end of the robotic arm with 2 M6
bolts; 4. Connect the robotic arm and the gripper with the gripper
connection cable;
Note: 1. When wiring the gripper connection cable, be sure to power off the
robotic arm, to set the emergency stop button in the pressed state, and to
ensure that power indicator of the robotic arm is off, as to avoid robotic arm
failure caused by hot-plugging; 2. Due to limited length of the gripper
connection cable, the gripper connector and the tool/end effector connector
must be on the same side; 3. When connecting the gripper and the robotic arm,
be sure to align the positioning holes at the ends of the gripper and the
robotic arm. The male pins of the connecting cable are relatively thin, please
be careful to avoid bending the male pins during disassembly.
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3.1.2. The Flow of Gripper Movement
1. Enable the gripper. 2. Send out a position for clamping. 3. The current
range of value: -10 ~ 850.
3.1.3. Precautions
1. When the robotic arm is in the zero position, the gripper will exceed the
installation surface. Please adjust the robotic arm to a posture suitable for
installing the gripper during installation. 2.When a robotic arm equipped with
a gripper is used for trajectory planning, it is necessary to perform a safety
assessment on whether to return to the zeropoint or whether the operation can
be performed and to avoid collisions.
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The gripper of the robotic arm in the zero position will exceed the mounting
surface. Note For detailed instructions on the xArm gripper, please refer to
the xArm gripper user manual, download link: https://www.ufactory.cc/pages
/download-xarm
3.2. Vacuum Gripper
The vacuum gripper can dynamically suck the smooth plane object with payload
5kg. The vacuum gripper is equipped with 5 suction cups, which can be
partially selected for use according to the size of the object surface, and
the unused suction cup needs to be sealed. Note:
57
If the surface of the object is not smooth, there will be air leakage from the
suction cup which makes the object fail to be sucked up firmly. Indicator
status: When the vacuum gripper is powered on, the power supply indicator near
the vacuum gripper is constantly red. When the vacuum gripper is on, the IO
status indicator is constantly green.
3.2.1. Vacuum Gripper Installation
Installation of vacuum gripper: 1. Move the robotic arm to a safe position.
Avoid collision with the
robotic arm mounting surface or other equipment; 2. Power off the robotic arm
by pressing the emergency stop button on
the control box; 3. Fix the vacuum gripper on the end of the robotic arm with
2 M6
bolts; 4. Connect the robotic arm and the vacuum gripper with the vacuum
gripper connection cable. Note: 1. When turning on the vacuum gripper
connection cable, be sure to
power off the robotic arm, to set the emergency stop button in the pressed
state, and to ensure that power indicator of the robotic arm is off, as to
avoid robotic arm failure caused by hot-plugging; 2. Due to the length
limitation of the vacuum gripper connection cable, the vacuum gripper
interface and the tool IO interface must be in the same direction;
58
3. When connecting the vacuum gripper and the robotic arm, be sure to align
the positioning holes on the two ends of the interface. The male pins of the
connecting cable are relatively thin to avoid bending the male pins during
disassembly.
3.2.2. Turn On/Off Vacuum Gripper
Example: Blockly
Python-SDK
arm.set_vacuum_gripper(True, wait=False) #Turn on vacuum gripper
arm.set_vacuum_gripper(False, wait=False) #Turn off vacuum gripper
Note 1. Python-SDK and UFactory studio provide wrapped functions that can be
called to turn on/off the vacuum gripper. 2. For detailed instructions on the
xArm vacuum gripper, please refer to the xArm vacuum gripper user manual,
download link: https://www.ufactory.cc/pages/download-xarm
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xArm User Manual-Software Section
1. UFactory studio
UFactory studio is a graphical user application for controlling the robotic
arm. With this application, you can set parameters, move the robotic arm in
live control, and create a motion trajectory by simply drag and drop the code
blocks of Blockly. UFactory studio allows users to plan the motion trajectory
for the robotic arm without programming skills. Note:
- Installation systems supported by the UFactory studio client: Windows, Mac,
Linux (Ubuntu16.04) 2) On Windows (Mac/Linux) computers, iPad, Android tablets
and Raspberry Pi 4B, you can access UFactory studio through a browser.
UFactory studio is now compatible with browsers: Google Chrome/ Firefox /
Safari /Microsoft Edge (Chromium kernel)
1.1 Hardware Preparation
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Before using UFactory studio, you must ensure that the hardware is installed
correctly and all the protective measures for the workplace environment have
been implemented. 1. The robotic arm is fixed on the plane; protective
measures are in
place within the range of motion. 2. Check if the connection between the
control box and the robotic
arm, power supply, and network cable is stable. 3. Check if the main power of
the control box is on. If the ON/OFF
light is on it means power is on. 4. Check if the control box is turned on, if
the status indicator of
the control box is on, it means the control box is turned on. 5. Check if the
network is connected. If the network indicator in the
middle of the control box flashes frequently, it means the network
communication is normal. 6. Check if the robotic arm is powered and the
emergency stop button is disabled. If the power indicator of the robotic arm
lights up, it means the power is on.
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1.2 Connect to the Robotic Arm 1.2.1 The Robotic Arm Network Settings
There are four ways of network settings for the robotic arm. You can choose
the appropriate network setting method according to your scenario: (1) The
control box is directly connected to the PC.
Note: Recommended connection method.
(2) The control box, PC and router are connected by Ethernet cable.
62
(3) PC and router are connected by wireless network, and con trol box and
router are connected by Ethernet cable. Note: It is not recommended because of
the delay and packet loss of wireless connection.
(4) The control box, PC and network switch are connected by Ethernet
cable.
63
1.2.2 IP Configuration
Before connecting the robotic arm with UFactory studio (communication with the
robotic arm), make sure that the IP address of the computer and the IP address
of the control box are on the same network segment. When the control box is
shipped from the factory, the default IP address is 192.168.1.xxx (The factory
IP address of the device has been marked on the side of the control box).
Therefore, to successfully communicate with the control box, the IPV4 network
segment on the computer must be between 192.168.1.1-192.168.1.255 (cannot be
the same as the IP address tail number of the control box). IP Setting Network
and Sharing Center Ethernet Properties IPV4 Step1: Open the “Network and
Sharing Center”
Step2: Open the “Ethernet”
64
Step3: Open the “Properties” Step4: Open the “IPV4”
Step5:
65
Then check whether the computer IP is within 192.168.1.1192.168.1.255 (the
tail number should be 1 to 255, and can not be the same as the IP address of
the control box). If not, please modify the computer’s IP.
Step6:
1.2.3 Connect to the Robotic Arm
There are the following two ways to communicate with the robotic arm. 1. If
you access UFactory studio software, you can communicate with the robotic arm
through the following steps: (1) Download UFactory studio UFactory studio
download address: https://www.ufactory.cc/ufactory-studio/ (2) Install
UFactory studio software
66
(3) Open the UFactory studio software, and enter the IP address of the control
box in the search box (the default IP address of the device has been marked on
the side of the control box)
2. If you use a browser to access UFactory studio, you can communicate with
the robot through the following steps:
(1) Open the browser (2) Enter in the search bar: the IP address of the
control box: 18333 For example, if the IP address of the control box is
192.168.1.202, enter 192.168.1.202:18333 in the search bar to access UFactory
studio.
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1.2.4 Return to the Search Interface
PC: Click Tool – Search to return to the search interface.
1.3 UFactory studio Introduction
UFactory studio mainly consists of 3 main functional modules:
Live Control: Used to control the position of the robot arm in real time,
adjust the motion attitude of the robot arm, end tool, and track recording.
Blockly: A graphical programming tool that allows users to achieve programming
for the control of the robotic arm , I/O, or end-effector by simply drag and
drop the code blocks.
GCode:Entering the GCode programming page, users can use GCode to control the
movement of the robotic arm.
Settings: It is used to set the parameters of the robot arm, to pass the
settings, safety settings, system software upgrade, etc.
1.3.1 Toolbar
Window: To adjust its size, you can make a selection in the Window drop-down
menu or adjust the size by dragging the border of the window.
Language: Switch language in the upper right corner of the toolbar Language
may switch between Simplified Chinese /
68
English. Tool: Tools – Search to return to the interface of `search the
robotic arm’.
Tools – Check for Updates to check the software updates. Help: HelpUse the
drop-down window to download the manuals of the
robotic arm, contact technical support, open forums, and visit GitHub.
1.4 Robotic Arm Setting
Click the Settingsbutton on the home page to enter the robotic arm setting
interface. Set the desired parameters according to the actual situation.
1.4.1 Motion Settings 1.4.1 Parameters
1.4.1.1 Joint Motion
Acceleration: The acceleration of joint motion. The larger the value, the less
time it takes to reach the set speed. The range
69
is recommended to be within 20 times the maximum operating speed [20*180°/s].
Joint step: Set the step length for fine adjustment of single joint rotation
in Live-control.
1.4.1.2 Linear Motion
Acceleration: The acceleration of linear motion. The larger the value, the
less time it takes to reach the set speed. It is recommended to be set within
20 times the maximum speed value for a smooth trajectory.
Position step: Set the step length for fine cartesian position (X/Y/Z)
adjustment in Live-control.
Attitude step: Set the step length for fine adjustment of TCP orientation in
Live-control.
1.4.1.3 Collision Detection:
· When the deviation of the torque detected by the joint exceeds a
certain normal range during the movement of the robotic arm, the robotic arm
will automatically stop to prevent the robotic arm or the operator from being
injured. The collision sensitivity range is 1 to 5 levels. The larger the
value is set, the higher the collision sensitivity level is, and the smaller
the additional torque required for the robotic arm to trigger collision
protection. If the load or installation direction is not set accurately, it
may cause false alarms. During certain high loads
70
or high speed movements, if you confirm that the load or installation
direction is set accurately, you can try to lower the collision sensitivity,
but it is not recommended to lower it to less than 3.
1.4.1.4 Initial Position
Setting the Initial Position of the robotic arm can help the user to return
the robotic arm to a relatively safe position when planning the motion
trajectory. Steps for setting the initial position:
1. ClickSettingsbutton on the homepage. 2. Enter Motion, then click the Set
button next
to the Initial Position. 3. Set the initial position of the xArm in Live-
control. Confirm: Save the changes. Cancel: Cancel the changes.
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1.4.2 TCP Settings
Set TCP Payload and TCP Offset according to the actual situation. TCP Payload
The load weight refers to the actual mass (end-effector + object)
in Kg; X/Y/Z-axis represents the position of the centre of gravity of payload
in mm, this position is expressed in default TCP coordinate located at flange
center (Frame B in the above figure). If there is virtually no load at the
end, both TCP payload and centre of gravity must be set to 0. TCP Offset
Setting the Tool Coordinate Offset with respect to the ini tial tool frame
located at the center of the flange (Frame B in the above figure). The
position coordinates X, Y, and Z determine the position of TCP, while Roll,
Pitch, and Yaw determine the orientation. When the specified value is zero,
TCP coincides with the centre point of the tool output flange.
1.4.2.1 TCP Payload
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On this page, the current payload of the robotic arm can be set and the
additional TCP payload data can be recorded. The additional TCP payload data
can be referenced during Blockly programming.
Set as default Set the payload data to the payload of the current robotic arm
and
display the current payload at the top, which is used for controlling the
entire robotic arm and is related to the normal use of manual mode and
collision detection. New: Create new payload data. Select: Select the payload
data to be deleted in the next step.
: Delete the selected payload data. Note: the current default payload data
cannot be deleted.
Save: Save for the newly added payload record, setting the default payload,
and deleting the payload record.
Cancel: Cancel saving the newly added payload record, setting the default
payload, or deleting the payload record.
1.4.2.2 Create New TCP Payload and Offset
There are two ways to create a new TCP payload Manual input or Automatic
identification. Manually inputting can be selected if the weight of the
payload and the approximate center of gravity of the payload are known. The
center of gravity of the payload is set based on the initial tool coordinates
(the coordinates of point B shown in the above figure). The current robotic
arm must be mounted on a steady floor if
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automatic identification is selected. The robotic arm needs to run a series of
action commands to calculate the parameters of TCP payload. In addition, it is
important to ensure the safety of equipment and personnel near the robotic
arm. Note: Once the name of the new payload has been determined, it cannot be
changed.
After completing the TCP load settings, click Next to start the TCP offset
settings,When creating a new TCP offset, there are two ways to set the new TCP
offset parameters, as shown in the figure below:
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- Manual Input When the TCP offset parameter of the end effector is known,
you can choose to manually input its TCP offset parameter. 2) Teaching Tool
Center When the TCP offset parameter of the end effector is unknown, click the
[Teach and Acquire] button to obtain the TCP offset parameters by teaching 5
points.
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Delete: Delete the selected offset data. Note: the current default offset data
cannot be deleted.
Save: Save for the newly added offset record, setting the default offset, and
deleting the offset record.
Cancel: Cancel saving the newly added offset record, setting the default
offset, and deleting the offset record.
1.4.3 Coordinates
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In this interface, the user can set the coordinate offset to customize the user coordinate system. X, Y, Z are coordinate values that are offset relative to the base coordinate system. Roll, Pitch, Yaw represents the angular values of orientation relative to the base coordinate system. After this offset setting, user coordinate system becomes the world origin instead of robot base. New: Create a new user coordinate offset. When creating a new base coordinate offset, there are two ways to set the new base coordinate offset parameters, as shown in the figure below:
- Manual Input When the base coordinate offset parameter is known, you can
choose to manually input its base coordinate offset parameter. 2) Teaching UCS
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When the base coordinate offset parameter is unknown, click the Teaching
UCSbutton to obtain the base coordinate offset parameters by teaching 3
points.
Cancel: Cancel the selection. Save: Save the modified data. Discard: Discard
the modified data.
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Example:
When expressed in coordinate system {A}: B is (207,0,112,180,0,0), DAC =
1000mm, if user want to set the world reference coordinate system to {C}, just
express the position and orientation of user coordinate system {C} in
coordinate system {A}. As figure shown, the offset of the base coordinate
system should be (1000,0,0,0,0,180). Former TCP coordinates of B
(207,0,112,180,0,0) in base coordinate system, after user coordinate system
offset setting: Becomes: B ‘(793,0,112,180,0,180)
1.4.3.1 Mounting
Setting the mounting direction of the robotic arm is mainly to inform the
control box of the current relationship between the actual mounting direction
of the robotic arm and the direction of gravity. If the mounting direction of
the robotic arm is set incorrectly, the robotic arm will not be able to
accurately recognize the direction of gravity, which will cause the robotic
arm to frequently trigger a collision warning and stop motion, and will also
result in uncontrolled motion of the robotic arm after entering manual mode.
xArm with SN of XF1300/XI1300/XS1300 and later versions, the built-in
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IMU of the robot arm will detect the direction of gravity. When the deviation
between the installation direction you set and the installation direction
detected by the IMU exceeds 10°, the software will pop-up prompts. Floor (0 °,
0 °) The default method is horizontal installation, and the
horizontally mounted robotic arm does not need a tilt angle and a rotation
angle. Ceiling (180 °, 0 °) For ceiling-mount, users simply need to set the
mounting method as ceiling, and it is not necessary to set the angle of
rotation. WallUp (90 °, 180 °) Indicates that the robotic arm is wall-mounted
and the end of the robotic arm is facing up. WallDown (90 °, 0 °) Indicates
that the robotic arm is wall-mounted and the end of the robotic arm is facing
down. Customized Mount at other angles. For mounting at a certain angle. It is
necessary to set the tilt angle and the rotation angle according to the actual
situation. How to determine the tilt angle and rotation angle?
The initial position of the robotic arm:
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On the horizontal plane, when the user is facing the robotic arm side, the
initial position is on the left-hand side of the user in a downward direction.
Tilt angle: The initial position of the robotic arm and the base of the
robotic arm to be mounted should be in a tilt angle, which ranges from 0 to
180°.
Rotation angle: The initial position of the robotic arm and the end direction
of the robotic arm to be mounted should be used as the rotation angle.
The method of determining the rotation angle ± direction: Hold it with your
right hand and point your thumb in the direction of the robotic arm which is
vertically mounted. The direction where your four fingers point is the
positive direction and vice versa. The range of rotation angle: ±180°
Make sure the robotic arm is properly placed according to the actual use. Must
be mounted on a sturdy, shock-resistant surface to avoid the risk of rollover
of the robotic arm.
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1.4.2 Externals 1.4.2.1 Robot IO
Through this page, you can monitor the digital input and analog input status
of the external device to the robot arm, and set the digital output at the end
of the robot arm.
1.4.2.2 Controller IO
The control box of the robotic arm is equipped with 32 digital input and
output signals, which can be set in the Blockly project and SDK only when IO
is set to General Input / Output, otherwise the custom setting will not take
effect.
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1.4.2.2.1 IO State
In this interface, the IO input status and IO output status of the control box
can be monitored, and the IO output status of the control box can be
controlled by clicking the button.
1.4.2.2.2 IO Function
The following functions (if configured), can be triggered by lowlevel input
signals.
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General InputThe user can use the IO freely in Blockly or SDK program only
when the controller input is set as a general input, otherwise it will cause a
function conflict. For example, if CI 0 is configured as an offline task, CI 0
should not be used in any program.
Stop Moving Trigger IO, the robotic arm stops moving.
Safeguard ResetTrigger IO to resume the motion of the robotic arm in the
protection stop state. Should work with SI, refer to 2.4.2.5.Protective Stop
with Reset Button
Offline Task Offline Task can add multiple Blockly to be triggered through
I/O. As shown in the figure above, CI0 is set as Offline Task and a Blockly
project is added. Click Add to add a Blockly project, and
click to delete the project. Manual ModeWhen set as Manual Mode, the robotic
arm can be
dragged freely when the input signal remains low level. Reduced ModeThe IO is
triggered and the robotic arm enters the reduced mode. Enable RobotEnable the
robotic arm by triggering IO. SaveSave the changes. CancelDiscard the changes.
Note
DI0-DI7 are not equipped with the following three functions: stop moving,
safeguard reset, and reduced mode.
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The below functions can be configured for each output.
General OutputThe user can use the IO freely in Blockly or SDK program only
when the controller output is set as general output, otherwise it will cause
function conflict. For example, if CO 0 is configured as motion stopped, CO 0
should not be used in any program.
Motion StoppedThe system enters an emergency stop state and outputs a high
signal.
The actions that conform to the emergency stop are:
When the Emergency Stop button of the control box is pressed, the power supply
of the robotic arm is cut off.
Enter emergency stop via CI. Stop button of UFactory studio and Emergency stop
code block of
Blockly. Emergency stop API of SDK.
Robot MovingWhen the robotic arm is moving, the output is high.
ErrorWhen the robotic arm reports an error, the output is high.
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WarningWhen the robotic arm issues a warning, the output is high.
CollisionWhen the robotic arm reports an error of collision, the
output is high. Manual mode When the Manual Mode is turned on, the output is
high. Offline task runningWhen the robotic arm is running the offline
projects, the output is high. Reduced ModeWhen the reduced mode is turned on,
the output is
high. Robot EnabledWhen the robot is enabled, the output is high. Emergency
Stop is PressedWhen the emergency stop button on the
robotic arm control box is pressed, the output is high.
1.4.2.3 Torque Sensor
This page allows you to do load recognition of the torque sensor and set the
manual mode direction of the torque sensor.
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1.4.2.4 Modbus RTU
In the Modbus RTU interface, the user can send commands to control the robot
gripper and get the position information of the gripper.
1.Selects the robot arm Modbus or control box Modbus. 2.Sets the baud rate,
the default baud rate is 2000000. 3.Enter commands in the “Commands” box, for
example: 0x08,0x03,0x07,0x02,0x00,0x02, note that the program will do CRC
checksum automatically. 4.Click Send and you can see the sent and received
information in the debug box on the left. If you want to send in a loop, you
need to set the delay time, turn on the loop function and click send.
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1.4.3 Safety Settings
Safety Boundary When this mode is turned on, the working range of the robotic
arm
in Cartesian space can be limited. If the tool center point (TCP) of the
robotic arm exceeds the set safety boundary, the robotic arm will stop moving.
The user can then adjust the robotic arm back into the restricted space.
Reduced Mode When this mode is turned on, the maximum linear speed, maximum
joint speed, and joint range of the robotic arm in Cartesian space will be
limited.
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1.4.4 General 1.4.4.1 Assistive Features
Orientation Control xArm supports adjusting the rotation of the robot arm
through the axis-angle and R/P/Y. Generally, it is recommended to use the
axisangle since the axis-angle control is more intuitive. The choice here
determines the TCP control mode of the UFactory studio Live Control page. The
left side of the figure below is the axis-angle control, the button is
displayed as Rx/Ry/Rz; the right side is the R/P/Y control, and the button is
displayed as R/P/Y.
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Quick Copy After turning on this button, the TCP coordinates and joint angle
values of the xArm can be copied on the real-time control interface. Python
IDE Enter PythonIDE
1.4.4.2 Debugging Tool 1.4.4.2.1 Robot
Note: This function should be completed under the guidance of technical
support. (Please contact the technical support by the email:
support@ufactory.cc) This page can help technical support remotely analyze and
solve problems by observing changes in some parameter values of the robotic
arm and drawing graphics to technical support. At the same time, you can also
check the record CSV and download it after the observation and send it to
technical support. The values that can be selected for observation include:
Target Joint Positions,Target Joint Velocities Target Joint
Accelerations,Actual Joint Positions,Actual Joint
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Velocities,Actual Joint Accelerations,Actual Joint Currents,Estimated Joint
Torques, etc.
1.4.4.2.2 Jiont
Clickunlock to unlock a single joint. The unlocked joint does not have any
force to provide and thence external force support is needed. At this time,
the joint can be dragged by hand to rotate. After confirming the position,
please re-lock all the joints manually. Note: 1. Please ensure to hold the
robotic arm by hand when unlocking the joint to prevent it from falling down
due to the inadequate provision of force, and take measures to protect the
surrounding environment and peripheral facilities. 2. The operation of the
unlocking joint is mainly used to adjust the posture of the robotic arm to a
relatively safe position when the error is reported by the robotic arm.
Attention should be paid to adjusting the joint into the range manually when
it exceeds the range
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of the joint. 3. In the “simulated robotic arm mode”, clicking the unlock
joint button will also unlock the real joints of the robotic arm.
When releasing the joint brakes, someone must support the robot’s posture to
prevent the robotic arm from falling without external force and damage the
robotic arm and surrounding equipment.
After the release of the joint brake and manually dragging the robotic arm,
please always pay attention to the degree of joint rotation to avoid exceeding
the rotation range of the robot joint and damage the internal structure of the
robotic arm.
1.4.4.3 Advanced Settings
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If you want to modify the joint jerk and TCP jerk of the robotic arm, you can
modify time here.
Note:
1.The jerk affects the acceleration performance of the robotic arm. In
general, we do not recommend modifying this parameter.
2.If the robotic arm is not enabled, the jerk cannot be modified.
3.If an error warning occurs on the robotic arm, the jerk cannot be modified.
4.When the robotic arm is moving, the jerk can not be modified.
Clear the IO output when the robot is stopped After turning on Clear IO output
when the robot is stoppedif the robotic arm receives a stop command,
Controller Digital Output or Tool Digital Outputwill be set to the invalid
state. Otherwise, the Controller Digital Output orTool Digital Outputwill not
be affected by the stop command. Collision Rebound
When this mode is turned on, the robotic arm will rebound backward for a
certain distance after it collides with an obstacle. If collision Detection is
open, when this mode is turned off, the robotic arm will stay at the position
where collision is detected.
Collision Detection
Turn on collision detection
Self-collision detection
When the mode is turned on, it will prevent the xArm from causing self-
collision.
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Bypassing Singularities
Turn on Bypassing Singularities
Configuration File
Click the Exportbutton to export the parameters of the robotic arm as a
configuration file.
The robotic arm parameters that can be exported mainly include: motion
parameters, TCP offset, TCP payload, IO settings, safety boundary,
installation methods, coordinate systems, and advanced parameters.
Click the Import button to import the configuration file containing the
parameters of the robotic arm.
Click the Factory Reset button, and the robotic arm will restore the factory
settings mode.
Note:
(1) When multiple robotic arms need to share a set of configuration
parameters, click the Export button to export the configuration file of a
robotic arm that has been set. Then click the Import button to import the
configuration file to other robotic arms.
(2) When the control box fails and needs to be repaired, you can export and
save the configuration file of the robotic arm to prevent the original data
from being lost or changed during the repair process.
(3) The parameters of the robotic arm will change after the factory reset.
Please export the configuration file of the robotic arm before the factory
reset.
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1.4.5 My Device
1.4.5.1 Device Info
Display the IP address of the connected robotic arm, the firmware version of
the arm, and the UFactory studio software version, the degree of freedom
(number of axis) of the current robotic arm,and SN address of the robotic arm
can be checked.
Network Settings Display the IP address of the robotic arm, subnet mask,
broadcast
address, and default gateway. The DNS address can be modified and added. Note:
If you change the IP address, be sure to mark it on the control box. If you
forget or lose the modified IP address, you can use the following method to
reset the IP.
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1.4.5.1.1 Reset IP
Steps to reset IP: 1. Press the emergency stop button and turn off the power
of the control box. 2. Connect RI0 to GND with a cable.
3. Turn on the power of the control box. After hearing the sound of “beep”,
it means that the IP address of the control box has been reset successfully.
The reset IP is 192.168.1.111.
4. Please unplug the cable connecting RI0 and GND and wait for the control
box to start up (60 seconds).
5. Enter 192.168.1.111 in the UFactory studio search box, connect the robotic
arm.
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6. If you need to modify the IP, just modify the IP in [Settings] [System
Settings] [Network Settings]. (For example: the modified IP is 192.168.1.36)
7. Restart the control box, enter your modified IP in the UFactory studio
search box, and connect the robotic arm.
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Note: 1. If you need to reset the IP, the xArm firmware version must be
V1.5.0. 2. If you do not unplug the cable connecting RI0 and GND, the next
time you restart the control box, no matter what IP address you modify, the IP
address of the control box will be automatically changed to 192.168.1.111, so
after modifying the IP, Be sure to unplug the cable connecting RI0 and GND.
Access to Control Box Shutdown Access to [Settings]-[My Device]-[Device Info]
Shutdown / Reboot The control box can be shut down or restarted. Note that the
shutdown / reboot button does not turn off the power supply and the main power
supply to the robotic arm.
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Shutdown Click this button, the page will go back to theSearch the IP
Address of the Control Box page, and the control box will shut down. This
operation is equivalent to long pressing the Power button of the control box,
and the shutdown process takes 2 to 3 seconds. Reboot Click this button, the
control box of the robotic arm will restart. After the restart action is
completed, the pop-up window will close and the robotic arm will be
automatically reconnected. The operation is equivalent to the shutdown and
startup process of the control box, and restart process takes 2 to 4 minutes.
Note: The xArm shutdown and xArm Rebootbuttons do not affect
the main power supply of the control box and the power supply of the robotic
arm.
1.4.5.2 Check Update
When updating software and firmware, make sure that the local area
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network where the computer and control box are located can communicate with
the external network. In addition, make sure the control box can communicate
with external internet.
: Click to get the latest UFactory studio and xArm firmware version
information for your controller.
Install:Click to go to the offline installation window for UFactory studio and
xArm firmware, select the upgrade package you downloaded in advance to update
the firmware and studio to the latest.
Click to download the latest offline upgrade installation package
Note: For detailed steps on updating UFactory studio and xArm firmware, please
refer to Appendix 4-xArm Software/Firmware Update Method.
1.4.5.3 Log
The error log of the control box, servo error log and end effector
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error log can be checked. Click the Downloadbutton to download the error log.
1.5 Live Control
1.5.1 Page Introduction
o IP address Displays the IP address of the currently linked robotic arm
controller.
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o Payload Displays the current default load parameters of the arm Robotic arm
status
o Normal: The robotic arm is not in motion, but is ready to go into motion. o
Motion: The robotic arm is in motion. o Stop: The robotic arm is in motion
stop. o Pause: The robotic arm is in motion pause.
o mode The mode the robotic arm is currently in, default isposition mode
Position information The position information that the robot arm is currently
in, contains [X,Y,Z,R,P,Y], or [X,Y,Z,Rx,Ry,Rz] if the axis angle display mode
is selected real robotic arm/simulation robotic arm
o Simulation robotic arm: It means the robotic arm is connected and the
current one is simulation robotic arm. You can control the virtual robot arm
movement through UFactory studio interface. o Real arm: means the arm is
connected and the arm is currently a real arm. You can control the movement of
the real robot arm through UFactory studio interface. The virtual robot arm
will react to the position and attitude of the real robot arm in real time.
Note: A robot arm can only be in one mode (real robot arm mode / simulation
robot arm mode).
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o Align When this button is clicked, the tool flange will be leveled, i.e.
pitch and roll will be adjusted to fixed values of 0° and 180°.
o Initial point It means all joint angle values are 0. Long press the Initial
point button to make the robot arm return to zero point attitude. You can set
the initial point by clickingSettings-Motion-Parameters -Initial Point
Positionin the home page. Initial point point press for step motion, long
press for continuous motion.
1.5.2 Emergency Stop
Click on the emergency stop button to immediately stop the current motion and
clear all cached commands. Note:
The “STOP” button in UFactory studio is different from the one on the control
box.
1. The “STOP” button in UFactory studio allows the robotic arm to stop the
current motion and clear all cache commands immediately. It is a software
stop, and the power is still on.
2. The Emergency STOP button on the control box: Send out a stop
command to cut off the power supply of the robotic arm, and thence the posture
of the robotic arm will slightly brake and fall.
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1.5.3 Position Control 1.5.3.1 Linear Motion
Users can control the motion of the robotic arm based on the base coordinate
system and TCP coordinate system. The trajectory of tool center point in the
Cartesian space is a straight line. Each joint performs a more complex
movement to keep the tool in a straight path. The TCP path is unique once the
target point is confirmed, and the corresponding posture in the execution
process is random. X, Y, and Z control the position of TCP in base or tool
coordinate system, in the unit of mm. While Roll/Pitch/Yaw controls the TCP
orientation in the unit of degree. Linear motion and arc linear motion belong
to the Cartesian space trajectory planning, which needs to be solved by
inverse kinematics. Therefore, there may be no solution, multiple solutions,
and approximated solutions; and due to the nonlinear relationship between the
joint space and Cartesian space, the joint motion may exceed its maximum speed
and acceleration limits.
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1.5.3.2 TCP Coordinate System
A: Base coordinate system
B: Tool coordinate system
The default TCP coordinate system is defined at the centre point of the end flange of the robotic arm, and it is the result of rotating [180°, 0°, 0°] around the X/Y/Z-axis of the base coordinate system in order. The spatial orientation of the TCP coordinate system changes according to the changes of the joint angles.
Roll/Pitch/Yaw respectively rotates around X/Y/Z of the base coordinate system, and the final TCP orientation is the result of the three rotations in exact order. The robotic arm will always choose the shortest way to reach target orientation. In particular, it is important to strictly control the magnitude of the deflection angle between the two points to control the direction of rotation, and if necessary, insert a third point between the two points. As shown in figure 6.4, if a deflection is needed from position point A to point B, the robotic arm moves in the direction of angle. If the robotic arm needs to be moved in the direction of the angle, a new position between the angles of should be inserted, and the angle that formed by
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the inserted point and A should be smaller than .
The +180° and -180°points of the Roll/Pitch/Yaw are coinciding in the space,
and the valid range is ±180°, so it is possible to have both ±180° when the
robotic arm is reporting the position.
Roll angle, pitch angle, and yaw angle (RPY). The RPY rotation matrix (X, Y’,
Z” rotation) is determined by the following formula:
R rpy (, , ) = R Z () · R Y () · R X ()
A: Base coordinates
B: TCP coordinates(If no offset)
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1. You must check the TCP offset before recording the Cartesian position.
1.5.3.3 Speed Setting
It is used to adjust the motion speed of the live control interface of xArm.
(Note that the maximum speed of the live control interface is not the actual
maximum motion speed of the robotic arm. If you want the program to run at
high speed, you can add a speed command in the Blockly motion program). Joint
Operating Speed The range is 1°/s ~ 180°/s. When the robotic arm is in
operation,
the actual maximum speed will be influenced by the payload, speed, and the
pose, and the maximum speed would not be an absolutely reachable value. Note:
the speed at which the joint runs between each command is not continuous, and
the robotic arm will have a brief pause between joint command.
TCP Operating Speed The Cartesian speed range is from 1mm/s to 1000mm/s. The
actual
maximum speed is also affected by the payload, speed, and posture of the
robotic arm. If the set speed is close to the limit speed, the robotic arm
will slow down or cause an error mechanism. When a command involves
displacement and rotation, at the same time, the time required for the
displacement motion and the rotational motion
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depends on the one that takes more time, but in principle, it is better to
separate the displacement from the rotation command.
1.5.3.4 Operation Mode 1.5.3.4.1 xArm 6 (xArm 7) Operation Interface
It can switch the control functions between the base coordinate
system and the tool coordinate system. Position/Attitude Real-time Display X /
Y / Z represents the coordinates of the tool center point (TCP)
position of the robotic arm under the base coordinate offset. Roll/Pitch/Yaw
under the Attitude indicates the angle value rotated under the base coordinate
offset, which is a description of the azimuth obtained by rotating three times
around the selected coordinate system in a certain order. Real-time Position
Control X/Y/Z controls the X/Y/Z-axis of the selected coordinate system
respectively. Click for step motion and long press for continuous
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motion. Real-time Attitude Control Roll/Pitch/Yaw controls the Roll/Pitch/Yaw
of the selected
coordinate system respectively. Click for step motion and long press for
continuous motion. The step can be set by clickingSettings -Motion -Parameters
-Attitude Step on the homepage.
1.5.3.4.2 xArm 5 Operation Interface
Aligning the Hand After clicking this button, the tool flange will be adjusted
to a
horizontal attitude, that is, pitch and roll will be adjusted to the fixed
values of 0 ° and 180 °.
1.5.3 Joint Motion
The robotic arm consists of joint modules. The position of the endeffector is
controlled by coordinating the rotation angle of each joint.
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The joint motion reaches the target point with the fastest path, the end trajectory is not a straight line, and the speed unit is °/s. After the target point is set, the corresponding poses are unique for TCP and the joints along the trajectory.
You can copy the joint angle value of the robotic arm by clicking this button.
The progress bar represents the range of joints, the text represents the
current joint and its degree. Operation mode:
Click + or- for the step angles, users can set the step angle in Settings
-Motion Settings -Joint Motion -Joint Step .
Press-and-hold+or-for continuous joint motion in a positive or negative
direction, which will stop when the mouse is released.
To confirm the direction of joint rotation, please refer the figure below
xArm 5
xArm 6 110
xArm 7
1.5.3.1 Manual Mode
By turning on the Manual Mode, the joint can be driven freely by hand. Turn on
the joint manual mode, you can manually drag the robot
links to reach the target position, making it easier to record the robot’s
motion trajectory, thereby reducing the development workload. When danger
occurs, you can also use the manual mode to manually drag the robot away from
the danger zone.
Drag sensitivity can be set inGeneral-Assistive FeaturesManual Mode
Sensitivity
Teach sensitivity:
· The level of Teach sensitivity is from 1 to 5. The higher the set
value, the smaller the force required to drag the joint in manual mode.
Note: 1. Before opening the manual mode, you must ensure that the
installation method of the robotic arm and the payload setting of the robotic
arm are consistent with the actual situation, otherwise it will be dangerous.
2. The serial number of robotic arm and the control box need to be matched
before Manual Mode can be turned on. The SN of the control box can be checked
in Settings-My DeviceDevice Info. 3. The SN address of the robotic arm can be
checked next to the power signal interface of the base.
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1.5.4 Recording
The position of the joint is obtained and recorded by 250HZ to record the motion trajectory of the robotic arm in free driving, and the maximum recording time is 5 minutes. The playback will completely repeat the motion trajectory during recording, and the playback speed of the trajectory can be set (x1, x2, x4). A recorded trajectory can be imported into Blockly projects.
Create a new recording file.
Manual Mode will be turned on accordingly by clicking on
the button, and the robotic arm can be dragged directly for
trajectory recording. When starting recording, be sure to
pay attention to the load state of the robotic arm, so as
to avoid the big difference between the actual load and the
set load of the robotic arm, resulting in its self-motion.
Display recording time.
Stop recording.
TimesSet playback times.
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SpeedSet playback speed.
1.5.5 End Effector
When the end effector provided in the option is installed at the end of the
xArm, select the corresponding end effector.
The end effectors currently supported by xArm are: xArm Gripper, xArm vacuum
Gripper, xArm BIO Gripper, Robotiq-2F-85 Gripper, Robotiq-2F140 Gripper. Take
the xArm Gripper as an example. xArm Gripper
When installing other end effectors (not officially provided) at
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the end of the robotic arm, please choose other.
1. You can choose a 3D model (cylinder/cuboid) that can wrap the end effector
and use it as the self-collision prevention model of the end effector. When no
end effector is installed at the end of the robotic arm,
select [No End Effector] 1.6 Blockly Graphical Programming
Blockly is a graphical programming tool that can be programmed to
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control the robotic arm by dragging and dropping code blocks without the need
to write the code manually.
1.6.1 Interface Overview
Project Click to expand to display all created items, the currently open item
“xxx” is displayed when it folds. Program Click to expand the different
programming modules,such as Motion, Setting, Logic, Loop
Run the Blockly program
Click to convert Blockly projects to Python code.
Save changes to Blockly code.
Right mouse click on the Blockly file name to download,
rename,new folder,new file,import or delete the file
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Note: When the robotic arm is in the simulation mode, you can also run the
Blockly motion program to observe the motion of the virtual robotic arm.
1.6.2 Blockly Workspace
Drag the code block into the action panel, the code execution is topdown,
users can drag and drop the code block with the blocks attached from behind
together. Return to the default size and code block at centered position
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Zoom in on the code block. Zoom out on the code block.
1.6.2.1 The Right Click Mouse Event in the Workspace
Right-click on the blank workspace of the non-code block, the function is
mainly for all code blocks: Undo: Undo the previous operation. Redo: Restore
the last undo operation. Collapse Blocks: Collapse all code blocks. Expand
Blocks: Display all collapsed commands. Delete 22 Blocks: Delete all code
blocks.
1.6.2.2 The Right Click Mouse Event of the Code Block
Right-click in the code block, the function of each module pop up: Duplicate:
Copy all code blocks of the current workspace,
copy/cut shortcuts with the keyboard and paste them into other files. Add
Comment: Users can add a description to the code block, which
is identified by the symbol . Click to open/close
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the description pop-up window, as shown in the following figure.
External input: The location for setting the text box is displayed at the far
right. Internal Input: The location for the setting of the text box to
be displayed in the default middle position. Collapse Block: Folds the code
block of the current workspace. Disable Block: Stop the execution of the
running command of the
current code block. The opposite is Enable Block. Delete 82 Blocks: Delete the
current code block selected by the mouse click. Help: Jump to the Help Page of
the corresponding code block.
1.6.2.3 Move/Wait/Edit
For some common functions of the motion commands, clickmove and the robotic
arm will move to the current position; clickedit, Then the robotic arm will
move to the current position and open the live control interface; Wait
(true/false), indicating whether to wait for the execution of a command before
sending the next one.
1.6.3 Blockly Code Block
Setting: Used to set the running speed, acceleration, collision sensitivity,
load, etc. of the robotic arm.
Motion: Common motion commands including linear motion, joint motion,
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linear motion with arc, sleep time, zero point, and emergency stop.
Application: You can import Blockly other projects.
GPIO: External input signal triggered event (suitable for plc).
End-Effector: Contains common commands to control the end-effector,
such as
gripper, vacuum gripper.
Logic: Contains commonly used logic commands.
Loop: Contains common loop commands such as multiple loops, infinite loops, and breaking loops.
Math: Contains commands for mathematical operations.
Advanced: Includes location notes and message reminders.
1.6.4 Setting
Set TCP speedmm/s Set the speed of the linear motion in mm/s. Set TCP
accelerationmm/s² Set the acceleration of the linear motion in mm/s2. Set
joint speed°/s Set the speed of joint movement in °/s.
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Set joint acceleration°/s² Set the acceleration of joint motion in °/s2. The
default speed and acceleration values in the code block are the speed and
acceleration values set currently, which can be modified manually. Set tcp
loadweightXYZ Set the load of the current project, refer Settings-TCP Payload
from the drop-down list. Set tcp offsetX Y Z R P Y Set the end offset of the
current project, reference Settings-TCP
Offset from the drop-down list. Set world offsetX Y Z Roll Pitch Yaw Set the
base coordinate offset of the current project. The drop-
down list refers to the data of the Setting-Base Coordinate Offset. Counter
reset This command resets the counter in the control box to 0 Counter plus
Each time the command is run, the counter of the control box will
be incremented by 1. It can be used to calculate the number of times the
program actually cycles.
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1.6.5 Motion
sleeps After receiving this command, the robotic arm will stop moving for
the set time, and then continue to execute the following commands. It is
mainly used in motion programs that need to do the continuous motion. It is
used to buffer more motion commands for successful continuous motion
calculation. Motion With this command, operators can set the state of the
robotic arm (movement, pause, stop). It is used to control the state of the
robotic arm. It is mainly used in condition-triggered programs. Emergency stop
The robotic arm immediately stops moving and clears the command cache.
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Zero position The robotic arm returns to a posture where the joint value are
0. move joint J1() J2() J3 () J4() J5() J6() J7() Radius()
Wait(true/false) ,[move] , [edit] Set each joint value for the joint movement,
with the unit of
degree. move(arc) line X() Y()Z() Roll() Pitch() Yaw() Radius()
Wait(true/false) [move] [edit] Set the Cartesian coordinate target value of
the linear motion and
the TCP rotation angle in mm and °. Move (front/back/left/right)
(true/false)() mm Indicates that the robotic arm makes relative linear motion
forward/backward/left/right based on the current position, in mm move tool
line X() Y()Z() Roll() Pitch() Yaw() Radius()
Wait(true/false) This command is a relative motion relative to TCP
coordinates. move circle position 1 to position 2 From current position, the
whole circle is determined by current
position and position1 and positon2, “center angle” specifies how much of the
circle to execute. center angle (°) () Indicates the degree of the circle.
When it is set to 360, a whole circle can be completed, and it can be greater
than or less than 360; (Note: To achieve smooth track motion, you need to set
Wait = false). move joint [variable] J1() J2() J3 () J4() J5() J6() J7()
Wait(true/false) The command passes through the joint motion and supports
variable values.
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move (arc) line [variable] X() Y() Z() Roll() Pitch() Yaw() Radius()
Wait(true/false) The command passes through the Cartesian motion and supports
variable values.
1.6.6 GPIOControl Box and End tool interface
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The IO interface is made up of a control box interface and an end tool
interface, which can be used to acquire, set, and monitor IO interface
operations. The control box has 8 digital input interfaces, 8 digital output
interfaces, 2 analog input interfaces, and 2 analog output interfaces. The end
tool has 2 digital input interfaces and 2 digital output interfaces. 2 analog
input interfaces. The control box digital IO is low-level-triggered. The end
tool digital IO is highlevel-triggered.
get I/O
Acquire the I/O interface data of the code block.
set I/O
Set the I/O interface of the code block, click Set to run the command.
set I/O whenX, Y, Z, tolerance
When the robotic arm reaches the specified position (the area of the sphere
specified with the trigger position point (X, Y, Z) as the center (the radius
of the sphere is the tolerance radius)), IO
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is triggered. This command can be used to trigger IO at a specific location.
X, Y, Z represent the coordinate value of the specified position to be reached
by the robot arm, with the unit of mm. The digital IO is triggered as soon as
the system detects that the TCP position enters a spherical area centered at
(X, Y, Z) with the specified radius. If the tolerance radius is not set, when
the robotic arm passes the specified point at a speed other than 0, it may
miss the trigger because it cannot be accurately detected. when digital I/O is
(High/Low) do Executes the commands contained in this code block when the
condition is met. when the analog IO value satisfies the set condition do When
the monitored analog IO value meets the condition, the
commands contained in the code block will be executed, and the condition are
=, , >, , <, . IO trigger logic of UFactory studio: 1. UFactory studio obtains
the IO state every 100ms, and uses the IO state value obtained for the first
time as the initial value. 2. Compare the IO state obtained the second time
with the IO state obtained last time. If the IO state changes, a callback
meeting the condition is triggered.
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1.6.7 End Effector
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set xarm gripper Pos () Speed () Wait (true / false)[move][edit] Set the
position and the opening and closing speed of the gripper. set bio gripper
Speed () Wait (true / false)[move][edit] Set the opening and closing speed of
the gripper. set robotiq gripper Pos () Speed () Wait (true /
false)[move][edit] Set the position of robotiq gripper, opening and closing
speed, and the strength of the gripping object. initialize gripper Enable
gripper. object is (picked/release)
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Detect whether the vacuum gripper has picked (released) the object. If it is
detected that the vacuum gripper has picked (released) the object, then jump
out of this command and execute the next command. If the timeout period is
exceeded, the vacuum gripper has not yet picked (released) the object, it will
also jump out of the command and execute the next command.
get xarm vacuum gripper state Obtain whether the vacuum gripper picks the
object or not. When
the vacuum gripper state is 1, it indicates that the object is picked
successfully; when the vacuum gripper state is 0, it indicates that the object
fails to be picked. set xarm vacuum gripper (ON/OFF) object detection
(true/false) [set] Set the vacuum gripper to be on and off. [object detection]
= true: detect whether the object is picked, if
not, it will jump out of the entire program. [object detection] = false: do
not detect whether the object is picked.
1.6.8 Application
Run Trajectory (path) Times [1] Users can import the trajectory recording file
and set the times
of executions. Import other APP Users can import Blockly of other projects.
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1.6.9 Logic
wait () Wait for the next command to be sent, with the unit of seconds. if (Condition 1) Run (Command 1) If Condition 1 is true, then Command 1 will be run. Otherwise, it will be skipped.
The setting method of the if/else sentence:
1. Click the setting button
on the command block
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, then the
command block will pop up a selection box, as shown below: 2. At this point,
drag the [else] code block to the bottom of the [if] code block, and combine
the two code blocks, as shown below: 3. Click the setting button , the
selection box is retracted, if /else sentence setting is completed, as shown
below:
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1.6.10 Loop
forever The command contained in the loop will be executed in infinite loop.
repeat() times do The command contained in the loop will be executed X times.
repeat while/until do When the condition is not met, it jumps out of the loop.
break Terminate the loop.
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1.6.11 Math
You can use the above code block to do some complex operations such as
addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, exponential operations.
1.6.12 Text
remark
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Remark the code block, which serves as an indicator and can change the color.
message type Types available are: (information/success/warning/error),
duration
indicates the time interval the message is displayed, the unit is in second;
the message indicates the content of the prompt message. string printing[]
Users can print the entered string below and set the font and the
color. variable printing Users can print the added variable and set the font
and the color. Date The date and time on which the command was run can be
output. Python Code You can write custom python code to turn it into a block
in Blockly and use it in your program
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1.6.13 Variable
Create variable New variables can be added. After adding a variable, there are
three commands by default (set the value of the variable, change the value of
the variable by adding or subtracting, variable). Rename variable Rename the
variable. Delete variable Delete the variable.
1.6.14 Function
to (do something) Users can define a new function without a return value. to
(do something) return [] Users can define a new function with a return value.
if [] return [] 134
Conditional judgment sentence that can only be placed in the built-in
function. Note: 1. The defined function should be placed in front of the main
programs.
1.6.15 Set & Edit Motion Coordinates
Long press Move button to move the robotic arm to the position of the current
command. Click editto pop up the live control interface to re-edit the motion
coordinates of the current command.
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Click Saveto save the changes and close the pop-up window.
ClickCancel to cancel the changes and close the pop-up window.
Note: In the command, there are sequential points such as A / B / C / D. Etc.
If the user clicks move to skip point B from point A to point C, a safety
assessment must be carried out to avoid damage to peripheral facilities
Due to the complexity of Cartesian commands, Cartesian spatial trajectory
planning needs to be solved by inverse kinematics. Therefore, there may be no
solution, multiple solutions, approximate solutions. When the solution of the
Cartesian command from point A to point B is not ideal, insert a third joint
command between the two points if necessary.
1.6.16 Path Planning Guidelines
If the robotic arm is collided during the movement, resulting in stopping, the
robotic arm will report an error at this time, and the error must be cleared
before it can be used normally. Be sure to do a safety assessment before
moving again to prevent collisions.
When the robotic arm is in certain positions, there may be a situation where
the linear motion is unsolvable. At this time, the route needs to be re-
planned. For details, please refer to “xArm Kinematics-Linear Motion”.
1.7 Python IDE
Click to enter Python IDE ,Python IDE is a Python development integration
environment that can directly use xArm-Python-SDK API and
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check the Blockly projects converted into Python code.
Right mouse click on the Python file name to download, new
folder,new file,import,rename or delete the file
Run the program
Go back Blockly
Save changes to Python code. Control Box Command Caching Mechanism:
The current control box can cache 2048 commands. If more than 2048 commands
need to be sent, user have to control the cached number and control the
volume. When awaiting commands of the control box exceed the maximum buffer
amount (2048), a warning code will be returned. The warning code is decimal
11, and the command will be discarded. The commands issued should not exceed
256 command caches. It is recommended to keep the number of cached/sent
commands under 256 all the time.
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1.8 GCode
Firmware version: V2.1.102+ TCP port: 504 G-Codes
G0, Rapid Move. G1, Linear Move. G2, Arc Move, clockwise arc. G3, Arc Move,
counterclockwise arc. G4, Dwell. G17, Z-axis, XY-plane. G18, Y-axis, XZ-plane.
G19, X-axis, YZ-plane. G20, to use inches for length units. G21, to use
millimeters for length units. G90, absolute distance mode G91, incremental
distance mode G90.1, absolute distance mode for I, J & K offsets. G91.1,
incremental distance mode for I, J & K offsets.
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M-Codes M2/M30, end program M62, turn on digital output synchronized with
motion. M63, turn off digital output synchronized with motion. M64, turn on
digital output immediately. M65, turn off digital output immediately. M67, set
an analog output synchronized with motion. M68, set an analog output
immediately.
Note 1. Response: ·byte0:return value.0 is success ·byte1:mode and state
·byte2:error code ·byte3&byte4:buffer 2.Recommend to send 1 non-empty data at
a time(with line breaks) sock.send(b’GO X300n’) 3.Need to receive the
response,otherwise the buffer will be full. sock.recv(5)
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2. xArm Motion Analysis
In this section, we mainly use Python / Blockly examples to explain a few typical motions in the list below.
Motion Joint Motion
Linear Motion
Arc linear motion
Circular Motion
xArm5 Motion
About Python-SDK:
For all interfaces with is_radian, the default value of is_radian is the value
at the time of instantiation.
That is, the value of ” is_radian” set when xArmAPI () is created.
Here are three examples to illustrate:
1. arm = xArmAPI(‘192.168.1.226’,) 2. arm = xArmAPI(‘192.168.1.226’,
is_radian=False) 3. arm = xArmAPI(‘192.168.1.226’, is_radian=True)
When the xArmAPI() interface is created in method 1, the default value of
is_radian is False, the unit is °; When the xArmAPI() interface is created in
method 2, is_radian = False, the unit is °; When the xArmAPI() interface is
created in method 3, is_radian = True, the unit is rad ;
About Blockly:
All units for angles use degrees (°).
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2.1. Motion of the Robotic Arm 2.1.1. Joint Motion
To achieve point-to-point motion in joint space (unit: degree), the speed is
not continuous between each command. Blockly example:
Set joint speed() °/s: Set the speed of joint movement in °/s. Set joint
acceleration() °/s²: Set the acceleration of joint motion in °/s2. move joint
J1() J2() J3 () J4() J5() J6() J7() ,Radius(): Set each joint angle for the
joint movement, the unit is °. Wait (true / false): indicates whether to wait
for the execution of this command before sending the next command. Move: The
robotic arm will move to the current position. Edit: Open the live control
interface and adjust the coordinates of the current point. The motion
trajectory of the robotic arm in the above example is as follows:
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Python example:
arm.set_servo_angle(angle=[0.0, 7.0, -71.2, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0], speed=8,
mvacc=1145, wait=True) arm.set_servo_angle(angle=[0.0, 7.0, -51.2, 0.0, 0.0,
0.0], speed=8, mvacc=1145, wait=True) arm.set_servo_angle(angle=[0.0, 7.0,
-91.2, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0], speed=8, mvacc=1145, wait=True)
The interface set_servo_angle is described in Table 2.1:
Table 2.1 Description of set_servo_angle
description
set_servo_angle set joint angle for joint motion
joint ID, 1-7, None or 8 means all joints:
servo_id
a) 1- (Number of axes) Joint number of the robotic arm
E.g. : arm.set_servo_angle (servo_id = 1, angle = 45, is_radian = False)
b) None (8) represents all joints
parameter
angle
E.g. : arm.set_servo_angle (angle = [30, -45, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0], is_radian =
False)
angle Joint angle or list of joint angles (the unit of the default joint angle
is is_radian = False, degrees (°))
a) If servo_id is 1- (joint number)
E.g. : arm.set_servo_angle (servo_id = 1, angle = 45, is_radian = False)
b) If servo_id is None or 8,
E.g. : arm.set_servo_angle (angle = [30,45,0,0,0,0,0], is_radian = False)
speed
joint speed (the default unit is ° / s):
Unit: if is_radian = True, the unit is rad / s; if is_radian = False, the unit
is ° / s;
mvacc
joint acceleration (default unit is ° / s2)
Unit: if is_radian = True, the unit is rad / s2; if is_radian = False, the
unit is ° / s2;
roll / pitch / yaw Whether it is measured in radian (default is_radian
is_radian = False)
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Note:
wait mvtime
If is_radian = True, the unit of roll / pitch / yaw is radian;
If is_radian = False, the unit of roll / pitch / yaw is degree (°);
If wait = True, wait for the current commands to finish before sending the
next commands;
If wait = False, send the next commands directly;
0, reserved
1. If the joint angle is to be set in radian, then is_radian = True; ex: code
= arm.set_servo_angle (servo_id = 1, angle = 1.57,
is_radian = True) 2. To wait for the robotic arm to complete the current
commands before returning, wait = True; ex: code = arm.set_servo_angle
(servo_id = 1, angle = 45, is_radian =
False, wait = True)
Continuous Joint Motion
Inserting an arc transition between two joint motion commands is a way to plan the continuous joint motion of the robotic arm.
Blockly:
The motion trajectory of the robotic arm in the above example is as follows:
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Key parameter description Radius = 60
Radius =60 in the “move joint” command refers to setting the radius of the
transition arc R = 60mm, which is used to achieve a smooth transition of the
arc in a joint motion. The parameters of Radius can be set as Radius> 0,
Radius = 0, Radius = -1, different parameters correspond to different
trajectories. (1) Radius> 0. For example, setting Radius = 60, the turning
trajectory is as shown in the arc in the figure below, which can achieve a
smooth turning effect.
Note: The radius of the arc is smaller than DAB and DBC. (2) Radius = 0. There
is no arc transition at the turn, it will be a sharp turn with no
deceleration, as shown in the figure below.
(3) Radius <0. There is no arc transition at the turn, this speed
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will not be continuous between this and next motion, as shown in the figure
below, speed will decelerate to 0 at point B before moving to C.
Note: Radius <0 cannot realize continuous motion. If you need to plan a
continuous motion of the robotic arm, please make sure Radius>0. Wait = false
The wait in the “move joint” command indicates whether it is necessary to wait
for the execution of this command before sending the next command. Note: If
you need to plan for speed continuous motion, make sure wait = false, to
buffer the commands to be blended.
2.1.1. Linear Motion and Arc Linear Motion
2.1.1.1. Linear Motion
Characteristics of Linear Motion
The concept of linear motion Straight linear motion between Cartesian
coordinates (unit: mm), the speed is not continuous between each command.
Users can control the motion of the robotic arm based on the base coordinate
system and TCP coordinate system. The trajectory of tool center point in the
Cartesian space is a straight line. Each joint performs a more complex
movement to keep the tool in a straight path. The TCP path is unique once
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the target point is confirmed, and the corresponding posture in the execution
process is random. X, Y, and Z control the position of TCP in base or tool
coordinate system, in the unit of mm. While Roll/Pitch/Yaw controls the TCP
orientation in the unit of degree. Linear motion and circular linear motion
belong to the Cartesian space trajectory planning, which needs to be solved by
inverse kinematics. Therefore, there may be no solution, multiple solutions,
and approximated solutions; and due to the nonlinear relationship between the
joint space and Cartesian space, the joint motion may exceed its maximum speed
and acceleration limits. Blockly example:
Set TCP speedmm/s: Set the speed of the linear motion in mm/s. Set TCP
accelerationmm/s²: Set the acceleration of the linear motion in mm/s2.
move(arc) line X() Y()Z() Roll() Pitch() Yaw() Radius()
Wait(true/false)moveedit: Indicates the Cartesian coordinate value of the
linear motion and the TCP rotation angle in mm and °. Note: Cartesian motion
is TCP straight-line motion. Python example:
arm.set_tcp_jerk(2000)
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arm.set_position(x=205.0, y=100.0, z=110.4, roll=180.0, pitch=0.5, yaw=0.0, speed=100, radius=-1.0, wait=True) arm.set_position(x=205.0, y=120.0, z=110.4, roll=180.0, pitch=0.5, yaw=0.0, speed=100, radius=-1.0, wait=True) arm.set_position(x=205.0, y=140.0, z=110.4, roll=180.0, pitch=0.5, yaw=0.0, speed=100, radius=-1.0, wait=True)
arm.reset()
The interface set_position() is described in Table 2.2:
Description Parameter
Table 2.2 set_position description
set_position Sets the Cartesian coordinate value of the linear motion
x y z
roll
coordinate x, (unit: mm) coordinate y, (unit: mm) coordinate z, (unit: mm)
attitude rolldefault unit is °:
Unit: if is_radian = True, the unit is rad; if is_radian = False, the unit is
°;
pitch
attitude pitch (default unit is °):
Unit: if is_radian = True, the unit is rad; if is_radian = False, the unit is
°;
attitude yaw (default unit is °): yaw
Unit: if is_radian = True, the unit is rad; if is_radian = False, the unit is
°);
radius
radius: if it is a linear motion, radius <0 / radius = None; if it is arc linear motion(blended), radius> 0;
is_radian
if is_radian = True, the unit of roll / pitch / yaw is rad; if is_radian = False, the unit of roll / pitch / yaw is °;
speed mvacc mvtime
relative
TCP motion speed (mm / s, rad / s); TCP motion acceleration (mm / s2, rad /
s2); 0, reserved;
if relative = True, it is relative motion; if relative = True, it is not
relative motion;
wait
if wait = True, wait for the current commands to finish before sending the next commands;
if wait = False, send the next commands directly;
Note: If it is xArm5, roll and pitch must be set to roll = ± 180 ° and pitch = 0 °.
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2.1.1.2. Arc Linear Motion
Characteristics of Arc Linear Motion: Arc linear motion (Lineb), inserting arc
transitions between two straight lines, is a way to plan the continuous
movement of the robotic arm. The following figure is a simple example of
continuous motion using a circular arc linear motion planning robotic arm.
Note: When the xArm firmware version1.6.0, if you need to plan Lineb motion,
you need to adjust the TCP speed below 200mm/s for debugging, otherwise there
will be a high security risk. Blockly
Key parameter description Radius = 5
Radius = 5 in the “move (arc) line” command refers to setting the radius of
the transition arc between two straight lines R = 5mm, which is used to
achieve a smooth transition of the arc in a straight motion. The parameters of
Radius can be set as Radius> 0, Radius = 0, Radius = -1, different parameters
correspond to different trajectories. (4) Radius> 0. For example, setting
Radius = 5, the turning trajectory is as shown in the black arc in the figure
below, which
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can achieve a smooth turning effect.
Note: The radius of the arc is smaller than DAB and DBC. (5) Radius = 0. There
is no arc transition at the turn, it will be a sharp turn with no
deceleration, as shown in the figure below.
Note: If the motion of the robotic arm is a reciprocating linear motion, you
need to set radius=0. If the radius>0, the robotic arm may report a motion
planning error. (6) Radius <0. There is no arc transition at the turn, this
speed will not be continuous between this and next motion, as shown in the
figure below, speed will decelerate to 0 at point B before moving to C.
Note: Radius <0 cannot realize continuous motion. If you need to plan a
continuous movement of the robotic arm, please make sure Radius0. Wait = false
The wait in the “move (arc) line” command indicates whether it is necessary to
wait for the execution of this command before sending the next command.
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Note: If you need to plan for speed continuous motion, make sure wait = false,
to buffer the commands to be blended.
Python example:
arm.reset(wait=True) arm.set_pause_time(0.5)
while True: arm.set_position(x=400, y=-100, z=250, roll=180, pitch=0, yaw=0,
radius=50,speed=200,
wait=False) arm.set_position(x=400, y=100, z=250, roll=180, pitch=0, yaw=0,
radius=50,speed=200,
wait=False) arm.set_position(x=300, y=0, z=250, roll=-180, pitch=0, yaw=0,
radius=50,speed=200,
wait=False)
set_position interface: refer to Table 2.2.
The set_pause_time interface is described in Table 2.3:
Table 2.3 set_pause_time description
Description Parameter
sltime wait
set_pause_time Set the robotic arm pause time
pause time, unit: second (s); whether to wait, default is False;
2.1.2. Circular and Arc Motion
The circular motion calculates the trajectory of the spatial circle according
to the coordinates of three points, which are (starting point, pose 1, pose
2).
The calculation method of three-point drawing circle:
Use the current point as the starting point, and then set two position points.
Three points define a circle. Make sure these three points are not in a common
line.
Set the center angle:
1. If 0< center angle (°) <360 ° or center angle (°) > 360 °, the
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motion path of the robotic arm is a circular arc of the corresponding degree;
center angle = 60°, the motion trajectory of the robotic arm is:
2. The center angle (°) = 360 °, the movement track of the robotic arm is a
complete circle; 3. If you want to draw multiple circles continuously (for
example, draw 10 circles continuously), set center angles equal to 3600°;
Blockly example:
move circle position 1 to position 2: From current position, the whole circle
is determined by current position and position1 and positon2, “center angle”
specifies how much of the circle to execute.
Note: (1) The starting point, pose 1 and pose 2 determine the three reference
points of a complete circle. If the motion path of the robotic arm is a
circular arc, then pose 1 and pose 2 are not necessarily end points or passing
points; (2) If you want the robot arm to change its posture during the
movement, set the roll, pitch,
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and yaw of pose 2 to the desired posture when completing the trajectory;
center angle (°) () : Indicates the degree of the circle. When it is set to
360, a whole circle can be completed, and it can be greater than or less than
360;
Note: To achieve smooth motion, you need to set Wait = false.
Example explanation: In this example, the central angle is set to 3600°, which
means that the robotic arm can draw ten circles at a time, and the robotic arm
still stays at the starting point after drawing a circle. Judgment of the
direction of the robotic arm motion In the above example, the starting point,
pose 1 and pose 2 are: A (300,0,400,180,0,0) B (350,50,400,180,0,0) C (350,
50,400,180,0,0) The robotic arm draws a circle in a clockwise direction, and t
he
trajectory of the robotic arm is as follows:
If the positions of point B and C are swapped, point B is (350,
50,400,180,0,0), point C is (350,50,400,180,0,0), the robotic arm will draw a
circle in a counterclockwise direction. The trajectory of the robotic arm is
as follows:
Python example:
arm.set_servo_angle(angle=[0.0, -45.0, 0.0, 0.0, -45.0, 0.0], speed=20,
mvacc=500, wait=True) arm.set_position(*[300.0, 0.0, 400.0, 0.0, -90.0,
180.0], speed=300, mvacc=2000, radius=-1.0, wait=True)
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move_circle([350.0, 50.0, 400.0, 180.0, -90.0, 0.0], [350.0, -50.0, 400.0, 180.0, -90.0, 0.0], 1000.0, speed=300, mvacc=2000, wait=True)
set_servo_angle interface: see Table 2.1. set_position interface: see Table 2.2. The move_circle interface is described in Table 2.4:
Table 2.4 move_circle description
Description Parameter
move_circle
This motion calculates the trajectory of a space circle based on threepoint
coordinates. The three-point coordinates are (current starting point,
pose 1, pose 2)
pose1
pose2
percent
is_radia n speed mvacc mvtime wait
Cartesian coordinates [x(mm), y(mm), z(mm), roll(rad or °), pitch(rad or °),
yaw(rad or °)] Cartesian coordinates [x(mm), y(mm), z(mm), roll(rad or °),
pitch(rad or °), yaw(rad or °)] Percentage of arc moved
If is_radian = True, the unit of roll / pitch / yaw is rad;
If is_radian = False, the unit of roll / pitch / yaw is °;
TCP motion speed (mm / s, rad / s);
TCP motion acceleration (mm / s2, rad / s2);
0, reserved; If wait = True, wait for the current commands to be sent before
sending the next commands;
If wait = False, send the next commands directly;
2.2. xArm5 Motion Characteristics
Cartesian space The movement of xArm5 is relatively special. Due to the
structural limitation, the actual flexible degrees of freedom of linear and
circular motions in Cartesian space is 4, which is [x, y, z, yaw], similar to
a SCARA manipulator with four degrees of
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freedom. Before starting Cartesian control, it is necessary to ensure that the
end flange surface of xArm5 and the base are completely parallel. If mounted
on horizontal plane, the roll and pitch should be [± 180 degrees, 0 degrees],
otherwise the trajectory is likely to have no solution.
Joint space
In joint space, the robotic arm has 5 degrees of freedom to control and can
switch to joint commands when different orientations are required at the end.
Then use the joint command again to return the flange and the base to a
horizontal attitude, and you can switch back to Cartesian control. A quick way
to set a cartesian controllable attitude is: Just set the angle of J4 equal
to-(J2 angle + J3 angle).
2.3. Singularity
1.Concept
Singularities occur when the axes of any two joints of a robotic arm are on
the same straight line. At the singularity point, the robot’s degrees of
freedom will be degraded, which will cause the angular velocity of some joints
to be too fast, leading to loss of control. A common situation is that when
the wrist joint (the penultimate one) is at or near the axis of the first
joint, singularity point will also appear (see Figure 2.1), so the robotic arm
should try to avoid passing directly the central area near the base, which is
likely to cause 1st Joint speed too high.
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Figure 2.1 xArm6 singularity
2.Characteristics
The characteristic of the singularity is that the planning movement cannot be
performed correctly. Coordinate-based planned movements cannot be explicitly
translated into joint motions of each axis. When the robot performs motion
planning (linear, circular, etc., excluding joint movements) near the
singularity point, it will stop to avoid high instantaneous speed of the joint
when it passes the singularity point. Therefore, try to avoid the singularity
point or pass the singularity point through joint motion.
3.Processing method for singularity point
Case 1: Singularity encountered during robot teaching
a) Switch the robot coordinate system to a joint coordinate system, and pass
the singularity point through joint motion.
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Case 2: Singularities encountered while the program is running a) When
encountering a singularity point while running the program, you can modify the
position and attitude of the robot and re-plan the path to the target point.
Note It is important to consider the cylindrical volume directly above and
directly below the base of the robotic arm when a mounting place for the
robotic arm is chosen. Moving the wrist joint(second last joint) close to the
cylindrical volume should be avoided if possible, because it causes the joints
to move fast even though the robotic arm is moving slowly, causing the robot
to work ineffificiently and making it diffificult to conduct a risk
assessment.
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3. Typical Examples
There are 10 examples built into Blockly in UFactory Studio, which you can
refer to for programming. Here are some of the more representative examples.
3.1. The Use of xArm Vacuum Gripper
The role of this program: execute this program to control the vacuum gripper
to suck the target object at the specified position, and then place the target
object at the target position. Explanation of main commands:
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object is (picked/release) Detect whether the vacuum gripper has picked
(released) the object,
if it is detected that the vacuum gripper has picked (released) the object,
then jump out of this command and execute the next command. If the timeout
period is exceeded, the vacuum gripper has not yet picked (released) the
object, it will also jump out of the command and execute the next command. set
xarm vacuum gripper (ON/OFF) object detection (true/false) [set]: Set the
vacuum gripper to be on and off. [object detection] = true: detect whether the
object is sucked, if
not, it will jump out of the entire program. [object detection] = false: do
not detect whether the object is sucked. Cyclic motion count: By adding
Counter plus, each time the command is run, the counter of the Control Box
will be incremented by 1. It can be used to calculate the number of times the
program cycles. Counter reset: This command resets the counter in the Control
Box to 0.
Note: If the robotic arm needs to count the cyclic motion, it is recommended
to use the counter for counting.
Note: The defined function should be placed in front of the main programs, as
shown in the figure above.
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3.2. The Use of xArm Gripper
The role of this program: execute this program to control the gripper to grip
the target object at the specified position, and then place the target object
at the target position.
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3.3. The Use of the Digital IO
The role of this program: If you need to use digital IO to control the motion
of the robotic arm, you can trigger the digital IO to perform the
corresponding motion.
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4. Robotic Arm Motion Mode and State Analysis
4.1 Analysis of Robotic Arm Movement Mode
4 motion modes of the control box: (Pyth
References
- Robotic Arm Manufacturer - Collaborative Robots | UFACTORY
- UFACTORY · GitHub
- GitHub - xArm-Developer/xarm_ros2: ROS2 developer packages for robotic products from UFACTORY
- UFACTORY Studio | UFACTORY
- Warranty & Return Policy | UFACTORY