Laser cleaning machines have gained widespread acceptance and application across various industries. Their applications range from rust removal and paint removal to surface treatment. Consequently, handheld laser cleaning machines are extremely popular. As our world evolves, the demand for efficient and effective cleaning is also growing. To address this challenge, demand for robotic laser cleaning machines is also increasing. They are significantly contributing to the evolution of industrial cleaning methods.

Manufacturers are continuously improving their design and efficiency to meet customer needs. They can be used for a variety of industrial cleaning applications.

Overview of Collaborative Robots for Industrial Applications

Collaborative robots, also known as cobots, are one of the latest technologies in the industrial sector. Cobots can complete tasks faster and more efficiently.

Because they are fully controllable, you can use these devices for a variety of tasks. In addition to laser cleaning, they can also be used for welding, assembly, and inspection.

These robots are easy to program and can switch between different tasks with the same precision. Furthermore, collaborative robots are smaller and safer than traditional technologies.

Most automated manufacturing utilizes collaborative robots to achieve faster and more accurate work. They are particularly popular in the electronics, automotive, medical, and metal industries. This technology can improve work speed and quality. It also reduces stress, making work easier and safer. You can also reduce labor costs, save time, and, of course, increase overall productivity.

How to Use Collaborative Robots in Smart Cleaning Systems

There are several steps to using a collaborative robot pulse laser cleaner. These steps are crucial for achieving optimal cleaning results. We'll explain them in the following sections. Please read and apply them carefully for optimal cleaning results.

Stable Setup and Installation Guide

First, position the robot base at the selected work location. Next, use a machining tool to precisely mount the laser cleaning head to the robot flange. Set the load and adjust the center of gravity. Create a suitable layout and route cables, fiber optics, or cooling tubing between the laser source and the cleaning head. Finally, connect the I/O cables for communication and control.

Smart Path Planning and Laser Parameters

To create smart path planning, use the robot's teach pendant. Set the distance of the cleaning head based on the focusing lens. Ensure the laser maintains the appropriate distance from the surface. Most importantly, set the power, pulse width, frequency, and scan pattern based on your cleaning target. This will help you remove rust, paint, oil, or various types of dirt.

Starting and Stopping with DO Signals

The cleaning process is executed using a digital output (DO) signal. Setting the DO signal high starts cleaning at the starting point. Setting it low, on the other hand, stops cleaning at the end point. Here, you can set a 0.0 second delay after starting. This ensures that the beam covers the entire area and maintains a smooth cleaning process.

Collision Protection

Take advantage of the collaborative robot's force sensor capabilities. This protects the cleaning head and workpiece. Set the collision sensitivity appropriately to detect any type of impact. These settings will stop the collaborative robot, preventing damage to the tool and surface.

Testing and Optimizing Settings

Before starting, test your settings on a small area of the workpiece. Use a visual inspection tool to observe the cleaning results. Ensure that the parameters are appropriate for cleaning. Based on the test results, evaluate the speed, power, frequency, and pulse width. If the settings are perfect, you can start cleaning. The goal is to ensure safe cleaning without causing any damage.

Advanced Programming

You can manually teach the robot path using the "drag-to-teach" method. Additionally, you can edit the path and trajectory. For complex tasks, you can use third-party software with CCD or 3D tools to edit the path. This makes your cleaning tasks easier and more flexible, suitable for a variety of cleaning tasks.

Technical Advantages of Using a Cobot Laser Cleaner

This pulsed laser cleaning machine offers numerous benefits. It offers technical advantages for high-precision work. DO signals, sensors, and cameras guide the laser head to precise areas.

The robot controller provides output voltage to the laser cleaning head, enabling operation. It also controls the start and stop of laser emission. This function is controlled via digital I/O signals, eliminating the need for a complex control system. The entire process is extremely simple to operate.

You can also maintain a constant distance from the surface and guide the laser. This allows the laser rust remover to remove rust, oil, paint, or dirt, ensuring high-quality cleaning.

In short, you can customize everything to your liking for optimal results. Even complex designs can be finished with a precise, clean finish.

Popular Industrial Use Cases

This machine is versatile and delivers impressive cleaning results. Manufacturers often prefer it for its high production efficiency. Furthermore, its precision and ability to handle complex designs make it a popular choice for a wide range of applications.

Cleaning Complex and Irregular Surfaces

When cleaning stepped materials, we often encounter situations where the laser must be positioned at different heights. The same approach may be applied to irregularly curved surfaces and other shaped materials. Examples include surfaces on aircraft, automobiles, electronics, and other surfaces. For these materials, we recommend using a robotic laser cleaning machine for optimal results.

Rust Removal

One of the most common uses for collaborative robots is the removal of rust or oxide layers. This task is typically performed before or after the primary production of metal parts.

Common examples include surface treatment of metals before painting or after metal casting. Precise rust removal often improves coating adhesion, extending the life of the metal part and its covering.

Paint and Coating Stripping

Another application for robotic laser cleaning machines is painting, coating, and stripping. This is a common repainting application and is often seen in the aerospace, automotive, and electronics sectors.

Degreasing and Deslagging

Similar to conventional laser cleaning machines, robotic cleaning machines can also help remove grease, oil, or production residue. The main difference between these two types of laser cleaning machines lies in the integration of automation or artificial intelligence.