The article documents the creator’s journey and challenges in building a 7-axis robot from scratch. It highlights the complexity of the design, the use of 3D printing for prototyping, and the importance of safety and testing. The author also discusses the learning experience and future plans for the project, including collaboration ideas and updates on a maker version of SolidWorks.
Main Points
Diverse Skill Set Required
The creation of a 7-axis robot requires a diverse set of skills, including mechanical design, welding, machining, programming, and electronics.
Prototyping with 3D Printing
The author has started with 3D printed parts for initial assembly testing, with plans to upgrade to materials like 6061 aluminum.
Prioritizing Safety and Testing
Ensuring safety is a priority, especially given the potential dangers of operating a powerful machine like a 7-axis robot.
Insights
Designing a 7-axis robot involves a comprehensive understanding of various technical disciplines.
Part of what makes this so challenging is the wide range of skills required in order to accomplish this by myself we’re not just talking about mechanical design which is the part that I feel comfortable with this is my first project welding aluminum there’s a significant amount of machining which I am a brand new machinist there’s programming involved there’s a significant amount of electronics.
Prototyping and testing are crucial steps in robot construction.
in fact I’ve 3D printed two critical parts… I decided to 3D print this piece so that I could test the assembly and make this video for you guys today.
Safety and thorough testing are imperative before full operation.
this thing is super dangerous and I don’t want to risk injuring myself or anyone playing around before this assembly is complete.