Why do collaborative robots use DC motors instead of AC motors?

06 Mar.,2024

Robot companies have launched collaborative robots, but all collaborative robots use DC motors, and none of them use AC motors. What are the reasons why AC motors are not used?

 

The main reasons why collaborative robots use DC motors instead of AC motors involve considerations of control, accuracy, feedback, and adaptability.
Here are some reasons why DC motors are often chosen for collaborative robots:

 

Control accuracy: DC motors have better control performance. The speed and position of DC motors can be more precisely controlled by adjusting the current, making them ideal for applications that require high precision and precise motion control, such as collaborative robots for a variety of tasks.

Fast response: DC motors have faster response times and can quickly adapt to changing work requirements, which is especially important in applications that require fast movements, such as when working with human operators and needing to quickly stop or adjust movements.

High efficiency: DC motors generally have higher efficiency, which means they can perform the same task with less electrical energy consumption, which is crucial for extending the working time of the robot and reducing energy costs.

Current feedback: DC motors are usually equipped with current feedback devices, which can provide real-time motor status information, thereby increasing control accuracy and stability. This is important to ensure that robots remain safe when working alongside humans.

Adaptability: DC motors can adapt better under different load conditions because their control system can adjust the current to maintain the required speed and torque. This makes collaborative robots more suitable for performing different types of tasks without the need to replace motors or mechanical parts.

Although DC motors are more common in collaborative robots, there are specific applications and situations where AC motors may be more suitable. Choosing a motor type often depends on the robot's design and application needs, as well as trade-offs between performance, control, and cost.