MC 4213 – ROBOTICS
MODULE 3
Robot Classifications and Configurations
Learning Objectives
• Identify major robot configurations.
• Describe typical applications of each configuration.
• Distinguish Cartesian, cylindrical, spherical, SCARA, articulated, and mobile robots.
3.1 Cartesian Robot
Moves primarily along three linear axes: X, Y, and Z. Common applications include pick-and-place,
CNC-related automation, and 3D printing.
3.2 Cylindrical Robot
Combines rotary movement with linear movement, producing a roughly cylindrical workspace.
3.3 Spherical/Polar Robot
Uses rotational and linear motions to create a spherical or approximately spherical workspace.
3.4 SCARA Robot
SCARA means Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm. It is widely used for assembly,
pick-and-place, packaging, and electronics manufacturing.
3.5 Articulated Robot
Uses multiple rotary joints. Many industrial arms have six controlled axes and are used for welding,
painting, assembly, and material handling.
3.6 Mobile Robot
Moves through an environment using wheels, tracks, legs, or other locomotion mechanisms. Examples
include delivery and exploration robots.
Activity – Multiple Choice
1. Which robot primarily moves along X, Y, and Z? A. SCARA B. Cartesian C. Spherical D. Articulated
2. Which is commonly used for assembly? A. SCARA B. Cylindrical C. Cartesian D. Fixed platform
3. Which commonly has several rotary joints? A. Cartesian B. Articulated C. Gantry D. Conveyor
4. Which is a mobile robot? A. Welding arm B. Factory press C. Autonomous delivery robot D. Fixed
gripper
5. A robot configuration describes its: A. Internet connection B. Mechanical arrangement and
movement C. Battery chemistry D. Screen size
MODULE 3
Robot Classifications and Configurations
Learning Objectives
• Identify major robot configurations.
• Describe typical applications of each configuration.
• Distinguish Cartesian, cylindrical, spherical, SCARA, articulated, and mobile robots.
3.1 Cartesian Robot
Moves primarily along three linear axes: X, Y, and Z. Common applications include pick-and-place,
CNC-related automation, and 3D printing.
3.2 Cylindrical Robot
Combines rotary movement with linear movement, producing a roughly cylindrical workspace.
3.3 Spherical/Polar Robot
Uses rotational and linear motions to create a spherical or approximately spherical workspace.
3.4 SCARA Robot
SCARA means Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm. It is widely used for assembly,
pick-and-place, packaging, and electronics manufacturing.
3.5 Articulated Robot
Uses multiple rotary joints. Many industrial arms have six controlled axes and are used for welding,
painting, assembly, and material handling.
3.6 Mobile Robot
Moves through an environment using wheels, tracks, legs, or other locomotion mechanisms. Examples
include delivery and exploration robots.
Activity – Multiple Choice
1. Which robot primarily moves along X, Y, and Z? A. SCARA B. Cartesian C. Spherical D. Articulated
2. Which is commonly used for assembly? A. SCARA B. Cylindrical C. Cartesian D. Fixed platform
3. Which commonly has several rotary joints? A. Cartesian B. Articulated C. Gantry D. Conveyor
4. Which is a mobile robot? A. Welding arm B. Factory press C. Autonomous delivery robot D. Fixed
gripper
5. A robot configuration describes its: A. Internet connection B. Mechanical arrangement and
movement C. Battery chemistry D. Screen size
