Almost always innovation starting with a new idea and finished with a device or process. Sometimes new innovative products are developed by combining simple concepts to shape a new one. The concept of delta robots is already in use in industrial fields for high-speed and accuracy in manipulation. Delta robots are known as spider robots and were invented in the early 80s. Combining these spider robots to build another structure can have advantages and disadvantages.
Working as a developer and mechanical engineer, Aad van der Geest has the idea to combine two and three delta robots to shape another structure. The new structure is more energy efficient and safer compared with other robotic arms. More than that, having all the actuators placed at the base of the arm, the arm is very light.
In general, the smaller volumes that can be moved by a delta robot can become a frustration in a world where things are changing fast. Linking two or three delta robots can be a solution to expand the area of use and keep the advantages of a spider robot.
In his work, Aad van der Geest develop two versions of his idea: a 150 mm robot and a larger one with 3.5 meters in height.
The concept can be used in many fields including for large 3D printers, packaging, as a work platform, or for a walking robot able to adjust its height.