(Image credit: element 14 via YouTube)
Desktop robotic arms are a great tool to have, but they tend to lean more on the pricier side for the more advanced models. Electrical engineer Milos Rasic understood that notion when he designed his first robotic arm, and now he’s back with an upgraded, more powerful version while keeping costs down.
The DIY robotic arm was upgraded using 3D printing and upgraded hardware for increased strength and precision. Milos designed the platform around the Raspberry Pi Pico, which drives the new DFROBOT servos for increased strength. The robot arm can also record and replay movements, making it ideal for automation tasks or educational demonstrations.
Real ball bearings have also been incorporated into the joints, replacing the 3D printed parts from the previous model, which reduces friction and allows for streamlined operation. The mechanical structure of the arm has been 3D printed, which increases its durability and makes it easy to assemble.
Milos has also redesigned the control system, taking advantage of the Pico’s GPIO capabilities and Python-based firmware, which provides motion recording and playback. In other words, the robotic arm records servo positions in real time, which can then be stored and replayed as needed. This makes it ideal for repetitive tasks or even teaching robotic concepts. More information on Milos’ upgraded robotic arm, along with links to schematics and code, can be found on the element 14’s webpage linked after this jump.