Main features

The arm

Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot enables users to interact with their environment with complete safety, freedom, and effectiveness. The arm moves smoothly and silently  with unlimited rotation on each axis.

The axes are aluminum compact actuator discs (CADs) of a unique design. Each Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot arm consists of 2 distinct sets of 3 identical, interchangeable, and easy-to-replace CADs linked together by a ZIF (zero insertion force) cable.

Its main structure, entirely made of carbon fibre, delivers optimal robustness and durability as well as a cutting-edge look-and-feel. The arm is mounted on a standard aluminum extruded support structure that can be affixed to almost any surface.

4 DOF

6 DOF

7 DOF

Comparative chart

The gripper

The gripper consists of 2 or 3 underactuated fingers that can be individually controlled. Their unique bi-injected plastic structure endows them with great flexibility and unrivalled grip. In contrast to the previous version,Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot has a slimmer gripper and a friction pad who allows the fingers to adjust to any object whatever its shape; as a result, they can gently pick up an egg or firmly grasp a jar.

Control

Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot can be controlled with a computer (see the “Software” section below) or Kinova’s 3-axis, 7-button joystick. Control is intuitive and allows users to navigate using 3 different modes: translate, rotate, and grip. Also, Kinova’s Intelligent Singularity Avoidance System always keeps Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot safely away from unwanted locations. Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot is highly flexible and can adapt to all user needs.

Software

Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot features an advanced application programming interface (API), enabling programmers to raise their experience to another level. The API, linked to Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot through a USB 2.0 connector, allows programmers to configure advanced parameters and integrate the robot to their own systems. In addition, Gen2 Ultra lightweight robot can be controlled with any one of many navigation systems, providing a broad range of applications from analyzing central system data to programming automated paths. The API comes with complete documentation and several code examples. In addition, new and exciting updates are available on a regular basis.

Applications

• Assistive and service robotics

• Research and education

• Mobile manipulation

Official ros-package:

• http://wiki.ros.org/jaco_ros

  • Sources:  https://github.com/Kinovarobotics/jaco-ros.git