Werkzeugarme

Werkzeugarme, singular Werkzeugarm and plural Werkzeugarme, is a term used in robotics and industrial automation to describe articulated arms designed to hold, orient, and operate tools as part of automated systems. The Werkzeugarm acts as the moving interface between a machine base and the end effectors—such as drills, grinders, grippers, welding torches, or measurement probes—that perform the actual work. Many Werkzeugarme incorporate multi-joint configurations, powered actuators (electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic), and, in many setups, a tool changer to swap tools without human intervention.

Key design considerations for Werkzeugarme include payload capacity, reach and dexterity, stiffness and positional accuracy (repeatability and tolerance), speed, control algorithms, and integration with safety systems and sensors. Different geometries are used, including articulated six- or more DOF arms, Cartesian gantry-style arms, or cylindrical and spherical variants, depending on the required workspace and task.

Typical applications are in manufacturing and automation, including CNC machining, welding, painting, assembly, and pick-and-place tasks; in laboratory and research settings for manipulation and testing; and in service robotics where tool manipulation is needed. The term is more common in German-language literature, while English texts may simply refer to robotic arms with tool-changing capabilities or end-effectors.

Related topics include robotic arm, end effector, tool changer, and CNC machinery.