Tormach ZA6
Explore real-world applications of robotics concepts from the classroom with the Tormach ZA6. The ZA6 is an industrial-grade, 6 DOF robotic arm that can help you get hands-on experience with robots. You can use the intuitive PathPilot software or Python and ROS for more advanced movement. The ZA6 can teach you about coordinate frames, kinematics, singularities, and motion control.
Want to learn more? Check out Tormach’s website and our user guide:
Want to reserve the arm for yourself, your project, or your class? Reach out to the mechatronics team lead at amjanis@wisc.edu with a description of what you are looking for.
Other Information:
If you want to learn more about Mechatronics, check out our Workshops and Training calendar.
Need something more compact?
Dobot Magician
Great for projects involving anything needing an arm, a robotic arm of course. Dobot has a gripper and suction cup that works with a Python API, as well as 13 I/O ports, an interface for making custom modules, support for Arduino, and a laser beam.
FAQs
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I don't have a lot of mechatronics experience, where do I start?
We recommend looking at the Tormach ZA6 User Guide and watching the videos listed at the top of the document. Otherwise, you are welcome to schedule a time for our staff to walk you through the basic concepts and operation of the ZA6 by contacting the mechatronics team lead at amjanis@wisc.edu.
How can I reserve this equipment?
For the Tormach ZA6, email the mechatronics team lead at amjanis@wisc.edu, and we will schedule a time for you to come into the Design Innovation lab at Wendt to use the robot arm.
For the other mechatronics equipment, you can use them inside of the DI Lab at Wendt by simply giving your Wiscard to one of our staff.
How can the ZA6 be programmed?
The ZA6 utilizes the PathPilot software, meaning it can be programmed in two different ways:
- Conversational programming inside PathPilot: This is very similar to the conversational programming used for CNC mills. If you have no programming experience, this is a great option.
- Running a Python file in PathPilot: You can run a single Python file in PathPilot at a time. This option is great if you know Python. Take a look at our user guide for more information on Python programming: User Guide
Can I attach an end effector to the ZA6?
Yes, the ZA6 has a flat plate on the end which can be easily mounted to with M4x0.7 screws. For exact dimensions, see Tormach’s ZA6 Spec Sheet.
If you would like to attach an end effector with input or output devices (such as servos or sensors), these can be plugged into the robot’s power cart using M12 connectors. See the spec sheet for more information on the connectors and the voltage ratings of the inputs and outputs.
Additionally, if your end effector is large (over 9 inches long), please discuss it with our staff so that the safety enclosure can be adjusted.
Email maker-contact@engr.wisc.edu for questions pertaining to design consultation, materials, and best practices.