Cutting robots: A review of technologies and applications

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of robotic cutting techniques and applications. Design/methodology/approach - This paper firstly describes the main cutting techniques used with robots and subsequently discusses robotic cutting applications, giving examples of specific uses. Findings - This paper shows that robotic laser, water-jet, ultrasonic, plasma and oxy-gas cutting techniques are used in a wide range of industries on materials which include plastics, metals, fabrics, foodstuffs and even human tissues. The use of a particular technique reflects application-specific factors such as material, thickness, precision, cut quality and cutting speed. Originality/value - Provides an introduction to robotic cutting techniques and their applications. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.