How to Install the NexBot Robotics FLR022-007 Collaborative Robot Arm

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Tools Required

• Torque wrench
• Metric hex key set
• Mechanical lifting equipment (rated for >50kg)
• Digital multimeter
• Spirit level
• Laptop with NexBot configuration software

Article

Overview

This guide details the proper installation procedure for the NexBot Robotics FLR022-007 Collaborative Robot Arm. Following these steps is crucial for ensuring safe operation, optimal performance, and longevity of the equipment. This process involves mechanical mounting, electrical connections, and initial software verification. The FLR022-007 is a 6-axis collaborative robot with a 10 kg payload and 1300 mm reach, designed for versatile automation tasks.

Prerequisites

Before beginning the installation, ensure all the following conditions are met and the required tools and components are available.

Safety Precautions

• WARNING: The FLR022-007 robot arm is heavy. Always use appropriate mechanical lifting equipment rated for at least 50 kg to move and position the robot. Attempting to lift the robot manually can result in serious injury.
• Ensure the main power source is de-energized and locked out before making any electrical connections.
• This equipment should only be installed by qualified personnel familiar with industrial robotics and electrical safety standards.
• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and steel-toed boots.

Environmental and Mounting Requirements

• Mounting Surface: The mounting surface must be rigid, flat, and level. It must be capable of withstanding the robot's static weight plus all dynamic loads generated during high-speed operation. Refer to the product's technical datasheet for detailed load specifications.
• Operating Environment: The installation area must be consistent with the robot's IP54 rating, meaning it is protected against dust ingress and water splashes from any direction. Do not install in environments with corrosive chemicals or explosive atmospheres.
• Clearance: Ensure sufficient clearance around the robot to accommodate its full 1300 mm reach without collision. Account for end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) and the workpiece.

Required Tools and Components

• Mechanical lifting equipment (e.g., engine crane, gantry)
• Torque wrench (range up to 50 Nm)
• M8 bolts, washers, and lock washers (length dependent on mounting surface thickness)
• Spirit level or laser level
• Metric hex key set
• Laptop with NexBot Robotics configuration software installed
• Digital Multimeter
• Standard electrician's hand tools (wire strippers, screwdrivers)

Component Checklist

Verify that you have received the following components:

• 1x NexBot FLR022-007 Robot Arm
• 1x Robot Controller Unit
• 1x Main Robot Cable (e.g., NXB-CBL-512-001)
• 1x Teach Pendant
• 1x DC Power Cable
• Product Documentation Packet

Step-by-Step Instructions

Phase 1: Mechanical Mounting

1. Prepare the Surface: Clean the mounting surface and verify that it is level. Ensure the mounting hole pattern on your surface matches the template provided in the FLR022-007 technical documentation.
2. Position the Robot: Using approved lifting equipment attached to the designated lifting points on the robot, carefully lift and position the FLR022-007 arm onto the mounting surface.
3. Align the Base: Align the mounting holes on the robot base with the holes in the mounting surface. Do not release the weight of the robot from the lifting equipment until it is properly aligned and at least two bolts are loosely threaded.
4. Secure the Robot: Insert four M8 bolts with lock washers and flat washers through the base of the robot into the mounting surface. Hand-tighten all bolts first.
5. Torque the Bolts: Using a calibrated torque wrench, tighten the mounting bolts in a star pattern to a final torque value of 25 Nm. Re-check the torque on all bolts after the sequence is complete.
6. Remove Lifting Equipment: Once the robot is securely fastened, carefully detach and remove the lifting equipment.

Phase 2: Electrical Connections

1. Connect Robot to Controller: Connect the main robot cable (e.g., NXB-CBL-512-001) between the port on the base of the FLR022-007 and the corresponding port on the robot controller. Ensure the connectors are fully seated and locked.
2. Connect Controller Power: Connect the controller to a stable 48VDC power source. Verify correct polarity (+/-) with a multimeter before connecting. Ensure a proper chassis ground connection is made as specified in the controller manual.
3. Connect Communications: Connect a standard EtherCAT cable from your network master or PLC to the EtherCAT IN port on the robot controller.
4. Connect Safety Circuits: Connect your external safety devices (e.g., Emergency Stop buttons, light curtains, safety gates) to the safety I/O terminals on the controller. The robot will not enable its drives until the safety circuit is complete and healthy.
5. Connect Teach Pendant: Connect the teach pendant cable to its designated port on the controller.

Phase 3: Initial Power-Up and Verification

1. Power On: Clear the robot's working area of all tools and personnel. Apply power to the robot controller.
2. Check Status: Observe the status LEDs on the controller and robot base. A solid green light typically indicates a healthy status with no active faults. Refer to the user manual for a full list of LED status codes.
3. Establish Software Connection: Connect your laptop to the controller's service network port. Launch the NexBot configuration software and establish a connection to the robot.
4. Confirm Robot Model: Verify that the software correctly identifies the connected robot as a NexBot FLR022-007.
5. Release Brakes and Jog: Using the teach pendant or software interface, enable the robot's drives. At a very low speed (e.g., 5-10%), carefully jog each of the 6 axes individually for a small distance to confirm smooth movement and correct motor response.
6. Perform Homing: Execute the robot's standard homing sequence. This will move all axes to their known zero positions. The sequence must complete without any errors.

Installation of the NexBot Robotics FLR022-007 Collaborative Robot Arm is now complete. You may now proceed with configuring your specific application, including setting the Tool Center Point (TCP), payload, and programming tasks.

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