igus Robotics robolink DP — Specs & Review

Specifications

Key features

• Wire-driven 4-axis actuation concentrates motors at the base for low distal mass
• 460 mm reach with 1 kg payload for light pick-and-place tasks
• Engineering polymer construction throughout — no metal machining required
• Available as kit or pre-assembled system for flexible integration
• CPRog software support with community ROS packages
• Slender arm profile suitable for confined workspace layouts
• No external lubrication required — suitable for clean environments

Overview

The igus robolink DP (Drehpunkt, or pivot-point) is a four-axis articulated arm within the robolink family, distinguished by its wire-driven actuation. Rather than mounting a motor at each revolute joint, the DP routes stainless steel control cables from base-mounted stepper motors through the arm links to each joint. This approach concentrates the heaviest components at the base, reduces distal mass, and allows the arm to achieve a slender profile without the cost of harmonic gearboxes at each axis.

Technical Specifications

Maximum reach is 460 mm with a 1 kg rated payload. Repeatability is in the ±1 mm range, reflecting the cable-routing architecture which introduces slight compliance compared to direct-drive or gearbox-coupled joints. The arm weighs approximately 1.4 kg and can be desktop or frame-mounted. Four independent axes cover a working envelope adequate for simple sortation, dispensing, and teaching exercises.

Construction and Materials

All joint housings, link sections, and mounting interfaces are manufactured from igus's tribologically optimised engineering polymers. The wire-driven cables run through low-friction polymer guide channels, eliminating the need for external lubricants. This makes the arm appropriate for environments where oil contamination is unacceptable, such as food preparation or clean laboratory settings.

Software and Integration

The robolink DP is supported by igus's CPRog software for trajectory planning and motion control. ROS compatibility is available via community packages. The system is frequently supplied as a development kit including stepper drivers, cabling, and mounting hardware.

Target Applications

Primary deployments include undergraduate robotics curricula requiring a physical manipulation platform, research projects investigating wire-driven kinematics, and entry-level industrial tasks such as transferring small components between fixtures at low cycle rates.

FAQ

What does wire-driven mean in the context of the igus robolink DP?

Wire-driven means the actuation force for each joint is transmitted via steel cables routed through the arm from motors mounted at the base. This contrasts with conventional designs where a motor or gearbox sits physically at each joint. The result is lower rotating mass and a lighter, slimmer arm profile.

What payload can the igus robolink DP handle?

The robolink DP is rated for a 1 kg payload at its 460 mm reach. This is appropriate for small part transfer, light tool handling, and educational demonstrations but is not suited to heavier industrial tasks.

Is the igus robolink DP available as a kit?

Yes. igus offers the robolink DP both as a kit — including structural components, cables, and motor mounts — and as a pre-assembled system with integrated stepper drives, giving buyers the option to build and learn or deploy quickly.

How accurate is the igus robolink DP?

Repeatability is approximately ±1 mm, which reflects the inherent compliance of wire-driven transmissions. It is suitable for non-precision tasks but not appropriate for applications requiring sub-millimetre accuracy.

What software controls the igus robolink DP?

igus's CPRog software provides trajectory planning and motion control for the robolink DP. Community-developed ROS packages are also available for research users who prefer an open-source framework.