A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PERMANENT JOINT METHODS IN ROBOTICS USING ULTRASONIC WELDING

Abstract

In modern robotics, special attention is paid to the reliability and durability of permanent joints, as they directly determine the performance and lifespan of robotic systems. Among various joining technologies, ultrasonic welding is gaining increasing popularity due to its high strength, hermetic sealing, and minimal thermal impact on materials.The purpose of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of permanent joint methods used in robot manipulators, with a focus on the aplication of ultrasonic welding. The paper examines traditional joining methods — riveting, threaded fasteners, and soldering — as well as their limitations under conditions of high loads and dynamic impacts.The analysis has shown that ultrasonic welding offers several significant advantages: a high process speed, the ability to join dissimilar materials, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness compared to other methods. Moreover, it enables integration into automated assembly lines, which is especially relevant for robotic systems. However, the use of ultrasonic welding also presents certain technical challenges — in our case, the limitation on the thickness of the welded elements. Thus, the comparative analysis confirms the potential of ultrasonic welding for use in the formation of permanent joints in robot manipulators, provided that technological parameters are optimized and suitable materials are selected.

Based on the analysis, ultrasonic welding is proposed as the most promising method for forming permanent joints in robot manipulators, particularly under high-load and dynamic operating conditions. The paper also presents a methodological framework for selecting the optimal joining method depending on the structural features and functional requirements of the robot.