Reach Robotics has released a series of significant design changes to its Reach Alpha manipulator range. It marks a new level of performance for the world’s most compact underwater dexterous robotic arm. Shipping from February 21, all Reach Alpha manipulators (including grabbers and rotate units) now include the Mk2 design changes resulting in a tougher, smarter, and more reliable unit. 

The Mk2 design changes aim to improve performance, robustness, and reliability. Re-designing the method for module interconnection resulted in a four-fold increase in joint strength. Overhauling the internal gearing mechanisms allowed for more advanced active compliance for collision protection and back-driveability. Further gearing improvements enable lower backlash susceptibility, which increases field life. New pre-deployment sealing checks via a vacuum monitoring system and improved sealing mechanisms mean you can confidently deploy the Reach Alpha into the water. 

Improvements to the manipulator control system have further enabled a more intuitive control of the robotic arm. A 50% velocity increase enables the Reach Alpha to more accurately mimic operator Master Arm movements, improving efficiency and task precision.   

These upgrades were informed by extensive in-house testing and feedback from ROV operators worldwide. Reliability is a core necessity for high-end operators in Defence and the Oil and Gas industry, and Reach Robotics continuously seeks to make manipulators that can stand the tempo and the harshness of the environments they are used in.  

A summary of Mk2 improvements to the Reach Alpha:

  • Upgraded module interlocks for 4 x increased strength 
  • 50% increase in speed 
  • Improved collision protection through advanced active compliance 
  • Significantly lower backlash susceptibility with new drivetrain gearing 
  • The new and improved sealing mechanism 
  • Back-drivable drivetrain 
  • Internal vacuum monitoring system for pre-deployment sealing check 

Stay tuned on our Linkedin to see the latest updates and make sure you subscribe to hear about real world applications and future upgrades to our product range. 

Reach Alpha class manipulators
Reach Alpha class manipulators
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Command Pods

Command Pods are a pair of space mouse controllers comprising of left and right units. They are designed to attach to an ROV control tablet and allow full system control from one interface. The Command Pod configuration simplifies control of a dual-manipulator system as operators are able to intuitively control both arms, while still piloting the vehicle.
The joystick model allows for arms to be directed towards a target while the system automatically maps the arms configuration along that path.

MASTER ARMS

Compatible with all Reach Robotics manipulators, the Master Arm controller is available in five and seven-function models to mimic your robotic arm. Achieve unparalleled precision and accuracy while undertaking complex tasks including:
  • Precise placement of probes for crack and corrosion monitoring.
  • Place and recover objects with unmatched dexterity and minimised
    workload.
  • Attach hooks and shackles consistently.
  • Reach confined areas unreachable with lower degree-of-freedom manipulators
    and traditional control methods.