6-axis robot animation

[Marian212]

Hello,

I created a 6-axis robot in 3ds Max which looks similar to this one:

http://www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/3d-model-kuka-industrial-robot/740620

The problem is I can't get it to work properly with IK solver.

There's what I've done so far:

I added an extra simple end effector for the 6 axis.

I set up the pivot points for every axis, linked it into hierarchy from end-effector (child) to its base (parent).

In IK menu I deactivated useless axis and added limits to the useful axis. Then I used IK HI solver from end effector to robot's base.

Is it a proper way to make it work? Because it doesn't work properly for me.

Greets.

[leeminardi]

I think you could use a two bone (three if you include the end-effector) configuration with a HI Solver to get the action you need. I created a tutorial for modeling a 6-bar excavator linkage which you can review here: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=cm7OP3niwvI

I think some of the concepts I used are applicable to your industrial robot.
~Lee

[Marian212]

Thanks for reply. I'll try doing it, but is it necessary to use bones? I've read somewhere that one doesn't need to use bones if it comes to HI solver.

[leeminardi]

It isn't necessary to use bones. I find using them makes rigging much easier depending on your needs. Bones can present some problems too. I assume you essentially have a three bar open linkage where you want to be able to pull the third bar, the end-effector, to positions you want to key frame. Is this your goal? Can you post a copy of just the robot part of your model? I'd like to experiment with it.
~Lee

[Marian212]

I just want to move the end-effector which affects all the hierarchy downwards. I sent you the robot in privat message.