A zero-gravity manual articulated arm, more professionally known as a hard-arm power-assisted manipulator, pneumatic manipulator, or industrial balancer, is an ergonomic material handling device that acts as a physical extension of a human operator. Its core function is to allow a person to lift, move, and precisely position heavy or awkward objects with virtually no physical effort.
The term “zero-gravity” perfectly describes its primary benefit: the machine counterbalances the weight of both its own arm and the attached load, making the object feel weightless to the operator.
Key Advantages
Superior Ergonomics and Safety: It completely eliminates the risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) caused by heavy lifting and repetitive motions. By removing physical strain, it reduces worker fatigue and improves overall workplace safety.
High Precision and Control: The rigid arm structure allows for millimeter-level accuracy in positioning and a smooth, controlled movement. This makes it ideal for delicate assembly tasks or for placing parts into machines.
Increased Productivity and Efficiency: A single operator can perform tasks that would otherwise require multiple people or a much slower crane. This leads to faster cycle times and a higher production output.
Versatility: The arm can be equipped with various EOATs, allowing it to handle a wide range of products with different weights, shapes, and sizes.
Intuitive Operation: The “zero-gravity” feel makes the machine very easy and natural to use, requiring minimal training for a new operator to become proficient.
Common Applications
Zero-gravity manipulators are widely used in industries where heavy, repetitive, or precise lifting is required:
Automotive: Handling engines, transmissions, dashboards, and wheels on assembly lines.
Manufacturing: Loading and unloading parts from CNC machines, presses, and furnaces.
Aerospace: Moving and assembling large, heavy components with high precision.
Logistics: Assisting with the ergonomic stacking and unstacking of products on pallets.
Foundry and Forging: Handling hot or heavy castings in harsh environments.
Thanks for reading! I’m Loren, responsible for the global automation equipment export business at Tongli Industrial.
We provide high-precision loading and unloading manipulator robots to help factories upgrade to intelligence.
If you need product catalog or customized solution, please contact:
Email: manipulator@tongli17.com | Mobile Phone: +86 159 5011 0267
Post time: Sep-01-2025