Elephant Robotics myCobot User Manual

Version: V 2020.12.31

Copyright Notice

Without the written permission of Shenzhen Elephant Robotics Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Elephant Robotics"), no unit or individual may excerpt, compile, translate, or copy any content of this manual (technical documents, software, etc.) and disseminate it in any form (including materials and publications).

In addition, the product information and related resources mentioned in this manual are for reference only. Information is subject to change without notice.

Except as expressly stated in this manual, nothing in this manual should be construed as Elephant Robotics providing any warranty or guarantee for personal loss, property damage, or specific applicability.

All rights reserved, infringement will be prosecuted.

© Copyright Shenzhen Elephant Robotics Co., Ltd.

Manual Overview

About this Manual

Welcome to myCobot robot and thank you for your purchase.

This manual records the relevant matters that need attention for the correct installation and use of myCobot robot.

Before installing this robot system, please read this manual and other related manuals carefully. After reading, please keep it properly for future reference.

Target Audience

This manual is intended for:

  • Assembly personnel.
  • Maintenance personnel.
  • Repair personnel.

ℹ️ Note: Personnel performing assembly/maintenance/repair work on the myCobot robot must have received training from Elephant Robotics and possess the necessary mechanical and electronic knowledge for maintenance/repair work.

How to Use this Manual

This manual should be used when performing the following operations:

  • Assembly work: Moving the robot to the work position and fixing it on the base, then debugging until ready;
  • Maintenance work: Regularly maintaining the robot system to ensure its normal function;
  • Repair work: When the robot fails due to environmental influences, improper operation by users, or exceeding the normal service life of certain components in the robot system, repair work is required.

Remarks:

  1. This manual is updated irregularly. The update date is the version number. Users can download the latest version from the official website of Elephant Robotics.
  2. This manual is only applicable to users in mainland China.

1. Safety

This chapter details the routine safety information for personnel performing installation, maintenance, and repair work on the Elephant Robotics robot. Please read and understand the content and precautions of this chapter thoroughly before handling, installing, and using.

1.1 Hazard Identification

The safety of collaborative robots is based on correct configuration and use. Even if all safety instructions are followed, operator injuries or damage may still occur. Therefore, understanding the safety hazards of robot use is very important for prevention.

The following tables (Table 1-2 to 1-4) describe common safety hazards that may exist in the context of robot use:

Table 1-2 Danger Level Safety Hazards

Hazard
⚠️ Danger
1Human injury or robot damage caused by incorrect operation during robot handling.
2Robot not fixed as required, such as loose or improperly tightened screws, or a base that is insufficient to stably support the robot during high-speed movement, leading to robot tipping, causing human injury or robot damage.
3Incorrect safety function configuration of the robot, or failure to install safety protection tools, leading to the robot's safety functions not being able to exert their effect, thus causing danger.

Table 1-3 Warning Level Safety Hazards

Hazard
Warning
1Playing or roughhousing near the robot may result in collision with the moving robot or tripping over cables and other obstacles, causing human injury.
2Unauthorized personnel altering safety configuration parameters, leading to safety function failure and potential danger.
3Scratches or punctures caused by sharp surfaces of other equipment or robot end-effectors in the working environment.
4The robot is a precision mechanical device; stepping on it may cause robot damage.
5Failure to ensure the end-effector is properly clamped or the robot's power and air supply are turned off (if it is uncertain whether the end-effector is securely holding the object, which might cause it to fall when power is lost) before removing the clamped object may lead to danger, such as end-effector damage or injury to personnel.
6The robot poses a risk of unexpected movement. Never stand under any axis of the robot at any time!
7The robot is a precision mechanical device; improper operation may cause damage to internal components.

Table 1-4 Safety Hazards That May Cause Electric Shock

Hazard
Caution: Electric Shock
1Using non-original cables may lead to unknown dangers.
2Contact between electrical equipment and liquids may cause electric shock.
3Incorrect electrical connections may pose an electric shock hazard.
4Always replace parts after turning off the power to the controller and related devices and unplugging the power cord. Performing work while the power is on may cause electric shock or malfunction.

1.2 Precautions

Follow these safety rules when operating the mechanical arm:

  • The mechanical arm is a live electrical device. Non-professional personnel must not arbitrarily change wiring, as this may cause injury to equipment or personnel.
  • When operating the mechanical arm, you must strictly comply with local laws and regulations. The safety precautions and "Danger", "Warning", and "Caution" described in this manual are supplementary to local safety regulations.
  • Use the mechanical arm within the specified environmental range. Exceeding the mechanical arm's specifications and load conditions will shorten its service life or even damage the equipment.
  • Personnel responsible for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the myCobot mechanical arm must undergo strict training, understand all safety precautions, and master correct operating and maintenance methods before operating and maintaining the robot.
  • Do not use this product for extended periods in humid environments. This product contains precision electronic components, and prolonged exposure to humid environments will damage the equipment.
  • Do not use this equipment in high-temperature environments. The exterior of this equipment is made of photosensitive resin, and high temperatures can damage the equipment's casing, leading to malfunction.
  • Strong corrosive cleaners are not suitable for cleaning the mechanical arm. Anodized parts are not suitable for immersion cleaning.
  • Do not use this product without installing the base to avoid damaging the equipment or causing accidents. This product should be used in a fixed environment with no obstructions around.
  • Do not use other power adapters for power supply. Damage to the equipment caused by using non-compliant adapters will not be covered by after-sales service.
  • Do not disassemble, open, or unscrew the mechanical arm. If disassembled, warranty service will not be provided.
  • Unauthorized personnel without professional training must not repair faulty products or disassemble the mechanical arm. If the product malfunctions, please contact the myCobot technical support engineer promptly.
  • If this product is scrapped, please comply with relevant laws for proper disposal of industrial waste and protect the environment.
  • Children using the robot must be supervised by an adult. Turn off the equipment promptly after operation is complete.
  • Do not reach into the robot's operating range while it is in motion; be careful of pinching.
  • It is strictly prohibited to alter, remove, or modify the nameplates, instructions, icons, and markings of the mechanical arm and related equipment.
  • Handle and install the robot with care. Follow the instructions on the packaging for gentle handling and correct placement according to the arrows. Otherwise, the robot may be easily damaged.
  • Do not flash other products' firmware to the end-effector Atom. If the equipment is damaged due to user-flashed firmware, it will not be covered by after-sales service.

1.3 Classic Use Scenarios

If you have any questions or suggestions regarding this manual, please submit them via the official Elephant Robotics website:

https://www.elephantrobotics.cn

Do not use the mechanical arm for the following purposes:

  • In medical or life-critical applications.
  • In environments that may cause explosions.
  • Direct use without risk assessment.
  • When safety function level is insufficient.
  • When robot performance parameters are not met.

Scenario Table

DifficultyYour PCBasicAtom
1. Direct Recording (No Programming)N/ABrowser required + UIFlow provided by M5Default firmware, do not overwrite
2. Visual Programming (UI Flow)UIFlow provided by M5UIFlow provided by M5Default firmware, do not overwrite
3. Visual Programming (RoboFlow Professional)RoboFlow LibraryTransponder fileDefault firmware, do not overwrite
4. Programming Required (Maker! Maker)Arduino IDE + M5Stack Library + myCobotBasic LibCustomizable programs: 1 SimpleTest, 2 SimpleRunDefault firmware, do not overwrite
4. Programming Required (PC-based API Use)Python/C++/JavaTransponder fileDefault firmware, do not overwrite
5. Deep Development Required (ROS Development)ROS LibraryTransponder fileDefault firmware, do not overwrite
5. Deep Development Required (PC-based Communication Protocol)Communication protocol usage examplesTransponder fileDefault firmware, do not overwrite

2. Product Introduction

2.1 Design Background

Adhering to the vision and mission of "Enjoy Robots World", Elephant Robotics has designed and developed the myCobot, the world's lightest and smallest collaborative robot, while retaining most functions of industrial robots. Its compact and elegant industrial design, excellent performance, and extensive software and hardware development space give myCobot unlimited application expansion potential.

The design prototype of myCobot was the first domestic all-in-one collaborative robot launched by Elephant Robotics in 2018. As the first integrated collaborative robot in China, it won the 2019 CAIMRS Industrial Robot Innovation Award and the 2019 High-Tech Robot Annual "Innovation Technology Award". It is exported to over 30 countries and regions, and its product quality and intelligent solutions have been consistently recognized and praised by numerous world top 500 companies from South Korea, Japan, the United States, Germany, and Italy.

2.2 Product Overview

myCobot is jointly produced by Elephant Robotics and M5stack. It is the world's smallest and lightest six-axis collaborative robot, allowing for secondary development based on user needs to achieve personalized customization. It serves as both a productivity tool and a tool for expanding the boundaries of imagination.

myCobot weighs 850g, has a payload of 250g, and a reach of 350mm (effective working radius of 280mm). It is compact yet powerful, capable of being equipped with various end-effectors for different application scenarios, and supports secondary development across multiple software platforms, meeting the needs of scientific research, education, smart homes, light industry, and commercial applications.

a) Basic Parameters

ParameterValue
Degrees of Freedom6
Payload250g
Arm Span350mm
Effective Working Radius280mm
Repeatability Accuracy±0.2mm
Weight850g
Power Input8V, 5A
Working Environment-5°~45°
CommunicationUSB Type-C

b) Basic Structure Framework

The basic structure framework includes hardware and software components. Hardware is divided into Controller, Mechanical, and Electronic categories. The Controller houses the M5 Basic or M5 Atom, with interfaces for Arduino, API, ROS, and software modules like UIFlow and RoboFlow. Mechanical components include arm and base interfaces. Electronic components cover interfaces like Grove, BASIC, and Atom. Software encompasses Arduino, API, ROS, UIFlow, and RoboFlow.

2.3 Functional Features

Unique Industrial Design, Extremely Compact

  • Integrated Design: The overall body structure is compact, weighing only 850g, making it very portable.
  • Modular Design: Fewer spare parts, low maintenance cost, quick plug-and-play replacement.

2.4 Product Patents

Appearance Design Patent Certificate

Certificate Number: 4996050

Appearance Design Name: Mechanical Arm (B1)

Designer: Song Junyi

Patent Number: ZL 2018 3 0466611.4

Application Date: August 22, 2018

Patentee: Shenzhen Elephant Robotics Co., Ltd.

Address: 2nd Floor, Building 7, Nanshan Cloud Valley Innovation Industrial Park, Liuxian Avenue, Taoyuan Street, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, 518055

Grant Publication Date: January 1, 2019

Grant Publication Number: CN 304973675 S

The State Intellectual Property Office of the People's Republic of China, in accordance with the Patent Law of the People's Republic of China, has reviewed and granted patent rights. The certificate of appearance design patent is issued and registered in the patent register. The patent right takes effect from the date of grant publication, with a term of ten years from the application date.

The patent certificate records the legal status at the time of patent registration. Changes in patent transfer, pledge, invalidation, termination, restoration, and changes in the patentee's name or title, nationality, and address are recorded in the patent register.

Director: Shen Changyu

Date: January 1, 2019

(See reverse side for other matters)

myCobot Mechanical Arm Related Patent Information

No.ProductTypeSubjectPatent Number
1Lightweight Mechanical ArmAppearance PatentCollaborative Mechanical Arm2020030683471.3

Utility Model Patent Certificates

No.Certificate NumberUtility Model NamePatent NumberPatenteeGrant Publication Number
18194138Mechanical Arm Linkage and Mechanical ArmZL 2018 20017484.4Shenzhen Elephant Robotics Co., Ltd.CN 208196791 U
28186088Mechanical Arm Joint Connector and Mechanical ArmZL 2017 21700594.2Shenzhen Elephant Robotics Co., Ltd.CN 208196840 U

Invention Patent Information

No.Invention NameApplication Number
1Method and System for Robot Pose Holding Drag TeachingZL 2018 1 1634649.3
2Method and System for Online Collision Detection of Robot based on Momentum ModelZL 2019 1 0030748.9
3Method for Identifying Robot Dynamic Parameters Independent of Joint Angular VelocityZL 2019 1 0773865.4

3. Product Hardware

3.1 Controller and Actuators

3.1.1 M5Stack Basic

The M5Stack BASIC is one of the M5Stack development kit series. For novice developers, the M5Stack development board, with its high cost-performance ratio and rich case resources, is an excellent choice.

Traditional development boards are limited to verification and learning. The M5 opens up more possibilities for development boards. The M5Stack development board uses an industrial-grade casing, ensuring stable performance. In addition to verification and learning, it can also accelerate development and productization.

It features an ESP32 IoT chip, integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, and 16MB of SPI flash memory. Its dual-core, low-power design delivers exceptional performance in various applications. With over 30 stackable M5Stack modules and 40 expandable units, its hardware expansion system can quickly help you build and validate your IoT products.

Supported development platforms and programming languages include Arduino, UIFlow (using Blockly, MicroPython). Regardless of your development and programming skill level, M5Stack will assist you in gradually turning your ideas into reality.

If you have developed with ESP8266, you will find that ESP32 is a perfect upgrade from ESP8266. It offers more GPIOs, more analog inputs, and two analog outputs, along with multiple external interfaces (such as a spare UART). The official ESP-IDF development platform has integrated FreeRTOS, allowing for more efficient program code organization and optimized execution efficiency through its dual-core and real-time operating system.

The M5Stack Basic consists of two separable stacked parts. The top part houses the circuit board, chip, various electronic components, and some interface modules. The bottom part contains the lithium battery, M-BUS motherboard, and edge expansion connectors.

3.1.1.1 Power On/Off Operation

  • Power On: Press the red power button once.
  • Power Off: Quickly double-click the red power button on the left side.

3.1.1.2 Product Features

  • Based on ESP32 development.
  • Built-in speaker, buttons, LCD screen, power/reset button.
  • TF card slot (supports up to 16GB).
  • Built-in lithium battery.
  • Magnetic design on the back.
  • Expandable pins and interfaces.
  • M-Bus motherboard connector.
  • Development platforms: UIFlow, MicroPython, Arduino.

3.1.1.2 Specification Parameters

Host ResourceParameter
ESP32-D0WDQ6240MHz dual core, 600 DMIPS, 520KB SRAM, Wi-Fi, dual mode Bluetooth
Flash16MB
Input Voltage5V @ 500mA
Host InterfaceTypeC x 1, GROVE(I2C+I/0+UART) x 1
Core Base InterfacePIN (G1, G2, G3, G16, G17, G18, G19, G21, G22, G23, G25, G26, G35, G36)
IPS Screen2 inch, 320x240 Colorful TFT LCD, ILI9342C, max brightness 853nit
Speaker1W-0928
Buttons3 customizable buttons
Battery110mAh @ 3.7V
Antenna2.4G 3D antenna
Working Temperature32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
Net Weight47.2g
Gross Weight93g
Product Dimensions54 x 54 x 18mm
Package Dimensions95 x 65 x 25mm
Shell MaterialPlastic (PC)

3.1.2 M5Stack Atom

ATOM Matrix is a very compact development board from the M5Stack development kit series, measuring only 24*24mm. It offers more GPIOs for user customization, making it ideal for embedded smart hardware. It uses the ESP32-PICO-D4 solution, integrating Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, with 4MB of SPI flash memory. The front panel features a 5*5 RGB LED matrix, an onboard IMU (MPU6886), and a programmable button hidden below the Neo LED matrix. The Type-C interface allows for fast program uploading and downloading. Additionally, it provides a HY2.0 4P interface for connecting external devices. A M2 screw hole is provided on the back for mounting.

Note: When using the FastLED library, the recommended brightness for RGB LEDs is 20. Do not set it higher to avoid damaging the LEDs and the acrylic screen. (In the ATOM library, the appropriate brightness range is mapped to 0~100).

Important: Dear user, when operating the robot, please avoid flashing firmware to the ATOM at the end of the mechanical arm. The robot only supports the original factory firmware. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

3.1.2.1 Product Features

  • Based on ESP32 development.
  • Compact body.
  • Built-in 3-axis gyroscope and 3-axis accelerometer.
  • Programmable button.
  • RGB LED matrix.
  • Infrared emission function.
  • Expandable pins and interfaces.
  • Development platforms: Arduino, UIFlow.

3.1.2.2 Specification Parameters

Host ResourceParameter
ESP32240MHz dual core, 600 DMIPS, 520KB SRAM, Wi-Fi, dual mode Bluetooth
Flash4MB
Input Voltage5V @ 500mA
Host InterfaceTypeC x 1, GROVE(I2C+I/0+UART) x 1
PIN InterfaceG19, G21, G22, G23, G25, G33
RGB LEDWS2812C 2020 x 25
MEMSMPU6886
IRInfrared transmission
Button1 customizable button
Antenna2.4G 3D antenna
Working Temperature32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
Net Weight3g
Gross Weight14g
Product Dimensions24 x 24 x 14 mm
Package Dimensions24 x 24 x 14 mm
Shell MaterialPlastic (PC)

3.1.3 Servo Motors

The myCobot mechanical arm uses six high-performance servo motors across its six joints, offering advantages such as fast response, low inertia, smooth rotation, and stable torque.

ParameterValue
Dimensions23.2*12.1*28.5mm
Working Voltage4.8~7.4V
Working Temperature-15~70°
Rated Torque1.5kg.cm@6V
Stall Torque4.5kg.cm@6V
Rotation Angle300° (angle can be limited via software)

3.2 Mechanical Structure

3.2.1 Dimensions and Working Range

a) Mechanical Arm

Diagram showing the dimensions and structure of the mechanical arm. Key dimensions include arm span (350mm) and various segment lengths (e.g., 70.42mm, 110.4mm, 96.0mm, 73.18mm, 66.39mm, 43.6mm, 131.56mm). It also indicates the effective working radius of 280mm and joint labels (J1 through J6).

Motion Axis Range
AxisRange
J1-165 ~ +165°
J2-165 ~ +165°
J3-165 ~ +165°
J4-165 ~ +165°
J5-165 ~ +165°
J6-175 ~ +175°
b) Base Assembly Diagram

Diagram illustrating the base of the robot. It shows mounting holes compatible with both Lego Technic parts and standard screw holes. Dimensions are indicated, with 4 X Ø4.50 through holes and 25 X Ø4.90 through holes (Lego holes).

c) End Assembly Diagram

Diagram showing the end-effector mounting area of the mechanical arm. It features mounting holes compatible with both Lego Technic parts and screw threads. The diagram indicates a diameter of Ø30 and 4 X M3 6.5 screw holes.

3.2.2 Working Environment and Installation

3.2.2.1 Unpacking and Working Environment

Note: Upon receiving the package, please first confirm that the robot's packaging is intact. If there is any damage, please contact the logistics company and the supplier in your region promptly. After unpacking, please verify the actual contents against the packing list.

Table 3.2.2-1 myCobot Mechanical Arm [Standard Set]

myCobot Mechanical Arm [Standard Set] Contents
myCobot Mechanical Arm (Model: myCobot-500)
myCobot Mechanical Arm - Product Brochure
myCobot Mechanical Arm - Power Adapter
USB-Type C Cable
Jumper Wires
M4*35, Pan head hex socket screws, fully threaded, stainless steel
Hex Wrench

Please set up the robot system in an environment that meets the conditions described in the table below to ensure optimal performance and safe operation.

Table 3.2.2-2 Working Environment and Conditions

ItemConditions
Temperature-10°C ~ 45°C
Relative Humidity20% ~ 70%
Indoor/Outdoor RequirementsIndoor
Other Environmental Requirements
  • Avoid direct sunlight.
  • Keep away from dust, oil fumes, salt, iron filings, etc.
  • Keep away from flammable and corrosive liquids and gases.
  • Do not expose to water.
  • Avoid impacts and vibrations.
  • Keep away from strong electromagnetic interference sources.

3.2.2.2 Installation Conditions and Requirements

The myCobot robot weighs 850g. Considering that its center of gravity may shift during operation, it must be securely fixed to a base for normal use. The base requirements are: a fixed base or a mobile base.

Robot Base Interface Dimensions

The base mounting holes serve as the interface for fixing the robot to other bases or surfaces. The specific hole dimensions are shown in the figure below: four through holes with a diameter of 4.5mm, countersunk, which can be fixed with M4 bolts.

Diagram showing the robot base mounting holes. It indicates four Ø4.5mm countersunk through holes, suitable for M4 bolts.

Please identify the corresponding threaded holes on the mounting base before installation.

Before proceeding with installation, please confirm:

  • The installation environment meets the requirements of the "Working Environment and Conditions" table above.
  • The installation location is within the robot's working range and provides sufficient space for installation, operation, maintenance, and repair.
  • Place the base in a suitable position.
  • Relevant tools, such as screws and wrenches, are prepared.

After confirming the above, please move the robot to the base mounting surface, adjust its position, and align the robot's base mounting holes with the holes on the base mounting surface. Once aligned, insert the screws into the holes and tighten them.

Note: When adjusting the robot's position on the base mounting surface, try to avoid directly sliding the robot on the surface to prevent scratches. When manually moving the robot, try to avoid applying external force to the robot's vulnerable parts to prevent unnecessary damage.

3.3 Electrical and Electronics

The myCobot has three external terminals: the external terminals of the M5Stack Basic on the base, two Grove terminals near the power socket, and the pin headers for the M5Stack Atom J6 joint.

a) M5Stack Basic Electrical Diagram

Diagram showing the electrical connections and pin assignments for the M5Stack Basic module. It lists GPIO pins, power (GND, 3.3V, 5V), and other interfaces like ADC, DAC, RESET, EN, etc.

b) M5Stack Atom Circuit Diagram

Diagram showing the circuit connections for the M5Stack Atom Matrix. It highlights the ESP32-PICO-D4, WS2812C RGB LED matrix, MPU-6886 IMU, buttons, and interfaces like USB Type-C, GROVE, and PIN connectors.

c) IO Interface Diagram

Diagrams illustrating the IO interfaces for the M5Stack Basic and M5Stack Atom. It shows the top and bottom control IO interfaces, detailing pin assignments for power (5V, 3.3V, GND), digital signals (G19, G21, G22, G23, G33, etc.), analog signals (DA, AD), and communication protocols (SCL, SDA, MI, SCK).

4. Software

For software updates, please refer to our GitHub repository first: https://github.com/elephantrobotics/myCobot

4.1 Default Software - Trajectory Recording Software

The M5 Basic host board has 3 buttons and supports custom programming and data writing. This program is open-source and available on our GitHub.

Drag Teaching Demonstration

Interface showing the myCobot robot with three buttons labeled "Button A", "Button B", and "Button C".

  1. Recording: After entering recording mode, select the storage location.
  • Button A: Save to RAM
  • Button B: Save to Storage Card
  • Button C: Exit Recording Mode

2. Start Recording

Interface showing "Recording Mode" with options "Record Ram", "Record Flash", and "Back". Below this, another interface shows "Record into Flash Recording..." with an option to "Stop Recording and Save".

3. Playback

After selecting the storage location, manually move the mechanical arm to perform the target action. The action will then be recorded and stored.

Interface showing "Infinite Playing Mode" with options "Play Ram", "Play Flash", and "Back".

  • Button A: Start playing recorded actions.
  • Button B: Pause.
  • Button C: Exit playback.

4.2 Arduino Library

Libraries are collections of code that allow you to easily connect and use sensors, displays, and modules. For example, the built-in LiquidCrystal library enables easy communication with character LCD displays.

Using libraries can extend the functionality of Arduino boards. With libraries, we can easily achieve collaboration between Arduino and external hardware or data communication. The Arduino IDE comes pre-installed with a series of standard library files. You can also install third-party libraries yourself (e.g., downloaded from the internet) or even create your own libraries and import them into the Arduino IDE. Libraries greatly help users bypass specialized content like registers and address pointers, significantly reducing development complexity.

If you need to learn how to add third-party libraries to the ARDUINO IDE, please refer to the installation guide and methods at:

https://docs.m5stack.com/#/zhCN/arduino/arduino_development

Screenshot of the Arduino IDE download page, showing options for Windows, macOS, and Linux installers.

4.3 API Interface and Communication Protocols

  • UIFlow
  • Arduino
  • microPython
  • FreeROTS

4.3.1 UIFLOW

Use UIFLOW Beta Version and Select Cooperation - myCobot

https://docs.m5stack.com/#/zh_CN/quick_start/m5core/m5stack_core_get_started_MicroPython

Screenshot of the UIFLOW interface, showing a block-based programming environment with various blocks like "Title", "Label", "Rect", "Circle", "Image", "Triangle", "Line", "Units", "Map", "JSON", and specific sections for "高级" (Advanced), "Cooperation", "myCobot", "远程终端" (Remote Terminal), and "Custom (Beta)".

4.4 ROS

ROS software and interfaces are currently being updated. Please stay tuned.

As of 12.31:

  1. ROS settings have been updated to allow installation of Python 2 or Python 3.
  2. Serial port input is now manual, allowing Windows users to run directly.
  3. Updated API library documentation for new interfaces. Please search for "READNME".

4.5 Joint Reset and Calibration

If your myCobot requires joint reset or calibration, please first flash the Calibration program using the myCobot firmware burner or Arduino tools to ensure the device enters the reset and calibration state.

After uploading the program firmware, the Baisc interface will appear as shown below:

Image showing the calibration screen with three buttons: "Press A - Calibrate Servo 1~6", "Press B - Test Servos (long press to force testing)", and "Press C - Restart Calibration".

At this point, rotate Joint 1 (J1) to the standard zero position. Align it with the groove and press Button A (the leftmost button). This will power up (meaning from follow mode to fixed state) and fix J1 at this standard zero position. Repeat this process for the remaining joints. After setting J6, press Button A again to save all settings.

After setting the zero positions, you also need to test if the device can operate normally. Press Button B (the middle button). After pressing, the robot arm will sequentially test joints J1-J6. During testing, to prevent damage to the equipment and personnel, ensure there are no obstructions or personnel within the operating range.

4.6 Product Firmware Upgrade and Recovery

To upgrade or maintain your device, please ensure your development environment is set up. If not, please install the serial port driver first, then try using the software. The software download link is as follows:

https://github.com/elephantrobotics/myCobot/blob/main/Software/

Download and decompress "myCobot Firmware Burner.zip" into your project folder. Please note: do not use it in complex paths, as this may cause the path to be unrecognized.

The contents of the decompressed folder are shown below:

NameModification DateTypeSize
CP210x_VCP_Windows2020/11/30 15:23Folder
ino2020/11/25 17:36Folder
esptool.exe2020/11/25 11:07Application10,750 KB
list_ports.py2020/9/17 17:49Python Source File4 KB
logo.py2020/11/24 14:05Python Source File77 KB
myCobot.exe2020/11/25 12:00Application39,627 KB
README.txt2020/11/25 12:16Text Document1 KB

If you need to use the software, please read the "README.txt" document first. If you have already set up the development environment, you can directly open the "myCobot.exe" file. The interface will appear as follows:

Screenshot of the "myCobot Program Downloader" software. It shows fields for "Select Terminal" (Basic), "Select Serial Port" (COM27), "Select File" (Main Control), and a "burn" button with version V1.0. The path E:\mycobot_bin\myCobot固件烧录器\myCobot.exe is visible.

To upgrade or modify, follow these steps:

  1. Select the terminal model.
  2. Select the serial port number.
  3. Select the firmware version.
  4. Click "burn".

After burning, the interface will look like this:

Screenshot of the "myCobot Program Downloader" software during the firmware burning process. It shows connection status, chip information, and progress of writing data. The "myCobot" interface with "Basic", "COM27", and "Main Control" is still visible.

Common Software Issues:

  1. Cannot select serial port, as shown below:

Screenshot of the "myCobot Program Downloader" software showing an error message: "The Serial port can't find!"

The cause is usually that the terminal is not connected or the driver is not installed. Please check the connection and reopen the software.

2. If the port detection does not change after unplugging and re-plugging, the upload will fail. The solution is to reopen the software.

5. Visual Programming and Industrial Software

5.1 Visual Programming Software UIFlow

For detailed usage instructions, please refer to the UIFlow operation manual at the following link:

M5 Basic: https://docs.m5stack.com/#/zh_CN/quick_start/m5core/m5stack_core_get_started_MicroPython

M5 Atom: https://docs.m5stack.com/#/zh_CN/quick_start/atom/atom_quick_start_uiflow

5.2 Industrial Visual Programming Software RoboFlow

myCobot also supports RoboFlow, the operating system developed by Elephant Robotics for collaborative robots. The RoboFlow operating system features a simple and easy-to-use interface, a clear and intuitive interaction, enabling users to quickly master operations and programming tasks efficiently. Even novice users can achieve target functions through simple operations.

For detailed usage instructions, please refer to the RoboFlow operation manual at the following link: https://www.elephantrobotics.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/%E6%93%8D%E4%BD%9C%E4%B8%8E%E7%BC%96%E7%A8%8B%E6%89%8B%E5%86%8C-CN.pdf

6. After-sales Service

  • Products can be returned or exchanged unconditionally within 7 days of signing for receipt, provided they are unopened. The customer bears the costs and other risks associated with product returns and exchanges.
  • Customers requiring product warranty service must provide the corresponding purchase receipt and product warranty card as proof of warranty.
  • Hardware failures caused by product quality issues under normal use will be repaired free of charge by Elephant Robotics during the warranty period.
  • The warranty start date is the product purchase date or the date of logistics receipt.
  • Repaired or replaced parts belong to Elephant Robotics. A reasonable fee may be charged for them.

For the following product after-sales services, please contact customer service in advance to communicate and confirm relevant information. The following is a detailed description of accessory warranty services:

a) Servo Motor

Warranty PeriodWarranty Service
≤ 1 monthWe will provide a new servo motor free of charge and cover shipping costs (once only).
1-3 monthsWe will provide a new servo motor free of charge; the customer will bear the shipping costs (once only).
≥ 3 monthsCustomer must purchase a new one.

b) Electronic Parts (M5 Hardware)

Warranty PeriodWarranty Service
≤ 3 monthsCustomer disassembles and sends back; we provide free replacement and cover round-trip shipping costs (once only).
3-6 monthsCustomer disassembles and sends back; we provide free replacement and the customer bears round-trip shipping costs (once only).
≥ 6 monthsCustomer must purchase a new one.

c) Structural Parts, Including Shell

Warranty PeriodWarranty Service
≤ 1 yearWe will provide new parts free of charge; the customer will bear shipping costs (once only).
≥ 1 yearCustomer must purchase a new one.

(Note: If there is a conflict with the product brochure, the user manual shall prevail.)

Special Instructions: During the warranty period of the delivered product, the company will only provide free repair for faults occurring under normal use. However, under the following circumstances, the customer will be charged for repair costs (even if within the warranty period):

  1. Damage or malfunction caused by incorrect use or misuse not covered by the manual.
  2. Malfunctions caused by unauthorized disassembly by the customer.
  3. Natural wear and tear, aging, or consumption of parts such as the shell.
  4. Damage caused by improper adjustment or unauthorized repair.
  5. Damage caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods.

Therefore, please operate the robot strictly in accordance with the instructions in this manual and related manuals.

7. Common Questions Q&A

Q: Why can't my compiler find the corresponding device?

A: You need to set up the development environment first and install the corresponding project libraries to develop devices.

Q: Why can't my compiler properly compile example programs?

A: The required project libraries are not installed, or there is a conflict between project libraries. Please check if the project libraries are installed correctly. If they are installed correctly and you still cannot compile, please reinstall the Arduino development environment.

Q: Why does the device not function properly after I flash firmware to the ATOM terminal?

A: The firmware for the ATOM terminal must be the factory firmware provided by us. Do not change it to other unofficial firmware during use. If the device accidentally flashes other firmware, you can use the "myCobot Firmware Burner" to select the ATOM terminal, choose the serial port, and select the ATOMMAIN firmware to flash the ATOM terminal.

Q: Why does the robot exhibit minor shaking in the vertical state but not when operating?

A: Please check if it is in a vertical state. In a vertical state, it is not affected by gravity. Mechanical gaps may cause minor shaking. This will not occur when used in other states. The recommended speed for this state is 400-500.

Q: Will the ROS system be charged later?

A: ROS is open-source and will be updated on our GitHub. Firmware upgrades are free of charge.

8. Contact Us

If you need any assistance, please contact us using the following methods.

WeChat:

Elephant Robotics Assistant

Image of a WeChat QR code with the Elephant Robotics logo and text "Elephant Robotics", "Mechanical Arm / Mechanical Cat".

Shenzhen Elephant Robotics Co., Ltd.

Address: 2nd Floor, Building 7, Nanshan Cloud Valley Innovation Industrial Park, Liuxian Avenue, Taoyuan Street, Nanshan District, Shenzhen

Email: support@elephantrobotics.com

Phone: +86(0755)-8696-8565 (Working hours: 9:30-18:30)

Website: www.elephantrobotics.com

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