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Safely Using Inverse3

The Inverse3 is a robot and like other robots it can collide with people and objects in its surroundings due to incorrect setup or control. This article outlines the best practices and guidelines to reduce risk of damage to the device and its surroundings.

Physical contact​

Inside of Inverse3’s large workspace the device can easily hit objects or people during regular use. Poor setup, programming mistakes, or incorrect use can cause the Inverse3 to act erratically increasing the chances of hitting nearby people and objects. To avoid these issues:

  • Explore the workspace before connecting power to the device and look for any objects or people which are in the way.
  • Never start a simulation with accessories attached and detach all accessories at the end.
  • High stiffness simulations can cause instability resulting in erratic behaviour, so start with low stiffness and increase gradually.
  • Avoid creating large position changes in position control, opting for a series of shorter increments instead.
  • If the device becomes unstable or moves uncontrollably, turn off the power.

When starting with the device you can use an emergency power switch to easily toggle power in case of an emergency. A simple and inexpensive option is an inline power rocker switch similar to this one.

Extended use and heat​

The Inverse3 will get warm during normal use. During high force simulations or prolonged intense use the device will heat up more resulting in high internal temperatures, which over an extended period can reduce the life expectancy of the internal components.

To make most of your Inverse3:

  • Do not generate continuous forces ≥ 8 N for long periods (more than a few minutes).
  • Do not leave the device in position control for more than 10 min.
  • Send device wakeup command at the end of the simulation to reset the force and disable position control.
  • Unplug the Inverse3 from the computer and power when not in use.

Device Damage​

Inverse3 is built to last but it is also a subject to wear and tear that can be accelerated by poor usage.

  • Do not put excessive pressure on the USB-C and the power ports.
  • Use a power supply with suitable output (see getting started section for details)
  • Fold Inverse3 before moving it, and hold it by the body.
  • Avoid using and storing the Inverse3 in wet, dusty, or sandy environments.