Definitions
Separate pose repeatability, pose accuracy, path behaviour, tool-centre accuracy and process-result variation.
Scope boundary · 18
Repeatability is not accuracy
Understand what returning to a pose proves—and why it does not automatically establish absolute position, path or process quality.
Evidence statusEngineering decision framework · cell-specific validation requiredLast reviewed: 11 August 2026
18
FUURAA thesis
A robot can repeat the wrong pose consistently; application quality depends on the complete calibrated chain.
Engineering map
Turn the title into engineering objects that can be observed, measured and reviewed.
Each layer states the boundary to establish and the evidence needed for the next decision.
Error chain
Include base, robot, tool, fixture, workpiece, sensor, thermal, load, wear and measurement-system contributions.
Maintenance
Define calibration, verification, drift monitoring and recheck after collision, repair, relocation, tool or software change.
Verification questions
Write the questions first, then decide whether a demo, test, pilot or operating record can answer them.
Each question needs an object, conditions, denominator, threshold and accountable decision owner.
- 01
Which accuracy or repeatability quantity is being reported?
- 02
Under what pose, load, speed, temperature and mounting condition?
- 03
What is the uncertainty of the reference measurement?
- 04
Which process result is sensitive to the measured error?
Evidence to preserve
Enable the next reader to reconstruct conditions, results, failures and the decision.
A conclusion alone loses reviewability; raw records, configuration and exclusions matter too.
- 01
Evidence package 1
Defined test method, conditions and measurement uncertainty
- 02
Evidence package 2
Error budget across robot, tool, fixture, sensing and process
- 03
Evidence package 3
Calibration and drift trend tied to accepted product
Scope boundary
State what this evidence still cannot be generalised to.
- 01
One published specification cannot be substituted for a complete cell accuracy or process capability study.
- 02
This is an engineering reading and decision framework; it does not replace application-specific risk assessment, conformity work, procurement acceptance or professional advice.
Sources and evidence status
Read standards scope, measurement evidence and application conclusions separately.
Source dates and review status remain visible; external sources open in a new tab.
01
ISO · 1998-04
↗02ISO 9283:1998 — Performance criteria and related test methods
Provides a common measurement frame for pose, path, velocity and related manipulator performance characteristics.
NIST · 2019-12-02
↗Helping Robots Stay on Target
Explains why repeatability and accuracy are distinct and why preparation and maintenance affect both.