In numerical control machine tools, industrial robots and loading and unloading manipulators of numerical control machine tools, which are used for parts handling, loading and unloading, palletizing, and assembling, have similar functions as auxiliary manipulators in production equipment. For example, the industrial robots defined in ISO standards are automatic, position controllable, and programmable multi-functional manipulators. There are many similarities between the two, but there are also differences between them.

In the control system, industrial robots generally have independent controllers, drive systems and operation interfaces, which can be operated manually, automatically and programmed. Therefore, it is a complete device that can operate independently, and can achieve the required functions through its own control system. Truss manipulator is an auxiliary device for tool change or workpiece loading and unloading, and its control is generally realized by the controller of the equipment.

The industrial robot is an automatic manipulator with independent mechanical mechanism and control system, which can be positioned arbitrarily, including electrical structure and control unit. The robot system integration realizes various functions based on its own power and control ability. It can accept the command of human beings, or run according to the pre arranged program to replace some monotonous, frequent and repeated long time work or work under dangerous and harsh conditions in industrial production.

The industrial manipulator is an electromechanical system that simulates the action of human hand and arm. It works according to the principle of electromechanical coupling and the principle of master-slave. Therefore, it is just an extension of human hand and arm, a repetitive operation with simple action and fixed operating procedures, and an operating device with unchanged positioning points.. The industrial manipulator is an automatic operating device for grasping, moving objects or operating tools in a fixed way. Manipulator is an early industrial robot, and also an early modern robot.