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Neptune and Cybernetic Applications Ltd

Neptune was designed by Richard Becker (system design and mechanical engineering) and Tim Orr (computer interface and control electronics). Richard Becker previously owned Powertran Cybernetics where he designed the Genesis series of arms using oil-based hydraulics for mechanical control (see the Genesis & Feedback arms page). After that company was sold to Feedback Systems in 1983 he left to set up Cybernetic Applications and began work on his new designs - Neptune and Mentor.

There were two versions of the Neptune arm: Neptune 1 and Neptune 2. Judging by the specification sheets and the one visual reference I've found, it seems that Neptune 1 was a de-rated version of Neptune 2, with one less axis of movement at the wrist and 8-bit rather than 12-bit control signals (hence lower positional and repeat accuracy). Neptune was developed around 1984, with control software offered initially for three 8-bit micros: the BBC micro, Sinclair Spectrum and Commodore VIC 20. Later promotional material (around 1986) mentions only software for the BBC, Apple II and IBM PC.

Neptune was offered in both kit form and fully assembled. Prices (ex. VAT) in March 1985 ranged from £1550 for a basic Neptune 1 in kit form, up to £3364 for a fully assembled Neptune 2 with hydraulic power pack, miniature simulator arm and ADC.

Neptune robot arm axis rotations
Cybernetic Applications logo

Cybernetic Applications styled themselves in their literature as 'for education training and industry,' and boasted that their robots were 'all-British designed and manufactured.' Cybernetic Applications were located on a trading estate in Andover, Hants. As well as Neptune, their robot arm range included Mentor - a smaller 5-axis all electric arm which they described as 'for the desk top.'




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