For over a decade now, collaborative robots or “cobots” have been steadily transforming manufacturing by making automation more accessible through their lightweight and safety-focused designs. While early industrial robots operated behind barriers for good reason, the risk of injury, modern cobots incorporate a myriad of sensors and safeguards to allow close proximity to human-robot collaboration. In this in-depth article, we will look under the hood at several of the vital safety technologies cobot manufacturers employ to enable seamless teamwork on the factory floor. From torque-limiting and force-sensing capabilities to advanced vision systems and ease of programming, today’s collaborative robots prioritize protection while maintaining productivity. We’ll explore in detail how different cobots implement safety precautions like collision detection, joint torque limits, and emergency stops to reduce risks.
Collision Detection and Force Limiting
One of the cobots’ most essential safety features is their ability to detect and respond to collisions or excessive forces. This is achieved through a variety of sensors, such as torque sensors, force-torque sensors, and 3D vision cameras. These sensors allow cobots to detect any unexpected contact with objects or people in their workspace and immediately stop or reduce their movement. This protects humans from harm and prevents damage to the cobot itself, saving companies money on repairs and downtime.
Cobots can also be programmed with specific force limits for different tasks, ensuring that they never exert too much pressure on objects or people. This is especially useful when working with fragile or delicate materials, as it minimizes the risk of damage or breakage. Additionally, cobots can be equipped with soft and sensitive end effectors, further reducing the risk of injury in case of contact. This robot website showcases a variety of cobot end effectors designed for safe handling and interaction with humans.
Joint Torque Limits
Collaborative robots, also known as cobots, are precisely engineered with low joint stiffness and torque limits in mind. This design choice ensures that they necessitate less force to halt their movement in comparison to traditional industrial robots. Consequently, they are able to operate safely in close proximity to humans without posing a threat of causing harm. In scenarios where a human and a cobot are collaborating, should the cobot reach its torque limit, it is programmed to instantaneously cease movement to mitigate the possibility of any potential injuries.
Moreover, certain cobots are outfitted with “passive compliance” features. These features enable them to sense external forces acting on their joints and autonomously adjust their motion to sidestep hazardous levels of torque. This capability offers an additional layer of safeguarding in the event that a human inadvertently interacts with the cobot’s arm.
Emergency Stops
As with any machinery, emergency stops are crucial for ensuring the safety of both humans and robots. Collaborative robots, also known as cobots, are designed with the safety of human operators in mind. These robots are equipped with multiple emergency stop buttons strategically located on different parts of their body, ensuring easy accessibility in case of an emergency. These buttons are directly linked to the cobot’s control system, allowing for an immediate halt in all movements upon activation.
In addition to the physical emergency stops, cobots are equipped with virtual safety zones that can be customized based on the specific operational environment. These safety zones serve as designated “no-go” areas for human operators, triggering the cobot to automatically stop or slow down its movements if a person enters the restricted zone. This additional layer of safety measures enhances collaborative robot operations’ overall safety and efficiency.
Vision Systems and Programming Ease
Another key safety feature of collaborative robots is their advanced vision systems and intuitive programming interfaces. These allow for easier and more accurate human-cobot collaboration, reducing the risk of accidents caused by miscommunication or human error. Cobots can be programmed through various methods, such as teaching pendants, graphical user interfaces, or even voice commands. This makes it easier for non-experts to understand and control the cobot’s movements, reducing the risk of accidents caused by improper programming.
Additionally, advanced vision systems like 3D cameras and depth sensors play a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of cobots. By allowing them to “see” and perceive their surroundings in real-time, these technologies empower cobots to identify and respond to potential hazards proactively. This enables them to navigate without collisions and equips them to make nuanced decisions regarding their movements, prioritizing the safety of both humans and themselves.
Conclusion
In conclusion, collaborative robots are revolutionizing the manufacturing industry by prioritizing safety without sacrificing productivity. Through a combination of advanced sensors, force-limiting capabilities, emergency stops, and intuitive programming interfaces, cobots make it possible for humans and robots to work together harmoniously. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative safety features incorporated into collaborative robots, making them an essential tool in any modern factory. So remember, when it comes to cobots, safety always comes first.
