Automation What is a Cobot? Definition and application

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What is a Cobot? Where can it be used? And what should be considered? We provide you with a comprehensive overview.

What are Cobots?

The term "Cobot" comes from English. It is composed of the words "collaborative" and "robot". So, a Cobot is a collaborative robot.

Cobots can work in close proximity to humans without endangering their safety. This distinguishes them from traditional robots, which often can only operate in isolated environments.

Their goal is to supplement human labor and automate processes. Ultimately, they are intended to contribute to greater efficiency and safety. Additionally, they can help mitigate the effects of the skilled labor shortage.

What can a Cobot do?

Collaborative robots can perform a range of tasks. Depending on the model, they possess various capabilities. These typically include:

• Human-Robot Collaboration: A core feature is their ability to work safely with humans. Using sensors, they can detect their surroundings and perceive people and their movements around them. This allows them to avoid collisions and work closely with them.

• Repetitive Tasks: They can take over repetitive and monotonous tasks. This includes, for example: placing components, screwing, packaging goods, or conducting inspections.

• Precise Work: Collaborative robots are well-suited for tasks where high accuracy is crucial. For example, they can assemble circuit boards or join parts together.

• Versatile: They can often be reprogrammed or reconfigured without much effort. Thus, they can be used in various areas without needing a complete rebuild.

• Advanced Sensing: With the help of sensors and cameras, a Cobot can detect its environment and orient within it. It can also recognize, grasp, and precisely place objects.

• Safety: Collaborative robots have specific functions to avoid accidents. For example, they can stop or move aside if they detect obstacles or people.

Where are Cobots used?

A Cobot is a useful tool that can be deployed in various environments and industries. There, it can, for example, automate repetitive or dangerous tasks and improve productivity. Typical areas of application include:

• Manufacturing and production – In manufacturing, cobots can take on hazardous or repetitive tasks in particular. Specific examples include assembly, packaging or inspection. Another classic example is cobot welding.

• Logistics and Warehousing – In warehouses, they can assist in picking, sorting, and packaging goods. Another example is loading and unloading transport vehicles.

• Healthcare – For instance, in hospitals, they can disinfect rooms or provide medical instruments. Nursing staff can also be supported by collaborative robots.

• Agriculture – In agriculture, they are used, for example, in harvesting. They can also assist in sorting products and undertake planting or care tasks.

• Education and Research – In education and research, they are used, for example, in experiments. Building prototypes is another possible application.

• Service Sector – Cobots are also increasingly used in the service sector. For example, in restaurants, where they assist in customer service or cooking.

What you should consider when buying a Cobot

When considering purchasing a Cobot, various relevant factors should be taken into account. This ensures that the robot meets the requirements and expectations. The most important points at a glance:

• Cost: The purchase costs can vary greatly. While simple models are available from a few thousand euros, more powerful models can cost several tens of thousands of euros. Additional costs for integration, staff training, possible accessories, maintenance, etc., also apply. These should be taken into account from the outset.

• Tasks and Environment: Some Cobots are better suited than others for specific tasks or conditions. Therefore, you should clarify the following questions in advance: In what environment will the collaborative robot operate? What tasks will it perform?

• Flexibility: Speaking of tasks. Cobots can vary in flexibility. One may be easier to reprogram and thus carry out different activities. With another, the range of tasks may be significantly narrower.

• Payload and Reach: When choosing the model, you should definitely consider the load the Cobot can carry. Additionally, it should have the necessary reach to fulfill its intended function.

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• Safety: To safely work alongside humans, the collaborative robot should have appropriate safety functions. It should be able to avoid collisions and injuries.

• Integration and Compatibility: Ideally, the Cobot should be easily integrated into the existing environment. Additionally, it should be compatible with software or other devices already in use.

• Usability: The easier the Cobot is to operate, the better. This can avoid complex training and allow operators to get started more quickly.

• Customer Support: Problems or questions? In this case, it's important that the manufacturer provides reliable support. The issue of maintenance should also be considered at the time of purchase.

What manufacturers are there?

There is a variety of different Cobot manufacturers. Some of the most well-known include:

• ABB

• Bosch Rexroth / Kassow Robots

• Comau

• Denso

• Doosan

• Fanuc

• Festo

• Igus

• Kawasaki Robotics

• Kuka

• Mitsubishi Electric

• Omron

• Techman Robot

• Universal Robots

What standards are relevant for Cobots?

Various standards and guidelines are relevant for Cobots. These include, among others, the following:

• ISO 10218-1 and ISO 10218-2

• ISO/TS 15066

• ISO 13849-1 and ISO 13849-2

• EN ISO 12100

• UL 1740