As a supplier of collaborative robots, I understand the paramount importance of safety standards in the realm of robotics. Collaborative robots, also known as cobots, are designed to work alongside human operators, which means that ensuring their safety is not just a regulatory requirement but also a moral obligation. In this blog post, I will delve into the safety standards for collaborative robots, exploring the key factors that contribute to a safe working environment.
Understanding Collaborative Robots
Collaborative robots are a new breed of robots that are specifically designed to interact with humans in a shared workspace. Unlike traditional industrial robots, which are typically isolated from human operators by safety fences or cages, cobots are intended to work in close proximity to humans, performing tasks such as assembly, pick-and-place operations, and quality control. This close interaction between humans and robots requires a high level of safety to prevent accidents and injuries.
Safety Standards for Collaborative Robots
The safety standards for collaborative robots are established by international organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). These standards provide a framework for the design, manufacture, and use of cobots, ensuring that they meet the highest levels of safety.
One of the key safety standards for collaborative robots is ISO/TS 15066, which provides technical specifications for the design and integration of collaborative robot systems. This standard defines four types of collaborative operations: safety-rated monitored stop, hand guiding, speed and separation monitoring, and power and force limiting. Each of these collaborative operations has specific safety requirements that must be met to ensure the safety of human operators.
Safety-Rated Monitored Stop
Safety-rated monitored stop is a collaborative operation in which the robot stops immediately when a human operator enters its workspace. This is achieved through the use of safety sensors, such as light curtains or pressure mats, which detect the presence of a human and trigger a stop signal. The robot must be able to stop within a specified time and distance to prevent collisions with the human operator.
Hand Guiding
Hand guiding is a collaborative operation in which the human operator physically guides the robot through its tasks. This is typically used for tasks that require a high level of precision or for training purposes. To ensure safety, the robot must be equipped with force sensors that detect the force applied by the human operator and limit the force exerted by the robot to a safe level.
Speed and Separation Monitoring
Speed and separation monitoring is a collaborative operation in which the robot's speed is adjusted based on the distance between the robot and the human operator. This is achieved through the use of safety sensors, such as laser scanners or cameras, which continuously monitor the position of the human operator and adjust the robot's speed accordingly. The robot must slow down or stop if the human operator gets too close to prevent collisions.
Power and Force Limiting
Power and force limiting is a collaborative operation in which the robot's power and force are limited to a safe level to prevent injuries to the human operator. This is achieved through the use of mechanical or electrical devices, such as torque limiters or current limiters, which limit the power and force exerted by the robot. The robot must be designed to operate within the specified power and force limits at all times.
Additional Safety Measures
In addition to the safety standards defined by ISO/TS 15066, there are several other safety measures that can be implemented to ensure the safety of collaborative robots. These include:
- Risk Assessment: A thorough risk assessment should be conducted before the installation of a collaborative robot system to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate safety measures.
- Safety Training: All operators and maintenance personnel should receive comprehensive safety training on the operation and maintenance of the collaborative robot system.
- Safety Interlocks: Safety interlocks, such as emergency stop buttons and safety gates, should be installed to allow the human operator to quickly stop the robot in case of an emergency.
- Regular Maintenance: The collaborative robot system should be regularly maintained and inspected to ensure that all safety features are working properly.
Our Collaborative Robot Solutions
At our company, we are committed to providing high-quality collaborative robot solutions that meet the highest levels of safety. Our cobots are designed and manufactured in accordance with the latest safety standards, including ISO/TS 15066, to ensure the safety of human operators.
We offer a wide range of collaborative robot models, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Whether you need a cobot for assembly, pick-and-place operations, or quality control, we have the right solution for you. In addition, we also offer customized solutions to meet the specific needs of our customers.
Some of our specialized AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) solutions include:
- Customized Explosion - proof Backpack AGV for Ammunition Transportation: This AGV is designed specifically for the transportation of ammunition in explosive environments, with explosion-proof features to ensure safety.
- Customized Counterbalanced Forklift AGV: Our counterbalanced forklift AGV is capable of handling loads up to 1 ton, providing a reliable and efficient solution for material handling.
- Composite AGV With Robotic Arm: This innovative AGV combines the functionality of an AGV with a robotic arm, offering a versatile solution for various applications.
Contact Us for Purchase and Collaboration
If you are interested in purchasing collaborative robots or learning more about our safety standards and solutions, we encourage you to contact us for a detailed discussion. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in finding the right cobot solution for your business needs. Whether you are looking for a standard model or a customized solution, we can provide you with the support and guidance you need to make an informed decision.
References
- ISO/TS 15066:2016, Robots and robotic devices — Collaborative robots
- International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards related to industrial robots and safety
