Explore the definition of collaborative robot

Collaborative robots are cutting-edge technology that have changed traditional fields.

Collaborative robots work together with people, are collaborative, and are equipped with sensitive sensors, giving them the ability to perceive. When the robot is disturbed while working, it will enter safe mode.

Robots have other advantages beyond their collaborative capabilities. Collaborative robots level the playing field for small and medium-sized manufacturers as large manufacturers have gained the benefits of automation through the use of traditional industrial robots for decades. However, these large-scale robots are often expensive and complex, and are mainly designed for high-volume and unchanging production processes, which presents a mismatch compared with the low-volume and high-variety production of small manufacturers. Therefore, the emergence of collaborative robots fills this gap, allowing small and medium-sized manufacturers to enjoy the advantages of automation. Collaborative robots are not only more flexible and easier to operate, but can also adapt to the production needs of small batches and multiple varieties, providing small and medium-sized manufacturers with a more free and flexible production environment.

Collaborative automation is a versatile, cost-effective and user-friendly technology that helps companies increase productivity, improve production quality and meet changes in customer demand faster.

Benefits of Collaborative Robots

Collaborative robots have some unique capabilities that can enable automation across a wider range of businesses.

1. Pocket-sized and small

Collaborative robots are small and compact robots that can be used anywhere in the production process without taking up too much space.

2. Installation and programming

The collaborative robot is easy to install and program, suitable for smartphones and desktops. Convenient apps and software make it ready to use right away.

3. Flexibility

Collaborative robots can easily learn new operations and are therefore capable of different job responsibilities in the production process.

4. Movable

The collaborative robot is not heavy and easy to move. It is installed on a mobile workbench and can perform tasks within the area.

5. Precision

Collaborative robots always perform actions in the same way with exactly the same force. This ensures the same quality and accurately placed parts.

6. Positive impact on employees

Employees can avoid monotonous or dangerous behaviors and develop themselves by doing more creative work.

7. Reduce production costs

By using collaborative robots, the process is simplified and the output is increased. Ultimately, this reduces business costs.

The impact of collaborative robots on employees

Production jobs such as packaging goods, replenishing inventory or assembly line work are characterized by terms such as "monotonous" and "repetitive". Additionally, this type of work is often the cause of RSI (repetitive strain injury). A condition caused by frequently performing the same actions.

By having robots perform the work of production workers, production workers will be able to focus on other tasks. Tasks that require creativity and solution-oriented thinking, such as maintenance or quality control.

Giving employees creative and solution-oriented tasks enriches the work they do and contributes to people’s personal development. It also encourages diversity and flexibility, creating an attractive work environment. Factors like these ensure that employees find more enjoyment in the work they do, become more engaged in the work they do, and become more productive.

Tools equipped with collaborative robots

The flexibility of collaborative robots is also reflected in the fact that they can be equipped with different tools. Each tool corresponds to a capability, and the tools can be divided into these categories: grippers, end-of-arm tools (EOAT), vision, software, range extenders, safety and supply systems.

1. Gripper

The gripper allows the collaborative robot to pick up things. There are many different types of clamps available for a variety of tasks. These include finger grippers, vacuum grippers, and magnetic grippers. Each clamp is suitable for different tasks. For example, soft grippers for food and vacuum grippers for picking up boxes. Grippers also have their own specifications such as payload, gripping width, gripping force, etc.

2. End of Arm Tooling (EOAT)

End of Arm Tooling is a general term for various tools that can be installed on collaborative robots. Examples include dispensing machines, screw machines, sanders, tool changers, sensors and welding and welding tools.

3. Tool changer

In order to make the collaborative robot more flexible, there are various automatic tool changers on the market. These tools allow the cobot to change tools completely autonomously, allowing it to perform multiple operations. For example, in an assembly application, a cobot would first use a clamp to place all the parts in the correct position, and then use a screwdriver to connect the entire part. Ultimately, this will increase robot productivity.

4. Vision system

The vision system provides visibility for collaborative robots. With the help of 2D or 3D cameras, collaborative robots can locate objects, scan barcodes and recognize patterns.

5. Range extender

The range extender allows the collaborative robot to have a larger range on the X-axis and Y-axis. For example, collaborative robots can move back and forth in front of large machines to perform tasks at different points in the process.

6. Security Tools

Security includes all tools that contribute to the safety of human-machine collaboration.

7. Software

There are a variety of software available for programming and designing collaborative robot applications. Each collaborative robot has its own intuitive, user-friendly programming software. Simulator software can also be used to design physical robot integrations and then implement them.

8. Feeding system

Equipment that provides materials to collaborative robots.

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