Collaborative robots have revolutionized the manufacturing industry, offering novel levels of flexibility and efficiency. Unlike classic industrial robots, which are only designed to work in isolation, cobots are specifically designed to work together with humans. This opens up a wide range of automation possibilities in various industrial scenarios. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the different levels of collaboration and industrial scenarios where cobots are commonly used.
Understanding levels of collaboration in cobots
Cobots are divided into different levels of cooperation depending on their interactions with humans. Each level represents a different degree of collaboration and security features. Understanding these levels is crucial when choosing the right cobot for your specific needs. Here are the levels we will explore:
- Level 1: Safety monitored detention
- Level 2: Manual guidance
- Level 3: Speed and separation monitoring
- Level 4: Limiting power and strength
- Level 5: Security grade monitored detention
- Level 6: Manual guidance with speed and separation monitoring
- Level 7: Power and force limitation with speed and separation monitoring
Level 1: Safety monitored detention
At Level 1, cobots are equipped with safety sensors that can detect the presence of humans in their workplace. When a human enters the cobot’s work area, it will automatically stop working to prevent potential accidents. This level is appropriate in scenarios where human interaction is minimal and the primary goal is to ensure employee safety.
Level 2 cobots enable direct physical interaction between humans and robots. They have sensors that detect and respond to human touch, allowing operators to manually direct the cobot’s movements. This level of collaboration is ideal for tasks requiring precise positioning or fragile handling.
Level 3: Speed and separation monitoring
At Level 3, cobots can work close to humans, constantly monitoring their speed and distance. If the cobot detects that a human is moving too quick or getting too close, it will automatically snail-paced down or stop to maintain a secure distance. This level of collaboration is suitable for scenarios where humans and cobots need to work side by side, such as on assembly lines or in material handling.
Level 4: Limiting power and strength
Level 4 cobots are designed with advanced safety features that limit the force and power they can exert. This level of cooperation allows cobots to work in direct contact with humans without the risk of injury. It is commonly used in applications requiring heavy-duty tasks such as lifting hefty objects or operating machinery.
Level 5: Security grade monitored detention
Like Level 1, Level 5 cobots are equipped with safety sensors that can detect the presence of humans. However, they also have additional safety features, such as a safety-compliant monitored stop, which ensures that the cobot stops in a secure manner. This level of collaboration provides an additional layer of safety in scenarios where workers are more involved in the cobot’s operation.
Level 6: Manual guidance with speed and separation monitoring
Level 6 cobots combine the features of Levels 2 and 3. They enable operators to manually direct the cobot’s movements while monitoring the speed and distance between humans and cobots. This level of collaboration is suitable for tasks that require both precision and close human-robot interaction.
Level 7: Power and force limitation with speed and separation monitoring
At Level 7, cobots have the combined features of Levels 4 and 3. They can work in direct contact with humans while providing power and force limitation and speed and separation monitoring. This level of collaboration is ideal for applications requiring both demanding tasks and close human-robot collaboration.
Industrial scenarios where cobots are used
Cobots are widely used in various industrial scenarios due to their ability to boost productivity and safety. Let’s look at some of the most common scenarios in which cobots are used.
Scenario 1: Automation of the assembly line
In assembly line automation, cobots play a key role in speeding up the production process. They may perform repetitive tasks such as picking and placing components, tightening screws, or performing quality control. Depending on the complexity of the assembly process and the required level of human involvement, cobots can be used at various levels of cooperation.
Scenario 2: Material transport and logistics
Cobots are perfect for material handling and logistics applications. They can efficiently move hefty objects, load and unload pallets, and transport goods within a warehouse or distribution center. Cobots with varying levels of collaboration can be used to optimize workflow and reduce the risk of injuries associated with manual material handling.
Scenario 3: Quality control and inspection
Ensuring product quality is crucial in the production process. Cobots can be programmed to perform precise quality control and inspection tasks such as measuring dimensions, detecting defects, or performing visual inspections. Thanks to high accuracy and repeatability, cobots can significantly improve the quality control process.
Scenario 4: Welding and fabrication
Cobots are increasingly used for welding and manufacturing tasks. They offer greater precision and speed compared to manual welding, resulting in higher productivity and better weld quality. Cobots equipped with the right safety features can work alongside welders to reduce the risk of accidents and boost overall efficiency.
Scenario 5: Packaging and palletizing
In packaging and palletizing applications, cobots can automate the process of packing products into boxes or loading them onto pallets. They can handle different types of products and adapt to different packaging requirements. Depending on the complexity of the packaging process and the need for human intervention, cobots with different levels of cooperation can be used.
Scenario 6: Machine operation
Cobots are perfect for machine maintenance tasks, where they can load and unload parts from machines, change tools, or monitor the production process. By automating machine operation, manufacturers can boost productivity, reduce errors and free workers to perform more complicated tasks.
Conclusion: Choosing the right level of cooperation and industrial scenario for your company
As the utilize of cobots continues to grow, companies need to understand the different levels of collaboration and industrial scenarios that best suit their specific needs. Whether it’s assembly line automation, material handling, quality control, welding, packaging or machine operation, cobots offer a range of solutions to boost productivity, safety and efficiency. By carefully considering the required levels of collaboration and industrial scenarios, companies can harness the power of cobots to remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing environment.