Collaborative robotics: New era of human–robot cooperation in the workplace

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Collaborative robot systems allow robots and humans to work together in ways that were previously impossible. This new capability brings new hazards and risks that must be evaluated for every application. This article discusses the nature of collaborative robots and how they are currently used in industry; voluntary industry consensus standards for safety of collaborative robot applications; and best practices in evaluating and mitigating new hazards related to collaborative robot applications. Discussion: Historically, workers have been kept safe around industrial robot systems by being kept physically separated from the robot systems through the use of safeguards. These safeguards may be physical barriers, or sensor-based systems (e.g., light curtains, safety laser scanners) that result in protective stops of the equipment if a worker crosses a boundary delineating the “safeguarded space”. Safety requirements for the design and implementation of industrial robot systems are specified in the industry standard ANSI/RIA R15.06-2012 (“R15.06”). Collaborative robotics represents a paradigm shift from traditional methods of keeping workers safe around industrial robots. With a properly implemented collaborative robot system, it may be possible to keep workers safe without the use of safeguards such as fences or light curtains. Risk assessment remains a crucial tool for safety with both collaborative and non-collaborative industrial robot systems. Safety requirements for collaborative robot systems are defined in the Technical Report (“TR”) RIA TR R15.606-2016, supplemental to R15.06. One method of conducting a task-based risk assessment for an industrial robot system is documented in RIA TR R15.306-2016. Conclusion: Voluntary industry consensus standards and supplemental technical reports provide information about best practices in keeping workers safe around industrial robotics, including collaborative robotics. Practical Applications: Organizations that design, implement, use, or manage industrial robot systems, including collaborative robot systems, should use the ANSI/RIA R15.06-2012 safety standard and its associated Technical Reports.