Description: Collaborative robots, also known as cobots, are machines designed to work alongside humans in a shared workspace. Unlike traditional industrial robots, which typically operate in separate environments for safety reasons, cobots are designed to interact safely and efficiently with human workers. These robots can perform repetitive or physically demanding tasks, allowing humans to focus on activities that require cognitive or creative skills. Collaborative robots are often equipped with advanced sensors that enable them to detect the presence of people and adjust their behavior accordingly, ensuring a safe working environment. Their flexibility and ease of programming make them ideal for a variety of industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, where they can quickly adapt to different tasks and workflows. In summary, collaborative robots represent an evolution in robotics, focusing on cooperation and synergy between humans and machines to enhance productivity and efficiency in the workplace.
History: Collaborative robots began to be developed in the 1990s, although the term ‘cobot’ was first coined in 1996 by Dr. J. Edward Colgate and Dr. Michael Peshkin from Northwestern University. Their goal was to create robots that could work safely alongside humans, leading to the development of the first prototypes. Over the years, technology has advanced significantly, allowing for the integration of more sophisticated sensors and control systems. In 2008, Universal Robots launched the UR5, one of the first commercial cobots, marking a milestone in the industry and popularizing their use in various applications.
Uses: Collaborative robots are used in a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. In manufacturing, they are employed for tasks such as assembly, palletizing, and quality control, where they can work alongside operators to increase efficiency. In the healthcare sector, cobots assist in patient rehabilitation and medication administration. They are also used in logistics for material handling and in agriculture for crop harvesting. Their ability to adapt to different tasks and environments makes them a valuable tool in modern automation.
Examples: A notable example of a collaborative robot is the UR10 from Universal Robots, which is used in various industries for assembly and material handling tasks. Another case is the ‘Sawyer’ robot from Rethink Robotics, which is employed in manufacturing for assembly and quality control tasks. In the healthcare sector, the ‘Robear’ robot has been designed to assist in patient care, providing support in mobility and transportation.
