Today, the interaction between technology and humans is reaching an astonishing point of convergence. In particular, the robotics has made a leap forward in the field of collaboration between humans and machines, giving rise to what is known as "collaborative robotics».
This revolutionary concept is transforming the way we think about industrial automation and is opening up new horizons towards greater efficiency. But it is also promoting greater security and creative potential in a wide range of sectors.
Definition of collaborative robotics
In essence, the collaborative robotics, also known as “cobotics” in English (a combination of “collaborative” and “robotics”), refers to the Robot integration in environments of shared work with human beings, with the aim of carrying out tasks jointly and harmoniously.
Their design allows them to interact directly with people, acting as coworkers and complementing the human skills. Unlike traditional robots, which operate in segregated environments or behind safety barriers.
Characteristics of collaborative robotics
Thanks to the incorporation of technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data and 5G, the “collaborative robots” have interesting characteristics:
- Ease of programming. One of the most notable aspects of the collaborative robotics is their ease of programming. While their industrial counterparts typically require specialized programming knowledge, cobots can be programmed intuitively. Using friendly user interfaces and mobile applications, operators without experience in robotics can teach the robots cobots new tasks in a matter of minutes. In addition, the ability to manually set the desired positions and store them in the software provides flexibility in the adaptation of robots to different functions.
- Ease of connection and installation. Traditional robots often required a laborious installation and prolonged before becoming operational. In contrast, the cobots They are distinguished by their quick installation. Supported by standardized connection interfaces and Intuitive software, an cobots You can be ready to perform your first task in just a few hours. These collaborative solutions are also versatile in terms of electrical power supply, since they can connect to conventional power sockets, eliminating the need for specialized electrical infrastructure.
- Multifunction and flexibility. Certainly, the design of the traditional industrial robots limits them to performing a specific task. On the contrary, cobots They are multifunctional and flexible, being able to perform a variety of different tasks and adapt to various functions with ease. This is due to their ability to learn and adapt, as well as the possibility of integrating additional tools and peripherals in a simple way. The incorporation of new functionalities through plug and play systems adds versatility and agility to the operation.
Advantages of collaborative robotics
To the above, we must add the advantages of this disruptive technology:
Positive effect on workers
One of the most notable aspects of the collaborative robotics is their focus on improving the work environment and employee experience. Many people perceive the traditional automation as a threat to human jobs.
On the contrary, cobots are designed to work alongside people and improve their working conditions. cobots take on repetitive, dangerous or monotonous tasks, allowing workers to focus on activities that require unique human skills, such as creativity, solving problems and social interaction.
Increased productivity and process optimization
The implementation of collaborative robotics Its main objective is to improve efficiency and productivity in the industrial processes. Indeed, by taking over repetitive and routine tasks, cobots reduce human errors and accelerate production speed. This leads to an overall optimization of processes, a reduction in cycle times and, ultimately, to a improvement in operating results.
Low integration cost
Although the robotic technology It may seem like an expensive investment, cobots They offer rapid payback and a high return on investment. Compared to conventional industrial robots traditional, the cobots They are more affordable both in terms of initial cost and integration.
In fact, Implementation of cobots It can be a cost-effective way to start the transition to Industry 4.0, allowing companies to become familiar with automation and gradually improve their workflows.
Security
On the other hand, safety is a fundamental concern in any work environment that involves robots. In this sense, the cobot design includes a variety of sensors and sensing systems that allow them to operate safely alongside humans.
They can even slow down or stop their movement when they detect the presence of a person in their environment. This eliminates the need for physical barriers and increases confidence in the Human-robot collaboration.
Collaboration modes in collaborative robotics
As we said, the collaborative robots They have characteristics that ensure a secure collaboration and efficient, as well as taking up less space in work environments. Depending on the nature of the work and the shared space, different collaboration modes are established:
- Coexistence. In this mode, the operator and the cobots They work simultaneously but in different physical spaces. This form of collaboration allows us to take advantage of the benefits of both, while maintaining a safe separation.
- Cooperation. In this case, the operator and the cobots share the same workspace, but at different times. This ensures that there is no direct interference between them and allows for a space optimization.
- Collaboration. Here, the operator and the cobots work in the same space at the same time. This form of collaboration requires precise timing and proper planning to ensure safety and efficiency.
- No interaction. In certain tasks, the cobots It can operate autonomously and independently, without the need for direct human interaction. This is especially useful in repetitive or routine tasks that do not require constant supervision.
By combining strength, precision and ability to solving problems, along with power and ability to perform routines, the cobots They create a unique synergy that drives efficiency and quality in production.
Applications of collaborative robotics
La versatility of cobots is reflected in its wide range of applications in different industrial sectors. From the simplest to the most complex tasks, the cobots They are deployed in various areas, including:
- Monitoring of stock, packed and palletized, in the logistics sector.
- Welding and assembly, to ensure high quality and precision in the manufacturing industry.
- Sanding and polishing, ensuring the quality and uniformity of the finish.
- Feed CNC machines with materials, optimizing production in machining processes.
- Inspection and Quality Control, with the ability to perform product inspections and testing, reducing the possibility of errors.
- Laboratory testing and analysis in environments.
Impact and expansion of collaborative robotics
Undoubtedly, the collaborative robotics is experiencing steady growth in the industry. According to data compiled by the International Federation of Robotics (IFS) World Robot Report in 2022, the market share of cobots increased significantly, reaching 39% in 2021. This represents an increase of 13% compared to the previous year. This growth is driven by the continued adoption of new technologies and the need to improve the efficiency of industrial processes.
According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), more than 2021 new robots were installed in factories around the world in 517.000, with the total number of robots in operation exceeding 3,5 million. These figures are a testament to the pivotal role robots are playing in transforming industry and the global economy.
Robotics as a Service (RaaS) and the democratization of robotics
Despite the benefits of collaborative robotics, the initial cost of acquisition and implementation is a barrier for many companies. However, the business model known as Robotics as a Service (RaaS) is changing this dynamic. Instead of purchasing and maintaining robots, companies can rent the cobot services according to their specific needs. This reduces the initial investment and allows companies to access cutting-edge technologies without research and development costs.
As of today, the market for RaaS is booming, with estimates predicting a significant increase in its value. It is expected to rise from $16.433 billion in 2022 to over $43.000 billion in 2028, according to MarketWatch. This pay-as-you-go approach not only reduces capital and maintenance costs, but also democratises the Access to robotics, allowing businesses of all sizes to take advantage of the advantages of automation.
En Inrobics We facilitate this type of service through our solution robotics in rehabilitation that unite robotics and AI. We are also representatives in Spain of the robots Nao y Pepper, from the French developer Aldebaran. We can configure and program them for various functions in industrial, commercial and service environments.
For all this, we put at your disposal the advantages of collaborative roboticsContact us for more information!
