Schmalz

Cobot

A cobot, short for collaborative robot, is a collaborative robot that has been specially developed to work directly with humans.

Unlike classic industrial robots, which are shielded by protective devices such as safety fences, cobots work in the immediate working area of humans, and do so safely.

This is made possible by a design that is designed for proximity to humans, and by modern sensor technology and intelligent software.

Cobots therefore belong to the class of sensitive, cooperative robots, which are part of human-robot collaboration (HRC) and represent an important area of modern robotics.

Synonyms
  • Collaborative robot

Operation mode of a cobot

A cobot (collaborative or collaborating robot) recognizes its environment via integrated sensors that are built into the joints, for example. They detect movements, forces and even the smallest resistances in real time.

As soon as an unexpected contact occurs, whether by a human, a tool or another obstacle, the cobot stops automatically. Speed, direction of movement and application of force are continuously monitored and adapted.

This interplay of sensor technology and intelligent control enables potential collisions to be detected at an early stage and reliably avoided. This ensures a high dimension of safety in direct contact between humans and employees and significantly minimizes the risk of injuries in the working environment.

Intelligent automation with cobot applications

Cobots are used in a wide variety of areas, from production and mounting to intra-logistics, medicine, clean room technology and even in the skilled trades. They perform tasks such as screwing, palletizing and packaging.

They also provide support in quality control, order picking and material transport. They are used both for loading and unloading pallets and conveyor belts, as well as for pick and place processes. Collaborative robots also facilitate the handling and transportation of components.

They are particularly suitable for working environments where flexibility is required, for example with frequent workpiece changes. Their compact construction and space-saving design, for example in the form of a robot arm or lightweight robot, make it easier to integrate them into existing work environments. Cobots unfold their full potential particularly in laborious, dangerous or monotonous tasks, such as overhead work or very small jobs.

Efficient, safe, flexible: the strengths of cobots

Cobots provide support where repetitive or physically demanding tasks are required and improve occupational safety at the same time. They are flexible, intuitive to operate and can be put into operation quickly.

Their height of precision and mobility in the work environment make them ideal for changing requirements, smaller quantities or complex assembly processes. Their intelligent control ensures smooth processes, while their integration pays off economically thanks to simple maintenance and short amortization times.

In practice, they create added value both in automation and in daily collaboration with humans. Cobots are not just a tool, but a forward-looking solution for optimizing processes, making workstations more ergonomic and sustainably increasing productivity in operations.

Related terms

Mensch-Roboter-Kollaboration (MRK)
Mensch-Roboter-Kollaboration (MRK) steht für die sichere und effiziente Zusammenarbeit von Mensch und Roboter, die Produktionsprozesse flexibler und produktiver macht.
Pick-and-Place
Pick-and-Place-Systeme mit Vakuumtechnik ermöglichen sichere, materialschonende Handhabung bei hoher Prozessgeschwindigkeit.
Produktion 4.0
Produktion 4.0 beschreibt den Wandel der Produktionsarbeit hin zu einer intelligenten Fabrik. Vernetzte Produkte und Anlagen gestalten die Produktion flexibler und effizienter.

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