For years, industrial robotics have automated many repetitive and dangerous tasks on manufacturing lines across the world. However, these large robots have typically been confined within cages, separated from human workers, for safety reasons. A new generation of collaborative robots, or “cobots,” that promise to work alongside people in a shared workspace are now emerging.
Cobots are designed from the ground up to detect humans and move in a safe, non-threatening manner. However, to truly live up to their collaborative potential, cobots require additional specialized end-effectors or tools at the end of their arms to perform tasks. In this article, we will explore some of the critical component technologies that enable cobots to work collaboratively with people, including different types of grippers, force sensors, and other end-of-arm tools that allow cobots to pick up, handle, and manipulate objects in a shared human-robot environment.
Grippers
Grippers are the “hands” of cobot arms, providing the ability to grasp and manipulate objects of various sizes, shapes, and textures. They come in multiple forms, each designed for specific tasks. Some of the most common types include pneumatic grippers, which use air pressure to control the opening and closing action; electric grippers, which rely on electrical motors for precise movements; and adaptive grippers, which can conform to the shape of the object they are picking up.
This adaptability is particularly beneficial in settings where cobots have to handle various items without changing end-effectors. Each type of gripper uses sensors to provide feedback to the cobot about grip strength and object orientation, ensuring safe and secure handling in a collaborative environment. Some grippers also can swap out fingers or jaws for different sizes and shapes, making them versatile for a wide range of tasks. Grippers are types of robots that are also used for tasks that require high degrees of precision and control, such as assembly and packaging.
Force sensors
Another critical component in enabling cobots to work alongside humans is using force sensors. These sensors, equipped with advanced technology, are crucial in enhancing the interaction between cobots and humans. By detecting forces and pressure exerted on them, these sensors allow cobots to react swiftly and intelligently, ensuring safety and efficiency in collaborative tasks. Additionally, force sensors can provide detailed feedback to the cobots, enabling them to make precise adjustments and enhancing their ability to handle various objects with care and accuracy.
Embedded strategically within the cobot arms’ joints, force sensors work seamlessly to detect forces from different angles, providing a comprehensive understanding of the surrounding environment. This real-time data is transmitted to the cobot’s control system, empowering it to make informed decisions and optimize movements for optimal human-robot cooperation.
Other end-of-arm tools
In addition to grippers and force sensors, there are various end-of-arm tools that empower cobots to execute a wide array of tasks within collaborative settings. For instance, suction cups prove handy for handling flat objects, while vacuum grippers excel in picking up items with irregular shapes or surfaces. Moreover, advanced tools like cameras or lasers are utilized for vision-guided operations, enhancing precision and accuracy.
As cobots progress and further integrate into manufacturing processes, we anticipate the emergence of an even broader spectrum of specialized end-of-arm tools. These innovative tools will enable cobots to undertake a more extensive range of tasks, fostering closer collaboration with human workers. This synergy is set to enhance efficiency and productivity across diverse industries, showcasing the transformative potential of cobots in modern workplaces.
Palletizing cobots
One specific task that cobots excel at is palletizing or stacking and arranging objects onto a pallet for transportation. Traditional industrial robots have been used for this task in the past, but with their bulky size and high-speed movements, they often need to be safer to work alongside humans. Cobots, on the other hand, are designed to work collaboratively with people and can be programmed to perform palletizing tasks at a slower, safer speed.
Palletizing cobots typically use specialized end-of-arm tools such as vacuum grippers or suction cups to pick up and place items onto a pallet. They can also use sensors to detect the size and shape of objects, allowing them to stack items neatly and efficiently. By utilizing collaborative palletizing cobots, companies can improve their overall productivity and reduce the risk of workplace injuries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using specialized end-effectors and tools is crucial in enabling cobots to work alongside humans in a shared workspace. Grippers, force sensors, and other end-of-arm tools provide the necessary capabilities for cobots to handle a wide range of tasks safely and efficiently. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative tools and end-effectors that will further enhance the collaborative potential of cobots in various industries. This exciting development will revolutionize the modern workplace, promoting a harmonious relationship between humans and robots for improved productivity and safety.
Author 
Andrew Parker