The implementation of industrial and service robots has transformed multiple sectors, from manufacturing to personal care services. However, the rise of these technologies demands a priority focus on safety. In a recent presentation by engineer Theo Jacobs for the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA), the importance of ensuring that robots are safe from their design to their operation was highlighted.
Manufacturers must not only strictly comply with international regulations but also take full responsibility for reducing risks, thoroughly documenting the design, and informing users of any residual hazards. In this article, we will explore the essential requirements for the safety of industrial and service robots, as well as the key regulations governing this field.
Responsibility and Safe Design
Safety begins with the design of the robot. The manufacturer is obliged to identify potential risks and minimize them, complying with the standards established in regulations such as ISO 12100, which sets out general principles for risk assessment and reduction in machinery. Additionally, safety-related control systems must be designed following the specifications of ISO 13849 or the alternative system IEC 62061, which establishes a safety integrity level (SIL) for the performance of the control system.
It is essential to document every step of the design process. This not only protects the manufacturer against potential legal claims but also provides clear guidance for users on how to operate the robot safely and what the limits of its functionality are.
Essential Standards for Distances and Speeds
Safe design also includes consideration of minimum distances and approach speeds to protect operators. ISO 13854, ISO 13855, and ISO 13857 standards set clear parameters on the necessary distances to avoid injuries from crushing or accidental contact with dangerous parts of the robot. These standards are especially critical in applications where the robot interacts directly with humans, such as in collaborative environments.
On the other hand, the robot’s speed must be carefully calculated and limited based on risk assessment. This is particularly relevant in collaborative robots, where proximity to human operators increases the potential for accidents.
Emergency Stop and Temperature Control
ISO 13850 establishes design principles for emergency stop systems, which must be accessible, easy to activate, and capable of immediately stopping the robot’s operation in case of any anomaly. This is an essential requirement for any industrial or service robot.
Additionally, robots operating in extreme conditions must be designed to avoid thermal risks. ISO 13732-1/2/3 standards evaluate human responses to contact with surfaces at extreme temperatures, ensuring that both robots and their working environments are safe for operators.
Safety in Industrial and Service Robots
Industrial robots are governed by ISO 10218-1/2, which specifies safety requirements for both their design and operation. For collaborative robots, ISO/TS 15066 introduces specific guidelines to assess the permissible force and speed in applications where humans and robots work side by side.
In the case of service robots, ISO/DIS 13482 establishes safety standards for robots that interact directly with people, such as personal care robots. These devices must meet minimum performance levels to ensure that the safety-related functions of the control system operate reliably and predictably.
Challenges and Opportunities
As robots become more integrated into human activities, safety is not only a regulatory obligation but also a competitive differentiator for manufacturers. Companies that invest in safe design and rigorously comply with regulations not only protect users but also strengthen their reputation in the global market.
The path to a safer robotic environment requires collaboration between manufacturers, regulators, and users. Only in this way can it be ensured that robotic technology continues to advance without compromising the safety of those who implement and use it.
Ultimately, safety is non-negotiable. Complying with these standards not only ensures operational success but also protects the most valuable asset in any industry: people
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