How do robots perform human-robot collaboration?

Human-robot collaboration (HRC) involves robots working alongside humans in shared environments, combining human flexibility with robotic precision. This is achieved through three core components: sensing and perception, communication interfaces, and safety mechanisms. Robots use sensors like cameras, LiDAR, force-torque sensors, and proximity detectors to understand their surroundings and detect human presence. For example, collaborative robots (cobots) often include built-in torque sensors to stop or adjust motion if they encounter unexpected resistance, such as a human touch. Advanced systems may also use computer vision to track human movements, enabling the robot to anticipate actions like handing over a tool or moving out of the way.

Communication between humans and robots is facilitated through programming interfaces and protocols. Developers typically use APIs or frameworks like ROS (Robot Operating System) to define tasks, share data, or trigger actions. For instance, a robot might receive input from a wearable device worn by a human operator, such as a smart glove that signals the robot to pause when the operator raises their hand. Some systems employ natural language processing for voice commands or graphical interfaces for task selection. An example is a factory setup where a worker uses a tablet to assign the robot a new assembly sequence, which the robot then executes while the human handles quality checks. These interfaces ensure both parties can coordinate tasks without complex coding.

Safety is the backbone of HRC, governed by standards like ISO 10218 and ISO/TS 15066. Robots are designed with fail-safes such as speed limits, force restrictions, and emergency stop triggers. For example, a cobot might operate at reduced speeds when a human enters a predefined zone, detected via depth sensors. Power and force limiting (PFL) modes ensure robots exert minimal impact force, reducing injury risks. Developers can program safety zones using SDKs like Universal Robots’ Polyscope or Fanuc’s DCS, which define geofenced areas where robots automatically halt if breached. These layered safety measures allow humans and robots to share workspace dynamically, such as in automotive assembly lines where robots handle heavy parts while workers install delicate components nearby.