Different types of conveyor systems and their advantages and disadvantages

Robot vs. cobot: the basics.

Robots and cobots, or collaborative robots, differ primarily in their interaction with humans and their operational capabilities. While traditional robots operate autonomously in controlled environments, cobots are designed to work alongside humans, facilitating cooperation and shared tasks. Cobots feature advanced safety mechanisms such as force-limiting sensors and lightweight designs to minimize the risk of injury in collaborative settings. Additionally, cobots are typically easier to program and reconfigure, allowing for greater flexibility and adaptability in dynamic work environments. This collaborative nature makes cobots ideal for tasks that require human supervision, precision assembly, or intricate manipulation alongside automated processes.

VEMECH robot integrator automatisatie palletisatie speciaal machinebouw machinebouwer transportsystemen en rollenbanen

A list of pro’s and con’s

The characteristics of a cobot – used fully as a cobot – often, but not always include the following:

  • Smaller footprint
  • Easier installation and commissioning
  • Slower
  • Light tasks
  • Non hazardous gripper (suction cups, force limited clamping, camera,..)
  • Limited reach of cobotarm

The characteristics of a convetional robot – used fully as a conventional robot – often, but not always include the following:

  • Larger footprint, guarding fences and safety lighting curtain around the robot with minimal distance between the fence/safety sensor and robot
  • Fast
  • Heavy and complex tasks
  • No limitations to end-effector or gripper
  • Larger reaches of robotarm possible
Unloading box cobot VEMECH machine construction robotics

The traps.

One common error is underestimating the payload and reach limitations of cobots, leading to inefficient task allocation. Another pitfall is neglecting to assess the complexity of the application; while cobots excel in collaborative tasks, they may not be suitable for highly specialized or heavy-duty operations. Additionally, overlooking safety considerations can pose risks, as cobots require stringent safety measures to ensure human-robot interaction remains safe. This means all peripheral equipment of the cobot should be considered equally in the risk analysis. Clamping, edgy or other hazardous end effectors should be safeguarded. The reduced speed of the collaborative robot when working in the near vicinity of an operator should also be taken into account. While production can continu while working next to a cobot, it might not be as fast as a conventional robot and worth the while to allow a short production stop from a conventional robot during interaction. Cobots are an excellent piece of equipment for many applications, though research, clear understanding of application requirements, and collaboration with experienced integrators are essential for making informed decisions when selecting between cobots and conventional robot arms.

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