What is a Cobot (Collaborative Robot)? Features, Benefits, and How to Choose the Right Cobot

Cobots (Collaborative Robots) are a type of robot designed to work alongside humans in shared work environments. Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots can safely and efficiently collaborate with humans without requiring protective barriers. So, what are cobots, and how have they developed? Let’s explore the history, types, and applications of cobots in various industries.

What is a Cobot (Collaborative Robot)?

A cobot, short for Collaborative Robot, is an industrial robot designed to work safely alongside humans. Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots can sense their surroundings and adjust their movements to avoid collisions with humans. This makes cobots a flexible and easy-to-deploy automation solution suitable for various industries.

History and Development of Cobots

Collaborative robots, or cobots, were first introduced in the late 1990s with the primary goal of assisting humans with simple but labor-intensive tasks. Cobots were designed to reduce physical strain and minimize workplace accidents. These robots could interact and coordinate with humans without requiring complex safety barriers.

Over the years, cobot technology has made significant advancements. Initially, cobots were capable of performing only basic tasks, such as assembly or moving objects. However, with the development of AI, sensors, and sophisticated control technologies, today’s cobots can handle complex tasks and interact more flexibly with humans.

Types of Cobots

Classification by Load Capacity

Lightweight Cobots (1–15 kg)
Commonly used in compact applications, such as assembling electronic components, quality control inspections, and tasks requiring high precision.

Examples:

• Cobot 1kg: Ideal for small tasks requiring high accuracy, such as quality inspections.
• Cobot 3kg: Suitable for light pulling tasks, like picking items from high shelves.
• Cobot 5kg: Perfect for tasks like assembling small parts or operating small devices.
• Cobot 10kg: Handles more complex tasks, such as packaging products or connecting electronic components.

Medium-Load Cobots (20–35 kg)
Suitable for heavier tasks, such as palletizing, material handling, and jobs requiring greater force.

Examples:

• Cobot 20kg: Capable of working with larger objects, used in machinery assembly applications.
• Cobot 25kg: Suitable for lifting and moving materials.
• Cobot 30kg: Designed for tasks requiring high precision, such as grinding or machining.
• Cobot 35kg: Commonly used in industries requiring high durability and greater load capacity.

Heavy-Duty Cobots (40–100 kg)
Used in heavy industrial applications, such as welding, cutting, and handling large materials.

Examples:

• Cobot 40kg: Suitable for heavy tasks like assembly and handling large materials.
• Cobot 50kg: Used in industrial production processes with heavy loads.
• Cobot 100kg: Commonly used in the automotive industry, where heavy load capacity and high precision are required.

Classification by Number of Axes

• 4-Axis Cobots: The most common type, offering high flexibility for general applications.
• 6-Axis Cobots: Provides a wider range of motion and higher precision, suitable for complex tasks.
• 7-Axis Cobots: Offers exceptional flexibility, often used in specialized applications.

Classification by Size

• Tabletop Cobots: Compact and easily movable, can be installed on workbenches.
• Floor Cobots: Larger in size, installed directly on the floor, suitable for applications requiring a wide workspace.
• Ceiling Cobots: Suspended from the ceiling, saving workspace and increasing flexibility.

Classification by Application

• Manufacturing Cobots: Assembly, painting, welding, quality inspection, palletizing.
• Medical Cobots: Surgical assistance, rehabilitation, sample analysis.
• Agricultural Cobots: Harvesting, packaging, sorting products.
• Service Cobots: Food preparation, beverage mixing, customer service.
• Educational Cobots: Teaching, research.

Components of Cobots (Collaborative Robots)

Cobots are designed with modern components to ensure safe, flexible, and efficient collaboration with humans. Below are the main components that make up a cobot:

1. Robotic Arm

The robotic arm is the core part of a cobot, performing specific tasks such as moving, assembling, or gripping objects. Features of the robotic arm:

• Joints: Enable flexible movements, typically rotational or linear.
• Axes: The number of axes determines the range of motion, with cobots typically having 4 to 7 axes.
• Material: Lightweight yet durable, often made of aluminum alloy or composite materials.

Learn more: Industrial Robotic Arms – Explained: Components, Operation, Types, Advantages, and Selection

2. Controller

The controller is the “brain” of the cobot, processing commands and managing all operations.

Functions:

• Controls joint movements.
• Processes data from sensors.
• Executes safety algorithms.

Connectivity: Controllers often integrate connectivity through Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or industrial protocols.

3. Sensors

Cobots use various sensors to ensure safety and effective interaction with their environment.

• Force/Torque Sensors: Measure force to ensure cobots do not cause harm upon contact with humans.
• Vision Sensors: Cameras or 3D sensors for object and space recognition.
• Collision Sensors: Halt operations immediately upon detecting a collision.
• Proximity Sensors: Detect distance to objects to avoid collisions.

4. End-Effector

The end-effector is the part that performs tasks directly, attached to the end of the robotic arm.

Types of Tools:

• Gripper: For gripping objects.
• Welding Tools: Used in welding applications.
• Vacuum Suction Cups: For handling light or flat objects.
• Drilling, Cutting, and Grinding Tools: For machining tasks.

Customization: End-effectors can be changed based on application needs.

5. Safety System

Cobots integrate safety features to ensure safe collaboration with humans:

• Automatic Stop: Stops when collisions or hazards are detected.
• Speed Limiting: Ensures motion stays within safe limits.
• Temperature Protection: Prevents overheating during operation.

6. Control Software

Control software provides a user-friendly interface for easy programming and operation.

Features:

• Visual programming (drag-and-drop).
• Teaching mode to mimic human movements.
• AI integration for job optimization.

Compatibility: Works with popular operating systems and industrial protocols.

7. Power Supply

The power supply provides energy for the cobot’s operation.

• Standard mains electricity (220V or 110V).
• Rechargeable batteries for mobile applications.

8. Mounting and Base

Cobots require a sturdy mounting or base for stability during operation.

• Fixed Base: Used in stationary environments.
• Mobile Base: Mounted on wheels or automated transport systems (AGV/AMR).

9. Connectivity Systems

To integrate with production or management systems, cobots are equipped with connectivity systems:

• Protocols: Ethernet, Modbus, or OPC UA.
• Applications: Remote monitoring, network-based control, or real-time data analysis.

10. Cooling System

Some cobots are equipped with cooling systems to ensure stable operation during intensive work.

Cobots are a combination of advanced components, from hardware to software, providing high efficiency and flexibility in production. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring cobots can work safely and effectively alongside humans, opening up numerous applications across various industries.

Operating Principles of Cobots:

Cobots operate based on sensors and intelligent control systems. Sensors help cobots perceive their surroundings, while the control system adjusts their movements to avoid collisions and perform tasks accurately.
1. Programming:

• Cobots are programmed to perform specific tasks through a user-friendly interface.
• Engineers program movement points, applied force, and other parameters for the robot to complete its tasks.

2. Perception:

Cobots are equipped with various types of sensors, such as:

• Force sensors: Allow the robot to sense applied forces and adjust accordingly.
• Distance sensors: Help the robot determine the distance to surrounding objects to avoid collisions.
• Vision sensors: Use cameras to recognize the environment and objects.

3. Data Processing:

• The cobot’s controller processes data collected from the sensors.
• Based on this data, the robot decides its next actions.

4. Control:

• The controller sends signals to actuators to control the robot’s joints.
• The robot performs movements precisely as programmed, with adjustments based on sensor data.

5. Interaction:

• Cobots can work alongside humans, stopping or changing direction when detecting human presence.
• This feature ensures safety for workers operating with the robot.

Key Features of Cobots

Cobots, or collaborative robots, are designed with special features to work efficiently and safely alongside humans. Below are some of their key features:
Safety

• Force sensors: Cobots are equipped with force sensors that detect collisions and automatically stop, ensuring the safety of nearby workers.
• Smooth design: Cobots often feature rounded edges to minimize injury risks.
• Safe operation mode: When working near humans, cobots automatically switch to safe mode, operating at low speeds and forces.

Ease of Programming

• Intuitive interface: Most cobots feature user-friendly interfaces, allowing tasks to be easily programmed without advanced coding knowledge.
• Simple programming languages: The programming languages used for cobots are often designed to be straightforward and easy to use.

Flexibility and Versatility

• Flexible joints: Allow cobots to perform diverse movements, adapting to various tasks.
• Interchangeable end-effectors: Can be swapped to perform tasks like welding, painting, assembly, etc.
• Easy mobility: Many cobots are compact and lightweight, making them easy to move to different work locations.

Precision

• Position sensors: Enable cobots to determine their position in space with high accuracy.
• Repeatability: Cobots can perform tasks accurately and repeatedly.

Human Interaction

• Collaboration: Cobots can work with humans to complete tasks, sharing workspace effectively.
• Guidance: Users can guide cobots by holding and moving their arms to perform tasks.

Efficiency

• Productivity boost: Cobots enhance productivity and reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks.
• Improved product quality: Thanks to high precision and repeatability, cobots ensure consistent product quality.
• Cost reduction: Cobots help lower production costs by minimizing errors and increasing efficiency.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cobots

Cobots, or collaborative robots, have become invaluable tools in many industries. However, like any technology, cobots have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Cobots:

• Safety: This is the most prominent advantage of cobots. Equipped with sensors and safety-oriented designs, cobots can work alongside humans without safety barriers, minimizing workplace accidents.
• Flexibility: Cobots can be easily programmed and adjusted for various tasks, making them suitable for different work environments.
• Efficiency: Cobots enhance productivity by reducing time spent on repetitive tasks and improving product quality.
• Ease of Use: With user-friendly interfaces, cobots are easy to program and operate, requiring no advanced programming knowledge.
• Cost Savings: Cobots help lower production costs by reducing errors and increasing efficiency.
• Compact Size: Cobots are typically compact, making them easy to move and install in limited workspace areas.

Disadvantages of Cobots:

• Limited Payload: Compared to traditional industrial robots, cobots generally have a lower payload capacity.
• Speed: Cobots typically operate at slower speeds than industrial robots to ensure safety.
• Cost: While prices have decreased significantly, cobots are still more expensive than some other types of automated machinery.
• Working Range: Cobots’ working range is often limited by arm length and joint flexibility.
• Maintenance Requirements: Cobots require regular maintenance to ensure stable and efficient operation.

Cobots vs. Traditional Robots: A Detailed Comparison

Cobots (collaborative robots) and traditional robots are widely used in industrial production. Although both aim to automate processes, they have distinct features and applications.

Cobots (Collaborative Robots)

Features:

• Safety: Designed to work directly alongside humans without safety barriers, thanks to sensors and safety-focused designs.
• Flexibility: Easily programmed and adjusted for various tasks.
• Ease of Use: User-friendly interface requiring no advanced programming knowledge.
• Compact Size: Easy to move and install in limited workspace areas.

Applications:

• Small-part assembly
• Product packaging
• Quality inspection
• Painting, polishing
• Assisting humans in repetitive tasks

Traditional Robots

Features:

• High Speed: Executes tasks quickly and with high precision.
• Heavy Payload: Can lift and move heavy objects.
• Fixed Work Environment: Usually installed in fixed areas and requires safety barriers for operation.

Applications:

• Welding, cutting
• Spray painting
• Transporting heavy goods
• Tasks requiring high speed and precision

The choice between cobots and traditional robots depends on the specific application requirements. In many cases, combining both types of robots can yield the highest efficiency.

IF YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS…	…A TRADITIONAL INDUSTRIAL ROBOT	…A COLLABORATIVE ROBOT (“cobot”)
Easy robot redeployment to perform different processes/tasks		X
Ability to self-program and install robots		X
High-volume production at high speed (over 1m/s)	X
Payload over 16 kg (32 lbs)	X
Reach radius over 1300mm (51.2 ins)	X
Minimal changes to the existing production layout		X
Human operators to control the robot to complete tasks		X
Option to integrate with other types of machines and robots	X	X
Low initial cost and payback period less than one year		X
Ability to operate processes with little or no human intervention	X	X
Automation features for processes and products that do not change over time	X	X
Quick disassembly and reassembly		X

Applications of Cobots:

Video The Benefits of Coordinated Motion in Cobot Welding

Cobots (collaborative robots) are becoming increasingly popular across various industries. With their ability to work safely and efficiently alongside humans, cobots have opened up new applications, from manufacturing to services.

Detailed Guide on How to Choose the Right Cobot for Your Business

Choosing the right cobot is an important decision that directly impacts the production efficiency of your business. Here are the factors to carefully consider when making the optimal choice:

1. Identify Specific Needs and Requirements:

• Tasks to be performed: What will the cobot do? Assembly, painting, welding, or other tasks?
• Working environment: Is the working environment clean, dusty, or does it involve chemicals?
• Required precision: What level of precision is needed?
• Production speed: What production speed needs to be achieved?
• Payload capacity: How much weight does the cobot need to lift?
• Working range: How large of an area does the cobot need to operate within?

2. Compare Technical Specifications:

• Payload capacity: Choose a cobot with a payload capacity that matches the tasks to be performed.
• Precision: Choose a cobot with precision that fits the application’s requirements.
• Speed: Choose a cobot with speed that meets production demands.
• Number of axes: The more axes, the more flexible the cobot will be.
• Working range: Check if the cobot’s working range meets your requirements.

3. Assess Ease of Use:

• Programming interface: Is the interface user-friendly?
• Installation time: Is the installation and programming process quick?
• Integration capability: Can it be integrated with other devices in the factory?

4. Consider Costs:

• Initial cost: This includes the purchase, shipping, and installation costs.
• Operational costs: This includes energy costs, maintenance, and repairs.
• Labor cost savings: How much labor cost can be saved?

5. Suppliers and Support Services:

• Supplier reputation: Is the supplier reputable in the market?
• Warranty and maintenance services: Does the supplier provide good warranty and maintenance services?
• Technical support: Does the supplier offer quick and effective technical support?

Servo Dynamics is an authorized distributor of Universal Robots in Vietnam, providing high-quality cobot solutions. With over 17+ years of experience, we are committed to delivering products and professional technical support services, optimizing performance, and enhancing production efficiency for businesses.

Contact Us!

Outstanding Cobot Brands

Universal Robots (UR)

Universal Robots is one of the leading brands in the collaborative robot (cobot) industry. UR’s product lines are known for their flexibility, ease of programming, and high integration capabilities. UR cobots have payloads ranging from 3 to 16 kg and are used in various applications such as pick and place, welding, assembly, and quality control.

See more: Universal Robots (UR) Products

ABB

ABB is a global technology group that stands out in automation and industrial robotics. ABB’s cobot products, such as the YuMi series, are known for their ability to safely collaborate with humans in complex production lines.

OnRobot

OnRobot is one of the leading brands specializing in providing tools and accessories for cobots (collaborative robots). OnRobot is known for its innovative solutions that enhance the capabilities and performance of cobots, particularly in applications such as pick and place, welding, painting, and grinding tasks.

FANUC

FANUC is a well-known brand in industrial automation, specializing in providing robotic solutions for manufacturing. FANUC cobots help optimize production processes and ensure high precision in complex tasks.

KUKA

KUKA is a leading German robotics brand, specializing in providing cobot solutions for various industries. KUKA’s collaborative robots are known for their robust design and ability to operate in harsh environments.

Doosan Robotics

Doosan Robotics provides cobot solutions with superior features and ease of use. Doosan’s cobots are commonly used in tasks such as pick and place, packaging, and production-related applications.

Servo Dynamics – Authorized Distributor of Universal Robots in Vietnam

Servo Dynamics – Authorized Distributor of Universal Robots in Vietnam

Servo Dynamics is one of the most reputable names in Vietnam in the distribution and integration of collaborative robot (cobot) solutions. As an authorized distributor of Universal Robots in Vietnam, Servo Dynamics is committed to providing advanced automation solutions that help businesses improve productivity and product quality.

Why Choose Servo Dynamics?

• High expertise: Servo Dynamics’ team of experienced engineers has the ability to consult, design, and implement optimal cobot solutions for each customer, meeting the specific needs of each industry and production process.
• Genuine products: Servo Dynamics guarantees to provide genuine cobot products from Universal Robots, ensuring high quality and performance.
• Professional after-sales service: Customers will receive fast and thorough technical support throughout the product usage process.
• Comprehensive solutions: In addition to providing cobots, Servo Dynamics also offers integration solutions, including peripheral devices, software, and maintenance services, helping customers optimize production processes.