Tiempo de lectura: 3 min
The Evolution of Collaborative Robotics
Collaborative robotics is a field in constant growth and evolution, with significant potential to revolutionize various industries. Its history and development have been marked by curious facts and notable advancements that have shaped this innovative technology.
Origins of Collaborative Robotics
Collaborative robotics, often referred to as “cobots,” is a branch of robotics that focuses on the joint work of humans and robots. While it may seem like a modern concept, its roots can be traced back to the 1990s. One of the curious facts is that General Motors pioneered the implementation of collaborative robots in their factories during that period. These robots were designed to work side by side with human operators, marking the beginning of a new era in industrial automation.
The Term “Cobot” and Its Etymology
The term “cobot” is an acronym for “collaborative robot.” Although it may seem like a technical term, it is easily understandable. The etymology of “cobot” is interesting because it reflects its purpose: to work in collaboration with humans. The prefix “co-” denotes “together with” or “in conjunction,” and “bot” comes from “robot.” Cobots are designed to be safe and flexible, making them ideal for sharing tasks with human workers.
Notable Advances in Collaborative Robotics
One of the most notable advances in collaborative robotics is its ability to adapt to dynamic environments. Cobots use advanced sensors, computer vision, and machine learning systems to understand and react to their surroundings. This enables them to perform tasks in unstructured workspaces and collaborate safely with people.
Sinterpack and the Innovative Implementation of Collaborative Robotics
Sinterpack, based in Burgos, Spain, has been a leader in the implementation of collaborative robotics in the field of palletizing and end-of-line processes. Their experience of over 55 years has allowed them to embrace collaborative robotics in an innovative way. In 2017, Sinterpack received recognition for a collaborative packing and palletizing project, demonstrating their ability to adopt advanced technologies and apply them effectively in their solutions.
Collaborative Solutions with a Smaller Footprint
One of the most remarkable advantages of cobots is their smaller footprint compared to traditional industrial robots. This makes them ideal for factories with limited space. Their compact design and ability to perform tasks in tight environments have opened up new possibilities for automation in places where space is a valuable resource.
Cobots: Packing, Palletizing, and both Simultaneously
In addition to their ability to work in collaboration with humans, cobots are versatile and can perform a variety of tasks. In the case of Sinterpack, these collaborative robots can both pack and palletize products, often carrying out both tasks simultaneously. This provides additional efficiency to end-of-line operations.
The Coiner of the Term “Cobot” and a Curious Anecdote
The term “cobot” was coined by the pioneer of collaborative robotics, physicist and engineer Joseph F. Engelberger. Engelberger is widely recognized as the father of industrial robotics and played a crucial role in popularizing collaborative robots. A curious anecdote about him is that he once stated that “A cobot should never harm a human being,” emphasizing the importance of safety in the collaboration between humans and robots.
The Exciting History of Collaborative Robotics
Collaborative robotics is a field in constant evolution that has revolutionized industrial automation. Its origins in the 1990s, the term “cobot” and its etymology, as well as advancements in cobot technology, are fascinating elements that define its history.
Sinterpack, as part of the Xolertic Group, has proven to be a leader in the implementation of collaborative robotics, highlighting its ability to adapt to changing market demands and apply technology innovatively. Collaborative robotics will continue to play a significant role in automation, and Sinterpack is at the forefront of this exciting revolution.