Cobotics is the most promising industrial technology of the following years.  The term “cobot" officially refers to “a non-autonomous robot working in direct collaboration with a human, to increase its productivity and drudgery of work".

WHAT IS A COBOT ?

The term « cobot » is a contraction of the words “robot" and “collaborative“. It’s designed to assist humans and cooperate directly with them. It does not supplant the human being, but rather provides safety, comfort and precision in its tasks, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

Unlike industrial robotics, which are often characterised by large robots controlled remotely, cobots are smaller, lighter and easily programmable. They are multitasking and can perform a wide variety of missions.  In synergy with humans and under their direct supervision, cobots are able to integrate new information in order to improve the execution of their gestures.

" Human-robot collaboration is 85% more productive than a human or a robot working alone » – MIT study

There are 4 types of cobots :

OPERATOR

The operator operates or remotely controls the cobot, which generally has very little decision-making autonomy.

SUPERVISOR

The supervisor provides instructions to the cobot and checks the quality of the work if necessary. The instructions must be given while the cobot is in operation.

COWORKER

The operator works in the same environment as the robot and sometimes has some interaction with it.

BYSTANDER

The bystander is present in the same environment as the robot but doesn’t interact with it. For example, the robot has a sensor which detects human presence in its area: then, it automatically switches to slow mode or stops temporarily.

A BOOMING MARKET

Cobotics integrate a wide range of skills including automation, mechanics and IT technology. It complements industrial robotics. Neuroscientists are now studying cobotics from a cognitive approach. Thanks to sensory receptors and on-board vision, they aim to create dynamic, polyarticulated and intelligent systems to improve fluidity and performance.

In France, ranked second in the world market for cobotics, many sectors have already adopted it: automotive, food, health and logistics industries. Although their production speed is lower than “classic" robots, cobots are also more economical and less energy-consuming.

« By 2023, the robotics market is expected to reach $5 billion » – Bis Research study

WHY INTEGRATE COBOTICS INTO YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN ?

Integrating cobotics into your supply chain is a real asset for productivity:

• With an average return on investment of one year, the cobot is a profitable investment.
• By reducing repetition of “unpleasant" tasks, the cobot contributes to improving the health of employees and reducing work stoppages.
• By freeing themselves from certain tasks, operators can focus on actions with higher added value.
• Cobots are particularly well suited to logistics: they take up little space and are used for packaging, pick&place, packing, etc.

The greatest challenge and the main key to success with this technology is undoubtedly by training, increasing skills and supporting individuals in mastering cobotics.

INTERESTED IN INTRODUCING COBOTICS IN YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN ?

Are you looking to combine performance and innovation in your future logistics project ?

Our teams are specialized in industrial robotics / cobotics applied to the supply chain. Our experts will support you at every stage of your project.