Subchapter 4.2
Robotic picking
In this section, you find information about common risks in robotic picking environments and how to reduce them using protective measures such as fencing, light barriers, and workspace separation. The section also explains robots meant for collaborative operation need extra safeguards, especially where tools or machine interfaces may create unexpected hazards.
Types of robots used in picking
Robots are increasingly employed to pick and place goods and packages to complete orders. The robots used may be:
- Industrial robots that move at high speed and usually handle medium to high loads.
- Collaborative robots (“cobots”) are designed so they move at speeds and forces that do not hurt people upon contact/impact. Generally, they handle lower payloads than industrial robots. The safety of collaborative applications must nonetheless be studied carefully because the end of arm tool of the robot and its operating environment may result in hazards.
Safety concerns in robotic picking zones
While robotic picking systems offer speed and precision, they also introduce safety challenges, especially where humans and machines work in close proximity.
The type of robot, the surrounding layout, and the tools used all influence the level of risk. Below are some of the most common hazards to be aware of.
- As in any other robot application, industrial robots present a high risk of impact, crushing, shearing and dropping of loads handled. In brownfield installations these risks may be aggravated by lack of space.
- Robots meant for collaborative applications are considered “safe” but the end of arm tool and the interfacing with conveying systems and other machinery may entail some risk.
Safety strategies by robot type
To reduce risks in robotic picking environments, safety measures must be tailored to the type of robot in use.
While industrial robots often require full safeguarding, collaborative robots may also need restricted access depending on the tools and surroundings. The strategies below help ensure safe and efficient operation.
Safely limit the motion range of industrial robots and install safeguards.
Use:
- Guard fencing, light barriers, laser scanners, or contact mats
(apply (EN) ISO 10218-1/-2 or ANSI/RIA R15.06 in the USA).
Limit the accessibility of collaborative workspaces by means of physical barriers on the sides that do not need to be accessed by operators
Use:
- Guard fencing if there are considerable risks from the end of arm tool.
- Pedestrian barriers or lower “awareness” barriers to alert people to areas they should not enter; this will also help to “disturb” the robot as little as possible, ensuring the application is efficient.
