In an international collaboration led by robotics experts from the Fraunhofer IFF, theFraunhofer IFFa new ISO standard has been developed that establishes a uniform method for evaluating the force and pressure exerted by collaborative robots (cobots) during contact. This standard is essential to ensure safe interaction between humans and robots in the work environment.
Cobots, designed to work hand-in-hand with humans, make manual tasks less monotonous and more engaging, as well as helping companies ensure their long-term viability. However, close collaboration between people and machines requires a thorough understanding of safety. Therefore, a digital resource was created in the framework of the EU research project COVR, with the aim of facilitating knowledge sharing and validation of applications of cobots between companies.
About the new ISO standard
Since September 2020, Fraunhofer IFF researchers have relied on the findings of the COVR project to formulate a new standard which makes it possible to verify the contact forces and pressures on the cobots, which are protected by force and power limitations according to the biomechanical limits set by the ISO/TS 15066. This work culminated in the drafting of ISO/PAS 5672:2023, which has recently been published. This standard integrates the most recent advances in research and testing practices, thus facilitating the evaluation of cobots.
The standard was developed by ISO/TC 299 Working Group 8, dedicated to Validation Methods for Collaborative Applications. Under the leadership of Dr. Roland Behrens, leader of the model-based HRC safety and integration team at Fraunhofer IFF, the group focused on how the various regulations of the ISO member countries could be harmonized and improved with the latest research results.
This was the only way to establish a standard, consensus test method for future cobot applications. “Initial national regulations did not adequately address this issue, and many aspects were still unresolved or contradictory in some cases. Here we were able to optimally apply the results of the COVR project.“Behrens pointed out about the initial situation.
Behrens also expressed his enthusiasm to see the impact of this standard in the world of robotics and safety in human-robot collaboration. In addition, he anticipated that the next ISO project will further simplify the certification of cobots.
ISO standards and the future of human-robot collaboration
Looking ahead, this regulation could act as a catalyst for the development of even more advanced and safer cobot technologies, fostering closer and more effective human-robot collaboration.
As cobots become more intelligent and capable of performing complex tasks autonomously, ISO standards will continue to evolve to address new safety challenges as they arise. This cycle of innovation and regulation will ensure that the benefits of collaborative robotics can be maximized while maintaining a safe working environment for all.
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