Robots: How The Pros Keep Them Safe

While robotic safety standards are primarily crafted for commercial robots, it is essential for amateur robot builders to incorporate safety measures into their projects. Beyond the scope of profit-oriented endeavors, considerations such as establishing keepout zones for mobile robots and defining safety perimeters for experimental robot arms are crucial. Even in the realm of DIY robotics, safety protocols akin to those applied to industrial robots are paramount, ensuring that self-built devices prioritize user safety.

For fixed robots like robot arms, adherence to standards such as R15-06 becomes vital. While delving into the extensive and costly text of the standard might not be necessary, resources like the Association for Advancing Automation provide accessible background information. The primary objective is to prevent user access to areas where the robot arm may move and to implement mechanisms for quick and easy motor disablement in case of any breach, safeguarding against potential injuries.

The challenges escalate for robots with mobility, classified as Industrial Mobile Robots (IMRs) or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). These robots are designed to navigate autonomously and often share spaces with humans. The applicable standard, R15.08, addresses the unique safety considerations for these mobile robots. A key focus lies in ensuring that the robot maintains awareness of its surroundings and possesses the capability to halt quickly enough to avert potential harm, emphasizing the importance of safety in dynamic environments where robots interact with people.

The best way to learn is through experience so why not try to apply what you’ve learnt here to other areas of the house such as with CNC machines mentioned on our store page: CNC/3D PRINTING/LASER

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