Industriroboten

Industriroboten, commonly referred to as the industrial robot, is a reprogrammable, motorized device designed to automate manufacturing tasks. A typical system comprises a multi-axis robotic arm, an end effector (such as a gripper, welding torch, or soldering head), a controller, and a drive system, with sensors and software enabling programming, positioning, and safety management. Modern robots offer high speed, repeatable precision, and the ability to operate in environments hazardous or monotonous for people.

History and context: The first widely deployed industrial robot was Unimate, installed in 1961 for die casting. Since then, adoption has grown across sectors, aided by advances in actuation, controls, and safety standards. The emergence of collaborative robots in the 2010s introduced safety features allowing closer human–robot interaction.

Configurations: Industrial robots come in several configurations: articulated (multi-joint arms, typically 4–6 axes); Cartesian (rectilinear); cylindrical; spherical; and delta (parallel, high-speed pick-and-place).

Applications: They perform welding, painting, material handling, machine tending, packaging, assembly, and inspection, delivering increased productivity, accuracy, and consistency, and enabling round-the-clock operation in appropriate tasks.

Programming and integration: Programming methods include teach pendants, offline programming, and simulation. They are integrated with PLCs, robotic controllers, and manufacturing execution systems, requiring system integration, commissioning, and safety assessment.

Safety and standards: International standards such as ISO 10218 (industrial robots) and ISO/TS 15066 for collaborative robots establish safety requirements, risk assessment, safeguarding, and safe operating procedures. Future trends include deeper integration with AI-based perception, sensor fusion, and modular, scalable architectures.