Innovative Safety Solution for Machine Integrated Manipulators

Conference: ISR/Robotik 2014 - 45th International Symposium on Robotics; 8th German Conference on Robotics
06/02/2014 - 06/03/2014 at München, Germany

Proceedings: ISR/Robotik 2014

Pages: 8Language: englishTyp: PDF

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Authors:
Frauscher, Stefan; Schimpelsberger, Walter (KEBA AG, 4041 Linz, Austria)

Abstract:
Modern production machines must be as flexible and versatile as possible. Simultaneously, the productivity of machines needs to be improved and down times for product changes must be eliminated. Therefore, in many industries machine manufacturers bring flexibility by mainly integrating self-made manipulators into their machinery. By entering the field of robotics special purpose machine manufacturers have to fulfil the essential health and safety requirements in accordance with the machinery directive. They have to determine applicable safety measures in order to place the machinery on the market. This paper points out the main subjects machine manufacturers need to deal with and offers solutions based on an overall generic safety system for machinery with integrated single or multiple manipulators. Based on a risk assessment the proper safety measures need to be taken. Current safety solutions on the market rarely fulfil the requirements of special purpose manipulator manufactures. Thus, generic safety control functions are introduced in order to apply proper protective measures for a high risk reduction of machinery and to reduce time to market. Practical application examples will show the present challenges for integrated manipulators. Finally, the KeDrive for Motion product is going to be introduced which meets the requirements of machine manufacturers to be fast and safe on the ideal path.