Collaborative Robotics for Assembly and Kitting in Smart Manufacturing

Project ColRobot’s main objective is to combine cutting-edge European robot technology and end-user requirements for assembly processes to create an integrated system for collaborative robotics in which a mobile manipulator acts as a “third hand” by delivering kits, tools, parts, and holding work pieces while the operator works on them. Humans will cognitively and physically interact with ColRobot robots using gestures, touch commands and demonstrations. The robot will be able to navigate autonomously in the factory floor to pick up the required parts and tools, and prepare kits for assembly. A safety system that pushes the limits of standardisation in collaborative robotics supervises the process. The project findings will be validated in 2 demonstrators in real operational environment at the end-users’ facilities, one in the automotive industry - Renault SAS -, and another in the aerospace industry - Thales Alenia Space France.