Collaborative industrial robots (cobots) are designed to work safely alongside humans without extensive guarding. They feature force-limited joints, integrated sensors, and easy-to-use programming, making them ideal for assembly, pick-and-place, machine tending, and quality inspection in small to medium production runs. Cobots are compact, redeployable, and focus on flexibility and quick setup rather than heavy payloads, so they fit operations that need fast changeovers and human–robot collaboration.
Focus on payload, reach, repeatability, integrated safety features, condition of sensors and cabling, controller version, and compatibility with your tooling and PLCs. Ask for run-time logs and proof of software updates; unlike crawler loaders, cobots depend more on control and sensor integrity than on structural wear.
Ship in its original or a custom shock-rated crate with internal supports, secure all axes and tooling, drain any fluids if applicable, and use a carrier experienced with precision automation. Insure the shipment and plan recalibration and functional tests on arrival.
Maintain firmware and safety software updates, inspect cables, connectors and end-effectors regularly, check torque and joint behavior, keep axes clean, and perform periodic recalibration and safety validation. Establish scheduled checks based on hours of operation and critical tasks.