Fraunhofer IFF Develops Cognitive Robotics and Safety Tech for Human-Robot Collaboration
Fraunhofer IFF has developed cognitive robotics capabilities and new safety technologies to enhance human-robot collaboration. These advancements enable the automation of more complex tasks.
Munich – Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF have unveiled new developments in cognitive robotics and safety technologies aimed at improving human-robot collaboration in industrial settings. The institute has created robots with cognitive abilities that allow them to perform complex tasks previously considered beyond the scope of automation. These technologies will be showcased at the automatica trade fair in Munich.
The institute is also presenting PARU, a safety technology, and Computer-Aided Safety (CAS) planning tools designed for close human-machine interaction. PARU generates visible light curtains around the robot's workspace that dynamically adapt to its movements. CAS assists in the planning, risk assessment, and safety approval processes for human-robot collaboration applications, with a particular focus on ensuring safety even with AI-generated robot movements.
Cognitive robots are designed to learn from experience, make independent decisions, and adapt to various scenarios. Magnus Hanses, head of the Cognitive Robotics group at Fraunhofer IFF, explained that a robot can use a camera to register an object's size, shape, and condition, adjusting its actions accordingly. This capability expands the potential applications beyond traditional robotics, which are often limited to specific, narrowly defined tasks.
The development process involves training AI models using simulated environments. Researchers are working to bridge the "Sim2Real gap" – the difference between simulated and real-world conditions. The goal is to enable robots to safely and efficiently perform tasks such as assembly and disassembly in industrial environments, as well as handle objects in healthcare settings.